Little Maud Campground
4.4682 reviewsSporis Ranger District
Little Maud Campground
$32.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
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
Peak season rates for standard nonelectric sites are $32 per night. Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior Pass holders (actual discounts mentioned by campers).
About this campground
Nestled at 7,800 feet in the heart of the White River National Forest, Little Maud Campground beckons adventurers with 21 thoughtfully positioned sites that accommodate everything from intimate tent setups to spacious RVs. This mountain sanctuary overlooks the sparkling waters of Ruedi Reservoir, where towering conifers frame spectacular views of surrounding peaks. Whether you're casting a fly line at dawn, launching your boat for a day on the water, or setting off on alpine trails, Little Maud serves as your perfect basecamp for Colorado mountain adventures. The campground's serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty create an unforgettable retreat from May through October.
The campground provides 21 sites suitable for RVs, tents, and trailers, with walk-in tent camping also available. Sites must be reserved in advance during peak season.
Historical SignificanceWhile Little Maud's recorded history may be brief, this pristine corner of the White River National Forest carries the timeless legacy of Colorado's wild spaces, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have found solace and adventure in the Rocky Mountain wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of Colorado's high country from late spring through early fall, when Little Maud comes alive with perfect camping weather. Summer days bring comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor adventures, while crisp mountain evenings invite cozy campfires under star-filled skies. Even during the shoulder seasons, when temperatures can dip to a brisk 29.8°F during the day and 5.7°F at night, the predominantly dry conditions and brilliant sunshine make for spectacular camping. The elevation ensures refreshing breezes and cooler temperatures throughout the peak season, offering a welcome escape from summer heat at lower elevations.
ElevationPerched at 7,800 feet above sea level, Little Maud Campground offers the authentic alpine experience that defines Colorado camping. This elevation places you in a sweet spot where lush conifer forests thrive, wildflowers paint the meadows in summer, and the air carries that distinctive mountain freshness. The higher altitude not only provides naturally cooler temperatures and relief from summer heat but also delivers those breathtaking panoramic views that make every sunrise and sunset an event worth witnessing.
Natural Features and SceneryLittle Maud Campground immerses you in a landscape where nature puts on a daily show. Dense stands of spruce, fir, and pine create a fragrant canopy overhead, while the shimmering expanse of Ruedi Reservoir stretches below, reflecting the surrounding peaks like a giant mirror. Keep your camera ready for wildlife encounters – majestic bighorn sheep navigate the rocky outcrops, bull elk bugle during autumn evenings, pikas chirp from their boulder homes, and white-tailed ptarmigan blend seamlessly into the alpine terrain. Crystal-clear mountain streams tumble through the undeveloped wilderness, their music providing the perfect soundtrack to your mountain escape.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic landscape of the Rocky Mountains, Little Maud Campground showcases the geological wonders of the White River National Forest. This rugged terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient forces carved deep valleys, thrust peaks skyward, and created the perfect basin for Ruedi Reservoir. The surrounding mountainous topography features classic Rocky Mountain geology – granite formations, sedimentary layers, and glacial remnants that create a diverse ecosystem where mixed conifer forests flourish. This spectacular setting offers not just a place to camp, but a front-row seat to one of North America's most iconic mountain ranges.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details provided about accessibility features beyond reviews discussing site proximity to facilities for guests with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to a maximum length of 35 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering good shade and separation, while others are described as more open and exposed. User reviews suggest selecting shaded sites carefully due to limited coverage in certain spots.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites to avoid daytime sun exposure. Sites #7, #6, and #21 are highly recommended for their privacy and proximity to recreation areas.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites from user reviews include #7 (next to a creek), #6 (privacy and shade), and #21 (views and direct reservoir access).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is by noon on the scheduled arrival day.
Check-out
Check-out time is by noon the following day.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during each visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated in the source materials.
