West Chicago Creek
4.3065 reviewsArapaho and Roosevelt NF Clear Creek Ranger District 101 Highway 103, Idaho Springs, CO 80452, USA
Quick Facts
9,600 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Open season runs fro...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,600 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
15 campsites
Season
Open season runs fro...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsWest Chicago Creek
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites cost $25 per night during peak season. There are no discounts, taxes, or incremental charges...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider801-226-3564
What Campers Say
4.30
Satisfactory
Based on 65 reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulcleanhiking
Some mention
unlevel
"The campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and proximity to trails. However, concerns about site privacy, road conditions, and the lack of water amenities were frequently raised."
Fees & Passes at West Chicago Creek
$25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled anytime before check-in, but a $10 cancellation fee applies, along with...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG website.
Best Time to Camp at West Chicago Creek
Summer days at West Chicago Creek are nothing short of magical, with temperatures hovering around a perfect 70°F under brilliantly blue skies that dominate 65% of the season. As evening falls, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 48°F—ideal for cozy campfire conversations wrapped in your favorite flannel. While afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through to water the wildflowers and clear the air, most days remain gloriously dry. When winter's heavy snows blanket the high country, the campground closes its gates, resting quietly until summer's return.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 16 - September 20.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season runs from May 16 to September 20.
- Current Alerts: The water well at this campground is not operational, so campers must bring their own water.
About West Chicago Creek
Tucked away at a breathtaking 9,600 feet near the majestic Mount Evans, West Chicago Creek Campground offers an intimate mountain escape with just 15 thoughtfully spaced campsites. This peaceful high-altitude haven welcomes both RV adventurers and tent campers seeking refuge among the clouds. Each site comes equipped with essential comforts—a level tent pad, sturdy picnic table, fire ring for evening gatherings, and charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. While you'll find clean vault toilets and convenient trash facilities, the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with no water hookups or potable water, encouraging visitors to come prepared for a genuine wilderness experience.
The campground offers accommodations for tent camping and RVs, but there are no RV hook-ups available. Sites are equipped with basic amenities such as tent pads and fire rings. The campground's remote and quiet atmosphere appeals to campers seeking a more rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceJust down the mountain, the historic mining town of Idaho Springs beckons with tales of Colorado's golden past. Visitors can step back in time at the fascinating Argo Gold Mine and Mill Museum, where the echoes of pickaxes and the dreams of fortune-seekers still resonate through preserved tunnels and exhibits. This rich cultural heritage adds depth to your mountain camping adventure, connecting you to the generations of explorers who first ventured into these rugged peaks.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at West Chicago Creek are nothing short of magical, with temperatures hovering around a perfect 70°F under brilliantly blue skies that dominate 65% of the season. As evening falls, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 48°F—ideal for cozy campfire conversations wrapped in your favorite flannel. While afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through to water the wildflowers and clear the air, most days remain gloriously dry. When winter's heavy snows blanket the high country, the campground closes its gates, resting quietly until summer's return.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,600 feet above sea level, West Chicago Creek Campground delivers the authentic high-altitude experience that Colorado is famous for. Here, the air is crisp and thin, the stars shine with extraordinary brilliance, and panoramic mountain vistas stretch endlessly in every direction. This lofty elevation ensures naturally cool temperatures even on summer's warmest days, creating the perfect retreat from lower elevation heat.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of quaking aspens and towering lodgepole pines creates a natural cathedral around West Chicago Creek Campground, their leaves and needles whispering ancient mountain secrets in the breeze. The babbling waters of West Chicago Creek provide a soothing soundtrack to your stay, while the surrounding peaks frame picture-perfect views at every turn. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in possible encounters with majestic moose browsing through meadows and graceful deer tiptoeing through the forest shadows. Adventure awaits just beyond your campsite, with hiking trails threading through the wilderness and the iconic Mount Evans beckoning experienced mountaineers.
Geological RegionWest Chicago Creek Campground claims its spectacular spot in the heart of central Colorado's Rocky Mountain foothills, where the landscape tells a story written in stone over millions of years. As part of the expansive Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, this 9,600-foot sanctuary sits amidst a wonderland of crystalline mountain lakes, dramatic peaks, and pristine wilderness. The region is celebrated for its five scenic byways that wind through some of America's most photographed mountain scenery, while the surrounding forests of aspen and lodgepole pine create an ever-changing canvas of colors throughout the seasons.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on accessibility is not explicitly mentioned. However, the campground terrain includes dirt roads and unlevel ground, and RV access may be challenging due to narrow and rough roads.
