Osprey (Co)
4.3316 reviewsOsprey (Co)
$0.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Nightly rates range from $0 to $24, depending on the season and site conditions. Fees exclude taxes, discounts, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the South Platte River, Osprey Campground invites adventurers to experience riverside camping at its finest. This intimate, 13-site tent-only retreat sits at 6,200 feet elevation, where the sound of rushing water provides nature's soundtrack. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, this hidden gem rewards early arrivals with prime riverfront spots. During peak season, portable facilities ensure comfort while maintaining the campground's pristine, undeveloped character.
Osprey Campground caters specifically to tent campers, with 13 designated tent-only sites. No facilities for RVs, travel trailers, or group camping are available.
Historical SignificanceFor over four decades, Osprey Campground has woven itself into the fabric of Colorado's outdoor heritage. As longtime visitor Natasha Cordova fondly recalls, 'My family and friends have been enjoying Osprey Campsite since the 1980's.' This testament to the campground's timeless appeal speaks to generations of memories created along these riverbanks, where traditions are passed down like treasured heirlooms and new adventures await around every bend.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Osprey into a crisp, crystalline wonderland where snow dusts the landscape with less than an inch of accumulation. The dry climate delivers remarkably clear skies, with minimal precipitation keeping trails accessible even in colder months. Temperatures dance between brisk 10°F mornings and pleasant 38°F afternoons, while moderate breezes carry the fresh mountain air. This seasonal variety creates perfect conditions for those seeking solitude away from summer crowds.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet in Colorado's high country, Osprey Campground offers a true mountain experience where the air feels crisp and clean. This elevation brings refreshingly cool nights perfect for sleeping under the stars, while days remain comfortable for exploration. Visitors should prepare for the thinner air and allow time to acclimate, but the reward is an authentic Rocky Mountain atmosphere where every breath connects you to the alpine environment.
Natural Features and SceneryThe South Platte River serves as Osprey's centerpiece, its waters carving a scenic corridor through open meadowland. While the campground's exposed setting offers unobstructed river views and expansive sky vistas, the absence of tree cover creates an honest, prairie-like camping experience. This openness allows for exceptional stargazing and unfiltered sunrise views over the water, where morning mist often dances above the river's surface. The proximity to the water's edge means the gentle murmur of the current accompanies every moment of your stay.
Campsite details
Sites SizeStandard tent sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are located close to each other, resulting in limited privacy for campers.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are close together; expect limited privacy. "Plan to get friendly with your neighbors," advises RVChillin.
Best Campsites"We camped about 50 feet from the River," recalls Gary Sisneros.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is limited to 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to tent camping only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites lack individual parking spurs; campers park in a shared dirt lot and walk to sites. Sites are closely spaced.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. First-come, first-served season runs from June 21 to December 31. Peak season spans Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance during FCFS seasons. Payments accepted via Scan and Pay on-site using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability starting June 21 through December 31 each year.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 change fee applies to modifications completely outside original reservation dates. Late cancellations (from midnight the day prior to check-in) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds for Scan and Pay transactions.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers activities primarily centered around the South Platte River, such as fishing, tubing, and swimming. Multiple user reviews emphasize the excellent fishing opportunities, scenic river views, and suitability for water-based recreation. Wildlife viewing is also a possibility, given the natural surroundings.
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at this campground. User reviews highlight the quality of fishing: 'Great fishing in the South Platte River' and 'Great camping and fishing!'Swimming
Swimming and tubing in the South Platte River are popular activities. One reviewer noted it is a 'great place for swimming, fishing or tubing.'Wildlife viewing
Although wildlife viewing is not formally highlighted, the natural river-side setting suggests opportunities for observing local fauna.Winter Activities
Winter-based activities are not specified, though the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
Tubing is specifically mentioned by a user as a popular water sport in the river.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings provided at each site. Policies on firewood sourcing not detailed.
- Quiet hours are User reviews indicate late-night disturbances during peak times; specific quiet hours not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include proximity to the river, uneven ground, and limited shade. "Access to the water is limited," warns Crusty Old Buzzard.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingNo details about trash and recycling facilities were specified in the provided information. However, visitors are advised to prepare for limited services during the extended season (fall, winter, spring).
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the South Platte River, campers can fish and tube nearby. "Great fishing," wrote Craig Petzinger.
Common complaintsOvercrowding, lack of shade, and disruptive behavior during peak times appear frequently. "Music blasted until 1am," reports Katherine.
HostMixed reviews regarding hosts; "Hosts were wonderful," notes Elise Torres, while Katherine reported the host did not leave their camper during her stay.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.3
16 reviews
Osprey (Co) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate a mixed experience at Osprey Campground. Positive highlights include the serene riverside location, good fishing, and cleanliness of the facilities. Negative feedback points to overcrowding, lack of shade, and disruptive behavior from other campers during busy weekends. One user noted, 'Great views but the campsite is overcrowded.'
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
- Scenic riverside location: 'Great spot near the river.'
- Fishing opportunities: 'Great fishing in the South Platte River.'
- Clean facilities: 'The potties were clean.'
- Friendly neighbors during...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of shade: 'No shade trees.'
- Overcrowding: 'Campsites are very close to each other.'
- Noise issues: 'Music blasted until 1 am during the weekend.'
- Limited accessibility to the river in...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring sufficient water, as none is available on-site.
- Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
- Prepare for limited cell phone service.
- Consider quieter weekdays for a more...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews note that the campground is busiest during weekends and holidays, leading to challenges such as noise and overcrowding. Quieter and more enjoyable experiences are reported during weekdays or...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'It was absolutely beautiful and peaceful; my favorite part about this campground is no phone service.'
- 'No shade, but great spot for fishing and playing on the river.'
- 'Great views but the...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers are identified as particularly better or worse.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews explicitly mention accessibility features or challenges.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025