Gore Creek Campground
4.69227 reviewsCAMP HALE MEMORIAL, WHITE RIVER, CO, USA
Gore Creek Campground
$29.00 - $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
Fees are consistent across standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites at $29 per night, excluding additional charges like taxes.
About this campground
Nestled in the whispering pines near the vibrant mountain town of Vail, Gore Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of wilderness solitude and alpine accessibility. Here, the melodic rush of Gore Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your camping experience, while ancient trails wind their way into the pristine Eagles Nest Wilderness. Whether you're gearing up for a backcountry expedition or planning a leisurely ride along the renowned Vail Pass/Tenmile Canyon recreation trail, this mountain sanctuary serves as your ideal basecamp for Rocky Mountain adventures.
Gore Creek Campground accommodates RV camping (limited to vehicles under 35 feet), tent camping (including walk-in sites), and sites suited for groups. There is no mention of cabins or glamping options.
Weather and SeasonsMountain mornings greet you with crystalline sunshine and crisp air, as daytime temperatures dance between a comfortable 62°F and a refreshing 38°F. As darkness falls, the temperature plummets, reminding you that you're camping in true alpine territory. Early summer brings the dramatic spectacle of snowmelt, when Gore Creek swells with rushing glacial waters, creating a powerful display of nature's seasonal rhythms. Pack your layers and prepare for the invigorating embrace of high-altitude weather.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,700 feet in the majestic Rocky Mountains, Gore Creek Campground offers a true high-altitude experience. At this elevation, the air is noticeably thinner and crisper, turning every breath into a reminder of your mountain adventure. The cooler temperatures provide welcome relief from summer heat, though visitors should allow time to acclimate to the reduced oxygen levels that come with camping nearly two miles above sea level.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering conifers where shafts of sunlight filter through dense evergreen canopies. This pristine alpine ecosystem serves as home to some of Colorado's most iconic wildlife—from majestic bighorn sheep navigating rocky outcrops to bull elk bugling through morning mist. Black bears forage through the forest while tiny pikas chirp from their rocky domains. The star of the show, Gore Creek, tumbles past many campsites, offering both a soothing ambiance and refreshing mountain water views.
Geological RegionGore Creek Campground sits at the epicenter of Colorado's geological crown jewel—the White River National Forest in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. This spectacular landscape encompasses eight designated wilderness areas and boasts numerous peaks soaring beyond 14,000 feet, creating a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped summits and rugged ridgelines. The ancient geological forces that shaped these mountains have created a playground of granite spires, alpine meadows, and glacially carved valleys that continue to inspire awe in every visitor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has four handicapped accessible bathrooms and site #18 is specifically accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeParking spurs are up to 35 feet long. Walk-in tent sites offer limited flat ground and are suitable for one tent.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy; walk-in sites are described as secluded and private, while back-in sites provide ample separation but are less secluded.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 9-16 are creekside, offering white noise from rushing water. Tent-only sites require uphill walks for access; site #23 is ideal for privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #23 is highly recommended for its views, privacy, and creekside proximity. Site #13 is noted for being above the creek, providing relaxing water sounds.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights per month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each standard site allows one RV with tow or one vehicle per tent site, plus one extra vehicle not included in the reservation fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground offers 16 back-in sites and 8 tent-only walk-in sites, including accessible site #18.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 20 - October 1, 2025, with reservations starting June 23, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up sites on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations strongly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies include a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations cost $10 if modifying entirely to new dates.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gore Creek Campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Its location along Gore Creek provides scenic beauty and white noise from flowing water, which many campers find relaxing. Nearby trails allow access to the Eagles Nest Wilderness, and the Vail Pass recreation trail is a great option for biking. Some activities, such as swimming or rock climbing, are not explicitly mentioned in the sources.
Hiking
Several trailheads into Eagles Nest Wilderness are accessible from the campground. Trails range in difficulty, with options like Gore Creek Trail and Booth Falls Trail close by.Fishing
Fishing is available in Gore Creek, which supports populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.Biking
The Vail Pass/Tenmile Canyon recreation trail offers paved biking opportunities directly accessible from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, and black bear are commonly sighted. The area’s undeveloped wilderness also provides habitat for smaller alpine species.Cultural and Educational Programs
National Forest talks are occasionally held, covering topics like local wildlife, such as foxes.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground’s proximity to Vail suggests opportunities for skiing or snowboarding nearby.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not specifically mentioned, though Gore Creek may support limited activities like paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed unless restrictions are in place due to hot and dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are enforced but specific times are not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears and steep embankments near Gore Creek. Fast-flowing creek water may pose risks.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Closest emergency services are located in Vail, CO, approximately 6 miles away, including a medical center and police department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 20, 2025, to October 1, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are conveniently located throughout the campground. Bear-proof trash receptacles are provided to protect wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Gore Creek, with some campsites offering direct access or views of the water.
Common complaintsComplaints include steep inclines for parking, limited flat tent pads, highway noise, lack of water availability, and challenging terrain for RVs.
HostHosts Doug and Arva have been repeatedly praised for their friendliness, exceptional maintenance, and helpfulness.
Campground Map
CAMP HALE MEMORIAL, WHITE RIVER, CO, USA
Driving directionsTravel east on I-70 to Exit 180 for East Vail. Turn right and follow the south frontage road (Bighorn Road) east to the road closure gate at about 2 miles. The campground is on the left just before the gate.
Accessible via paved roads. The campground is conveniently located about 2 miles from Exit 180 on Interstate 70, near the closure gate east of Vail.Nearby places
Vail (6 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive), Avon (10 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive), Frisco (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Vail, CO, just 6 miles away, including a Safeway store and other convenience outlets.
Camper Reviews
4.7
227 reviews
Gore Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s cleanliness, proximity to Vail, and scenic creekside location. The attentive and friendly hosts are frequently praised, and the vault toilets are often described as spotless. Common complaints include the lack of potable water, occasional noise from I-70, and limited flat ground at some sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 227 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, helpful hosts, proximity to hiking trails and Vail, quiet and private campsites, creek noise drowning out highway sounds.
Based on 227 reviewsCommon Concerns
No potable water or showers, highway noise at some sites, steep walk-ins for tent camping, uneven ground at certain sites.
Based on 227 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water and extra layers for cold nights. Sites near the creek are quieter and provide soothing white noise. Consider Site #23 for excellent views and Site #13 for proximity to Gore Creek.
Based on 227 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Fall offers stunning foliage with quieter conditions. Summer sees lush greenery and wildflowers but can be busier. Winter activities are accessible nearby in Vail but not explicitly supported at the...
Based on 227 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Gore Creek Campground is a true gem of the National Forest Service.' – Jason F. 2. 'Vault toilets, no water, no electric. 5 mins from Vail.' – Todd 3. 'Would absolutely come back!' – Laura R.
Based on 227 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 23 offers unmatched views but requires a climb. Site 13 is close to Gore Creek with soothing water sounds. Site 9 has creek proximity but visibility is obstructed by a steep embankment.
Based on 227 reviewsAccessibility Features
Site #18 is fully accessible and features a tent pad, bear box, picnic table, and fire ring. Four bathrooms are handicapped accessible.
Based on 227 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users often mention bringing dogs to the campground. The creek and trails provide opportunities for outdoor play.
Based on 227 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025