Is Bristol Head Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

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

What is the best time to visit Bristol Head Campground?

Bristol Head Campground is open Open season not explicitly stated; check local conditions for seasonal access.. 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 Bristol Head Campground?

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

How many campsites does Bristol Head Campground have?

Bristol Head Campground has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Bristol Head Campground?

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

What amenities are available at Bristol Head Campground?

Bristol Head Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Bristol Head Campground?

Popular activities at Bristol Head Campground include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Bristol Head Campground

3.56

9 reviews

Featured in:Tent Camping Colorado

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

9,511 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open season not expl...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

First-come, first-served

This campground doesn't take reservations — sites are claimed in person on arrival, so there's no availability to check online. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Quick Facts

9,511 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Open season not expl...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Bristol Head Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No paid fee categories listed.

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Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Bristol Head Campground

37.8189, -107.1459

Nearby places

Creede, CO: 21.6 miles (~30-minute drive)

Weather at Bristol Head Campground

Best Time to Camp at Bristol Head Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable conditions for exploring high alpine meadows, hiking toward Bristol Head Peak, and fishing South Clear Creek — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. Wildflowers are at their peak from late June through August, trails are generally dry and accessible, and wildlife viewing (elk, mule deer, birds) is excellent. Crowds are moderate — busier on summer weekends and holiday periods, but the site’s small size and scenic bench make a Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Aspen presence implies strong fall color and continued scenic views; cooler temps noted.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open season not explicitly stated; check local conditions for seasonal access.

About Bristol Head Campground

Bristol Head Campground sits in the high alpine country of Rio Grande National Forest, a few miles from Creede, Colorado. Managed by the Forest Service, this small campground serves as a quiet base for hiking toward Bristol Head Peak, fishing South Clear Creek, and watching elk and mule deer move through the surrounding meadows. Summer brings wildflowers, dry trails, and daytime highs in the 60s–70s, with crisp nights that drop into the 30s and 40s.

The Bristol Head Campground is designed for a variety of camping setups, including RVs and tents, with pull-through sites available. It offers a quiet, secluded camping experience with a focus on natural scenery and outdoor recreation.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable conditions for exploring high alpine meadows, hiking toward Bristol Head Peak, and fishing South Clear Creek — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. Wildflowers are at their peak from late June through August, trails are generally dry and accessible, and wildlife viewing (elk, mule deer, birds) is excellent. Crowds are moderate — busier on summer weekends and holiday periods, but the site’s small size and scenic bench make a Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation9511 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a bench formation carved above South Clear Creek, where spruce and aspen forests frame open meadows. Bristol Head Peak rises to the east. Wildflowers peak from late June through August. Moose, elk, and mule deer move through the area regularly. A short trail leads to an overlook of South Clear Creek Falls. The creek itself runs below the campground and holds trout.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day camping limit

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Site SizeThe sites range in size from 35 to 55 feet in length, accommodating various camping setups.

PrivacyThe layout of the campground offers a mix of open areas and shaded spots due to the surrounding spruce and aspen trees, which provide some privacy between sites.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesPreference for sites with mountain views and proximity to South Clear Creek may influence selection.

Amenities available

The Bristol Head Campground provides a range of amenities suited for a quiet and secluded camping experience. The campground contains 15 sites, 11 of which are pull-through, ranging in length from 35 to 55 feet. These are situated in a meadow above South Clear Creek with views of Bristol Head Peak. It is noted for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to wildlife, particularly moose. A short trail within the campground leads to Clear Creek Canyons and a waterfall. It is a less-visited location, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The Bristol Head Campground offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. A notable feature is its proximity to a trail that leads to the South Clear Creek Falls and Clear Creek Canyons, making it appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsThis campground does not offer flush toilets. However, reviewers have highlighted the cleanliness of its pit toilets, with one reviewer stating, "The camp hosts also do an amazing job cleaning their pit toilets. Probably the cleanest I've ever seen." Another review remarked on the "super clean bathrooms."

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.6

9 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Bristol Head Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Bristol Head Campground has received positive feedback for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and tranquil environment. Reviewers have praised the views, wildlife opportunities, and well-maintained facilities, particularly the vault toilets. However, isolated incidents with staff have been noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Common praises include the campground's serenity, scenic views, proximity to hiking trails, and well-maintained facilities. One reviewer described it as a "nice and quiet place to camp," while...

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

One reviewer reported an unpleasant interaction with the 2022 summer campground host, describing the individual as "EXTREMELY rude" and "mentally unstable." This experience reflects an isolated...

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are recommended to explore the trail leading to South Clear Creek Falls. The campground's quiet setting and opportunities for stargazing are also emphasized. Campers should be prepared for...

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground's seclusion and scenic beauty make it a year-round destination, but it may be more enjoyable in warmer months due to the availability of hiking and fishing activities. Winter...

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Nice and quiet place to camp, I saw many stars. Restroom is nice and clean." 2. "Gorgeous views. Nice hiking trail to the south clear fork falls. The camp hosts also do an amazing job cleaning...

Based on 9 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want high-elevation solitude, alpine hiking, and wildlife viewing without the crowds of busier Forest Service campgrounds.

Skip if

You need electric hookups, shower facilities, or a campground host with consistently positive reviews.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

4.0

(19)

North Clear Creek Campground

North Clear Creek Campground, 24.5 miles west of Creede on Forest Road 510, Colorado

North Clear Creek Campground sits at 9,900 feet in Rio Grande National Forest, offering 21 sites along North Clear Creek near Creede. Sites run $26–52 per night and accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though not all spurs support large vehicles. It's a clean, quiet campground where you'll need cash or check to pay and cell service doesn't reach.