Ophir Creek Campground (Co)
4.2776 reviewsOphir Creek Campground (Co)
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates are seasonal with $25 per night rates for peak season, covering May 16, 2025 - September 20, 2025. First-come, first-serve season...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider719-269-8500
About this campground
Tucked away in Colorado's scenic San Carlos District, Ophir Creek Campground invites you to disconnect and immerse yourself in mountain serenity. With 31 thoughtfully placed sites, including dedicated tent camping areas (sites 20-31) and coveted creekside spots (sites 17-19), this hidden gem offers the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness escape. Wake to the gentle melody of Ophir Creek, spend your days discovering cascading waterfalls on nearby trails, or try your luck fishing in the crystal-clear mountain waters. Surrounded by towering pines and shimmering aspens, this campground serves as your basecamp for authentic Colorado adventures.
Ophir Creek Campground accommodates tent camping, small RVs, and trailers. Campsites #20-31 are designated as 'tent-only' due to their walk-in access and are not suitable for trailers or rooftop tents.
Historical SignificanceYour adventure extends beyond nature with the whimsical Bishop's Castle just 4 miles away—a testament to one man's architectural dream that has become a beloved Colorado landmark. The historic Greenhorn Mountain Road winds through the area, inviting exploration of the region's rich past while connecting you to authentic Colorado mountain culture and heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Colorado's dynamic mountain climate, where winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland with light accumulations perfect for peaceful solitude. As late spring arrives, the campground awakens with wildflowers and comfortable temperatures, reaching its prime through early summer when mild days and cool nights create ideal camping conditions. The dry mountain air and gentle breezes make for refreshing mornings and spectacular stargazing nights during peak season.
Natural Features and SceneryOphir Creek's gentle babble provides the soundtrack to your stay, while towering aspens create a canopy of green in summer and gold in fall. The interplay of sunlight through pine boughs creates an ever-changing tapestry throughout the day. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters—graceful deer often wander through camp at dawn and dusk, while playful chipmunks and squirrels provide endless entertainment. Hummingbirds dart between wildflowers, their iridescent feathers catching the mountain light, completing this living postcard of Colorado wilderness.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not documented for this campground.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious enough for tents, small RVs, or trailers. Site 25 is noted as suitable for a large family.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some are described as secluded and private, particularly site 28, while others are closer together.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and scenic views, sites #17 and #18 are recommended. Families or groups can benefit from larger sites such as #25.
Best CampsitesSites #17, #18, and #19 are commended for their proximity to the creek, providing an idyllic camping experience with natural sounds and picturesque scenery.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates up to 10 individuals, including provisions for 2 tents and 2 vehicles OR 1 RV.
Groups
No group camping site information is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features numbered loops, including tent-only areas (sites 20-31) accessible via hill paths. Creekside sites provide enhanced ambiance and soundscapes.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend with extended service till mid-October based on snow conditions. Reduced services apply post-Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online system, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during non-reservable periods. Non-electric sites maintain first-come, first-serve availability during September 21, 2025 - September 27, 2025 period.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before the reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (day before or same day) forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, and biking. The nearby Ophir Creek and its waterfall are key attractions. Off-road vehicle use (ATVs and motorcycles) is permitted for accessing trails but not for general use within the campground. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with deer, black squirrels, and birds frequently spotted.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity, with a well-known 1.1-mile trail starting near campsite 22 leading to a serene waterfall. The trail is described as easy and family-friendly overall, though creek crossings can be challenging for small children.Fishing
Fishing is available in Ophir Creek, with peaceful surroundings enhancing the experience. Specific details about fish species are not provided.Biking
Biking is available, though specific trails or difficulty levels are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, black squirrels, chipmunks, and birds. Bears have also been spotted, which has led to increased precautions.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, but the campground is typically closed after mid-October due to snow conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated rings. Firewood is sold onsite for $10/bundle. Adherence to fire safety rules is mandatory.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 8 AM, ensuring a peaceful environment for all campers.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear sightings have been reported, necessitating the use of bear-proof food storage lockers provided onsite. Mice infestations in certain campsites, such as #19, remain a concern. Visitors should exercise caution and maintain cleanliness to avoid attracting wildlife.
Weather forecast
35
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 20, 2025 for peak season pricing.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters and bear-proof trash cans are present, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSites are near Ophir Creek; a waterfall is accessible via a 1.1-mile hike from site #22.
Common complaintsNoise disturbances from RV generators, crowded sites during peak seasons, and cleanliness concerns in restrooms have been highlighted in multiple reviews.
HostHosts are generally praised for their attentiveness and local knowledge. Shelly, the host, has received positive feedback for her accommodating and friendly demeanor.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.3
76 reviews
Ophir Creek Campground (Co) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its natural beauty, peaceful environment, and proximity to attractions like Bishop's Castle. Reviews highlight the helpfulness of past hosts like Tom and Shelly, though some hosts have been criticized for being unfriendly. Complaints include variable restroom cleanliness, mice infestations, and noise from RV generators. Wildlife sightings and the nearby waterfall are consistent highlights.
Review Summaries
Based on 76 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Nice sized sites that have picnic tables and firepit area.' - 'The creek is so peaceful.' - 'Great camping sites! Camp hosts were super friendly and the bathrooms and campsites were very clean.' -...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Cleanliness of vault toilets varies. - Mice infestations noted in some reviews. - Noise from RV generators disrupts some visitors. - Noisy groups not complying with quiet hours. - Firewood bundles...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring a saw for collecting firewood; plenty of downed wood is available. - Book in advance as sites fill quickly. - Be bear-aware; use bear-proof storage. - Avoid relying on generators due to...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak summer months are the most popular but also the busiest. Late fall sees quieter conditions, though some amenities like water availability are reduced. Wildlife activity, including bear...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The hike to the falls and pretty much had it to ourselves.' - 'We saw chipmunks, hummingbirds, black squirrel, and 4 deer at dusk.' - 'Loved the bear boxes and the waterfall nearby was a wonderful...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 22: Trail to waterfalls starts here; 'a beautiful hike.' - Site 17: 'Right by the creek; beautiful views and sounds.' - Site 25: Good for large families. - Site 28: 'Pretty and far enough away...
Based on 76 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
There are no detailed reviews addressing accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 76 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned in passing (e.g., 'barking dogs half the night'), but there are no specific reviews about pet policies or amenities.
Based on 76 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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