Timberline Campground
4.0139 reviewsPIKE NATIONAL FOREST.
Quick Facts
9,700 ftPrice
$27 - $54/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Open May 23 through ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,700 ftPrice
$27 - $54/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
40 campsites
Season
Open May 23 through ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsTimberline Campground
$27.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Rates range from $27 to $54 per night during peak season. Rates may not include taxes or discounts.
Standard Site Fee$27.00
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$27.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider303-275-5610
What Campers Say
4.01
Satisfactory
Based on 39 reviews
32 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulcleanwell-maintained
Some mention
noise
"User reviews are mixed, with many praising the natural scenery, wildlife, and proximity to hiking trails, but some criticizing the closely spaced campsites, occasional noise from the highway, and inconsistent camp host experiences."
Fees & Passes at Timberline Campground
$27 - $54/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late can...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Rocky Mountain Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Timberline Campground
Summer at Timberline brings picture-perfect camping weather, with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable 62°F before dropping to a cozy 36°F at night—ideal for campfire gatherings and sleeping bag snuggling. While afternoon thunderstorms roll through with dramatic flair, the dry mountain air and moderate humidity make for pleasant conditions throughout your stay. Pack layers and prepare for nature's daily weather show as storm clouds build over the peaks.
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 23 - August 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 23 through August 31 during peak season.
About Timberline Campground
Escape the crowds and discover Timberline Campground, a hidden gem nestled at 9,700 feet where aspens whisper in the breeze and towering spruce and lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral. This peaceful retreat offers the perfect blend of mountain solitude and comfortable camping, with refreshingly mild summer days that give way to crisp, star-filled nights.
Timberline Campground caters to primitive camping experiences, accommodating tent camping and RVs with limited facilities. Group camping and cabin lodging are not available.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive away lies the historic town of Fairplay, where the Old West comes alive at the renowned South Park City Museum. Step back in time as you explore 34 meticulously preserved buildings that tell the story of Colorado's mining boom, complete with over 60,000 authentic artifacts that bring the frontier era to vivid life.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Timberline brings picture-perfect camping weather, with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable 62°F before dropping to a cozy 36°F at night—ideal for campfire gatherings and sleeping bag snuggling. While afternoon thunderstorms roll through with dramatic flair, the dry mountain air and moderate humidity make for pleasant conditions throughout your stay. Pack layers and prepare for nature's daily weather show as storm clouds build over the peaks.
ElevationPerched at 9,700 feet in Colorado's thin mountain air, Timberline Campground offers a true high-country experience. The elevation creates perfect summer conditions—warm enough for t-shirt days yet cool enough for comfortable sleeping. Visitors coming from sea level should take time to acclimate, drinking plenty of water and taking it easy the first day or two as their bodies adjust to the altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic babble of Hoosier Creek provides the soundtrack to your mountain escape, while groves of quaking aspens promise spectacular golden displays each fall. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting majestic golden eagles soaring overhead, while elk and moose make occasional appearances in the meadows. Keep your camera ready for closer encounters with the campground's friendlier residents—curious chipmunks and lumbering porcupines who call this forest home.
Geological RegionTucked into the forested hillsides near the scenic Kenosha Pass, Timberline Campground occupies a prime spot in Colorado's central mountains. The landscape tells a story of ancient geological forces, where Hoosier Creek has carved its path through terrain dominated by dense stands of aspens that shimmer like gold coins in autumn, interspersed with dark green spruce and lodgepole pines that stretch skyward from the 9,700-foot perch.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not mentioned in the detailed descriptions, but the campground's dirt and gravel roads and primitive facilities may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe campsites are relatively small and closely spaced, with some users reporting distances as short as 10-15 feet between sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the close proximity of sites, but the lower loop is noted to be quieter and offers slightly more privacy.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lower loop sites for less noise from the highway. Sites 1-5 in the valley are recommended for privacy and views.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
Group camping facilities are not available at Timberline Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops separated by a rise, with a mix of densely packed and spacious sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 through August 31 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. Late cancellations and no-shows incur additional fees, including forfeiting the first night's use fee and a $20 no-show fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Timberline Campground offers a blend of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. These activities are enhanced by its proximity to the Colorado Trail and Hoosier Creek.
Hiking
The Colorado Trail, located within one mile of the campground, offers vast hiking opportunities. This 471-mile trail spans from Denver to Durango and supports hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail is described as versatile and suitable for varying levels of expertise.Fishing
Fishing is available at Hoosier Creek, which runs near the campground. Specific details on fish types or fishing conditions are not provided.Biking
The Colorado Trail is accessible for biking, offering a scenic and adventurous experience.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to an array of wildlife, including golden eagles, elk, mule deer, moose, chipmunks, and porcupines. Visitors frequently praise the natural scenery and wildlife encounters.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
There are no non-motorized water sports opportunities mentioned for this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must adhere to fire bans. Firewood must be purchased nearby and cannot be cut at the campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity reported; rough dirt roads for RVs and trailers; thunderstorms and lightning risks.
Weather at Timberline Campground
21
°F
Dec 8
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 18 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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Emergency Services
Fairplay has emergency services including hospitals and police stations. The nearest ranger station is likely associated with Pike National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - August 31
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Campers are required to pack out all of their trash.
Proximity to water featuresHoosier Creek runs through the campground; fishing is available.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention campsites being close together, noise from highway traffic, and issues with camp hosts.
HostMixed reviews about camp hosts; some were described as helpful and friendly, while others were noted for rude behavior.
Campground Map
PIKE NATIONAL FOREST.
Driving directionsFrom Denver, Colorado, take Highway 285 southwest to Park County Rd. 58. Turn right at County Rd. 58 and follow road to Forest Road 125. Turn right and follow road about 0.5 miles to the campground entrance.
The roads to the campground are described as dirt and gravel. Some user reviews mentioned the road being rough around corners, requiring slow driving for RVs and trailers.Nearby places
Grant (7 miles), Fairplay (approximately 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Firewood may be purchased at the nearby Kenosha Pass Campground. No other information about grocery or camping supplies is provided.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
39 reviews
Timberline Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with many praising the natural scenery, wildlife, and proximity to hiking trails, but some criticizing the closely spaced campsites, occasional noise from the highway, and inconsistent camp host experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback highlights the beauty of the area, clean and well-maintained facilities, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. Many users appreciated the proximity to the Colorado Trail and the...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common criticisms include the close proximity of campsites leading to limited privacy, highway noise, and occasional issues with camp hosts' behavior. Some also noted the lack of potable water and...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring drinking water as there is none available on-site. Consider staying in the lower loop for a quieter experience. Be prepared for primitive conditions, and pack out all trash. Carry bear-proof...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors in the fall rave about the beautiful aspen colors and wildlife sightings. Summer reviews highlight the mild temperatures but mention that the campground can get crowded, leading to noise and...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great campground with spacious sites and pleasantly clean vault toilets." - Chris Kaplan. "The lower loop is quieter - the upper loop sites have noise from the highway." - Ellen I. "Beautiful...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1-5 by the valley offer the best views and more privacy. Sites in the upper loop are closer to the highway and noisier. Campsites 28/29 and 6/7 are noted as clean but close together.
Based on 39 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific comments on accessibility were noted in user reviews.
Based on 39 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific comments on pets or related policies were noted in user reviews.
Based on 39 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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