River Hill
4.8080 reviewsFS 520, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA
River Hill
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees range from $20 per night for single sites to $40 per night for double sites during peak season. Additional charges include $2 for weekends and holidays.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine banks of the Rio Grande River, River Hill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado wilderness experience. This beloved riverside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits—cast a line into crystal-clear waters teeming with trout, explore winding trails that disappear into the backcountry, or launch your kayak for a peaceful paddle. Just steps from your campsite, trailheads lead directly into the magnificent Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest designated wilderness area.
River Hill Campground provides a mix of camping accommodations. Individual sites accommodate tents, RVs, and travel trailers. Group camping and cabin lodging are not mentioned, and primitive camping aspects are highlighted in user reviews.
Historical SignificanceRiver Hill stands as a testament to nature's resilience. While the devastating 2014 wildfire—one of Colorado's largest on record—swept through the surrounding landscape, the campground itself emerged unscathed. Today, visitors witness an extraordinary story of renewal as they observe the contrast between charred hillsides and vibrant new growth pushing through the ash. This living classroom offers a powerful reminder of both nature's fury and its remarkable ability to heal.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms River Hill into an outdoor paradise, where crystal-clear skies and refreshingly cool temperatures create perfect camping conditions. While winter brings a dramatic change with snow blanketing the landscape and temperatures plunging to frigid levels, the warmer months offer ideal weather for all your favorite activities. The dry climate means you'll enjoy plenty of sunshine, though always pack layers—mountain weather can surprise even seasoned campers.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,200 feet above sea level, River Hill offers a true high-country camping experience. This lofty elevation gifts visitors with delightfully cool summer nights perfect for sleeping under the stars, while afternoon temperatures remain comfortable for hiking and exploring. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-covered wonderland, where frigid temperatures and pristine powder create a dramatically different but equally beautiful landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a sun-dappled meadow where graceful willows sway in the mountain breeze and mature trees provide welcome shade throughout the day. At 9,200 feet, River Hill's scenic meadow setting offers the perfect blend of open spaces and forested comfort. Across the rushing Rio Grande, the legendary Weminuche Wilderness unfolds in all its untamed glory—a vast expanse of rugged peaks soaring above 14,000 feet, creating a dramatic backdrop that will leave you reaching for your camera at every turn.
Geological RegionRiver Hill Campground claims a spectacular position within south-central Colorado's Rio Grande National Forest, where mountain meadows meet rushing rivers and towering peaks. The campground's willow-fringed meadow provides sweeping views of the Rio Grande River as it carves its ancient path through the landscape. Surrounding forested hills give way to dramatic rock bluffs, while the neighboring Weminuche Wilderness showcases some of Colorado's most rugged and awe-inspiring terrain, including numerous fourteeners that pierce the sky and challenge even the most ambitious mountaineers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and can accommodate travel trailers, tents, and RVs. Several sites are located right on the river, offering scenic views.
Sites PrivacySites are nicely spaced, offering quiet and privacy. User reviews highlight the secluded nature of sites while still allowing easy access to shared areas.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for the best views and fishing access. Avoid site #7, described in reviews as having no shade and poor conditions.
Best CampsitesSites along the river, such as #11 and #14, are highly praised for their scenic views and proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights is allowed. A total of 14 nights within any rolling 30-day period is enforced.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites allow up to 6 guests per site. Additional people (maximum of 8 total) are charged $10 per person per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two sections: a smaller forward area and a larger area along the river where the camp host resides. Sites are spaced to offer privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 23 to August 31 for reservations. Reservations can start June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or the contact center. In-person bookings may also be available.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available but not guaranteed, especially during holiday weekends.
Cancellation PolicyIf canceled before the reservation start date, a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur the first night's fees along with the $10 fee. Same-day changes or cancellations depend on facility-specific rules.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
River Hill offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing and river kayaking are popular, with opportunities for catching trout in the Rio Grande River and nearby Rio Grande Reservoir. Hiking routes like the Squaw Creek and Weminuche Creek trailheads lead into the Weminuche Wilderness and connect to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Wildlife viewing is highly rated, with frequent sightings of deer, marmots, and even moose. Other activities include rock climbing, biking, and interpretive programs.
