Halfmoon Campground
4.359 reviewsTigiwon Road #707, near Holy Cross Wilderness Boundary
Halfmoon Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
The camping fee is $15 per night, payable in cash. User reviews emphasize bringing exact cash as change is not provided.
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About this campground
Nestled at the gateway to one of Colorado's most iconic climbs, Halfmoon Campground serves as a rustic basecamp for adventurers drawn to the legendary Mount of the Holy Cross. This intimate, primitive campground attracts a devoted community of hikers and backpackers who trade modern amenities for the raw beauty of untouched wilderness and the promise of profound solitude.
Halfmoon Campground offers primitive tent camping facilities and is not suitable for RVs due to the rough access road and short parking spurs.
Historical SignificanceHalfmoon Campground sits at the doorstep of the storied Holy Cross Wilderness, a landscape steeped in America's conservation legacy. This protected sanctuary stands as a testament to the wilderness preservation movement, where generations of mountaineers have pilgrimaged to witness the famous cross-shaped snowfield that has inspired seekers and adventurers for over a century.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this alpine sanctuary into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge between 5°F and 22°F, blanketing the landscape in deep snow that lingers for months. Come summer, the campground awakens under brilliant blue skies, with comfortable temperatures hovering between 58°F and 68°F—perfect conditions for tackling the challenging ascent to Mount of the Holy Cross or simply savoring the crisp mountain air.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's alpine realm, the campground occupies a lofty position where the air grows thin and the views stretch endlessly. Though exact elevation figures remain elusive, visitors immediately sense they've entered the realm of peaks and sky, where every breath reminds you of your proximity to the heavens.
Natural Features and SceneryEnveloped by a cathedral of evergreens at the edge of the Holy Cross Wilderness, this secluded haven offers an authentic Colorado mountain experience. Towering conifers create natural privacy between sites while framing glimpses of soaring alpine peaks beyond. Lucky visitors might share their morning coffee with passing moose, as these majestic creatures occasionally wander through camp, reminding everyone that this is their domain first.
Geological RegionHalfmoon Campground lies within the magnificent White River National Forest, where the Holy Cross Wilderness showcases nature's most dramatic artistry. This rugged alpine landscape, sculpted by ancient glaciers and geological forces, presents a masterclass in mountain grandeur—jagged peaks pierce the sky while pristine forests carpet the valleys below, creating a wilderness playground that has captivated adventurers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility features are explicitly described.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and secluded, offering ample room for tents and vehicles.
Sites PrivacySecluded sites with ample spacing between them, as noted by users: 'Nice secluded campground' and 'Nice secluded sites with plenty of room and solitude.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for tent campers and those with smaller vehicles. Not suitable for RVs over 10 feet.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight secluded sites with well-spaced areas and proximity to trailheads. No specific site numbers mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group camping sites are not specifically described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are well-spaced and secluded, creating a sense of solitude.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal closures noted in user reviews, such as being closed during 2020 due to COVID-19.
Reservation PlatformsNo online or phone reservation platforms mentioned; appears to be walk-up only.
Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest limited availability during peak times, with one reviewer noting the campground was nearly empty upon arrival at 9PM on a Saturday.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Halfmoon Campground primarily caters to hikers and backpackers. Activities include day hikes, backpacking, and picnicking. The location is ideal for climbing Mount of the Holy Cross, as this is a heavily used trailhead area.
Hiking
Several hiking trails originate from the campground, heavily used by hikers climbing Mount of the Holy Cross. User reviews highlight the hiking opportunities, with one stating, 'Great trails leaving right from the campground. I did the Mount of the Holy Cross Climb.'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.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are available, as one user shared an experience: 'Had a lovely visit from a moose in the morning!'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described; however, the campground's proximity to trails may make it suitable for snowshoeing or winter hiking.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits available at campsites as noted by user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad access can be challenging due to rough terrain; wildlife encounters such as moose are possible.
Active alertsSeasonal closures were noted due to COVID-19 in 2020. Current alerts are not provided.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Minturn, including police, fire, and medical facilities.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the official descriptions or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresNearby running creek is mentioned in user reviews but requires water filtration or treatment.
Common complaintsComplaints about 'very crowded area' and 'gate closures' were common in reviews.
Campground Map
Tigiwon Road #707, near Holy Cross Wilderness Boundary
Driving directionsTravel west on I-70 to Exit 171 for Minturn, Leadville, and Hwy 24. Turn right and travel south about 5 miles. Immediately before crossing the Eagle River, turn right onto Tigiwon Road - FSR 707 and continue up this dirt road for 8 miles to the campground at the end.
The campground is accessible via an 8-mile dirt road, described as rough and bumpy. User reviews state it is 'long bumpy, curvy,' and 'not suitable for RVs over 10 feet.'Nearby places
Minturn (5 miles, ~15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as fuel, groceries, and camping equipment are likely in Minturn, about 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
9 reviews
Halfmoon Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a mixed picture of the campground. While some users appreciate the seclusion and proximity to hiking trails, others mention issues such as road conditions, crowded trailheads, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
'Nice secluded campground,' 'Spots are well spaced out,' and 'Great trails leaving right from the campground.'
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
'Bathrooms weren't the cleanest,' 'Very crowded area,' and 'The road coming in isn't in the best shape.'
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cash for fees as exact change is required, and bring your own toilet paper as some users reported shortages.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During peak hiking seasons, the trailhead lot is described as 'packed,' while the campground itself may be 'nearly empty.' One user noted, 'No other campers on 9/22,' suggesting off-season visits may...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Bathrooms weren't the cleanest but there was plenty of TP.' - 'Great trails leaving right from the campground. I did the Mount of the Holy Cross Climb.' - 'Had a lovely visit from a moose in the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are available.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences for pet owners are not addressed in the reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025