Mcclure Campground - Paonia Rd
4.3918 reviewsHighway 133, south side of McClure Pass, near Marble, CO
Mcclure Campground - Paonia Rd
$6.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
$14 per night per camping unit; $6 per day for day use/picnic use in a campsite; $10 per firewood bundle. Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on camping fees.
About this campground
Tucked away at the base of McClure Pass near the charming town of Marble, Colorado, McClure Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 10 thoughtfully spaced campsites. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. While you'll find clean vault toilets on-site, the absence of potable water encourages a more authentic back-to-basics camping experience—so pack your water supplies accordingly. The real magic happens when you discover the nearby beaver ponds, where patient anglers can try their luck at landing native trout while surrounded by towering aspen groves that shimmer in the mountain breeze.
McClure Campground offers primitive camping on a first-come, first-served basis. It is suitable for tents, small campers, and those seeking a basic camping experience without modern amenities.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at McClure Campground places you within reach of Marble, Colorado—a town whose very name tells the story of its remarkable past. This historic community earned its place in American history through its world-renowned marble quarry, which provided the gleaming white stone for iconic monuments including the Lincoln Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Today, Marble maintains its artistic soul, with sculptors and artisans continuing the tradition of transforming raw stone into works of art, making it a fascinating day trip destination for culturally curious campers.
Weather and SeasonsMcClure Campground transforms with each passing season, offering visitors distinctly different experiences throughout the year. Summer brings gentle mountain weather ideal for camping, with warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag. Spring and fall paint the landscape in dramatic colors, though these shoulder seasons can surprise you with crisp temperatures and the occasional dusting of snow—adding an adventurous edge to your stay. When winter arrives, heavy snows close the access roads, allowing the campground to rest beneath a pristine white blanket until the cycle begins anew.
ElevationWhile the campground's exact elevation remains unrecorded, its location near McClure Pass places you in true high-country territory at approximately 8,755 feet above sea level. At this altitude, the air feels crisp and clean, stars shine with remarkable clarity, and your morning coffee might take a bit longer to brew. The thin mountain air reminds you that you're camping in Colorado's stunning high country, where every breath connects you more deeply to the alpine environment.
Natural Features and SceneryMcClure Campground immerses you in a living tapestry of Colorado's mountain ecosystems. Majestic aspen trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their leaves whispering secrets in the wind and providing dappled shade throughout the day. Interspersed with sturdy firs, this mixed forest shelters an abundance of wildlife—keep your eyes peeled for deer browsing at dawn, curious chipmunks investigating your campsite, and the occasional glimpse of more elusive mountain residents. The crown jewels of the area are the nearby beaver ponds, where industrious engineers have created wetland habitats that reflect the sky and surrounding peaks while supporting a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, McClure Campground occupies a special corner of Colorado's diverse geological landscape. Positioned at the headwaters of Lee Creek, the campground serves as your basecamp for exploring a remarkable blend of mountainous terrain and dense forest ecosystems. The surrounding aspen groves tell the story of the region's geological past, thriving in areas once disturbed by ancient avalanches and fires. This dynamic landscape, shaped by millennia of natural forces, offers campers a front-row seat to the ongoing geological drama of the Rocky Mountains, where beaver-engineered wetlands meet rugged mountain slopes in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is primitive and lacks specific accessibility features such as paved paths or facilities designed for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and suitable for small campers and tents; larger RVs may struggle due to limited space.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are spaced well, providing a sense of privacy, and are shaded by aspen and fir trees.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArriving early is recommended to ensure a spot, especially during peak seasons or weekdays.
Best CampsitesSite 9 is mentioned for access to stream water after a short bushwhack.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Anytime availability (first-come basis).
Check-out
Anytime availability (first-come basis).
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Details unavailable for specific guest limits but sites are reported as spacious.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 10 individual campsites spaced apart for privacy and shaded by mixed trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally starting May 23, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available, first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground operates entirely on walk-up, first-come, first-served basis with no reservations possible. Users note that arriving early, especially before 3 PM, is essential to secure a spot during busy times.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy or refunds applicable as this campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to McClure Campground can enjoy various activities, including fishing in nearby beaver ponds, hiking in the surrounding forest, and observing local wildlife. The area offers scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Hiking
The campground is close to hiking opportunities near Marble and Redstone, although specific trails are not described.Fishing
Trout fishing is available in nearby beaver ponds. The proximity to this natural feature makes it a highlight for anglers.Wildlife viewing
The campground is known for its abundant wildlife. One review notes that being quiet in the morning may lead to wildlife sightings.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are listed, but the campground is operational weather-dependently starting May 23.Water Sports
No information is provided about water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated metal fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsUsers note potential hazards including mosquitoes during summer and heavy traffic noise from the nearby highway.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.4 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
Closest hospital and emergency services are in Paonia (26.7 miles). Police and ranger stations are also likely located in Paonia.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate spring to early fall, especially May through September.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis, requiring visitors to take their trash with them as no trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresNear beaver ponds and head of Lee Creek, providing opportunities for trout fishing.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from Highway 133, lack of potable water, and heavy use during hunting season.
Campground Map
Highway 133, south side of McClure Pass, near Marble, CO
Driving directionsFrom Paonia, travel east on Highway 133 for approximately 26.7 miles. The campground is on the right just south of McClure Pass.
The campground is accessed via Highway 133 and has paved roads leading directly to it. Some user reviews note it may be noisy due to proximity to the highway, but driving conditions are straightforward.Nearby places
Paonia (26.7 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Marble (approximately 10 miles, 15 minutes)
Carbondale (approximately 26 miles, 35 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies and grocery options are available in Carbondale (26 miles) and Marble (approximately 10 miles). Gas stations and camping supplies can be accessed in these towns.
Camper Reviews
4.4
18 reviews
Mcclure Campground - Paonia Rd is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with some praising the campground for its natural beauty, quiet atmosphere, and free or affordable rates, while others note issues like heavy traffic noise and lack of potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
'Gorgeous, quiet, free campground,' 'The sites are well spaced and shady,' 'Plenty of wildlife,' 'Super clean restrooms,' 'Beautiful forest around and high air quality,' 'Close to Marble and Redstone...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
'Plenty of noise from the nearby highway,' 'No cell service and some road noise,' 'Vault toilets may not always be cleaned,' 'The campground is NO LONGER FREE ($14),' 'Heavy use during hunting season...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons like hunting season. Bring your own drinking water as none is available on-site. Be prepared for pack-in, pack-out trash policies and...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is heavily used in September, particularly by hunters. During the off-season or weekdays, it may be quieter. Fall is highlighted as a particularly scenic time to visit.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The best free campground I've ever been!' - Aseniya Antonova; 'Quiet and cool with plenty of mosquitoes!' - Mark McConnell; 'Super clean restrooms.' - Stefan Kühnert; 'It's close to Carbondale for...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9 is noted for being near a small stream that requires a short bushwhack to access.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility, but the campground’s primitive nature suggests limited accessibility features.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025