Cow Creek North (Co)
4.1414 reviewsCow Creek North (Co)
$21.00 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$58.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $21 per night for standard nonelectric sites to $58 per night for group sites during peak season. Additional charges may apply for extra vehicles or premium locations.
About this campground
Perched on the pristine northeast shore of Green Mountain Reservoir, Cow Creek North Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of White River National Forest. This versatile camping destination welcomes groups with spacious sites accommodating everything from cozy tents to full-sized RVs. Each site comes equipped with essential comforts including sturdy picnic tables for outdoor dining, fire rings for evening gatherings, and convenient vault toilets. The campground's open meadow setting creates the perfect canvas for breathtaking panoramic views of Colorado's majestic peaks, where morning light paints the mountains in golden hues and evening alpenglow creates an unforgettable backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
Cow Creek North Campground is optimized for group camping with 5 designated group sites accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in history at Cow Creek North, where centuries of human connection to the land unfold before you. Long before White River National Forest's establishment in 1891, these mountains and valleys served as the ancestral homeland of the Ute Indians, who traveled these paths following seasonal game and gathering plants. Today, camping here connects you to this rich cultural tapestry while offering a gateway to explore the ecological wonders and enduring heritage of the Rocky Mountains. Every trail and vista tells a story of the people who have called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of the Colorado high country at Cow Creek North. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a serene wonderland perfect for those seeking solitude amid frigid temperatures and gentle snowfall. The campground truly comes alive during its peak season from May through October, when wildflowers carpet the meadows, warm sunshine invites endless outdoor adventures, and comfortable camping temperatures make for perfect stargazing nights. These prime months offer ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and soaking in the natural splendor of the Rockies.
ElevationNestled high in the embrace of the Rocky Mountains, Cow Creek North Campground offers that quintessential Colorado high-country experience. While exact elevation figures aren't specified, the campground's mountain setting ensures crisp, clean air and the invigorating atmosphere that comes with camping in the Rockies' elevated terrain. Here, you'll feel the characteristic thin air that makes stars seem closer and sunrises more spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems of White River National Forest, where towering lodgepole pines and aromatic spruce-fir forests create a living cathedral around your campsite. The shimmering waters of Green Mountain Reservoir serve as your backyard playground, inviting kayakers, anglers, and swimmers to explore its cool depths. Keep your camera ready for incredible wildlife encounters – majestic elk may graze in nearby meadows at dawn, while sure-footed bighorn sheep navigate rocky outcrops above. The forest's alpine habitats burst with wildflowers in summer, creating a photographer's paradise where every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene.
Geological RegionCow Creek North sits at the intersection of water and stone in the magnificent Rocky Mountains, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. Within White River National Forest, ancient rivers have carved valleys between towering peaks, while dense forests of lodgepole pine and spruce-fir blanket the mountainsides. This diverse terrain supports an incredible array of wildlife, from the native cutthroat trout darting through crystal-clear streams to bighorn sheep scaling impossible cliffs and elk bugling across mountain meadows. The campground's location provides unparalleled access to this geological wonderland, where well-maintained trails lead adventurers through landscapes that showcase millions of years of Earth's history.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campground offers spacious sites, with one user describing their group site as "super spacious" (Joelle H).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are low due to the open landscape and minimal tree cover. "No trees. They did have an outhouse," noted by Olena Taylor. Another reviewer commented on limited privacy due to clustered sites.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with shade, like #13, or group sites with spacious layouts. Avoid sites near loud groups unless privacy is prioritized.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight site #13 as favorable for shade. Group sites like Group 02 received positive feedback for spaciousness and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups 1, 2, 4 & 5 include two vehicles with rate, these sites will hold a max of 6 vehicles at additional charge per vehicle per night. Group 3 includes 3 vehicles with rate, site will hold max of 9 vehicles.
