Ouzel

Star4.41
34 reviews
Ouzel
$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
Total Campsite Fees$24.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
(617) 702-1420

About this campground

Nestled along the banks of the pristine Platte River, Ouzel Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for tent campers seeking tranquility away from the crowds. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, creating an adventurous spirit where early arrivals are rewarded with prime riverside spots. With its strict tent-only policy, Ouzel preserves the intimate camping atmosphere that draws outdoor enthusiasts looking to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature's rhythms.
This campground supports tent-only camping and does not allow RVs or trailers.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps campers on their toes at Ouzel, where dynamic mountain weather creates an ever-changing canvas overhead. During peak season, visitors enjoy surprisingly favorable conditions with cloud coverage hovering around 79%, providing natural shade during warm afternoons while still allowing plenty of sunshine to filter through. Light precipitation occasionally graces the area, bringing the fresh scent of rain-washed pine and the gentle patter of droplets on tent fabric—a soothing soundtrack for evening relaxation.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic whisper of the Platte River serves as Ouzel's centerpiece, with crystalline waters dancing over smooth river stones just steps from your tent. Campers wake to misty mornings where the river's surface mirrors the sky, and spend evenings watching the water transform into liquid gold at sunset. The riverfront setting provides endless opportunities for quiet contemplation, whether you're casting a fishing line, cooling tired feet in the gentle current, or simply sitting riverside with morning coffee as wildlife emerges for their daily river visits.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the available information.
Sites SizeSites are generally moderate in size, suitable for tent camping. No specific measurements are provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites lack privacy due to the absence of trees between sites. "Nothing in the way of space or trees between sites," as one reviewer noted.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the river are favored by weekday visitors for their tranquility.

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
14 nights max stay all year.
Groups
Details about group camping are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but first-come, first-serve from June 20 to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov using a web platform or mobile app, scan-and-pay through QR code, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable for first-come, first-served site claims during the open season from June 20 to December 31, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations allow changes with a $10 fee for changing dates outside the original reservation period. Cancellations incur a $10 fee and may also lose the first night's recreation fee if canceled after the local midnight facility time.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Ouzel Campground offers outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, tubing, and access to the nearby Platte River. The surrounding area provides a scenic environment for nature lovers.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlight of the area, with the South Platte River offering good opportunities. One user describes it as their 'go-to place for fishing.'
Swimming
The Platte River, located close to the campsites, offers opportunities for water-based activities like tubing and swimming. One reviewer stated, 'Great tubing site! The Platte river is just 50 yards from the campsite.'
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include occasional sightings of coyotes, as described in a user review: 'Coyotes that would howl from the other side of the river.' Bears were also historically present but are no longer commonly seen.
Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.
Water Sports
Users have mentioned tubing as a popular activity on the nearby Platte River.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards

General hazardsCampers have noted wildlife presence, including coyotes and historical bear sightings.
Active alertsPorta-Potties are not always serviced in peak season; cleanliness complaints are recurring.

Weather forecast

62
°F
Oct 11
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Humidity: 62%

Moderately humid conditions

Wind: 6.8 mph

Moderate wind, may affect light items

Overcast
7-Day Forecast

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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Peak season datesJune 20 to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned. Cleanliness and maintenance of trash facilities are noted to vary by host.
Proximity to water featuresPlatte River located within 50 yards of campsites.
Common complaintsSeveral campers have reported issues with overcrowding, trash, and hosts running generators for extended hours.
HostMixed reviews regarding hosts; notable complaints about micromanagement.

Campground Map


Camper Reviews

4.4
34 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Ouzel is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Ouzel Campground is generally well-regarded for its location near the Platte River and its basic amenities. However, opinions on maintenance and privacy vary significantly across reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciate the proximity to the Platte River, describing it as excellent for tubing and fishing. Several users praise the friendliness of the camp hosts and the cleanliness of the...
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Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints focus on overcrowding during peak periods, lack of privacy and tree cover between campsites, occasional neglect of restroom cleanliness, and issues with management. Some reviews also noted...
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Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest arriving early, especially during weekends and peak seasons, to secure a spot. Bringing sufficient water is essential as none is available on-site. Tubing gear is recommended for...
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Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Weekends are notably busier, while weekdays provide a quieter experience. The campground's cleanliness and overall condition can depend heavily on the current camp host, as mentioned in several...
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Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nothing in the way of space or trees between sites. The road is pretty close to some sites, but not hugely busy.' - Damon Standish. 2. 'Great tubing site! The Platte river is just 50 yards from...
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Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites close to the river are particularly favored for their scenic location, with reviewers recommending early arrival to secure them. However, the proximity to the road detracts from the experience...
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Based on 34 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific feedback regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 34 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

One review mentions broken glass posing a hazard to pets, advising caution.
Based on 34 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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