How much does camping cost at Ansel Watrous?

Camping fees at Ansel Watrous range from $20-$29/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Ansel Watrous first-come first-served or reservation?

Ansel Watrous accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Ansel Watrous before I book?

Yes! Ansel Watrous has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Ansel Watrous?

Ansel Watrous is open May 2 - September 20 for peak season pricing.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Ansel Watrous?

Ansel Watrous does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Ansel Watrous?

Fire policies at Ansel Watrous: Fire restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions. Firewood is available from the host.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Ansel Watrous have?

Ansel Watrous has 17 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Ansel Watrous?

Yes, pets are allowed at Ansel Watrous. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Ansel Watrous?

Ansel Watrous offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Ansel Watrous?

Popular activities at Ansel Watrous include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Ansel Watrous

4.56

291 reviews

Scenic Views

Featured in:Camping Near Rocky Mountain National Park Best Campgrounds Colorado

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$20 - $29/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 2 through D...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on USDA Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$20 - $29/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 2 through D...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on USDA Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Ansel Watrous

$20.00 - $29.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fee ranges depend on the season: Peak season rates are $29 per night, while non-peak season rates are $20 per night.

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

970-295-6700.

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See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 291 reviews

82 Google reviews

Most mentioned

clean

Some mention

noise

"Reviews highlight the campground's location next to the Cache la Poudre River, with stunning views and well-maintained facilities. Commonly praised elements include clean vault toilets, helpful hosts, and the relaxing sound of the river. However, road noise from Highway 14 and occasional campground management issues, such as reservation mix-ups, are noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Ansel Watrous

Nearby places

Fort Collins (22 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be procured in Fort Collins, 22 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Ansel Watrous

July and August deliver the most reliable conditions, with daytime highs around 70-81°F and cool nights in the mid-50s. Dry summer weather suits the full range of river activities: fishing, rafting, hiking. Weekends and holidays fill up fast once reservations open June 25. Weekday mornings offer better odds for walk-ups. Heavy rains can cause flooding in some sites. Non-peak seasons may require hauling extra water.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 5% in CO

Summer described as 'perfect camping weather' and peak season for rafting/hiking.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 2 - September 20 for peak season pricing.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 2 through December 31. Reservations are available from June 25 onward each year.
Current Alerts: Drinking water unavailable after September 28 each year. Fire restrictions possible during dry conditions.

About Ansel Watrous

Ansel Watrous Campground sits along the Cache la Poudre River in Roosevelt National Forest, about 17 sites tucked into a narrow canyon carved by Colorado's first National Wild and Scenic River. Sites run $20-29 per night with standard tent pads and RV spurs up to 45 feet. Highway 14 runs close enough that you'll hear traffic, but most campers say the river noise drowns it out.

Ansel Watrous Campground provides options for tent and RV camping, with accessible sites spread across upper and lower loops. The upper loop accommodates longer trailers, while the lower loop is less accessible to large vehicles.

Historical Significance

The campground takes its name from Ansel Watrous, though specifics about his connection to the area aren't detailed in available records. The Cache la Poudre earned designation as Colorado's first National Wild and Scenic River, protecting this stretch of canyon from development.

Weather and SeasonsJuly and August deliver the most reliable conditions, with daytime highs around 70-81°F and cool nights in the mid-50s. Dry summer weather suits the full range of river activities: fishing, rafting, hiking. Weekends and holidays fill up fast once reservations open June 25. Weekday mornings offer better odds for walk-ups. Heavy rains can cause flooding in some sites. Non-peak seasons may require hauling extra water.

ElevationNestled comfortably below 6,000 feet, Ansel Watrous Campground enjoys a sweet spot in Colorado's varied terrain. This lower elevation means you can explore here when higher mountain passes remain locked in snow, extending your camping season and offering easier breathing for those still adjusting to Colorado's altitude. It's nature's way of saying 'welcome' to adventurers of all fitness levels.

Natural Features and ScenerySteep canyon walls hemmed in by ponderosa pine frame the Cache la Poudre as it rushes past camp at 6,000 feet. The river creates enough whitewater sound to mask most other noise. Dense conifers cling to rocky slopes above the campground, with some meadow openings along the canyon floor. The geology here shows millions of years of river erosion cutting through layered rock. Views shift throughout the day as sunlight moves across the narrow canyon.

