Palisade Campground
4.5824 reviews13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Palisade Campground
$10.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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
During the concessionaire season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), single-unit overnight use costs $29.00 plus additional weekend and holiday fees of $2.00 each. Shoulder season fees reduce to $10 for overnight/day use. Reservations through recreation.gov incur an $8.00 reservation fee.
About this campground
Tucked into a dramatic river canyon between the mountain towns of Creede and South Fork, Palisade Campground offers a rare riverside escape along Colorado's legendary Rio Grande. This intimate 12-site campground delivers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience where anglers cast lines into trophy trout waters and rafters launch adventures right from camp. Some sites bask in sunny meadows while others nestle beneath protective canopies of ancient trees. The rhythmic rumble of passing trains and the distant hum of highway traffic remind visitors they're still connected to civilization, even while immersed in this rugged canyon sanctuary.
Palisade Campground offers versatile camping options for different preferences.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Palisade into a sun-drenched paradise from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with warm days perfect for riverside relaxation and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the canyon becomes a kaleidoscope of gold and crimson before winter's dramatic entrance. Snow blankets the landscape from late fall through spring, often closing access roads and wrapping the canyon in pristine silence. Winter adventurers should prepare for bone-chilling temperatures and challenging conditions that make this season best suited for the most intrepid explorers.
ElevationPerched at 8,300 feet where the air grows thin and the sky seems touchably close, Palisade Campground sits in Colorado's high country. First-time visitors from lower elevations should pace themselves as their bodies adjust to the altitude, drinking plenty of water and taking it easy during their first day or two in this elevated paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Rio Grande River serves as Palisade's liquid heartbeat, its crystal-clear waters carving through the canyon and creating a ribbon of life through the landscape. Majestic cottonwoods spread their branches along the riverbank while groves of shimmering aspens dance in the mountain breeze. Higher up the canyon walls, dark spruce and fir forests create a dramatic backdrop that frames spectacular sunsets. This natural amphitheater of water, stone, and forest creates an ever-changing canvas where light and shadow paint new masterpieces throughout each day.
Geological RegionDeep within the Rio Grande National Forest, Palisade Campground occupies a special slice of Colorado's Rio Grande River corridor. This remarkable ecosystem showcases the diversity of the Southern Rockies, where riverside cottonwoods give way to quaking aspens, then transition to hardy spruce and fir forests climbing the canyon walls. The Rio Grande has spent millennia sculpting this dramatic landscape, creating a geological wonderland where ancient volcanic formations meet river-carved canyons.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets have lights and are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe campground can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet in length, but not all sites are suitable for this size.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies: some sites are open and exposed, while others are screened by trees.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for the best views and access to the water. Arrive early to secure a spot during busy summer months.
Best CampsitesSites along the Rio Grande River are highly rated for views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM
Check-out
Before 11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14-day camping limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy not specifically stated.
Groups
Group sites are not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop plus a spur with most sites located along the Rio Grande.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; concessionaire operates Memorial Day to Labor Day with full services.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; walk-in only.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up only; campground tends to stay full mid-June through August with early afternoon arrivals recommended.
Cancellation PolicyPayments made via cash or check; no explicit cancellation policy mentioned.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for various recreational activities centered around its location along the Rio Grande River.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity on the Rio Grande, which is known as a Trophy Fishing River. Rainbow trout fishing is specifically highlighted.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities such as kayaking and rafting are popular. The campground serves as a put-in point for rafters and kayakers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is not explicitly mentioned, but the natural environment may provide opportunities for observing local species.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but accessibility may be impacted by snow.Water Sports
Popular water sports include non-motorized activities such as kayaking and rafting.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM strict quiet hours; noted in reviews for enforcement.
Hazards
General hazardsActive railroad tracks bisecting the campground can pose risks. Bears are present; proper food storage is required.
Active alertsSnow levels or spring road closures may impact accessibility.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate rain
Precipitation: 3.5000000000000004%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Rain - (3.50% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate 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 hospital and police station are likely located in South Fork (~7.3 miles away). Divide Ranger District station also provides assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day
Trash and recyclingTrash service is provided by the concessionaire during the summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Outside of this period, campers are required to pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly on the Rio Grande River. Popular for rafting and fishing.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from Hwy 149 and occasional train noise. Campground can be busy and full during peak season.
HostHosts are stationed during summer season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Numerous reviews praise hosts for being kind and helpful.
Campground Map
13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Driving directionsFrom South Fork, CO, take Hwy 149 west (toward Creede) 7.3 miles to campground sign. Turn left into campground. Directions from Creede, Colorado: Travel 12.1 miles southeast on Colorado Highway 149 (toward South Fork) to campground entrance.
Located adjacent to Colorado Highway 149 for easy access. Active railroad tracks bisect the campground, and Highway 149 runs along the northeast side with no screening. Road conditions may vary during snow levels or spring closures.Nearby places
South Fork, 7.3 miles (~10 minutes)
Creede, 12.1 miles (~15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be found at Rainbow Grocery, located at the intersection of US Hwy 160 and State Hwy 149 in South Fork (~7.3 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.6
24 reviews
Palisade Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Palisade Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the scenic setting along the Rio Grande River, clean facilities, and friendly campground hosts. Many reviewers praise the overall maintenance and cleanliness of the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the beautiful riverside location, exceptionally clean vault toilets, and friendly and helpful hosts. Many campers mentioned enjoying fishing, rafting, and the peaceful...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some complaints include the proximity to Highway 149, which results in traffic noise for certain sites, and strict enforcement of quiet hours. A few users mentioned the campground being full during...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early in the afternoon, especially during the busy summer months, to secure a site. They also suggest being prepared for potential traffic noise due to the highway's...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in the summer, when it tends to stay full from mid-June through August. Off-season visits may be less crowded, but there is no water or trash service available during...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground. The views of the Rio Grande River are superb.' - Eric, 2018
2. 'Cleanest outdoor facility I have ever used.' - Alexis St. Amand, 2023
3. 'They had the cleanest, best...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites along the river are highly praised for their scenic views. However, some sites closer to the highway are noted for traffic noise. The campground features 12 combined sites, with varying levels...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The vault toilets are wheelchair accessible and include lighting, which is appreciated by users with disabilities.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. No specific pet-friendly amenities are mentioned, but the overall environment is suitable for pet owners.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025