Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground
3.9611 reviewsLincoln Creek Dispersed Campground
$0.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
While the dispersed sites are free, some reviews mention confusion with paid sites in the area which might charge $25.
About this campground
Escape to Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground, where 22 secluded campsites await along the winding Lincoln Creek Road. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls who navigate its rocky, challenging terrain with a true wilderness experience. While the journey demands a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle, those who make the trek discover an untouched alpine paradise far from the crowds. Each site offers a unique vantage point into Colorado's raw beauty, with direct access to pristine hiking trails that disappear into the surrounding peaks.
This is a dispersed camping area with primitive facilities, catering to car campers and those with high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsThe alpine climate here tells a tale of dramatic seasons. Winter transforms this landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures plunging well below freezing and light snow dusting the peaks. But come mid-July, the campground reveals its gentler side – wildflowers burst into a riot of color across the meadows, painting the hillsides in vibrant purples, yellows, and reds. This brief but spectacular summer window offers the most comfortable camping conditions, when warm days give way to crisp, star-filled nights perfect for campfire stories.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, this campground sits in true alpine territory where the air grows thin and the views stretch endlessly. The rugged, high-altitude terrain creates a natural amphitheater of towering peaks and dramatic ridgelines. Here, at the edge of the treeline, you'll feel the raw power of the mountains and understand why early explorers called these heights the backbone of the continent.
Natural Features and SceneryLincoln Creek sings its way through the campground, creating a natural soundtrack of rushing water that mingles with the whisper of wind through alpine firs. Hidden waterfalls reveal themselves to those who explore, cascading down moss-covered rocks in secret groves. The real stars of the show arrive in summer when wildflower meadows explode with color, creating perfect foregrounds for mountain photography. Lucky visitors might spot magnificent moose browsing near the creek at dawn or dusk, their massive forms moving surprisingly gracefully through the lush vegetation that thrives in this pristine ecosystem.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast White River National Forest, Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground showcases the geological drama of the Colorado Rockies. Ancient granite peaks tower overhead, their faces carved by millennia of wind, water, and ice. Crystal-clear mountain streams have cut deep valleys through the landscape, creating the rugged terrain that defines this region. This is a place where the earth's power is on full display – where tectonic forces pushed these mountains skyward millions of years ago, creating the spectacular high-altitude playground that draws adventurers from around the world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe rugged terrain and lack of facilities may make this campground challenging for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites vary from moderately spacious to very large. One user noted, "stayed at campsite 21 out of the 22 for a few nights. It was very spacious."
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, offering significant privacy. "Campsites are very far apart from each other so you will have a lot of seclusion," one reviewer described.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Campers should choose sites with bear lockers and those near water features for added convenience. Wildflowers are most vibrant in mid-July."
Best Campsites"Site 7 is recommended for its proximity to a waterfall and gorge; Site 21 is noted for its spaciousness, privacy, and level ground."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Maximum 5 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Group camping specifics are not provided, and the campground appears to cater primarily to individual sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout"Sites are spread across the first 4-5 miles of Lincoln Creek Road, providing ample seclusion between campsites."
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable for this campground as it is entirely first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up, first-come, first-served.
Cancellation Policy"All sites are first come, first serve, therefore no reservations and associated cancellation policies apply."
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Lincoln Creek can engage in activities such as exploring nearby trails, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the serene setting by the creek. The area is also close to climbing opportunities and numerous trailheads.
Hiking
Multiple trailheads are nearby, making the campground popular among hikers. Reviewers highlight the proximity to "a dozen awesome trailheads."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 sightings are a highlight, with one reviewer saying, "Saw a moose walk through the campground during some heavy showers."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly described, though the area may be less accessible in winter months due to snow.Water Sports
No water sports activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- "Reviews mention the presence of metal fire rings with grates at campsites, but specific fire policies are not stated."
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"User reviews and authoritative sources mention potential dangers such as bears in the area, rocky terrain requiring vehicle caution, and lack of cellular service."
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.8 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
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned; campers are likely expected to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water features"Many campsites are located near streams, and Site 7 is particularly close to a waterfall and gorge."
Common complaints"Some user reviews mention challenges with dusty/ashy sites, rocky access roads, and the absence of facilities such as water and restrooms."
Host"No campground hosts or staffed facilities are mentioned or available."
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Aspen, CO travel southeast on Highway 82 for 11 miles to Lincoln Creek Road.
"High Clearance required and 4x4 recommended to access all campsites. The road is rocky and long. Many user reviews confirm that while 2WD vehicles can navigate the road in dry conditions, higher clearance vehicles are much more suitable."Nearby places
Aspen, CO (11 miles, approximately 20-30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Aspen, CO, approximately 20-30 minutes away, offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.0
11 reviews
Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lincoln Creek Dispersed Campground garners mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.96. Positive feedback focuses on the scenic beauty, privacy, and proximity to trails. Negative reviews point out the rugged road conditions and lack of facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
"Amazing dispersed campsite just 20 minutes down the road from Aspen," one reviewer notes. Others praise the seclusion and natural beauty, with mentions of nearby waterfalls, wildflowers, and a...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include the rough road conditions: "The road is pretty rough, but our Honda CRV handled it just fine," and the lack of restroom facilities: "The vault toilet smells like hell." Another...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bringing 4WD or a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended due to the rocky road conditions. Extra wipes are useful for dusty sites, and campers should be prepared to pack out all waste due to...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer visits are most popular, with wildflowers in bloom in mid-July and temperatures in the mid-30's overnight in early September. Winter access may be more challenging.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Amazing dispersed campsite just 20 minutes down the road from Aspen." - "Stayed at campsite 21 out of the 22 for a few nights. It was very spacious." - "Saw a moose walk through the campground...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 21 is noted for its spaciousness and seclusion. Site 7 offers proximity to a waterfall and gorge. One user mentioned that an avalanche had impacted some sites, leaving fewer trees.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but the rugged terrain and lack of facilities suggest challenges for those with mobility concerns.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention experiences related to bringing pets, and the campground's pet policy is unclear.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025