Is Thompson Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Thompson Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at Thompson Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Thompson Creek Campground has 4 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.

Are there showers at Thompson Creek Campground?

Thompson Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Thompson Creek Campground have?

Thompson Creek Campground has 4 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Thompson Creek Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Thompson Creek Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Thompson Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Thompson Creek Campground include Hiking, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Thompson Creek Campground

2.63

8 reviews

2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652, USA

Quick Facts

7,310 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Colorado River Valley Field Office Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,310 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

4 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Colorado River Valley Field Office Official Website

Get Directions

Thompson Creek Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(970) 876-9000BLM_CO_SI_CRVFO_Webmail@blm.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652, USA

Thompson Creek Campground

2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652, USA

Nearby places

Carbondale: Approximately 9 miles southwest. Silt: Location of Colorado River Valley Field Office.

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.

Weather at Thompson Creek Campground

Best Time to Camp at Thompson Creek Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable, comfortable weather for exploring the fin formations and hiking the remote trails—expect warm days (roughly 60–85°F / 15–30°C) and cool nights (mid-30s to mid-40s°F / 2–8°C). Creek flows are typically steady, making the babbling stream a pleasant backdrop while you camp; hiking and geological sightseeing are at their peak. Crowds remain low due to only four primitive sites, though afternoon thunderstorms (monsoon) are possible in July–August and fire restrictions Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season is summer; most reliable weather and trail access then per overview.

Planning Tips

About Thompson Creek Campground

Thompson Creek Campground sits in high-elevation alpine terrain near Carbondale, managed by the Colorado River Valley Field Office. This very small primitive site offers creekside camping with fire rings, attracting visitors who hike and bike the remote trails to view distinctive geologic fin formations. Shaded sites and low crowds make it a quiet base for exploring the area's unique geology.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable, comfortable weather for exploring the fin formations and hiking the remote trails—expect warm days (roughly 60–85°F / 15–30°C) and cool nights (mid-30s to mid-40s°F / 2–8°C). Creek flows are typically steady, making the babbling stream a pleasant backdrop while you camp; hiking and geological sightseeing are at their peak. Crowds remain low due to only four primitive sites, though afternoon thunderstorms (monsoon) are possible in July–August and fire restrictions Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation7310 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground lies in a natural amphitheater where rare vertical rock fins rise from the surrounding terrain. These dramatic geological formations, carved by wind and water over millennia, create an otherworldly landscape that few other areas preserve. Thompson Creek winds through this stone gallery, its flow steady through summer. The campsites sit beneath a tree canopy that filters sunlight onto the creekbank. The area's isolation has kept these erosional sculptures largely intact.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations or similar facilities at this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations possible.

Site SizeThe campground has 4 campsites, described as shaded and along the creek.

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 SitesSince all sites are shaded and by the creek, any of the 4 sites would be suitable. Visitors should prioritize accessibility due to road conditions.

Amenities available

The Thompson Creek Campground is a remote and basic campground along Thompson Creek with a total of 4 shaded campsites along the creek. These campsites are equipped with metal fire rings, but they lack picnic tables, restrooms, and other facilities. Campers are expected to pack out all human waste and garbage to prevent contamination of the creek. There is no availability of waste collection facilities, and the site can be inaccessible during wet or snowy conditions. As per one user review, 'the road is terrible' and not suitable for many vehicles, especially in poor weather conditions.

Fire rings

I manage this campground

Things to do at Thompson Creek Campground

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.

Hiking4.0/5

Thompson Creek and Lorax Trail nearby; hiking is a primary activity to view fin formations.

Biking3.0/5

Lorax Trail noted as a popular non-motorized route; biking plausible but not confirmed.

Winter Activities1.0/5

Best season is summer; winter access likely poor and no winter activities listed.

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Distinctive geologic fins, creek amphitheater and shaded campsites make for photogenic scenes.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at the campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

2.6

8 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Thompson Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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 8 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 8 reviews

Common 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 8 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews or details about individual campsites within the campground were provided.

Based on 8 reviews

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 8 reviews

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 8 reviews

Camper 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 8 reviews