Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area
03 reviewsNeedle Creek Reservoir Camping Area
$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 fees are charged for camping at Needle Creek Reservoir.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Perched at an impressive 8,830 feet in the Colorado high country, Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area beckons anglers and nature enthusiasts to its pristine waters. This hidden gem, born from irrigation needs in 1962, has evolved into a beloved destination where rainbow and brook trout dance beneath the surface and camping under star-filled skies becomes an unforgettable experience. Easy access roads lead you to this alpine sanctuary, where the thin mountain air carries the promise of adventure and the gentle lap of reservoir waters provides the perfect soundtrack for your outdoor escape.
The Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area caters to campers seeking a primitive camping experience. RV camping may be possible, but hookups are not available.
Historical SignificanceWhat began as a practical solution for irrigation water storage in 1962 has transformed into one of the region's most cherished recreational treasures. The reservoir stands as a testament to the harmonious balance between human ingenuity and natural beauty, where agricultural heritage meets modern-day outdoor pursuits. Over six decades, this engineered lake has woven itself into the fabric of local life, supporting both the surrounding farmlands and creating a thriving ecosystem that draws visitors from near and far.
ElevationAt 8,830 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers a true mountain experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and every breath reminds you that you've escaped to somewhere extraordinary. This elevation places you firmly in the subalpine zone, where wildflowers paint the meadows in summer and the night sky reveals constellations impossible to see from lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the shimmer of morning light dancing across tranquil reservoir waters, framed by groves of quaking aspens that whisper secrets in the mountain breeze. The Cochetopa Hills cradle this aquatic jewel, creating an intimate amphitheater of natural beauty where golden aspens flame against azure skies in autumn and emerald hillsides burst with wildflowers in summer. This high-altitude oasis offers panoramic vistas that stretch to distant peaks, while the reservoir itself mirrors the ever-changing moods of Colorado's dramatic skies.
Geological RegionTucked into the rolling embrace of the Cochetopa Hills, where ancient geological forces sculpted a landscape perfect for capturing mountain runoff, Needle Creek Reservoir occupies a natural basin along the headwaters of its namesake creek. This region tells a story millions of years in the making, where volcanic activity and erosion carved valleys and ridges that would eventually cradle this life-giving reservoir. The surrounding hills, composed of volcanic tuff and sedimentary layers, create a diverse terrain that supports everything from sagebrush meadows to aspen forests, making this corner of Colorado a geological wonderland waiting to be explored.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned in the source material.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not mentioned in the source material.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not discussed in the authoritative or user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group camping details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen in June
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation needed; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area offers several outdoor activities, focusing heavily on fishing and boating. The reservoir is a popular fishing spot with rainbow and brook trout averaging 10-11 inches. Boating is allowed, but most visitors fish from the shore.
Fishing
Fishing is described as excellent, with rainbow and brook trout averaging 10-11 inches. Most visitors fish from the shore with good success.Boating
Boating is allowed in the reservoir, but most visitors prefer shoreline fishing.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned in the authoritative or user reviews.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding opportunities are not specified in the source material.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.5 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling details are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly adjacent to the Needle Creek Reservoir.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDrive east on Highway 50 to Doyleville. Turn right at Doyleville and then left at the next T-intersection. Follow the main road and signs to Needle Creek Reservoir. Please close all gates (they are there to keep livestock in, not humans out).
Easy access; the site is reachable via highways and a main road. Livestock gates need to be closed during passage.Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area generally highlight its secluded nature, suitability for families and pets, and the quality of the fishing experience. However, some reviewers noted that the water level in the reservoir can be significantly low.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include its seclusion, the peaceful environment, the surrounding Aspen trees, and good fishing opportunities. One reviewer remarked, 'Nice place to camp and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include significantly low water levels in the reservoir, which detracted from the overall experience for some visitors.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
User tips include bringing potable water and considering the seclusion of the area as an advantage for those seeking tranquility.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are mentioned, although fishing appears to be a year-round highlight.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful reservoir, and pretty secluded from the main beating path.' 2. 'It is surrounded by Aspen trees, but sadly like most other reservoirs, the water level is down significantly.' 3. 'Nice...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews specify particular campsites or areas within the campground.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews provide information on accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are acknowledged as welcome based on one review stating, 'Good place to take the family or pets.'
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025