Oh Be Joyful Campground
4.47138 reviewsnull
Oh Be Joyful Campground
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary depending on the site type: $20 per night for individual tent or RV sites (non-electric), and $60 per night for group tent-only non-electric sites. Additional fees may apply for modifications or late cancellations.
About this campground
Escape to Oh Be Joyful Campground, where mountain serenity meets riverside bliss just 5 miles from the charming town of Crested Butte, Colorado. This intimate 30-unit retreat hugs the eastern banks of the pristine Slate River, offering a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion. Choose from 14 RV sites with modern conveniences, 15 secluded walk-in tent sites for those seeking a more authentic experience, or gather your tribe at the spacious group site. Named after the melodious Oh Be Joyful Creek that cascades through the area, this campground serves as your gateway to thundering waterfalls, meadows painted with wildflowers, and trails that wind through some of Colorado's most breathtaking mountain scenery. Here, elk and deer are your neighbors, and each sunrise brings new adventures right to your tent flap.
Oh Be Joyful Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including RV sites, walk-in tent sites, and a group site. The variety caters to different types of campers, though the absence of amenities like water and electricity makes it ideal for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 9,000 feet, Oh Be Joyful offers a refreshing escape from summer heat, with crisp mountain air and temperatures that invite you to break out your favorite flannel. Summer afternoons often bring dramatic thunderstorms that roll through the valley, painting the sky with nature's own light show before giving way to crystal-clear evenings perfect for stargazing. Spring transforms the Slate River into a powerful force as snowmelt rushes down from the peaks, creating an exhilarating soundtrack for your stay. When autumn arrives, the mountainsides explode into a tapestry of gold and amber as aspens put on their annual spectacular show, making fall camping here an unforgettable experience.
ElevationAt nearly 9,000 feet above sea level, Oh Be Joyful Campground offers the authentic high-country experience that Colorado is famous for. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath, while cooler temperatures provide welcome relief even on summer's warmest days. First-time high-altitude visitors should take it easy on arrival, allowing their bodies to adjust to the elevation while soaking in the spectacular views that come with camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a verdant valley where towering peaks stand sentinel on either side, their slopes adorned with nature's finest artwork. The campground's setting is nothing short of magical, with the Slate River providing a constant, soothing melody as it flows past your campsite. Spring and summer transform the landscape into Colorado's premier wildflower showcase, where purple Columbine (the state flower) mingles with fiery Indian Paintbrush and delicate Avalanche Lilies to create a living kaleidoscope. The interplay of rushing water, wildflower meadows, and dramatic mountain vistas creates an ever-changing canvas that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionTucked into the heart of Gunnison County, Colorado, Oh Be Joyful Campground occupies a stunning valley carved by the persistent flow of the Slate River through ancient mountain terrain. This geological wonderland showcases the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains, where millennia of erosion and uplift have created the dramatic peaks and gentle valleys that define the landscape. The campground serves as a front-row seat to one of nature's most impressive floral displays, with spring and early summer bringing waves of wildflowers that carpet the hillsides. Columbine, Indian Paintbrush, and Avalanche Lilies transform the valley into a botanical paradise, their vibrant blooms a testament to the unique conditions created by this high-altitude ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites, accessible vault toilets, and trail parking.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious, with tent pads and areas large enough to accommodate trailers or RVs where permitted. Some walk-in sites provide additional privacy and proximity to the river.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies depending on the site. Walk-in tent sites are well spread out and quiet, while others, such as site 17, are described as "in the middle of all the other ones" with little to no privacy. Reviewers recommend choosing sites on the outside for more seclusion.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and scenic views, choose walk-in sites like 28, 25, or 23. Drive-up sites closer to the river provide easier access but may have less shade.
Best CampsitesCampsite 23 (on the river with amazing views), Campsite 26 (beside Slate River), Campsite 2 (private and scenic).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM
Check-out
Prior to 2:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-Day Max Stay
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to 8 people.
