Halfmoon West
4.959 reviewsHalfmoon West
$0.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Seasonal rates are from May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025. Fees for standard non-electric sites cost $26 per day during this period. No discounts apply for non-electric sites. Additional charges for third vehicles are $11 per day.
About this campground
Nestled in the shadow of Colorado's majestic peaks, this mountain campground serves as your gateway to adventure at the base of Mount Elbert's renowned trailheads. Wake up to crisp mountain air and find yourself perfectly positioned for tackling some of the state's most spectacular hiking trails, where every path leads to breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences.
Halfmoon West Campground offers sites primarily for tent and RV camping. The campground is first-come, first-served, and does not support advanced reservations.
Historical SignificanceThis area holds deep significance as part of Colorado's rich mining heritage and mountaineering history. The surrounding peaks have drawn adventurers and prospectors for over a century, with Mount Elbert standing as Colorado's highest summit and a testament to the enduring allure of these ancient mountains. Native peoples first traversed these lands, followed by miners seeking fortune and later by recreational enthusiasts pursuing summit glory.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Colorado's high country through every season. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. Spring and fall offer stunning displays of wildflowers and golden aspens, while crisp temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though access may be limited during heavy snowfall.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's mountain region, this campground offers the authentic high-altitude experience that defines the Rocky Mountains. The elevated setting provides cooler temperatures, pristine air, and that distinctive mountain atmosphere where stars seem close enough to touch and sunrise paints the peaks in alpenglow.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering peaks dominate the horizon and pristine wilderness stretches in every direction. Alpine meadows burst with wildflowers, while stands of aspen and evergreen create a patchwork of color across the mountainsides. Crystal-clear streams cascade down from the heights, and the ever-changing play of light on the mountains creates a photographer's paradise from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionThis campground sits within the heart of Colorado's spectacular mountainous terrain, strategically positioned between the towering giants of Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. These ancient peaks, sculpted by millions of years of geological forces, create a dramatic backdrop of granite spires, glacial valleys, and rugged ridgelines that showcase the raw power and beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information is available about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are standard-sized, suitable for tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-spaced, offering a moderate level of privacy. According to a user review, "Beautiful area, well spaced campsites."
Total Campsites17 campsites
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
14 days per visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
There is no mention of designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23-Aug 31
Reservation Platforms Recreation .Recreation.gov Scan and Pay App.
Walk-in Availability null
Cancellation Policy Detailed changes and cancellation policy including late fees and refunds described. Fees applicable up to $10 for cancellation.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Halfmoon West Campground provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, particularly appealing to hikers and nature enthusiasts. It is located near the Mount Elbert and Mount Massive Trailheads, making it a popular destination for hikers. Fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities are also available.
Hiking
The campground's proximity to Mount Elbert and Mount Massive trailheads makes it ideal for hiking enthusiasts. This is a "very popular campground for hikers" according to the facility information.Fishing
Fishing is described as enjoyable by a user review: "Camping was fun and caught lots of fish." Specific details about the types of fish or fishing regulations are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are mentioned in user reviews, but specific details about the types of wildlife are not provided.Winter Activities
There is no specific information on winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing at this campground.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports information is available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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 dates May 23rd to August 31 st dates.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated off Halfmoon Road (FSR110). Latitude:39° 9' 27.4176" N / Longitude:106° 23' 52.2780" W. The campground is near Mount Elbert and Mount Massive Trailheads.
Access is via Halfmoon Road. Roads may have seasonal closures and challenging terrain.Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
5.0
9 reviews
Halfmoon West is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has received high praise for its cleanliness, affordability, and proximity to hiking trails. According to one user, "Absolutely beautiful place to camp. Rustic and quiet." Another mentioned, "Great place to camp for a few days with access to the lake and hiking."
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, frequently cleaned vault toilets, rustic and quiet environment, affordability, and proximity to popular hiking destinations.
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of potable water and occasional absence of the camp host.
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app before arrival to utilize the Scan and Pay feature, as cell service may be limited. Bring your own drinking water, as there is no potable water on-site.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is active during the summer months (open from late May to late August), and reviews indicate it is a popular choice during this time due to its proximity to hiking trails and the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campsites here are all clean with their own fire pit and picnic table." — Camp Host
"Beautiful area, well spaced campsites, and very close to Mt Elbert and Mt Massive trailheads as well as...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are standard-sized and well-spaced. Specific site numbers or reviews about individual campsites are not provided.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025