North Clear Creek Campground
4.438 reviewsNorth Clear Creek Campground, 24.5 miles west of Creede on Forest Road 510, Colorado
North Clear Creek Campground
$26.00 - $52.00 / 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 units for overnight use cost $26.00, while double units cost $52.00. Day-use fees are $12.00 for both single and double units. Additional fees of $2.00 apply for weekends and holidays. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites. Payment is accepted via cash or check only.
About this campground
Escape to North Clear Creek Campground, where 21 secluded campsites await along the peaceful waters of North Clear Creek. Hidden along Forest Road 510 in the heart of Rio Grande National Forest, this intimate campground promises the kind of solitude that's increasingly rare in our connected world. Each thoughtfully designed site comes complete with a picnic table, dedicated parking spur, and fire ring where evening stories and s'mores come to life. Here, the only notifications you'll receive are from chattering squirrels and the gentle babble of the creek—perfect for those seeking genuine disconnection and natural immersion.
North Clear Creek Campground features 21 combined-use sites suitable for tents and RVs. The campground offers a primitive camping experience with no modern luxuries like showers or electricity.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings North Clear Creek to life from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when mountain temperatures hover in the perfect sweet spot for camping adventures. While occasional drought conditions can create drier environments, they also mean more sunny days for exploration. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a painter's palette of gold and amber as aspens put on their legendary color show. This seasonal shift also brings increased wildlife activity, as animals prepare for winter, offering exceptional viewing opportunities for patient observers.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,900 feet above sea level, North Clear Creek Campground offers a true high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the stars seem close enough to touch, and summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool. This lofty elevation means visitors should take time to acclimate—drink plenty of water, move at a relaxed pace for the first day or two, and let your body adjust to the thinner air. The reward? Spectacular mountain vistas and relief from summer heat that makes every breath of pine-scented air worth the adjustment.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted forest where towering spruce stand sentinel alongside shimmering aspens, their leaves dancing in the mountain breeze. Meadows burst with native wildflowers, creating a living tapestry that changes throughout the summer season. North Clear Creek winds through it all, its crystal waters teeming with trout that challenge anglers while providing a soothing soundtrack for campers. Keep your camera ready—majestic moose occasionally grace these meadows with their presence, while elk bugle in the distance and tiny hummingbirds dart between wildflowers, their wings catching the mountain light.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Rio Grande National Forest, the campground occupies a stunning mountain ecosystem where ancient geological forces have created a landscape of dramatic contrasts. Here, dense forests of aspen and spruce give way to sun-drenched meadows carpeted with native grasses and wildflowers. Mountain peaks frame the horizon, their slopes telling stories of volcanic activity and glacial carving that shaped this remarkable corner of Colorado. This diverse terrain creates multiple microclimates and habitats, making every short hike an opportunity to discover something new in this geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not wheelchair-friendly according to the facility data.
Sites SizeParking spurs accommodate up to 40 feet in length, but not all sites support large vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy, with some in sunny openings and others shaded and screened by trees.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the creek are highly desirable for their proximity to water and scenic views. Some sites offer more privacy with shaded areas, while others are in sunny openings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is before 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
14-day camping limit.
Groups
The campground does not have designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is composed of two loops with 21 sites, some located in sunny openings and others shaded by aspen and spruce trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Campground hosts report that the campground is usually only about 1/3 full.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
North Clear Creek Campground provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Trails nearby are used for mountain biking and scenic drives. The campground is adjacent to North Clear Creek, which is suitable for fishing for rainbow and brook trout.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities exist, including day hikes and nearby longer trails. Some user reviews describe biking trails leading to Bristol Head Peak.Fishing
Fishing is available in the adjacent North Clear Creek, with species like rainbow and brook trout mentioned. Anglers have been observed utilizing the stream.Biking
Mountain biking on nearby forest roads and trails is highlighted, with routes offering over 100 miles of biking and significant elevation gains.Wildlife viewing
Moose and hummingbirds are commonly observed, and one user reported spotting a bull elk.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed, but weather data suggests the area experiences snow in colder seasons.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, and campers are advised to store food properly. Wildlife such as moose and elk may be seen in the area.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 can be accessed in Creede, 24.5 miles away. The Divide Ranger District office in Del Norte, CO, can also be contacted for assistance.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are centrally located and available seasonally. Users reported a fee for trash disposal if not camping at the site.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to North Clear Creek, which offers excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow and brook trout. A small creek is within walking distance.
Common complaintsSome campers have complained about 'rude camp hosts' regarding trash disposal procedures and associated fees. However, others appreciate the cleanliness and maintenance of the facilities.
HostA campground host is stationed on-site, though user reviews indicate that the host may not always be present.
Campground Map
North Clear Creek Campground, 24.5 miles west of Creede on Forest Road 510, Colorado
Driving directionsFrom Creede, CO, travel west on Colorado Highway 149 (toward Lake City) for 22.4 miles to Forest Road #510. Take FR #510 north for 2.1 miles to campground entrance.
The road to the campground is gravel with a small climb to the entrance. It is accessible by RVs and trailers but has a maximum spur length of 40 feet. Seasonal closures apply, as the campground is only open from Memorial Day weekend to just after Labor Day weekend.Nearby places
Creede, 24.5 miles (approximately 30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
RV waste stations are available at Freemon's General Store on State Rt. 149 and at the south end of Creede. The town of Creede also offers general supplies and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
8 reviews
North Clear Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews frequently praise the campground for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to fishing and hiking opportunities. Accessibility is noted for RVs, and the campground's remoteness is appreciated for solitude.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, good water, quiet setting, wildlife sightings including moose and elk, proximity to hiking and fishing, and picturesque fall foliage are frequently mentioned.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users reported issues with camp host behavior regarding trash disposal fees. Another mentioned the campground being 'very dry' due to drought conditions.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood as none is provided. Utilize nearby boondocking areas if the campground is full. Consider cash or a check for payment as these are the accepted methods.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is described as quiet and less crowded even during peak summer weekends. Fall is noted for beautiful aspen foliage and wildlife activity. Winter use is not mentioned but may be limited...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great campsite, clean bathroom and good water with a hand pump.' - Flying Dutchman
2. 'We biked over 100 miles and 10,000 V all leaving from camp. Lots of hummingbirds. A moose came into camp.' -...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites are noted for their proximity to the river, providing an ideal location for anglers.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific accessibility reviews from users with disabilities, but the campground is not wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. No specific feedback from pet owners is available.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025