Gold Park Campground
4.7014 reviewsGold Park Campground
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
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
Camping fees at Gold Park Campground are described as $21 per night for a campsite. It is noted that this fee may be considered high compared to nearby free dispersed camping options.
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About this campground
Nestled deep in Colorado's mountain wilderness, Gold Park Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic escape from civilization. This intimate retreat features just 12 thoughtfully placed sites along the melodic waters of Homestake Creek, where towering pines create a natural cathedral overhead. As your gateway to the Holy Cross Wilderness, Gold Park serves as basecamp for countless trail adventures while maintaining the wild character that draws visitors back generation after generation. Recent increases in bear activity add to the authentic wilderness experience, reminding campers they're sharing this pristine habitat with Colorado's native wildlife—proper food storage is essential and strictly enforced.
Gold Park Campground provides a rustic camping experience with 12 first-come, first-served sites. It is ideal for tent camping and RVs, though it lacks modern hookups or facilities.
Historical SignificanceGold Park isn't just a campground—it's a keeper of memories spanning generations. Since at least 1967, families have returned to this special corner of the Leadville area, creating traditions that endure through decades. As one longtime visitor, Jules Butler, reflects: 'Have been camping in and around Leadville CO since 1967... Such wonderful memories.' These woods have witnessed first camping trips, marriage proposals, and countless stories shared around crackling fires, making Gold Park not just a destination, but a living chronicle of Colorado's outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsGold Park transforms dramatically with the seasons, from snow-laden winter wonderland to vibrant summer sanctuary. Winter campers should prepare for true alpine conditions—Week 2 data shows temperatures plunging to a bone-chilling 9.97°F, with highs barely reaching 29.17°F and a significant chance of snowfall (25.89%). Despite the cold, winter rewards hardy souls with crystal-clear skies more than half the time (51.78%) and crisp, dry air perfect for stargazing. Most visitors find their sweet spot between late spring and early fall, when wildflowers carpet the meadows, creek waters run high with snowmelt, and warm days give way to cool, campfire-perfect evenings.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into Gold Park and feel the stress melt away as Homestake Creek's perpetual symphony fills the air. Visitor Lisa Hooker captures it perfectly: 'The ambiance of sites is made by the soaring pines and the rush of Homestake Creek nearby.' This isn't just camping—it's immersion in a living ecosystem where ancient pines stretch skyward, creating dappled shade patterns that dance across your campsite. Ruby-throated hummingbirds dart between wildflowers, while the rugged peaks of the surrounding wilderness frame every view. The creek itself becomes your constant companion, its crystal-clear waters providing both a soothing soundtrack and endless entertainment for those who love to explore rocky streams.
Geological RegionGold Park Campground sits in the heart of Homestake Valley, a geological masterpiece carved by centuries of flowing water and glacial activity. This dramatic landscape forms part of the greater Holy Cross Wilderness ecosystem, where ancient granite peaks rise from dense coniferous forests. The valley's unique position creates a natural corridor for wildlife and serves as the starting point for a network of trails that climb into the high country. Here, the raw geology of the Colorado Rockies reveals itself in exposed rock faces, mineral-rich soils that nourish the forest, and the ever-present Homestake Creek that continues its patient work of shaping this mountain sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the source information.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with one user noting they are 'of a good size for easily two tents and a pavilion with space for two cars and a lot of open space.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies; some sites are close together with little privacy, while others are spaced out with trees in between. One reviewer commented, 'Several of the sites were pretty close together with little privacy, but most were spaced out with trees between.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Several of the sites were pretty close together with little privacy, but most were spaced out with trees between." - Jemmie Dyk. Recommended for its proximity to Homestake Creek and ample shade provided by surrounding trees.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two tents, one pavilion, two cars per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 12 sites, some spaced closely together and others separated by trees to offer privacy. It is described as small and well-organized. "The camp sites are of a good size for easily two tents and a pavilion with space for two cars and a lot of open space." - Bjoern Nordmann.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews highlight this as a positive feature of the campground.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be made in advance as all campsites are first-come, first-served. No detailed cancellation policy applies.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gold Park Campground offers several outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts. It is located near the Holy Cross Wilderness, providing access to hiking trails. Hummingbirds are a common sight, and the area is suitable for simple bouldering. Nearby activities include fishing, although one reviewer reported that the stream appeared to be overfished.
Hiking
Several trailheads into the Holy Cross Wilderness are within driving distance, including Missouri Lakes, Fancy Lake, and Lonesome Lake, which are described as offering 'GREAT hiking.'Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, but one user mentioned, 'The stream appeared to be way over fished as I did not see a single fish.'Wildlife viewing
Hummingbirds are frequently mentioned as a highlight, with one user stating, 'Hummingbirds abound.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the campground's location suggests that snow may be present during winter months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted, and fire pits are provided at each site. Some reviews note that fire pits might not be cleaned timely. "Fire pit had not been cleaned in what looked like a year." - Roy W.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is a significant concern, necessitating strict food storage protocols. Reviews also note overfished streams and some dispersed camping spots nearby.
Active alertsBear activity warning and food storage order is in effect for all developed campgrounds on the Eagle/Holy Cross Ranger District, including Gold Park Campground.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, as noted by a reviewer who mentioned a 'bin for garbage.' Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along Homestake Creek, a scenic and rushing water body described as gorgeous by user reviews. "The creek was gorgeous." - Jemmie Dyk.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention high fees relative to nearby free dispersed camping options, lack of potable water, and the absence of on-site camp hosts or firewood sales during certain periods. "Very pricey for what you get... Bathrooms were very well kept, No camp host on site and no firewood for sale." - Roy W.
HostMultiple reviews praise campground hosts, particularly Doug and Gary, for their exceptional service. "Host alone was worth the stay." - Dan Corn.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom the Minturn, CO exit on I-70 travel southeast on Highway 24 for about 13 miles to Homestake Road, Forest Service Road 703. Take a right onto this good dirt road and continue 7 miles to the Gold Park Campground on the left.
The campground is accessible via Homestake Road (Forest Service Road 703), which is described as a good dirt road with minimal potholes. It is located approximately 7 miles off Highway 24, making it a remote yet accessible location.Nearby places
Minturn, CO (13 miles)
Leadville, CO (distance unspecified)
Camper Reviews
4.7
14 reviews
Gold Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Gold Park Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment of 4.785 for the campground itself. Campers appreciate the natural setting, clean facilities, and access to nearby trails and wilderness areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include the campground's cleanliness ('The bathrooms are immaculate and look brand new'), natural beauty ('The creek was gorgeous'), and proximity to hiking trails ('GREAT hiking...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water ('No water, but by a stream if you have a filter'), no cell phone service ('Complete lack of cell phone coverage for MILES'), and the absence of a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a water filter if you plan to use the stream for water. They also suggest being prepared for a complete lack of cell phone service. Arriving early is advised, as all sites...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during the summer, as conditions in user reviews frequently mention activities like hiking, fishing, and observing wildlife. Winter conditions are not detailed, but...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great 1st come / 1st serve campground. The bathrooms are immaculate and look brand new.' 2. 'My favorite campground! The ambiance of sites is made by the soaring pines and the rush of the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate that some sites lack privacy ('Several of the sites were pretty close together with little privacy, but most were spaced out with trees between'). Sites near the creek...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not mentioned in user reviews, suggesting that the campground may lack specific accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not specifically mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025