North Crestone Creek Campground

4.41

35 reviews

1.3 miles north of Alder Street, Crestone, Colorado

Quick Facts

8,800 ft

Price

$7 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Saguache Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

8,800 ft

Price

$7 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

13 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Saguache Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

North Crestone Creek Campground

$7.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees range from $7 to $10. Single sites are $10 per night; day use for picnicking is also $10. Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders...

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

719-655-2547

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.41

Recommended

Based on 35 reviews

26 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioussites

"North Crestone Creek Campground receives high praise for its natural beauty, spacious and private sites, and peaceful setting. However, issues with mosquitos during certain seasons and concerns about campers leaving expired tags and gear were noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1.3 miles north of Alder Street, Crestone, Colorado

North Crestone Creek Campground

1.3 miles north of Alder Street, Crestone, Colorado

Driving directionsFrom Alamosa, take Hwy 17 north to Moffat. Turn left and take County Road T east to Crestone. In Crestone, at the intersection of Galena and Alder Streets take Alder Street north 1.3 miles to the campground.

The roads to the campground include county roads and are described as unpaved with dirt and rocky parking aprons.

Nearby places

Crestone (1.3 miles), Alamosa (~36 miles), Moffat (~15 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be accessed in Crestone, which is 1.3 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at North Crestone Creek Campground

Experience the dynamic personality of the high country throughout the camping season. Summer arrives with warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation, though afternoon thundershowers often roll through to refresh the forest—and yes, the mosquitoes know it's their season too. As autumn approaches, the aspens transform into a golden spectacle while crisp mornings remind you to pack that extra layer. When winter's snow blankets the landscape, the campground rests until spring's return, making your warm-weather visits all the more precious.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Warm days and creekside relaxation but heavy mosquitoes and afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CO

Fall praised for cooler weather and foliage; reviewers call it an ideal time to visit.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens in May; late spring can be cool, wet, and see rising mosquito activity.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed during winter months (open May–Nov).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May to October (likely warmer months).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from May to November.

About North Crestone Creek Campground

Escape to North Crestone Creek Campground, where 13 intimate campsites wind along nearly a mile of pristine mountain creek. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding early arrivals with their choice of secluded spots beneath a canopy of whispering aspens, aromatic junipers, and towering firs. Each site comes equipped with bear-resistant food lockers, ensuring both your safety and the preservation of local wildlife. The generous spacing between sites creates a true wilderness retreat where the babbling creek provides nature's soundtrack to your mountain adventure.

The campground offers rustic camping options, including individual sites for tents, and one pull-through site possibly suitable for RVs. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of the high country throughout the camping season. Summer arrives with warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation, though afternoon thundershowers often roll through to refresh the forest—and yes, the mosquitoes know it's their season too. As autumn approaches, the aspens transform into a golden spectacle while crisp mornings remind you to pack that extra layer. When winter's snow blankets the landscape, the campground rests until spring's return, making your warm-weather visits all the more precious.

ElevationPerched at 8,800 feet in Colorado's high country, this mountain sanctuary offers naturally air-conditioned camping even on summer's warmest days. The thin air at this elevation creates crystal-clear night skies perfect for stargazing, though newcomers to altitude should take it easy their first day or two. The payoff? Cooler temperatures, fewer bugs than lower elevations, and that invigorating mountain air that makes every breath feel like a fresh start.

Natural Features and SceneryNorth Crestone Creek has carved out a lush ribbon of life through the Rio Grande National Forest, creating an enchanting riparian corridor where your campsite awaits. Towering rock walls rise dramatically above the treeline, their ancient faces catching the changing light throughout the day. The diverse forest creates a living cathedral—aspens shimmer and dance in the slightest breeze, junipers release their distinctive mountain perfume, and stately firs provide year-round green sentinels. The creek itself serves as both the campground's centerpiece and constant companion, its gentle music accompanying your entire stay.

Geological RegionNestled within the Rio Grande National Forest's diverse ecosystem, this riparian wonderland showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The dramatic contrast between the lush creek corridor and the imposing rock walls tells a geological story millions of years in the making. Here, where water meets stone and forest meets sky, the interplay of aspens, junipers, and firs creates a textured landscape that changes with every season and shifting shadow. This unique setting offers campers a front-row seat to one of Colorado's most captivating natural theaters.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day camping limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Unspecified limit on the number of guests.

Groups

No group sites are available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is laid out along a road that runs to a trailhead. Most sites are located on the right-hand side of the road and are well-spaced for privacy. One pull-through site is available.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms since the campground is first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Best time to secure a site is Monday through Friday mornings.

Cancellation PolicyAs reservations are not available, cancellation policies are not applicable.

AccessibilityA wheelchair-accessible vault toilet is located near campsites 1 and 2.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, shaded, and large enough to accommodate a range of camping setups.

PrivacyThe campsites are well spaced out, offering significant privacy. Some reviews note the ability to see only one other site from theirs, while others were unable to see any neighboring campers.

Total Campsites13 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites away from the road for enhanced privacy and quieter surroundings. Bring effective mosquito repellent during summer months.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers proximity to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. There is access to the North Crestone Trail #744 (for foot and horse use), which leads into the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness and connects to a network of trails.

HikingThe North Crestone Trail #744 provides hiking opportunities with access to the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, featuring a mix of day hikes and longer backpacking options.

FishingFishing is available in the nearby river/stream, with brook trout as a potential catch.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is highlighted, with opportunities to observe the area's native species as well as the surrounding plant life.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe area is bear country; bear-proof food storage lockers are provided. Mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance during warmer months, as noted in multiple user reviews.

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

Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant food lockers are available at each site, which must be used for food storage to prevent wildlife encounters.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in designated fire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Crestone, which is 1.3 miles away. Contact Saguache Ranger District at 719-655-2547 for additional guidance.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground operates on a pack-it-in/pack-it-out basis. Trash and recycling facilities are not provided on site.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located along North Crestone Creek. Campers can hear and see the creek from most sites.

Weather at North Crestone Creek Campground

Reviews

4.4

35 reviews

Recommended

North Crestone Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

North Crestone Creek Campground receives high praise for its natural beauty, spacious and private sites, and peaceful setting. However, issues with mosquitos during certain seasons and concerns about campers leaving expired tags and gear were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 35 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently highlight the seclusion and spaciousness of the campsites. The creek running along the campground and its tranquil ambiance are often praised. Vault toilets are noted for their...

Based on 35 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitos are a prominent complaint, with several reviewers mentioning the need for strong bug spray and other repellents. Some users reported issues with other campers leaving gear or occupying...

Based on 35 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring strong mosquito repellent, citronella candles, and bug nets to mitigate mosquito issues. The best time to secure a site is Monday through Friday mornings. Lot #8 is recommended for its...

Based on 35 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months see the highest mosquito activity, with many reviews emphasizing the importance of bug repellants. Fall is praised for its cooler weather and beautiful foliage, making it an ideal time...

Based on 35 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The sites themselves are large and spaced out with plenty of privacy. The river runs behind all the sites and is close enough to hear." - Nick Pelletier. "The mosquitos are insane. I was planning on...

Based on 35 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Lot 8 is particularly recommended by users for its seclusion and quietness. Other sites are generally praised for their privacy and proximity to the creek.

Based on 35 reviews

Accessibility Features

The wheelchair-friendly toilet near campsites 1 and 2 is specifically noted as a positive accessibility feature.

Based on 35 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Some users expressed frustration with other campers not cleaning up after their pets.

Based on 35 reviews

0 review