Marshall Park
4.5750 reviewsHWY 149, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA
Marshall Park
$17.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single sites cost $17.00 per night; double sites cost $34.00 per night. During peak season (May 23 - August 31, 2025), standard non-electric and tent-only sites are $26.00 per night. Weekend and holiday stays incur an additional $2.00 charge.
About this campground
Nestled in a sun-drenched meadow where the legendary Rio Grande River winds through south-central Colorado, Marshall Park Campground offers an intimate escape into the high country. This hidden gem beckons anglers with its pristine trout waters, while adventure seekers discover endless off-road trails threading through the surrounding wilderness. Just a stone's throw from the historic mining town of Creede, this small but spectacular campground serves as your gateway to authentic Colorado mountain experiences.
Marshall Park Campground caters to tent and RV campers, with reservable and first-come, first-served sites available. It provides a mix of single and double-standard nonelectric sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to Colorado's wild mining days with nearby Creede serving as your portal to the past. This legendary boomtown, once home to silver barons and outlaws, preserves its rough-and-tumble heritage in weathered buildings and fascinating museums. The surrounding Rio Grande National Forest tells an even older story, where ancient volcanic activity shaped the dramatic landscape and Native American tribes once followed seasonal hunting paths through these mountains.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 8,800 feet, Marshall Park enjoys the crisp, invigorating climate of Colorado's high country. Summer days bring gentle warmth perfect for outdoor adventures, while evenings cool down to sweater weather around the campfire. The elevation keeps temperatures refreshingly mild even during peak season, making this an ideal retreat from scorching valley heat. Spring arrives later here, painting wildflower meadows across the landscape, while early fall transforms the scenery with golden aspens and crystal-clear skies.
ElevationAt 8,800 feet above sea level, Marshall Park Campground sits in Colorado's sweet spot – high enough to escape summer's heat but accessible enough for comfortable camping. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and wildflowers, while the altitude delivers spectacular star-gazing opportunities. Visitors ascending from lower elevations should take it easy their first day, drinking plenty of water and allowing their bodies to adjust to this lofty perch among the peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of the majestic La Garita Mountains stretching across the horizon, with Bristol Head Peak standing sentinel over your campsite. The open meadow setting bathes the campground in golden morning light, creating perfect conditions for wildlife watching as deer and elk graze nearby. The Rio Grande River ribbons through the landscape, its rushing waters providing nature's soundtrack while reflecting the endless Colorado sky. This expansive terrain offers unobstructed mountain vistas in every direction.
Geological RegionMarshall Park sits at the heart of the Rio Grande National Forest's geological wonderland, where ancient volcanic forces sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. From alpine desert plateaus to rugged wilderness peaks, this region showcases millions of years of Earth's dramatic history. Bristol Head Peak and the surrounding La Garita Mountains rise as monuments to volcanic eruptions that once rivaled any on Earth, while the Rio Grande has carved its patient path through these highlands, creating a corridor of life in this magnificent mountain ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible vault toilets with a night light, but no specific features for disabled visitors were highlighted in reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as varied in size, with adequate space between them. Some campers noted tight spots due to nearby shrubs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. While sites are generally open with few trees, the proximity to the river offers a serene environment.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river are recommended for views and tranquility. Mentioned sites include 005, 009, and 010. Sites 1 through 10 are reservable, while 11 through 17 are first-come, first-served.
Best CampsitesSites along the river (e.g., 005, 006, 009, and 010) are highly rated by users for their scenic location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Campers may stay up to 14 nights during any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests per single campsite with a maximum of 8 guests allowed for an additional $10 charge per extra person.
Groups
Group camping is not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 17 sites divided into reservable (sites 1-10) and first-come, first-served (sites 11-17) sections. Sites are spaced well, but some are small and crowded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025. Reservable starting June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online platform or app, the contact center, or in-person at the campground.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites 11 through 17 are available on a first-come, first-served basis. User reviews mention FCFS sites filling quickly on weekends during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made at any time before the scheduled arrival, with a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. No refunds are given for no-show reservations.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Marshall Park Campground boasts a variety of outdoor activities, particularly focused on its proximity to the Rio Grande River. Campers can engage in trout fishing, wading, and exploration along the river, as well as enjoy hiking trails and off-road vehicle routes in the nearby area. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the wildlife and expansive views of Bristol Head Peak and the La Garita Mountains.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available nearby, including off-road trails like Lost Trail #821. This 11-mile trail offers splendid mountain views.Fishing
The Rio Grande River is renowned as a trophy river for rainbow trout fishing. 'Anglers will find an abundance of rainbow trout in the Rio Grande.'Biking
Biking trails are accessible, particularly off-road vehicle paths which are nearby.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of hummingbirds and chipmunks.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campfire programs are occasionally offered during summer months.Winter Activities
None mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports were not highlighted in reviews or official materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated rings. Firewood can be purchased from the camp host.
- Quiet hours are enforced. Generators allowed from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires secure food storage. User reviews also mention occurrences of mice and chipmunks invading RVs, requiring traps.
Active alertsNo active alerts are reported. Seasonal closures affect availability, as the campground is open only late spring to summer.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Creede, Colorado, approximately 7 miles away. Emergency responders, including a hospital and police station, are based in Creede.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo formal trash and recycling facilities were mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe Rio Grande River runs alongside the campground, offering opportunities for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsFrequent user complaints include the absence of potable water and occasional road noise. Some reviewers mention small, crowded sites.
HostCamp host Lou is frequently praised for maintaining cleanliness and providing helpful service. Hosts are available during peak season and also offer firewood for purchase.
Campground Map
HWY 149, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA
Driving directionsFrom Creede, Colorado, travel 7 miles west on Colorado Highway 149 to Forest Road 523. Take Forest Road 523 one mile to the campground entrance.
Accessible via Colorado Highway 149 and Forest Road 523. The roads are paved and well-maintained leading up to the campground entrance. Forest roads may have slightly rough terrain but are passable for standard vehicles.Nearby places
Creede (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Creede, Colorado, approximately 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
50 reviews
Marshall Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and helpfulness of the camp host. However, some complaints were noted regarding the lack of drinking water, road noise, and management clarity on reserved sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 50 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, scenic views near the Rio Grande River, helpful camp host named Lou, and proximity to Creede attractions. 'Pit toilets were exceptionally clean.' 'The views are spectacular.'...
Based on 50 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Lack of potable water ('No water, so $17 reg price for a site seems high'), road noise, and poor management ('Poor local management, didn’t bother to unlock the campground').
Based on 50 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply and shade structures. 'Bring your own water.' 'Don’t plan on any shade unless you bring it.'
Based on 50 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are the most popular, with positive reviews regarding weather and accessibility. 'Perfect place for August camping.' 'Even during the middle of July the temperature was bearable.'...
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Camper Quotes
'The sound of the river and placement over the bank made you forget that it was crowded and small sites.' 'Amazing views. Fell asleep to the sounds of the river and woke up to hummingbirds and the...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #006 and #009 received high praise for being near the river and having clean facilities. However, site-specific management issues were noted: 'Site #005 was locked, guests were left stranded.'
Based on 50 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility complaints or praises were noted beyond the mention of clean and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 50 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly mentioned in reviews; pet policies remain unclear.
Based on 50 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025