Little Mattie Campground

Star4.48
30 reviews
Aspen Sopris Ranger District, PO Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623
Little Mattie Campground
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for a standard non-electric campsite is $29. Discounts may apply for Interagency Pass holders.
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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$29.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
970-927-0107

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Ruedi Reservoir, Little Mattie Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 19 thoughtfully spaced campsites carved into the forest landscape. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering conifers or settling in with your RV (up to 30 feet), each site comes equipped with its own picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof storage box. While vault toilets provide necessary facilities, adventurers should note that water is not currently available on-site, adding an authentic backcountry touch to your mountain escape.
Little Mattie Campground is a versatile camping facility offering standard nonelectric sites for tents, trailers, and RVs.
Historical SignificanceLittle Mattie sits at the heart of Colorado's legendary Gold Medal Waters, an exclusive designation bestowed by the Colorado Wildlife Commission upon only the most exceptional fisheries in the state. This coveted status has drawn generations of fly fishing enthusiasts to these waters, where trophy trout cruise the depths and anglers' dreams come true against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Little Mattie transforms into a high-altitude paradise where perfect camping weather reigns supreme. Days unfold with comfortable highs around 77°F—ideal for hiking and fishing—while evenings cool to a refreshing 47°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire. The mountain climate delivers mostly clear, dry conditions punctuated by occasional afternoon showers that briefly dust the forest and fill the air with the scent of pine.
ElevationPerched at 7,800 feet above sea level, Little Mattie offers a true alpine camping experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the stars seem close enough to touch. This lofty elevation provides a natural escape from summer heat, though visitors from lower altitudes should take time to acclimatize to fully enjoy the breathtaking mountain environment that surrounds them.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of pine, fir, and aspen creates a living cathedral around Little Mattie, where shafts of sunlight filter through the canopy by day and countless stars emerge in the unpolluted night sky. The shimmering expanse of Ruedi Reservoir stretches before you, its waters reflecting the surrounding peaks while providing a playground for paddlers and anglers. Keep your camera ready—black bears, deer, and eagles are regular visitors to this pristine ecosystem where mountain vistas unfold at every turn.
Geological RegionSet within the vast wilderness of White River National Forest, Little Mattie Campground occupies a unique geological crossroads where ancient mountain formations meet the engineered beauty of Ruedi Reservoir. The surrounding mixed conifer forest thrives on slopes shaped by millennia of geological forces, creating a diverse landscape that supports everything from quiet forest trails to world-class fishing waters. This remarkable terrain invites exploration, whether you're casting a line, hiking mountain paths, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Colorado's high country.
Advertisement

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as varying in size; some are spacious and well-suited for larger setups, while others are noted to be small, barely accommodating a tent and a vehicle.
Sites PrivacyUsers note varying levels of privacy, with some sites being secluded and others less so. A review mentions, 'Most campsites were very private,' while another states, 'Most sites are not "private" but spaced out OK.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #2 and #3 are challenging for backing in trailers. Campers with tents should choose sites carefully due to limited flat spaces.
Best CampsitesCampsite #16 is noted for privacy and proximity to the lake. Campsite #1 has lake access (depending on water levels).

