North Crestone Creek Campground
4.4016 reviews1.3 miles north of Alder Street, Crestone, Colorado
North Crestone Creek Campground
$7.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Campsite fees range from $7 to $10. Single sites are $10 per night; day use for picnicking is also $10. Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on the single campsite fee.
About this campground
Escape to North Crestone Creek Campground, where 13 intimate campsites wind along nearly a mile of pristine mountain creek. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding early arrivals with their choice of secluded spots beneath a canopy of whispering aspens, aromatic junipers, and towering firs. Each site comes equipped with bear-resistant food lockers, ensuring both your safety and the preservation of local wildlife. The generous spacing between sites creates a true wilderness retreat where the babbling creek provides nature's soundtrack to your mountain adventure.
The campground offers rustic camping options, including individual sites for tents, and one pull-through site possibly suitable for RVs. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of the high country throughout the camping season. Summer arrives with warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation, though afternoon thundershowers often roll through to refresh the forest—and yes, the mosquitoes know it's their season too. As autumn approaches, the aspens transform into a golden spectacle while crisp mornings remind you to pack that extra layer. When winter's snow blankets the landscape, the campground rests until spring's return, making your warm-weather visits all the more precious.
ElevationPerched at 8,800 feet in Colorado's high country, this mountain sanctuary offers naturally air-conditioned camping even on summer's warmest days. The thin air at this elevation creates crystal-clear night skies perfect for stargazing, though newcomers to altitude should take it easy their first day or two. The payoff? Cooler temperatures, fewer bugs than lower elevations, and that invigorating mountain air that makes every breath feel like a fresh start.
Natural Features and SceneryNorth Crestone Creek has carved out a lush ribbon of life through the Rio Grande National Forest, creating an enchanting riparian corridor where your campsite awaits. Towering rock walls rise dramatically above the treeline, their ancient faces catching the changing light throughout the day. The diverse forest creates a living cathedral—aspens shimmer and dance in the slightest breeze, junipers release their distinctive mountain perfume, and stately firs provide year-round green sentinels. The creek itself serves as both the campground's centerpiece and constant companion, its gentle music accompanying your entire stay.
Geological RegionNestled within the Rio Grande National Forest's diverse ecosystem, this riparian wonderland showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The dramatic contrast between the lush creek corridor and the imposing rock walls tells a geological story millions of years in the making. Here, where water meets stone and forest meets sky, the interplay of aspens, junipers, and firs creates a textured landscape that changes with every season and shifting shadow. This unique setting offers campers a front-row seat to one of Colorado's most captivating natural theaters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityA wheelchair-accessible vault toilet is located near campsites 1 and 2.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, shaded, and large enough to accommodate a range of camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well spaced out, offering significant privacy. Some reviews note the ability to see only one other site from theirs, while others were unable to see any neighboring campers.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from the road for enhanced privacy and quieter surroundings. Bring effective mosquito repellent during summer months.
Best CampsitesSite 8 stands out for its seclusion and proximity to the creek, as noted by user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day camping limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unspecified limit on the number of guests.
Groups
No group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out along a road that runs to a trailhead. Most sites are located on the right-hand side of the road and are well-spaced for privacy. One pull-through site is available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May to November.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms since the campground is first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Best time to secure a site is Monday through Friday mornings.
Cancellation PolicyAs reservations are not available, cancellation policies are not applicable.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers proximity to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. There is access to the North Crestone Trail #744 (for foot and horse use), which leads into the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness and connects to a network of trails.
Hiking
The North Crestone Trail #744 provides hiking opportunities with access to the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, featuring a mix of day hikes and longer backpacking options.Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby river/stream, with brook trout as a potential catch.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted, with opportunities to observe the area's native species as well as the surrounding plant life.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is bear country; bear-proof food storage lockers are provided. Mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance during warmer months, as noted in multiple user reviews.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Heavy rain
Precipitation: 25.6%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 22.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Light Rain - (25.60% chance)
Light rain expected
Heavy rain
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 Crestone, which is 1.3 miles away. Contact Saguache Ranger District at 719-655-2547 for additional guidance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay to October (likely warmer months).
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a pack-it-in/pack-it-out basis. Trash and recycling facilities are not provided on site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along North Crestone Creek. Campers can hear and see the creek from most sites.
Common complaintsMosquito activity is a common complaint, particularly in the warmer months. Some campers also mentioned inconsiderate behavior such as leaving gear on sites for extended periods.
Campground Map
1.3 miles north of Alder Street, Crestone, Colorado
Driving directionsFrom Alamosa, take Hwy 17 north to Moffat. Turn left and take County Road T east to Crestone. In Crestone, at the intersection of Galena and Alder Streets take Alder Street north 1.3 miles to the campground.
The roads to the campground include county roads and are described as unpaved with dirt and rocky parking aprons.Nearby places
Crestone (1.3 miles), Alamosa (~36 miles), Moffat (~15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be accessed in Crestone, which is 1.3 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
16 reviews
North Crestone Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
North Crestone Creek Campground receives high praise for its natural beauty, spacious and private sites, and peaceful setting. However, issues with mosquitos during certain seasons and concerns about campers leaving expired tags and gear were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the seclusion and spaciousness of the campsites. The creek running along the campground and its tranquil ambiance are often praised. Vault toilets are noted for their...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitos are a prominent complaint, with several reviewers mentioning the need for strong bug spray and other repellents. Some users reported issues with other campers leaving gear or occupying...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring strong mosquito repellent, citronella candles, and bug nets to mitigate mosquito issues. The best time to secure a site is Monday through Friday mornings. Lot #8 is recommended for its...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months see the highest mosquito activity, with many reviews emphasizing the importance of bug repellants. Fall is praised for its cooler weather and beautiful foliage, making it an ideal time...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The sites themselves are large and spaced out with plenty of privacy. The river runs behind all the sites and is close enough to hear." - Nick Pelletier. "The mosquitos are insane. I was planning on...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Lot 8 is particularly recommended by users for its seclusion and quietness. Other sites are generally praised for their privacy and proximity to the creek.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
The wheelchair-friendly toilet near campsites 1 and 2 is specifically noted as a positive accessibility feature.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Some users expressed frustration with other campers not cleaning up after their pets.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025