Mcdonald Flats Campground
4.4110 reviewsMcDonald Flats Campground, Heeney Road, Green Mountain Reservoir, Colorado
Mcdonald Flats Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
$18 per day without Green Mountain Reservoir Season Pass.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Perched at 8,000 feet in the shadow of Green Mountain Reservoir, McDonald Flats Campground offers adventurers a genuine high-country experience. This intimate campground provides the essentials for those seeking solitude and sweeping mountain vistas. Each site comes equipped with a table and grill for memorable outdoor meals, while vault toilets serve the grounds. Though there's no potable water on-site, a convenient hand-pump spigot allows campers to fill their containers. The exposed setting means you'll trade shade for spectacular, unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks and shimmering reservoir below.
McDonald Flats Campground offers a simple camping experience with 12 combined sites catering to both tents and small vehicles. It is not designed for RVs or equestrian camping. Group camping and glamping options are also absent.
Weather and SeasonsAt 8,000 feet, McDonald Flats experiences the full drama of mountain weather. Summer brings refreshingly cool days perfect for escaping valley heat, with crisp mornings giving way to pleasant afternoons under expansive blue skies. As autumn approaches, temperatures begin their descent, and winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland where temperatures regularly plunge below freezing. Savvy campers target those glorious summer weeks when clear skies dominate and moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for stargazing and sunrise watching over the reservoir.
ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, McDonald Flats sits in that sweet spot where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the night sky seems close enough to touch. This elevation gifts campers with naturally cool temperatures that turn hot summer days into comfortable adventures and transforms evenings into jacket-weather gatherings around the campfire. From this lofty perch, panoramic vistas stretch in every direction, offering front-row seats to Colorado's spectacular high-country theater.
Natural Features and SceneryMcDonald Flats embraces its wide-open character, where knee-high sagebrush creates a tapestry of silver-green across the landscape. While this low-growing vegetation means minimal privacy between sites, it also ensures nothing blocks your view of the stunning surroundings. Select campsites command breathtaking vistas of Green Mountain Reservoir, its waters reflecting the sky like a massive mirror, while the surrounding peaks frame the horizon in dramatic fashion. This is camping for those who prefer their nature unfiltered and their sunsets unobstructed.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive White River National Forest, McDonald Flats occupies a unique geological niche near Green Mountain Reservoir. The 8,000-foot plateau showcases the region's characteristic high-altitude ecosystem, where hardy sagebrush has adapted to thrive in the thin mountain air and intense sunshine. This elevated terrain offers campers a front-row seat to the reservoir's impressive expanse and the rugged mountain topography that defines this corner of Colorado. The surrounding peaks tell ancient geological stories while providing a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information on accessibility features for McDonald Flats Campground. However, the vault toilets are not wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeStandard-sized sites suitable for tents and small vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is minimal due to the layout of the campground. Sites are side-by-side clusters with little to no natural barriers. The absence of trees and presence of exposed sites is noted both in the official description and user reviews like Jeremy Woodruff's: 'Most sites are very exposed, there isn't much cover from the sun.'
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early for better site selection, as sites fill quickly.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limit not specified.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are laid out in side-by-side clusters along two loops. They lack vegetation for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 18 through October 7
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not required.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is first-come, first-served, with sites filling quickly according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McDonald Flats Campground offers a range of recreational activities primarily centered around the Green Mountain Reservoir. Activities include fishing, boating (both motorized and non-motorized), and water skiing. Hiking and swimming are not available directly from the campground. Although hunting is listed, the extent of this activity is not detailed.
Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Green Mountain Reservoir. Fish species include Kokanee salmon, as well as rainbow and brown trout. Specific details about fishing permits or designated areas are not provided.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are supported at Green Mountain Reservoir. A boat ramp is available, though its usability depends on the reservoir's water level. A boat inspection is mandatory to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species.Winter Activities
No information provided on winter recreational options.Water Sports
Water sports such as water skiing and sailing are available on the Green Mountain Reservoir. Motorized water sports dominate, and the reservoir's 2,000-acre size ensures ample space for activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fireplaces are available at each site; users are reminded to extinguish fires responsibly.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include exposure to sun due to lack of shade and fluctuating reservoir levels impacting water activities.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Silverthorne (~16 miles) where hospitals and police stations are available.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information provided about trash and recycling facilities, but users are encouraged to keep the site clean as per Bobby O's comment: 'Just be responsible and keep it clean.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Green Mountain Reservoir with access to boating, fishing, and water skiing. Due to reservoir fluctuations, some water activities may be impacted seasonally.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include lack of potable water, exposure to wind and sun due to minimal vegetation, and close proximity of campsites leading to limited privacy. Some reviews also mention occasional bad neighbors.
HostUser reviews mention a friendly campground host providing welcoming service.
Campground Map
McDonald Flats Campground, Heeney Road, Green Mountain Reservoir, Colorado
Driving directionsFrom Silverthorne, CO, take State Rt. 9 north 14.8 miles to Heeney Rd. 30 sign. Turn left onto Heeney Rd. (County Rt. 30) and go 2.1 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign onto gravel road (some erosion) and go 0.3 miles to campground.
Access involves a gravel road with some erosion. The campground is reachable from Heeney Road, which connects with Highway 9. It does not provide significant challenges but lacks paved routes leading directly to the campground.Nearby places
Silverthorne (~16 miles, ~25-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel, are available in Silverthorne (~16 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.4
10 reviews
Mcdonald Flats Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, beautiful views, and proximity to the Green Mountain Reservoir. While many users appreciate the well-maintained facilities, others note the lack of shade and privacy due to the exposed layout. The campground is viewed as a great spot for quick getaways and outdoor activities like fishing and boating.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, scenic views of the reservoir, and friendly campground staff were frequently praised. One user noted that 'facilities were immaculate!' and another complimented the staff for being...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The absence of potable water, lack of shade, and exposed campsites were common concerns. Monica A mentioned, '$18 for no services not even water,' while Jeremy Woodruff commented, 'Most sites are...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a good site, as noted by Jessica Chapman: 'Go early if you wanna good spot they fill quickly.' Additionally, Bobby O advises campers to 'be responsible and keep it clean' with...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive experiences are more common during the warmer months when the reservoir's water levels are higher, allowing for boating and fishing. However, the review by Annie the Cowgirl Concierge...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were clean and didn't smell.' - Monica A. 2. 'Go early if you wanna good spot they fill quickly.' - Jessica Chapman. 3. 'Nice little car campground next to the reservoir.' - Jeremy...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites overlook the reservoir, offering scenic views, though all sites lack privacy due to their proximity to each other. Jessica Chapman advises arriving early for the best spots.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground lacks specific accessibility features, and the vault toilets are not wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews mention experiences related to pets.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025