Cimarron Campground
4.3712 reviewsCimarron Campground
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
Recreation Use Fee: $16 per night for dry camping.
About this campground
Step back in time at Cimarron Campground, where the echoes of steam whistles and chugging locomotives still whisper through the pines. Nestled 20 miles east of Montrose, Colorado, this unique camping destination sits on the grounds of a historic narrow gauge railroad town, offering visitors a chance to sleep where railway workers once made their homes. The campground welcomes tent campers and medium-sized RVs on a first-come, first-served basis, with fascinating railroad exhibits just steps from your campsite. A short 1.5-mile journey leads to the sparkling waters of Crystal Reservoir near Morrow Point Dam, where adventure awaits.
The campground caters to a variety of camping styles, ranging from tent camping to medium-sized RVs.
Historical SignificanceHistory comes alive at Cimarron, where the romance of the railroad era permeates every corner. This campground occupies the very ground where a bustling narrow gauge railroad town once thrived, serving as a vital link in Colorado's mining and transportation history. Meticulously preserved railroad exhibits stand sentinel next to the camping areas, allowing visitors to explore authentic locomotives, historic buildings, and artifacts that tell the story of the brave souls who conquered these mountains with steel rails and determination.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Colorado's dramatic seasonal tapestry at nearly 7,000 feet, where crisp mountain air greets you year-round. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration, while autumn paints the landscape in brilliant golds and oranges. Winter transforms the campground into a quiet wonderland, with frigid temperatures that demand proper preparation but reward hearty souls with pristine beauty. The dry climate means more clear, star-filled nights than cloudy ones, making every season a photographer's dream.
ElevationPerched at 6,895 feet above sea level, Cimarron Campground offers a natural escape into Colorado's refreshing high country. This elevation gifts campers with naturally air-conditioned summer nights and some of the clearest, most spectacular stargazing opportunities in the state. The thin mountain air creates a canvas of stars so brilliant, you'll understand why ancient peoples saw stories written in the heavens. The elevation also means cooler temperatures year-round, providing relief from valley heat and creating perfect conditions for campfire gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryCimarron Campground showcases Colorado's breathtaking diversity, where human history and natural splendor converge in perfect harmony. The historic railroad structures stand against a backdrop of towering peaks and endless sky, while nearby Crystal Reservoir mirrors the surrounding mountains in its pristine waters. This corner of the Curecanti National Recreation Area reveals new wonders with each sunrise: golden light illuminating ancient rock formations, eagles soaring overhead, and the ever-changing play of shadows across the mountainous terrain that defines this spectacular region.
Geological RegionCarved into the heart of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, Cimarron Campground occupies a remarkable geological crossroads where ancient forces shaped a landscape of stunning complexity. The surrounding mountains tell a billion-year story written in stone, while Crystal Reservoir and the impressive Morrow Point Dam showcase humanity's ability to harness these natural wonders. This unique location places campers at the intersection of geological time and human ambition, where narrow gauge railroads once threaded impossible routes through canyon walls that took millions of years to form. The mountainous terrain creates a natural amphitheater of beauty that changes with every shift of light and season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNot explicitly described in the materials.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates tents and medium-sized RVs. One user mentioned easily camping with a 20' travel trailer.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly described. However, one user mentioned 'road noise' impacting their experience.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from the bathrooms for better stargazing opportunities and reduced noise.
Best CampsitesSites near the bathrooms may have more road noise and brightness issues due to utility lighting, as per reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group camping sites explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonNot explicitly mentioned; likely year-round given no seasonal restrictions stated.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. The campground rarely fills, according to authoritative sources.
Cancellation PolicySites are first-come, first-served; no explicit reservation cancellation policy applies for Cimarron Campground.
Amenities available
Potable water
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cimarron Campground offers recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby railroad exhibits. The proximity to Crystal Reservoir and the Cimarron River enhances its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Several users praised the hiking opportunities, including 'an excellent hike at the end of the road with a bridge going over the river.' This hike was particularly enjoyed by families with toddlers.Fishing
Fishing is available nearby, and one user described it as 'close to fishing, kind of a campground secret.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground features adjacent railroad exhibits, offering historical and educational insights.Winter Activities
No details provided on winter-specific activities.Water Sports
No specific details on non-motorized water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include proximity to the road causing some noise, as mentioned in user reviews.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 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
Montrose, 20 miles away, is likely the nearest location for emergency services such as hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo explicit details on trash and recycling facilities were provided.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 1.5 miles from Crystal Reservoir near Morrow Point Dam.
Common complaints"Brown rusty water comes out of the drinking water," noted in one user review. Light above the utility room was "very bright," negatively impacting stargazing for nearby sites.
Host"Hosts were very friendly," according to multiple user reviews.
Campground Map
Driving directionsCimarron Campground directions and information are available at https://www.nps.gov/cure/planyourvisit/camp_cimarron.htm.
Located 20 miles east of Montrose on U.S. Highway 50, road access is straightforward and paved, suitable for tents and medium-sized RVs.Nearby places
Montrose (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Newberry's store nearby offers a variety of essentials, including food, supplies, and items for rockhounding.
Camper Reviews
4.4
12 reviews
Cimarron Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting cleanliness, friendly hosts, and convenient location near outdoor activities. However, some users noted minor issues such as road noise and water quality.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cleanliness of the campground, with mentions of 'super clean bathroom facilities' and 'clean flushing bathrooms.' The campground hosts received commendation for their friendliness...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included road noise affecting some campsites and issues with water quality, specifically 'brown rusty water' reported by one user. Bright lighting near the utility room slightly deterred...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggested bringing essentials as there is limited cell service and no on-site store. Exploring nearby attractions like the trains on display and local trails is highly recommended.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal trends were not explicitly detailed in the reviews, but the campground's year-round access and proximity to outdoor activities suggest its usability through various seasons.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great place, small quiet and empty. Near the dam and a great hiking trail.' 2. 'Absolutely one of the best experiences of my life. Very neat camping area, beautiful walk along Cimarron River.' 3....
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site preferences were not detailed, although sites near the utility room were noted for being impacted by bright lighting.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences were provided.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025