Portal Campground
4.607 reviewsPortal Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
User reviews indicate a fee of $20 for camping at this site.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness just 11 miles southeast of Aspen, Portal Campground offers an intimate escape with only 5 secluded campsites. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to Colorado's high-country adventures, where narrow mountain roads lead to endless possibilities for hiking untouched trails, conquering challenging mountain bike routes, exploring rugged terrain on ATVs or motorcycles, casting lines in crystal-clear waters, and saddling up for horseback journeys through alpine meadows.
Portal Campground accommodates tent and RV camping, with space for group camping. Primitive camping facilities mean there are limited amenities, but the setting by Grizzly Reservoir is highly praised.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsAt Portal, Mother Nature writes her own rules. The high-altitude climate delivers crisp mountain air and dramatic weather shifts that keep every day interesting. Snow can dust the peaks even in summer months, while winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland. The thin, dry mountain air and frequently frigid temperatures remind visitors they're truly in the heart of the Rockies, where weather conditions can change from sunshine to snow flurries in minutes.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,400 feet above sea level, Portal Campground places you nearly two miles high in Colorado's sky. At this elevation, the air is crisp and thin, stars shine with extraordinary brilliance, and every breath reminds you that you're camping among the clouds. The high altitude creates its own microclimate, bringing cooler temperatures and that distinctive mountain atmosphere that makes every sunrise feel like a privilege.
Natural Features and SceneryPortal Campground emerges from a dense canopy of evergreens, creating natural privacy screens between sites and filling the air with the sweet scent of pine. The nearby Grizzly Reservoir mirrors the surrounding peaks and provides a stunning backdrop for morning coffee or evening reflection. Visitors consistently rave about the campground's postcard-perfect setting, where towering trees frame mountain vistas and the proximity to water adds a soothing soundtrack to your wilderness retreat.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of White River National Forest, Portal Campground sits at the intersection of adventure and tranquility. The surrounding terrain reads like an outdoor enthusiast's wishlist: serpentine trails perfect for day hikes through wildflower meadows, technical single-track that challenges mountain bikers, rugged roads ideal for ATV and motorcycle exploration, pristine fishing spots tucked into hidden corners, and scenic horseback riding routes that wind through some of Colorado's most spectacular high-country landscapes.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites have limited spurs as stated in official sources.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews mention varying levels of privacy, with some sites closer to the reservoir or creek, providing more secluded options.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews recommend the fifth site for its proximity to the creek, clear view of the Reservoir, and semi-circle of trees offering an ideal spot for tents.
Best CampsitesSome user reviews suggest that spots closer to the river provide a better camping experience due to the ability to drown out sounds from other campers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
5day stay limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutLimited spurs as per authoritative content. User reviews mention differences among sites, with some closer to the reservoir, creek, shaded areas.
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Portal Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and water-based activities in Grizzly Reservoir. Other reported activities include mountain biking, ATV riding, and horseback riding. "Bring a paddleboard or kayak," reviewers note, emphasizing its suitability for boating enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground provides access to day hikes, including the Grizzly Lake trail. User reviews describe this trail as moderately challenging, with snow at higher elevations during early summer.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at the nearby Grizzly Reservoir, known for its serene environment.Biking
Mountain biking is supported in the surrounding terrain, though specific trails and difficulty levels are not detailed.Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on Grizzly Reservoir. There are no specifics on boat rentals or launch facilities.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are mentioned by user reviews as popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each site has a fire ring according to user reviews.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention rough dirt and gravel roads which require high clearance vehicles.
Active alertsFor summer 2024, Grizzly Reservoir is drained for dam repairs. High concentrations of heavy metals have been found in Lincoln Creek.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.3 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresNear Grizzly Reservoir and a nearby creek, providing opportunities for water-related activities.
Common complaintsRoad to the campground is described as rough and challenging in user reviews, requiring 4WD or high clearance vehicles.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Aspen, Colorado travel eleven miles southeast on Highway 82 toward Independence Pass to Lincoln Creek Road. Turn right and travel seven miles south on Lincoln Creek Road.
High clearance vehicles are required and 4x4 recommended for Lincoln Creek Road. Warning: No vehicles over 35 feet long are allowed on Highway 82 to access this campground.Nearby places
Aspen (11 miles southeast, estimated travel time unavailable), Lincoln Creek (7 miles south, estimated travel time unavailable)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Portal Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Portal Campground is described as a beautiful, remote, and rustic camping spot with limited amenities but a stunning natural setting. High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for access.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the scenic beauty, proximity to Grizzly Reservoir, and peaceful atmosphere. The availability of bear lockers, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site was also appreciated.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
One consistent complaint was the rough condition of Lincoln Creek Road, requiring high clearance vehicles and potentially discouraging less prepared visitors.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Get there early - spots fill up quick!" (Jameson Dion). "Remember sunscreen! You will burn fast in the sun" (A B). Bring a paddleboard or kayak for extra enjoyment.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is highlighted as the peak season due to accessibility and the absence of snow. Mosquitoes are reportedly not an issue during certain summer months.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Vault toilets were as one would expect." "Bring a paddleboard or kayak." "Get there early - spots fill up quick!"
Based on 7 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is highlighted as a favorite for its proximity to the creek and reservoir.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025