Groups
Group sites are spacious and include amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. Some group sites accommodate up to 6 vehicles, while others allow up to 9, with additional charges for extra vehicles. For example, "Group 1, 2, 4 & 5 include two vehicles with rate, these sites will hold a max of 6 vehicles at additional charge per vehicle per night. Group 3 includes 3 vehicles with rate, site will hold max of 9 vehicles at additional charge per vehicle per night."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 5 group sites with open layouts and few trees.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground season is from May 20 to October 1. Reservations begin June 23.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites are held until check out time (12 PM) the day following the scheduled arrival date. Unoccupied sites may be forfeited and released to other guests.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for group sites within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fees. Changes to reservations also incur a $10 change fee. Once the reservation start date begins, modifications are not allowed.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cow Creek North Campground is a hub for water-based activities including boating, canoeing, fishing, and windsurfing, all facilitated by its location on Green Mountain Reservoir. The area also serves as an access point for off-roading adventures in nearby Spring Creek. Wildlife is abundant, offering opportunities for nature observation.
Fishing
Fishing is a highlighted activity at the Green Mountain Reservoir, with anglers targeting rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. "Anglers will find populations of rainbow and brown trout, as well as kokanee salmon," as per the authoritative content.Swimming
Swimming in the reservoir is possible but may be less appealing due to fluctuating water levels. A user review mentioned, "The lake was very low and it's surrounded by mud, so you have to really want to go swimming to get to it."Boating
Boating is a key activity, with provisions for motorized watercraft launching from a monitored ramp. All watercraft must undergo inspection for Aquatic Nuisance Species.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as bighorn sheep, elk, and various bird species can be observed in the area. "Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk," according to the authoritative content.Water Sports
Water skiing and windsurfing are available on Green Mountain Reservoir, providing additional recreational options.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry conditions. Visitors should burn firewood sourced locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are Generally enforced, but some reviews note inconsistent enforcement with loud parties and bongo drums beyond acceptable hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquitos, proximity to wildlife like bears, and seasonal flooding affecting bear boxes. Fire restrictions may be enforced during dry conditions.
Active alertsNo active alerts or advisories were specified.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services likely at Silverthorne (23 miles) for medical facilities or police. Specific details about these services are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 20 through October 1
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling management could be improved. Lucinda Thomas noted that "beer cans & trash" were found in fire pits across the campground.
Proximity to water featuresSituated next to Green Mountain Reservoir, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other water sports.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues with noise from other campers during quiet hours, low water levels at the reservoir, and excessive trash around fire pits.
HostUser reviews offer mixed feedback about hosts; some were noted as diligent in cleaning and enforcing rules, while others were perceived as inattentive.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Silverthorne, Colorado: Take Blue River Pkwy (CO-9 N) for 23 miles, the campground will be on your left. From Kremmling, Colorado: Take CO-9 S for 14.9 miles; the campground will be on your left.
The access roads to the campground appear to be paved based on given directions along CO-9, which is a state highway. Specific seasonal closures or challenging terrain for driving are not mentioned.Nearby places
Silverthorne: 23 miles / approx. 30 min
Kremmling: 14.9 miles / approx. 20 min
Nearby supplies
Likely found in Silverthorne, Colorado (23 miles from the campground). Specific stores or supply facilities are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
4.1
14 reviews
Cow Creek North (Co) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Cow Creek North Campground garners mixed reviews. Positive aspects include clean facilities, scenic views, and access to recreational activities. Some visitors expressed dissatisfaction with noise levels and limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the clean bathrooms, spacious sites, and proximity to Green Mountain Reservoir. One reviewer noted, "This campsite is so well run! The bathrooms are clean, the rangers are friendly...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include loud noise from other campers, trash in fire pits, and fluctuating water levels affecting swimming and fishing. Lucinda Thomas commented, "walking around not just ours but...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own shade and insect repellent due to minimal tree cover and mosquitoes. Reserve shaded sites such as site #13, as recommended by past guests.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer sees the highest activity levels, with users noting both the advantages of warm weather and the inconveniences of overcrowding and noise. Spring and fall may offer quieter experiences but come...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Such a great campsite right next the water with gorgeous views. We could not hear the highway traffic and the site was extremely spacious." - Kathryn O. "Beautiful day on Green mountain reservoir!!"...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Group site 05: "There was an excavator right next to our camp moving rocks all day. We couldn't have a conversation and it was very dusty." - VICKY T. Group site 02: "Such a great campsite right next...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Limited information is available about accessibility features, but the campground's flat, open terrain may facilitate navigation for some visitors.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
While specific reviews do not focus heavily on pet experiences, one user mentioned their dog accompanied them during their stay without noting any issues.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025