Groups
No group camping options are specified in the official sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 21 sites, described as small to medium-sized and fairly open. Some sites offer better shade and privacy than others.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 13 to October 29. Reservations start June 23, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites must be occupied by noon the following day to retain a walk-up reservation; however, availability specifics are not covered.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations will incur a $10 fee and the first night's fee forfeited. Changes such as switching dates outside the original reservation will also cost $10.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Little Maud Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, leveraging its location near the Ruedi Reservoir and Fryingpan River. Popular activities include fishing in Gold Medal Waters, hiking the Ruedi Trail, and engaging in water sports like boating and swimming. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with opportunities to observe elk, deer, and other species.
Hiking
The Ruedi Trail climbs to the top of Red Table Mountain, gaining over 3,000 feet in elevation along its 8-mile length. "The trailhead is located 200 feet north of the Jeep trail near the boat ramp and parking lot." User reviews highlight beautiful views during hikes, with one recommending Frying Pan Overlook.Fishing
Fishing is renowned at Fryingpan River, below Ruedi Dam, where species like rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout are abundant. "Gold Medal Waters regulations apply," requiring artificial flies and lures.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the Ruedi Reservoir, though no designated swimming beaches are explicitly mentioned in official sources. User reviews warn about chilly water temperatures.Biking
Biking trails are available in the surrounding area. Specific details about trail difficulty or conditions are not provided.Boating
Boating is popular at Ruedi Reservoir, including water skiing. However, user reviews indicate limited rental options (e.g., no boat rentals, only SUPs available in Basalt).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes bighorn sheep, elk, deer, and other species. User reviews note frequent deer sightings within campsites.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are offered. No specific details about topics or schedules are provided.Winter Activities
No explicit details provided about winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing.Water Sports
Water skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water sports are popular options at Ruedi Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during dry weather. Campfires and charcoal fires are not allowed during bans.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires the use of bear-proof lockers. Users mentioned large rocks in tent areas as potential sleeping hazards. Some sites lack shade, and insects like flies, mosquitoes, and ticks can be problematic.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Aspen Sopris Ranger District in Carbondale, CO. Emergency service specifics from user reviews or official content are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 13th - October 29th, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are provided at the campground. Reports note occasional issues with full dumpsters during peak periods.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Ruedi Reservoir, providing opportunities for water activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include bathroom closures replaced by porta-potties, lack of shade at certain sites, and issues with noisy neighbors ignoring fire bans.
HostHosts are praised for their friendliness and hard work. Specific mentions include Fernando and Hunter.
Campground Map
Sporis Ranger District
Driving directionsTake I-70 west of Denver to Glenwood Springs Exit 116, Highway 82 to Basalt. At Basalt, take Frying Pan Road 15 miles to the Ruedi Complex Entrance.
The road to the campground is accessible via paved roads, including major highways and a secondary road (Frying Pan Road). No seasonal closures are mentioned.Nearby places
Basalt (15 miles), Aspen (distance unspecified)
Nearby supplies
Basalt may serve as the closest location for groceries and essentials, but detailed distances or supply sources are not cited.
Camper Reviews
4.5
82 reviews
Little Maud Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the beauty and cleanliness of Little Maud Campground, though some report maintenance issues and challenges with shade or restroom closures.
Review Summaries
Based on 82 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews describe the campground as clean, quiet, and well-maintained. "Bathrooms were very clean," noted by multiple users, and "Fernando was an excellent host." Scenic reservoir views and hiking...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include restroom closures, full dumpsters, lack of shade at certain sites, and occasional noise from neighboring campers.
Based on 82 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Choose shaded sites carefully," and "bring pop-up shade for sunny areas," according to reviewers. Pack for cooler nights, even during summer.
Based on 82 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak summer season sees high capacity and occasional issues with water shortages due to demand. Fall reviews note quieter conditions and stunning views.
Based on 82 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This was probably one of the nicest campgrounds I've been to in years," noted James Decker. "Bathrooms near the entrance actually flushed," noted Isabella M. "The campground was spacious and...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is praised for its proximity to the creek: "Our kids were super happy just playing in it," says Melissa Drexler. Site #18 is criticized for full sun exposure: "Basically uninhabitable from...
Based on 82 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
User Ned M chose a site near a toilet due to mobility challenges, but noted the facility was closed during their stay, causing difficulties.
Based on 82 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviews mention occasional issues with off-leash dogs.
Based on 82 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025