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per visit and per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
  • Sites are suitable for small groups
  • exact guest limits are not specified but depend on the suitability of sites for tents and vehicles.
Groups
No mention of designated group sites or their specific features.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of 19 sites arranged in a loop, with some sites offering more privacy and spacing than others.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 13, 2025, to September 29, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites are held until noon the day following the reservation start date. Walk-up availability depends on cancellations or no-shows.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations carry a $10 fee. Cancellations before check-in incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No refunds after the reservation start date.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Little Mattie Campground provides a variety of outdoor activities for recreation and relaxation. The nearby Frying Pan River is renowned for fly fishing, offering opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. The Ruedi Trail provides hiking and biking options, with an eight-mile trail that gains 3,000 feet in elevation, leading to panoramic views. Boating, swimming, and water skiing are also available on Ruedi Reservoir. Wildlife viewing is common, and interpretive programs offer educational experiences.
Hiking
The Ruedi Trail offers an 8-mile hike that gains over 3,000 feet in elevation and culminates in spectacular panoramic views. The trailhead is located 200 feet north of the Jeep trail near the boat ramp and parking lot.
Fishing
The Frying Pan River is designated as Gold Medal Waters and is famous for fly fishing. Anglers can catch rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. Special regulations require the use of artificial flies and lures, and all trout except brown trout must be released, with a limit of two brown trout over 14 inches.
Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Ruedi Reservoir, providing opportunities for families and individuals to enjoy the water during warm weather.
Biking
The Ruedi Trail is accessible for biking and provides a challenging route with significant elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced bikers.
Boating
Boating activities such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and water skiing are available on Ruedi Reservoir. Campers describe the reservoir as a hub for water-based recreation.
Wildlife viewing
The surrounding mixed conifer forest and proximity to water attract diverse wildlife, providing good opportunities for wildlife observation.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are available, offering educational experiences about the local environment and history.
Winter Activities
No information provided about winter activities in the campground.
Water Sports
The reservoir supports water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.
Advertisement

Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, subject to local fire restrictions.
  • Quiet hours are Not specified, but general quiet hours are expected to be enforced.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife, including bears, may visit the campground. Campers are advised to use bear boxes provided at each site. Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.
Active alertsCurrently, no potable water is available at the campground. Campers need to bring water or obtain it from nearby campgrounds.

Weather forecast

38
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Humidity: 47%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 14.1 mph

Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected

Mainly clear

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Emergency services are accessible in Basalt, CO, 14 miles away, including medical facilities and law enforcement services.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 13, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo explicit information about trash and recycling facilities is provided. Campers are generally encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Ruedi Reservoir, campers have access to lake activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. A small cove is accessible from the campground.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions include the lack of potable water, some sites being too small for larger RVs, and the additional $7 fee for a second vehicle, which is not advertised.
HostThere is a camp host on-site who maintains clean facilities and is helpful to visitors. Firewood may be available for purchase from the host.

Campground Map

Aspen Sopris Ranger District, PO Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623
Driving directionsTake I-70 west of Denver to Glenwood Springs Exit 116, Highway 82 to Basalt. At Basalt, take Frying Pan Road 15 miles to the Ruedi Complex Entrance.
The campground is accessible via Frying Pan Road, which is approximately 15 miles from Basalt, CO. Roads are paved but may involve some curves and elevation gain.
Nearby places
Basalt, CO - 14 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies and groceries can be obtained in Basalt, CO, which is 14 miles from the campground. Firewood is available at nearby campgrounds.

Camper Reviews

4.5
30 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Little Mattie Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Little Mattie Campground as a clean, well-maintained, and scenic destination. Visitors appreciate the spacious sites, proximity to recreational activities, and clean vault toilets. However, some note smaller campsite sizes and the absence of water at times.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews

What Campers Love

Common positive themes include the exceptional cleanliness of the vault toilets, friendly and proactive camp hosts, and beautiful natural surroundings. Many users also appreciated the proximity to...
Show more
Based on 30 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water at times, small campsite sizes, and occasional difficulty backing trailers into certain sites. Some users also mentioned the $7 daily fee for a...
Show more
Based on 30 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing your own water and being selective about campsites to ensure adequate space. Site #16, for example, is praised for its privacy. Firewood and other supplies may be obtained...
Show more
Based on 30 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground can get crowded during peak summer weekends but is quieter and more pleasant midweek. Fire bans, when in place, affect the camping experience.
Based on 30 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The vault toilets were the cleanest and best smelling I have ever experienced!" - Megan F. "Beautiful well-maintained and manicured campground. Bathrooms very clean!!" - Josh Gibson. "Not much...
Show more
Based on 30 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #1 is noted for its proximity to the lake though access may depend on water levels. Sites #2 and #3 are described as challenging for trailer backing, while site #16 is lauded for being a great,...
Show more
Based on 30 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features for disabled visitors.
Based on 30 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and one user highlighted their dog’s enjoyment of the campground, emphasizing its pet-friendly nature.
Based on 30 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Campgrounds
Little Mattie Campground