Sites SizeSites accommodate RVs and tents, but space can be tight. Parking spurs range from 30 to 45 feet in length, and some sites were noted for being spacious.
Sites PrivacySites are described as very close together with limited privacy. 'You basically end up camping WITH your neighbor,' stated one reviewer. Outer sites are noted to offer more seclusion than central sites.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 008 due to its location near the toilets and dumpsters with frequent foot traffic. Sites 013 and 012 are recommended for creek access and scenic views.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 am
Check-out
12:00 pm
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The site capacity varies based on size, but the official sources don't specify a maximum number of guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is small with 15 sites. Sites are arranged close together, particularly in the central area, with outer sites offering more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 16 to September 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityA limited number of first-come, first-served sites are available, but they are heavily utilized during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before check-in, but a $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. Nearby trails such as the 'Hell's Hole' provide challenging hiking experiences, and West Chicago Creek supports fishing for rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Wildlife sightings, including moose and deer, are common, and the serene creek adds to the natural charm.
Hiking
There are several trails accessible from the campground, including the 'Hell's Hole' trail. Hikers have described the trails as scenic and leading to diverse terrains. One reviewer stated, 'Hell's Hole, 9.5 miles, lots of shade, rocky in many areas.' Another noted the abundance of hiking opportunities, 'Beautiful, family-friendly campsite! Easy to get to and well worth it.'Fishing
Fishing is available in West Chicago Creek, with opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout. However, one reviewer mentioned, 'No obvious or easily accessible fishing,' indicating that fishing access may be limited in certain areas.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of moose, deer, and other animals. One reviewer shared, 'We saw some moose along the way and a deer and baby fawn.' Another noted, 'The variety of wildlife was amazing, including moose, sheep, and birds.'Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire restrictions are in place due to dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, requiring clean campsites and proper food storage. The last mile of road access to the campground includes sharp switchbacks and narrow lanes, posing challenges for larger vehicles.
Active alertsThe water well at this campground is not operational, so campers must bring their own water.
Weather at West Chicago Creek
27
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 18.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in Idaho Springs, which has facilities such as hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site, but there were reports of overflowing garbage during certain stays. Reviewers noted, 'Garbage was overflowing and had zero room,' indicating occasional maintenance issues.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along West Chicago Creek with easy access to streamside activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the close proximity of campsites, unlevel ground for tents, lack of water, and rough road access.
HostCamp hosts are attentive and maintain clean bathrooms. Hosts like Karen and Roger often receive praise for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
Arapaho and Roosevelt NF Clear Creek Ranger District 101 Highway 103, Idaho Springs, CO 80452, USA
Driving directionsI-70 westbound, Idaho Springs exit #240 - Hwy 103. Go south for 6.5 miles and turn right on southwest Forest Service Road 188 (West Chicago Creek Road). Go 3 miles to campground. The last mile of dirt/gravel road is one lane with pull overs and contains two sharp switchbacks.
The road access quality varies. The last mile of dirt/gravel road is narrow, has two sharp switchbacks, and is one lane with pull overs, which creates challenges especially for larger RVs or trailers.Nearby places
Idaho Springs - approximately 9 miles.
Nearby supplies
Idaho Springs provides groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
65 reviews
West Chicago Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, peaceful environment, and proximity to trails. However, concerns about site privacy, road conditions, and the lack of water amenities were frequently raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's natural beauty, the attentiveness of the camp host, and the availability of hiking trails. Many reviewers mentioned the clean facilities and the peaceful setting, with...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues included the close proximity of campsites, unlevel ground, road conditions leading to the campground, and the lack of potable water. 'Sites are very close together. Not much privacy,'...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as there is no potable water available. Consider outer campsites for more privacy. Drive cautiously on the narrow, rough road leading to the campground, especially with large RVs.
Based on 65 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in the summer months when hiking and fishing are at their peak. However, some reviews noted that heavy rains occasionally impacted their stays.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were very clean. One of our favorites.' - TIM G
2. 'The vault toilets were well maintained and clean.' - NORM P
3. 'Sites are very close together. Not much privacy.' - DREW L
Based on 65 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 11, 12, and 13 are described as being very close together, offering minimal privacy. Site 8 is near the toilets and dumpsters, with reviewers mentioning that foot traffic can be disruptive....
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews regarding accessibility for campers with disabilities. The dirt roads and site layout may pose challenges for some users.
Based on 65 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some reviewers noted that their dogs enjoyed the creek and trails. No specific concerns or issues related to pets were highlighted.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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