Buffalo Campground
4.3765 reviews28718 Redskin Creek Rd., Bailey, CO 80421, USA
Quick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
30 campsites
Season
Open May 16 to Augus...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,400 ftPrice
$28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
30 campsites
Season
Open May 16 to Augus...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsBuffalo Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
All sites, including standard and tent-only non-electric sites, are $28 per night during the peak season. Fees do not include taxes or other...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
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$28.00
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Provider(303) 275-5610null
What Campers Say
4.37
Recommended
Based on 65 reviews
85 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspacioushikingfriendly
Some mention
noise
"Buffalo Campground has a strong reputation for cleanliness and accessibility to outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Although well-maintained, common complaints include lack of potable water, noisy neighbors, and limited privacy at some sites. The campground hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence."
Fees & Passes at Buffalo Campground
$28/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Cancellation: Cancellations made up to 2 days prior to arrival incur a $10 fee. Day-before arrivals forfeit the fi...
Prices verified November 27, 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 Buffalo Campground
Summer days unfold with perfect camping weather, as temperatures hover between a comfortable 75-80°F, allowing for full days of outdoor exploration. When darkness falls, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 55-65°F, ideal for cozy campfire gatherings under star-studded skies. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, though visitors should prepare for true mountain conditions with frigid temperatures and occasional blankets of snow that dust the evergreens.
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 to August 31 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 16 to August 31. Reservations start late May.
- Current Alerts: No specific alerts provided.
About Buffalo Campground
Nestled within the sprawling Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, Buffalo Campground serves as your gateway to 40 miles of winding trails that snake through pine-scented forests and sun-dappled meadows. Here, where the legendary Colorado Trail passes nearby, adventurers find themselves immersed in a high-altitude playground where crystal-clear streams invite anglers to cast their lines and hikers discover endless paths through the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Buffalo Campground primarily offers single-family sites, with some designated for tent-only camping. No group sites, cabins, or glamping options are available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the written history of Buffalo Campground may be unrecorded, the land itself tells ancient stories through its weathered rocks and towering pines. This timeless mountain sanctuary has long served as a refuge for those seeking connection with Colorado's wild heart.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days unfold with perfect camping weather, as temperatures hover between a comfortable 75-80°F, allowing for full days of outdoor exploration. When darkness falls, the mountain air cools to a refreshing 55-65°F, ideal for cozy campfire gatherings under star-studded skies. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, though visitors should prepare for true mountain conditions with frigid temperatures and occasional blankets of snow that dust the evergreens.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,400 feet above sea level, Buffalo Campground offers the rare opportunity to wake up among the clouds. This elevated paradise provides a true mountain camping experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and every breath reminds you that you've ascended into Colorado's spectacular high country.
Natural Features and SceneryRising 7,400 feet into Colorado's Front Range, Buffalo Campground is embraced by aromatic pine forests that whisper secrets in the mountain breeze. Scenic valleys carved by ancient glaciers stretch before you, while Buffalo Creek meanders through the landscape, its gentle babbling providing nature's soundtrack. This mountain ecosystem thrives in the sweet spot of mild summer temperatures, creating a haven where wildflowers paint the meadows and wildlife roams freely through their natural habitat.
Geological RegionBuffalo Campground claims its home in the majestic Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking beauty. At 7,400 feet elevation, near the melodious Buffalo Creek, campers find themselves in the heart of Colorado's iconic mountain terrain, where ancient granite peaks rise above verdant valleys in a testament to the Earth's creative power.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityEach campsite is equipped with accessible picnic tables. However, no specific details about other accessibility features are provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some offering ample room for families or groups.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate that privacy levels vary by site. Some sites are described as secluded, especially those on the outer loop, while others are noted to be close together, offering less privacy.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the highway due to noise (e.g., site #24/25). Outer sites offer more privacy. Tend to arrive early to secure desirable sites.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not specified in authoritative sources.