Hiking
Two trailheads, Squaw Creek and Weminuche Creek, lead hikers into the Weminuche Wilderness and connect to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, offering rugged terrain and scenic views.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is a standout activity at River Hill, with opportunities to catch brown and rainbow trout in the Rio Grande River and nearby reservoir. User reviews praise the fishing experience, with one camper catching a 15-inch trout.Biking
Biking trails are available, with user reviews mentioning enjoyable bike rides through the area.Boating
River kayaking is popular due to the campground's proximity to the Rio Grande River and Rio Grande Reservoir.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is frequently mentioned, with sightings of deer, marmots, squirrels, and a young moose. The campground's natural setting makes it ideal for observing wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
Campfire educational programs are held on some weekend nights, providing cultural and educational engagement for campers.Winter Activities
None explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
River kayaking is available for campers looking to engage in water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as moose and bears, as well as rough road conditions leading to the campground.
Active alertsPotential seasonal road closures or unmaintained road conditions may impact accessibility.
Weather forecast
48
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
Closest hospital and emergency medical services are located in Creede, approximately 30 miles away. Ranger stations are available within the Rio Grande National Forest management area.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to August 31
Trash and recyclingGarbage cans are provided throughout the campground for trash disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Rio Grande River, the campground offers river access for fishing and kayaking. The Rio Grande Reservoir is nearby.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include rough road conditions described as 'horrendous,' complaints about strict adherence to fire ring rules, and extra charges for additional vehicles or people.
HostCamp hosts Felix and Edith are frequently mentioned in reviews as friendly, accommodating, and diligent in maintaining cleanliness and order.
Campground Map
FS 520, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA
Driving directionsFrom Alamosa, CO, go west on Highway 160 to South Fork. Take Highway 149 southwest through Creede and continue on Highway 149 for about 20 miles to milepost 41 (Forest Road 520) and Rio Grande Reservoir Road. Travel about 10 miles on this gravel road to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 149 and Forest Road 520, which is a gravel road. User reviews describe this gravel road as 'rough,' with comments including 'horrendous' and 'unmaintained,' while others note it is manageable if taken slowly. Seasonal grading has been mentioned, but the road's condition may vary.Nearby places
Creede (approximately 30 miles, 40 minutes)
Lake City (approximately 65 miles, 2 hours)
Alamosa (approximately 100 miles, 2.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials, are available in Creede, approximately 30 miles away. Additional options can be found in South Fork and Lake City for broader supply needs.
Camper Reviews
4.8
80 reviews
River Hill is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for River Hill Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the cleanliness of facilities, particularly the vault toilets, as well as the friendliness and helpfulness of the camp hosts, Felix and Edith. Wildlife viewing and fishing are frequent highlights, and the scenic location by the Rio Grande River is commonly described as 'beautiful' and 'peaceful.'
Review Summaries
Based on 80 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews universally praise the cleanliness of facilities, especially the vault toilets, which are described as 'immaculate.' The camp hosts receive exceptional feedback for their friendliness and...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers note the rough gravel road leading to the campground, describing it as 'horrendous' or poorly maintained. One user also reported discomfort due to a camp host enforcing firewood size...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking reservations 6 months in advance due to high demand, especially for waterfront sites. Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing and prepare for a remote experience with limited...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is busiest during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), with quieter stays during weekdays. Some campers note mosquito presence in summer months.
Based on 80 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Best national forest service campground we've stayed at, thanks to campground hosts Felix and Edith.' 2. 'The cleanest vault toilets I've ever used - no small feat in the wilderness!' 3. 'Sites...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #011: Highly praised for its location right on the river and the scenic views. Site #005: Frequently mentioned for privacy and proximity to the river. Site #014: Described as spacious and ideal...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews mention specific accessibility features.
Based on 80 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, though user reviews do not include detailed feedback regarding pet policies or facilities.
Based on 80 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025