Mccoy Creek Campground
4.6516 reviewsMccoy Creek Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Fees are typically $15 per night, and some spots in the upper campground are reported to cost between $20-$30. There are no fees after the campground’s fall closure.
About this campground
Tucked away on the southern shores of Palisades Reservoir, McCoy Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic back-to-basics experience. This rustic haven features well-maintained gravel camping surfaces where you can pitch your tent under a canopy of stars. While shade may be sparse, the unobstructed views more than compensate. A primitive boat ramp provides direct access to the reservoir's pristine waters, where the confluence of McCoy Creek creates prime fishing conditions that local anglers have treasured for generations.
McCoy Creek Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping and RV camping. Sites are first-come, first-served.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early fall, McCoy Creek transforms into an outdoor paradise with sun-drenched days perfect for water activities and cool, comfortable nights ideal for campfire gatherings. Summer brings reliably clear skies and warm temperatures that invite endless days of exploration. While winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a serene but inaccessible wonderland, the shoulder seasons offer their own rewards—wildflowers in spring and golden foliage in autumn frame your camping experience with nature's finest displays.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryWhere McCoy Creek meets the expansive Palisades Reservoir, nature puts on a spectacular show. The shimmering waters stretch toward forested hillsides, creating a stunning backdrop for your camping adventure. This convergence of creek and reservoir has created a thriving ecosystem where lucky visitors regularly spot majestic wildlife—from graceful deer picking their way along the shoreline to magnificent elk grazing in nearby meadows. Keep your binoculars handy for glimpses of elusive moose and the breathtaking sight of eagles soaring overhead, their wings catching thermals above the water.
Geological RegionNestled at the southern gateway to Palisades Reservoir, the campground sits within a dramatic landscape where rugged mountain terrain meets one of the region's most beloved water recreation destinations. The reservoir, cradled by forested slopes and carved by ancient geological forces, creates a natural playground spanning miles of shoreline. This unique positioning offers campers the best of both worlds—easy access to exceptional fishing grounds and water sports, while being surrounded by the wild, untamed beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative or user sources.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, and user Shelby Hanning notes that spots "come in all shapes and sizes."
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy is generally good; Christina Coloradoan notes that "everyone was respectful of space and with noise."
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend camping within designated spots at the campground, avoiding the firepits below during low water levels, and selecting sites on the south side for privacy and access to trees.
Best CampsitesSites on the beach with direct access to Palisades Reservoir are highly rated by users.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No specific group camping areas are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutIncludes 17 single units with gravel surfaces and limited shade. The campground is directly adjacent to Palisades Reservoir.
Open and Closed SeasonFall closure after which no fees apply.
Reservation PlatformsWalk-up only as reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first come, first served.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees and policies specific to individual campsites include late cancellations incurring a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McCoy Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. It is located near the Palisades Reservoir, which provides opportunities for water-based recreation. Hiking and exploring the surrounding natural areas are popular among visitors.
Fishing
Fishing is frequently highlighted as a key activity, with one review stating "great fishing" (Richard Harbert) and another mentioning "evening fishing was fantastic" (Corrie Dashnaw).Swimming
Swimming is possible in Palisades Reservoir, as noted in reviews like "easy access for fishing and swimming" (Richard Smith).Boating
The campground features a primitive boat ramp, allowing for the launch of small watercraft such as rafts, kayaks, and canoes.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with reports of deer, elk, eagles, grouse, moose, and even a bear (Bonnie Oz).Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, although the region's conditions suggest potential for snow-based activities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are supported by the primitive boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are provided at each campsite; users are advised to adhere to designated firepits and avoid creating new ones near the waterline.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser review advises against camping in unmarked firepits below the campground during low water levels as evictions may occur. Seasonal weather and wildlife presence (including bears) pose potential risks.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Palisades Reservoir with access to McCoy Creek. Features a primitive boat ramp for small watercraft.
Common complaintsLimited shade and gravel campsite surfaces are noted by users. Some reviews mention sketchy road conditions leading to the campground.
HostA full-time campground host is available, and firewood is sold at the campground.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Alpine, WY go 5 miles south on Hwy 26/89 then 7 miles north on Forest Rd 087.
The campground is accessible via Highway 26/89 and Forest Road 087, which is described as rutted and a bit sketchy in user reviews. 'South side has trees and the north doesn't.' Seasonal road conditions may affect accessibility.Nearby places
Alpine, WY (5 miles south on Hwy 26/89, then 7 miles west via Forest Rd 087)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.7
16 reviews
Mccoy Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, natural beauty, and proximity to outdoor activities like fishing and boating.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean facilities ("cleanest pit toilets I've ever seen" - Eric Hampshire), scenic views ("gorgeous views" - Chad Jorgenson), and excellent fishing opportunities ("great fishing" -...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Few complaints are mentioned, though Shelby Hanning advises campers to avoid unauthorized firepit areas below the campground during low water levels, as they may be evicted by the Forest Service.
Based on 16 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own shade as the campground has limited natural coverage. Stick to designated sites to avoid conflicts with the Forest Service. Ideal for water-based activities and wildlife enthusiasts.
Based on 16 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is most enjoyable in warmer months, with summer offering the best conditions for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Based on 16 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Cleanest pit toilets I've ever seen!" - Eric Hampshire. "Beautiful sites on the lake, not many people... no mosquitos." - Maryann Williams. "Extraordinarily beautiful and peaceful... a place not to...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Shelby Hanning notes that the spots come in various sizes and warns against using unauthorized firepits below the campground. Andrew Schrum mentions an upper campground with about 5 spots, 2 of which...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related reviews are provided.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet policies or experiences are provided.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025