Thompson Creek Campground
03 reviews2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652, USA
Thompson Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fee for camping at Thompson Creek Campground.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Thompson Creek Recreation Management Area, Thompson Creek Campground beckons to those seeking true wilderness solitude. Four intimate campsites line the gentle banks of Thompson Creek, each sheltered beneath a natural canopy that filters dappled sunlight throughout the day. This is camping at its most elemental – where metal fire rings mark your temporary home and the babbling creek provides nature's soundtrack. With no restrooms, picnic tables, or waste facilities, this primitive paradise demands self-sufficiency and a leave-no-trace ethic. The rugged access road tests your vehicle's mettle, but rewards the determined with an untouched sanctuary far from civilization's reach.
Thompson Creek Campground offers primitive camping with a focus on enjoying the natural surroundings. The campground is extremely basic, with no restrooms, picnic tables, or water sources. There are 4 designated campsites along the creek.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Thompson Creek Campground remains unwritten, the land itself tells an ancient story through its rocks and waters. This undeveloped corner of wilderness has likely served as a quiet refuge for countless generations of travelers, each leaving no trace but taking memories of its pristine beauty.
Weather and SeasonsThompson Creek transforms with the seasons, from winter's crystalline embrace when light snow dusts the landscape and temperatures plunge into frigid territory, to the gentle warmth of spring and summer when the creek runs full and the canopy bursts with life. Prime camping conditions grace the area from April through August, when moderate temperatures and longer days invite exploration. Winter adventurers will find a stark beauty here, though bone-chilling temperatures and snow require serious cold-weather preparation.
ElevationThe campground's elevation creates a unique microclimate where creek-cooled air mingles with mountain breezes, though specific altitude details await discovery by those who venture here with GPS in hand.
Natural Features and SceneryThompson Creek Campground sits at the heart of a geological wonderland where nature has sculpted extraordinary 'fin' formations – towering rock structures that rise like ancient sentinels from the earth. The creek itself winds through this natural gallery, its waters polishing stones and nurturing the shade trees that arch overhead. In this remote sanctuary, the interplay of water, stone, and shadow creates an ever-changing canvas that shifts from dawn's first light to sunset's final glow.
Geological RegionThe Thompson Creek Recreation Management Area showcases one of nature's most intriguing geological exhibitions. Here, rare 'fin' formations – dramatic vertical rock structures carved by eons of wind and water – create a landscape that seems almost otherworldly. This remote natural amphitheater preserves a slice of geological history rarely seen elsewhere, where ancient forces have left their artistic mark on the land. The area's isolation has protected these natural sculptures, maintaining them as a pristine example of erosional artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information on accessible features was provided.
Sites SizeThe campground has 4 campsites, described as shaded and along the creek.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy details for the campsites were not provided. However, with only 4 sites and a remote location, it is possible the sites are relatively private.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSince all sites are shaded and by the creek, any of the 4 sites would be suitable. Visitors should prioritize accessibility due to road conditions.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
April-August: 7 Days, September-March: 14 Days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 4 shaded campsites along Thompson Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations possible.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability for all sites, as reservations are not required.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not possible.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Activities you can enjoy
The Thompson Creek Campground offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature. The nearby Lorax Trail is a popular non-motorized route on the north end of the Thompson Creek Recreation Management Area. The Thompson Creek Trail, which runs near the campground, allows visitors to explore the unique geologic 'fin' formations. Access to the area is limited during wet or snowy conditions.
Hiking
The Thompson Creek Trail and the Lorax Trail provide hiking opportunities, with the latter being described as a popular non-motorized route.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned, although access to the campground is limited during wet or snowy conditions.Water Sports
No details about water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, were provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in the provided metal fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rough road conditions, lack of waste disposal (contamination risk), and wildlife. One review mentions animals breaking into tents.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.9 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
Nearest emergency services are in Silt, CO, at the Colorado River Valley Field Office. Hospitals and police stations are likely in Silt or Carbondale.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril-August is likely peak season based on the 7-day stay limit during this period.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities at the site. Campers must carry out all waste, including human waste, to prevent contamination of the creek.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated directly along Thompson Creek.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include poor road conditions ('treacherous,' 'not drivable even with a little rain') and littering ('toilet paper and beer cans left in the open').
HostNo campground hosts are mentioned.
Campground Map
2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652, USA
Driving directionsThe campground is located along Thompson Creek. Go west on State Highway 133 in the town of Carbondale. At the roundabout take Main Street (County Road 108) which turns into North Thompson Creek Road. Parking for the Lorax trail head is approximately 4 miles up on the left. Travel 3.2 additional miles and turn left on to South Thompson Creek Road which leads you to the campground along the creek. The road is not marked to turn. The campsites are approximately 2.1 miles from the turn.
Access is challenging and not recommended during wet or snowy conditions. "The road is absolutely treacherous," one review states, while another mentions, "The road isn't drivable even with a little rain." It is advised to park legally and walk to the campsite if the road conditions are poor.Nearby places
Carbondale: Approximately 9 miles southwest. Silt: Location of Colorado River Valley Field Office.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Carbondale, approximately 9 miles northeast from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Thompson Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the remote and underdeveloped nature of the campground. While some users appreciate the natural beauty and the hiking opportunities, others highlight significant drawbacks, including poor road conditions and lack of facilities. One reviewer said, 'I'd give it 5 stars if the road wasn't beat down by four wheelers.' Another mentioned issues with trash and human waste: 'It was sad to see toilet paper and beer cans left in the open.'
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its scenic beauty and the unique geologic formations visible from the hiking trails. The creekside location and shaded campsites are also appreciated.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Several users have complained about the road conditions leading to the campground, describing them as 'treacherous' and 'not drivable even with a little rain.' The lack of facilities, including...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to come prepared for a primitive experience, including packing out all waste. It is recommended to park in a safe, legal location and walk to the campsites due to poor road...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Many negative reviews were tied to weather conditions, particularly when the road became impassable after rain. The campground's accessibility appears to be best during dry summer months.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'I'd give it 5 stars if the road wasn't beat down by four wheelers.' 2. 'The road is terrible. Also, wish people picked up after themselves.' 3. 'Road was absolutely treacherous. We got stuck and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews or details about individual campsites within the campground were provided.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews directly addressing accessibility features were included.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specific to pet policies or experiences were provided.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025