Ivy Creek Campground
4.557 reviews13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Ivy Creek Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Fee envelopes and a collection box are located near the entrance. An Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass provides a 50% discount on single campsites occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, Ivy Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into pristine wilderness with just four thoughtfully spaced campsites. This hidden gem beckons adventurers seeking solitude beside the melodic waters of Ivy Creek, where each site comes complete with a picnic table and fire ring for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. Sites 1 and 2 welcome small trailers and tents, while sites 3 and 4—accessible only by crossing a charming footbridge—create the perfect retreat for tent campers who appreciate a more secluded experience. With vault toilets on-site and a pack-it-in, pack-it-out philosophy, this campground celebrates the raw beauty of backcountry camping without sacrificing basic comforts.
Ivy Creek Campground focuses on primitive camping, primarily for tents and smaller trailers, with no pull-throughs or large spurs. The campground is considered remote and quiet, appealing to campers seeking solitude.
Historical SignificanceThe surrounding forest tells a compelling story of nature's cycles through the visible impact of spruce beetle activity, which has dramatically reshaped the landscape over recent years. These changes have opened new vistas and created unique ecological opportunities, transforming what was once dense forest into a more diverse ecosystem where meadows meet remaining stands of trees.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Ivy Creek, where summer brings warm days and cool nights perfect for hiking and stargazing, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland. Though open year-round, adventurous souls should prepare for potential road closures during spring snowmelt and winter storms. The relatively dry summer months offer ideal conditions for exploring nearby trails, while winter's deep snows and frigid temperatures create opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing for those properly equipped.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,500 feet in the Rio Grande National Forest, Ivy Creek Campground places visitors in Colorado's alpine zone, where the air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the connection to the high country is immediate and profound.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle babbling of Ivy Creek as it winds through expansive grasslands dotted with wildflowers in summer and blanketed with snow in winter. This scenic campground serves as your gateway to adventure, with the Ivy Creek Trail #805 beginning right from camp and leading intrepid hikers to the pristine waters of Goose Lake. The open meadows surrounding the campground offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks while providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities at dawn and dusk.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Rio Grande National Forest, Ivy Creek Campground showcases the dynamic beauty of Colorado's southern mountains. The landscape reveals nature's constant evolution through sweeping grasslands carved by ancient glaciers, the ever-flowing creek that has shaped its valley over millennia, and the recent ecological changes from spruce beetle activity that have created a unique mosaic of forest and meadow. This diverse terrain offers endless exploration opportunities for those seeking to understand the powerful forces that have sculpted this remarkable wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilet is designed for handicapped use but is not wheelchair accessible. Accessibility features beyond this are not indicated.
Sites SizeSites are small and suited for tents and popup trailers; maximum spur length is limited to 25 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are spaced out and provide good views, as mentioned in user reviews. Privacy levels are not explicitly detailed.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 3 and 4 offer quiet camping across the creek but require footbridge access. Sites 1 and 2 accommodate small trailers/tents and may be slightly more spacious.
Best CampsitesSites 1 and 2 are suitable for small trailers/tents, while sites 3 and 4 are tent-only and quieter due to their position across the footbridge.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM
Check-out
Before 11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14-day camping limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are unspecified.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFour sites: Sites 1 and 2 accommodate small trailers/tents, while sites 3 and 4 are tent-only, accessible via a footbridge.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Accessibility may be limited due to snow levels or spring road closures.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platform unspecified. Fees to be paid on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is permitted; sites are considered remote and not heavily used.
Cancellation PolicyNot specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ivy Creek Campground offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, fishing, and horseback riding. The adjacent Ivy Creek Trailhead provides access to the Wilderness and Goose Lake, supporting foot and horse travel only. "We only did 2.25 miles out and 2.25 miles back but loved it," one user shared about the hike.
Hiking
Hiking is a notable activity, with the Ivy Creek Trail #805 providing access to Goose Lake. The trail is open to foot and horse travel only. User reviews highlight the trail as relaxing and scenic, featuring small waterfalls and fresh raspberry bushes during the season.Fishing
Fishing in the nearby river/stream is permitted, offering serene surroundings for anglers.Winter Activities
Certain weeks during winter may be inaccessible due to snow levels or spring road closures.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not applicable at Ivy Creek Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated fire rings only.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country—campers must remain 'Bear Aware' and store food properly. Potential flash floods, debris flows, and rough roads are concerns.
Active alertsFlash flood concerns have led to temporary closures in the past. Check current conditions before visiting.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Divide Ranger District in Del Norte, CO. Address: 13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132. Phone: (719) 657-3321.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Campers are instructed to pack out all garbage.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Ivy Creek, which is free-flowing and offers serene surroundings.
Common complaintsVault toilets are described as smelly by users. Limited parking and cramped campsites are noted.
HostNot specified.
Campground Map
13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Driving directionsDirections from Creede: Travel southwest on Colorado Highway 149 for 6 miles, to the intersection of Colorado Highway 149 and Forest Road #523 (Middle Creek Road), then south on Middle Creek Road #523 for approximately 4 miles, to the intersection of Road #523 and Lime Creek Road #528. Stay to the left at the 'Y' intersection and follow the Lime Creek Road #528 for approximately 3 miles to the intersection of Road #528 and Red Mountain Creek Road #526. Continue south on the Red Mountain Creek Road #526 for approximately 3 miles to the campground.
The road into the campground is narrow and rough, unsuitable for large trailers and RVs. Maximum spur length is 25 feet, and parking space is tight.Nearby places
Creede, approximately 6 miles southwest
Del Norte, located nearby for emergency services.
Nearby supplies
Del Norte, CO for groceries, supplies, and fuel. Creede also has amenities nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Ivy Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews describe Ivy Creek Campground as a hidden gem, offering tranquility and proximity to nature. However, there are complaints about the smelly vault toilet and limited development of sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the campground's remoteness, peaceful environment, proximity to the creek, and access to hiking trails. One review specifically mentions, "Very small campground, nice toilet....
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common issue raised in reviews is the unpleasant smell of the vault toilet. "The vault composting toilets were quite smelly," noted one camper. Additionally, limited parking and tight space...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing everything you need due to the lack of amenities like potable water, trash service, or firewood. It is also suggested to visit during snow melt or off-peak seasons for...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Access may be limited in winter or spring due to snow or road closures. Summer and early fall appear to be more favorable seasons based on user reviews and weather data.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Absolute hidden gem of a campground"; "Sites not well developed, but would go there again!"; "Nice out of the way spot."
Based on 7 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 1 and Site 2 can accommodate small trailers or tents, while Site 3 and Site 4 are walk-in sites across a footbridge and better suited for small tent camping. "1 trailer spot, probably 25' max, 4...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The vault toilet is designed for handicapped use but is not wheelchair accessible, and further accessibility features are not detailed.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash not longer than six feet. No reviews specifically address pet-friendly features or experiences.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025