Groups
No group camping facilities are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a loop pattern. Some inner sites lack privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 to August 31. Reservations start late May.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable through Recreation.gov and associated services.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available early season until reservations begin in late May.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made up to 2 days prior to arrival incur a $10 fee. Day-before arrivals forfeit the first night’s fee and incur $10. Refunds on credit card payments are issued to the card used; cash/check purchases require Treasury checks taking 6-8 weeks.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Buffalo Campground caters primarily to outdoor enthusiasts with a range of activities available nearby. These include hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is especially popular among mountain bikers due to its proximity to the 40-mile Buffalo Creek trail system.
Hiking
The campground is within walking distance of several trailheads, including access to the 500-mile-long Colorado Trail. Trails are suitable for hikers and horseback riders and are renowned for their scenic beauty.Fishing
Buffalo Creek offers fishing opportunities primarily for brook trout; however, some user reviews noted limited access to fishing spots due to private land.Biking
The campground is a hub for mountain biking, with direct access to the Buffalo Creek trail system, which spans 40 miles.Wildlife viewing
Campers have reported observing a variety of wildlife, including chipmunks and occasional bears. Visitors are advised to secure food to avoid attracting wildlife.Winter Activities
Winter camping is an option, but limited information is available about other winter-specific activities.Water Sports
No facilities or opportunities for water sports are noted.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings unless a fire ban is in place.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated but enforcement complaints noted in reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a noted concern; proper food storage is required. High elevation may cause altitude sickness for sensitive individuals. Washboarding and erosion on roads can present driving challenges.
Active alertsNo specific alerts provided.
Weather at Buffalo Campground
40
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 14.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
Weather History
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Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest police station and emergency services are likely in Bailey, CO.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to August 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, but no recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresBuffalo Creek runs near the campground. No direct access for fishing due to private land restrictions.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews note proximity and lack of privacy between campsites. The dirt road leading to the campground is poorly maintained. Other complaints include noise issues and unclean fire pits.
HostCamp hosts generally praised for being helpful and diligent. Some reviews mentioned inconsistency in enforcing rules.
Campground Map
28718 Redskin Creek Rd., Bailey, CO 80421, USA
Driving directionsFrom Denver, travel southwest on Highway 285. Turn south on Jefferson County Road 126 and travel 15 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 550 and drive 5 miles to the campground.
County Road 126 and Forest Road 550 are accessible but may experience challenges such as washboarding and erosion. Forest Road 550 is a dirt road and can be difficult for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Denver (~50 miles, approx. 1-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Bailey, CO, approximately 15 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
65 reviews
Buffalo Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Buffalo Campground has a strong reputation for cleanliness and accessibility to outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Although well-maintained, common complaints include lack of potable water, noisy neighbors, and limited privacy at some sites. The campground hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and diligence.
Review Summaries
Based on 65 reviews
What Campers Love
Exceptional cleanliness of the vault toilets; close proximity to hiking and biking trails; friendly and helpful campground hosts; spacious campsites, especially on the outer loop.
Based on 65 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of potable water on-site; noisy and crowded conditions during peak season; some sites offer limited privacy; poor road conditions leading to the campground.
Based on 65 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water; reserve in advance for weekends and holidays; select outer loop sites for more space and privacy; arrive early to avoid traffic and secure a good spot.
Based on 65 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Sites are less crowded and quieter on weekdays, particularly outside peak summer months. During summer, the campground can be busy, and temperatures may feel hot; fall and spring offer milder weather...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen at a campground." - Justin Wild. 2. "We picked sites 4 & 5, and they were spacious, spotless, and perfect for our families." - HikerDude. 3. "The road...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 4 and 5: Spacious and well-maintained (HikerDude). Site 24/25: Avoid due to poor road conditions and noise (Robert Foltz). Site 3: Too close to the bathroom for some campers (Kathryn W). Site...
Based on 65 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible picnic tables are provided, but there are no specific reviews addressing broader accessibility features.
Based on 65 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or policies related to pets were noted.
Based on 65 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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