Groups
The group site features large tent platforms and accommodates multiple tents. However, reservations for the group site should be confirmed, as some users reported unclear reservation policies.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 14 RV sites, 15 walk-in tent sites, and one group campsite. Walk-in sites are generally more secluded, while RV sites offer easier access.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season: May 27 to September 30. The campground closes outside of this range, and no bookings are available during the offseason.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is unlikely during peak season as the campground is usually full. Reservations are highly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay camping payments are non-refundable, and no modifications or cancellations are allowed.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Oh Be Joyful Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, mountain biking, kayaking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Oh Be Joyful trail and access to the Raggeds Wilderness provide ample opportunities for exploration, while the Slate River and waterfalls enhance the overall experience. "The Oh Be Joyful trail to Blue Lake directly from the campground is very popular," one visitor noted.
Hiking
Hiking is a highlight here, with trails like the Oh Be Joyful trail leading to Blue Lake and other scenic waterfalls. "The Oh Be Joyful trail is 13 miles out and back, but you can choose your own adventure," one camper shared. Trails range from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound in the nearby Slate River and surrounding waterways. One reviewer described the area as 'a great location to fish.'Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity, with trails like the Coal Train and Lower Loop accessible directly from the campground. The area is praised for its biking opportunities, making it a great base camp for cyclists.Boating
Kayaking is a notable activity in the Slate River near the campground. However, there are no specific details about boat ramps or docking facilities.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife, including deer and bears. 'We had a young doe run through on the pathway between campsites,' one visitor noted. Bear sightings are common, emphasizing the importance of using bear-proof food storage.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the available data.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are popular due to the Slate River's proximity. Visitors frequently enjoy water play in the river as well as paddleboarding and small boat usage during warmer months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are only allowed in designated metal fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsRiver water levels rise during spring runoff, creating swift and potentially dangerous conditions. Bears are prevalent, necessitating proper food storage. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.8 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 27, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo trash collection services are provided. Visitors must pack out all trash. Bear-proof food storage lockers are available at each site, but campers need to manage waste disposal independently.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Slate River. Some sites, such as 23 and 26, provide direct riverfront access.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include rough access roads, overcrowding, and lack of water and trash services. Some reviewers also note issues with campground hosts and site reservations.
HostMixed reviews regarding hosts. Some describe them as "helpful," while others recount issues with hosts failing to enforce rules or double-booking sites.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom the town of Crested Butte, drive north on Gothic Road. (County road 317) towards Mount Crested Butte. Cross the Slate River and turn left on Slate River Road (County Road 734). Follow this up the valley for approximately 5 miles to BLM Road 3220. Turn left onto BLM Road 3220 and continue for approximately 0.3 miles to Oh Be Joyful Campground. BLM Road 3220 is steep and rough; low clearance vehicles and larger RVs may want to scout the road before driving down to the campground.
The access road (BLM Road 3220) to the campground is steep and rough, and may not be suitable for larger low-clearance rigs. Reviews consistently note this challenge, with one camper describing it as "a little like driving on the moon!"Nearby places
Crested Butte (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.5
138 reviews
Oh Be Joyful Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, proximity to outdoor activities, and rustic charm. While many praise the clean vault toilets and well-maintained sites, common complaints include the challenging access road, lack of water and trash services, and occasional overcrowding. The campground's popularity often results in limited privacy and issues with site management.
Review Summaries
Based on 138 reviews
What Campers Love
Scenic location along the Slate River with access to waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildflowers. Bear-proof food storage lockers are appreciated, and vault toilets are often described as clean. The...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Rough access road, absence of potable water and trash services, and limited privacy in certain sites. Overcrowding and site management issues, such as double-booking and lack of enforcement of quiet...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and trash bags. Choose walk-in sites for more privacy and proximity to the river. Be prepared for rough road conditions and consider scouting the access road if driving a...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is highly popular in summer and fall due to wildflowers and fall foliage. Early and late season visits may offer more solitude but come with risks of road accessibility difficulties...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The CLEANEST bathrooms I've ever had while tent camping!" "For $10/night you can’t beat it!" "Rough road down, but worth it for the trails and views."
Based on 138 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 7: Quiet and tucked away with river access. Site 19: Described as the 'worst site' by multiple users due to its gravel surface and lack of a bear box. Site 26: Highly praised for being next to...
Based on 138 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible sites and vault toilets are available, but uneven terrain and the steep access road may pose challenges. Some vault toilets are noted as being better maintained than others.
Based on 138 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Bear-proof storage and vigilance are necessary due to wildlife presence, and cow grazing in the area may distract pets.
Based on 138 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025