Geological RegionAnsel Watrous Campground rests in the heart of a spectacular river canyon, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a masterpiece of stone and water. Steep mountain walls embrace the Cache la Poudre—Colorado's first National Wild and Scenic River—as it winds through a diverse tapestry of ecosystems. From dense coniferous forests clinging to rocky slopes to verdant meadows carpeting the canyon floor, this dynamic landscape tells the story of Colorado's wild heart, inviting you to become part of its ongoing narrative.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check in after 2:00 PM.

Check-out

Check out by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay: 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per site.

Groups

No designated group camping sites are mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutTwo loops split the campground. The upper loop sits slightly elevated with parking spurs ranging 25-45 feet and tent pads at 12-by-15 feet. Lower loop sites trade proximity to the highway for direct river access. Privacy varies. Some sites cluster tight, others spread out with natural screening. River sound helps mask neighbors in most spots.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability outside reservation season. Sites must be occupied within 26 hours of reservation start time.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before check-in. A $10 fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Additional penalties may apply on-site.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible single-family sites and vault toilets. The upper loop is more accommodating for larger vehicles, while the lower loop is less suitable for trailers due to tight access roads.

Site SizeCampsites have a standard size, with pads measuring 12-by-15 feet and parking spurs ranging from 25 to 45 feet in the upper loop.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some are in clustered areas, while others are more private. River noise provides a natural sound barrier in most areas.

Total Campsites17 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose lower loop sites for reduced road noise. Upper loop sites offer closer access to facilities.

Need help booking Ansel Watrous?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Ansel Watrous Campground offers a variety of recreational activities. These include fishing, hiking, rafting, wildlife viewing, and birding. The proximity to the Cache la Poudre River makes it a hub for water activities, while trails like the Young Gulch Trail provide land-based recreation.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsProximity to Highway 14 presents noise and potential traffic-related hazards. Wildlife such as bears necessitates secure food storage. Flash flooding in rain-prone seasons can occur along the river.

Active AlertsDrinking water unavailable after September 28 each year. Fire restrictions possible during dry conditions.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are provided at campsites with tent pads to ensure safety from wildlife.

Fire PolicyFire restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions. Firewood is available from the host.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No specific hours provided, but excessive noise during nighttime discouraged.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in Fort Collins, 22 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available, but issues such as full dumpsters have been reported during peak times. Recycling facilities are not specified.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located directly on the Cache la Poudre River. Activities such as fishing, kayaking, and rafting are accessible.

Camp HostCampground hosts are friendly and helpful, providing firewood and maintaining clean facilities. Hosts frequently complimented in user reviews.

Weather at Ansel Watrous

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.6

291 reviews

Top-Rated

Ansel Watrous is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's location next to the Cache la Poudre River, with stunning views and well-maintained facilities. Commonly praised elements include clean vault toilets, helpful hosts, and the relaxing sound of the river. However, road noise from Highway 14 and occasional campground management issues, such as reservation mix-ups, are noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 291 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently praise the clean vault toilets, proximity to the river, and helpfulness of the camp hosts. The natural beauty and accessibility to recreational activities are also highlighted....

Based on 291 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns include noise from Highway 14, reservation errors, and occasional overcrowding during events at the nearby Mishawaka Amphitheater. Some users report issues with uncleaned sites and...

Based on 291 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend staying in the lower loop for better distance from the road. Checking the Mishawaka Amphitheater event schedule can help avoid noisy weekends. Bring earplugs if sensitive to road...

Based on 291 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are popular for activities like rafting and hiking, with multiple mentions of springtime wildlife viewing. Winter camping is peaceful, but access to potable water is unavailable...

Based on 291 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Perfect place to camp for a show at the Mishawaka—closer than the parking lot at Red Rocks." "The cleanest vault toilets I've ever seen." "Road noise is minimal at night, and the river drowns it...

Based on 291 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 4 is praised for solar and Starlink compatibility, while site 15 offers spaciousness and proximity to the river. Sites 8, 9, 10, and 14 are better suited to single vehicles. Lower loop sites are...

Based on 291 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features such as vault toilets and tent pads make the campground inclusive, but tight road access to the lower loop may pose challenges for larger vehicles.

Based on 291 reviews