Handcart

Star4.43
36 reviews

Quick Facts

9,783 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

May 9, 2025, to Sept...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Handcart
$0.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 36 reviews

26 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulfriendly

"The campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, friendly camp hosts, and peaceful riverfront atmosphere. However, some complained about road conditions and noise from off-road vehicles."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Handcart

39.4824, -105.7999


Best Time to Camp at Handcart

Summer transforms Handcart into a camper's paradise, with crystal-clear skies gracing the landscape nearly 55% of the time. While temperatures can dip to a crisp 15°F during cool mornings, afternoons warm to a comfortable 38°F, creating perfect conditions for both adventure and relaxation. The moderate chance of snow (28%) adds a touch of alpine magic to the experience, though savvy campers will find the driest weeks offer the most spectacular stargazing opportunities under those famously clear mountain skies.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and peak season in summer; 'camper's paradise' with clear skies ~55% of the time.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into mid‑September; early fall likely pleasant but season ends Sept 20, limiting late-fall access.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Season opens May 9; spring access is limited and subject to road conditions and cold mornings.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground less accessible in winter; road closures and seasonal closure implied.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 21, 2025, to September 20, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: May 9, 2025, to September 20, 2025 (FCFS).

About Handcart

Escape to Handcart Campground, where the spirit of adventure meets the tranquility of untouched wilderness. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding those who venture off the beaten path with pristine campsites nestled among towering trees. To claim your spot in this secluded paradise, you'll need to arrive in person – a journey that adds to the authentic camping experience. Once you've selected your perfect site, payment is simple through QR codes using the Recreation.gov mobile app, provided you have cellular service in the area.
Handcart Campground offers standard non-electric campsites which operate on a first-come, first-served basis during the open season. Sites are located among trees and near a river.
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Stay Limit
14 nights


Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers proximity to a river with opportunities for relaxation and a great atmosphere. However, users have noted the presence of off-road vehicles, which may cause noise disturbances.
Wildlife viewing"Users reported seeing bears near the campground. Campers are advised to be careful with food and trash."
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"Bear in camp, so be beary careful with food and trash."

Weather at Handcart

Reviews

4.4
36 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Handcart is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, friendly camp hosts, and peaceful riverfront atmosphere. However, some complained about road conditions and noise from off-road vehicles.
Review Summaries
Based on 36 reviews

What Campers Love

"Campground is peaceful and offers access to a river." "Friendly and attentive camp host."
Based on 36 reviews

Common Concerns

"The road leading to the campground is in poor condition with water-filled potholes." "Noise from off-road vehicles can be disruptive."
Based on 36 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

"Arrive early as spots fill quickly." "Bring your own drinking water due to the pump's yellowish water."
Based on 36 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate the campground is less accessible during winter due to road closures. Summer reviews highlight the natural beauty and bear sightings.
Based on 36 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice campground, got there around noon on a Saturday and by evening all the spots were taken." "Campsites are spread out among the trees by a stream." "Bear in camp, so be careful with food and...
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Based on 36 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

"We stayed in #8, which had the most privacy."
Based on 36 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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