Little Mattie Campground
4.4830 reviewsAspen Sopris Ranger District, PO Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623
Quick Facts
7,800 ftPrice
$29/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open from May 13, 20...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
7,800 ftPrice
$29/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open from May 13, 20...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLittle Mattie Campground
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for a standard non-electric campsite is $29. Discounts may apply for Interagency Pass holders.
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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$29.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider970-927-0107
What Campers Say
4.48
Recommended
Based on 30 reviews
9 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanfriendly
Some mention
small
"User reviews highlight Little Mattie Campground as a clean, well-maintained, and scenic destination. Visitors appreciate the spacious sites, proximity to recreational activities, and clean vault toilets. However, some note smaller campsite sizes and the absence of water at times."
Fees & Passes at Little Mattie Campground
$29/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 nights maximum per visit and per year.
Cancellation: Changes to reservations carry a $10 fee. Cancellations before check-in incur a $10 fee plus forfeitu...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Aspen Sopris Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Little Mattie Campground
From May through September, Little Mattie transforms into a high-altitude paradise where perfect camping weather reigns supreme. Days unfold with comfortable highs around 77°F—ideal for hiking and fishing—while evenings cool to a refreshing 47°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire. The mountain climate delivers mostly clear, dry conditions punctuated by occasional afternoon showers that briefly dust the forest and fill the air with the scent of pine.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
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 13, 2025 - September 29, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 13, 2025, to September 29, 2025.
- Current Alerts: Currently, no potable water is available at the campground. Campers need to bring water or obtain it from nearby campgrounds.
About Little Mattie Campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Ruedi Reservoir, Little Mattie Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 19 thoughtfully spaced campsites carved into the forest landscape. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering conifers or settling in with your RV (up to 30 feet), each site comes equipped with its own picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof storage box. While vault toilets provide necessary facilities, adventurers should note that water is not currently available on-site, adding an authentic backcountry touch to your mountain escape.
Little Mattie Campground is a versatile camping facility offering standard nonelectric sites for tents, trailers, and RVs.
Historical SignificanceLittle Mattie sits at the heart of Colorado's legendary Gold Medal Waters, an exclusive designation bestowed by the Colorado Wildlife Commission upon only the most exceptional fisheries in the state. This coveted status has drawn generations of fly fishing enthusiasts to these waters, where trophy trout cruise the depths and anglers' dreams come true against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Little Mattie transforms into a high-altitude paradise where perfect camping weather reigns supreme. Days unfold with comfortable highs around 77°F—ideal for hiking and fishing—while evenings cool to a refreshing 47°F, perfect for gathering around the campfire. The mountain climate delivers mostly clear, dry conditions punctuated by occasional afternoon showers that briefly dust the forest and fill the air with the scent of pine.
ElevationPerched at 7,800 feet above sea level, Little Mattie offers a true alpine camping experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the stars seem close enough to touch. This lofty elevation provides a natural escape from summer heat, though visitors from lower altitudes should take time to acclimatize to fully enjoy the breathtaking mountain environment that surrounds them.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of pine, fir, and aspen creates a living cathedral around Little Mattie, where shafts of sunlight filter through the canopy by day and countless stars emerge in the unpolluted night sky. The shimmering expanse of Ruedi Reservoir stretches before you, its waters reflecting the surrounding peaks while providing a playground for paddlers and anglers. Keep your camera ready—black bears, deer, and eagles are regular visitors to this pristine ecosystem where mountain vistas unfold at every turn.
Geological RegionSet within the vast wilderness of White River National Forest, Little Mattie Campground occupies a unique geological crossroads where ancient mountain formations meet the engineered beauty of Ruedi Reservoir. The surrounding mixed conifer forest thrives on slopes shaped by millennia of geological forces, creating a diverse landscape that supports everything from quiet forest trails to world-class fishing waters. This remarkable terrain invites exploration, whether you're casting a line, hiking mountain paths, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Colorado's high country.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as varying in size; some are spacious and well-suited for larger setups, while others are noted to be small, barely accommodating a tent and a vehicle.
Sites PrivacyUsers note varying levels of privacy, with some sites being secluded and others less so. A review mentions, 'Most campsites were very private,' while another states, 'Most sites are not "private" but spaced out OK.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #2 and #3 are challenging for backing in trailers. Campers with tents should choose sites carefully due to limited flat spaces.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum per visit and per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Sites are suitable for small groups
- exact guest limits are not specified but depend on the suitability of sites for tents and vehicles.
Groups
No mention of designated group sites or their specific features.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 19 sites arranged in a loop, with some sites offering more privacy and spacing than others.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 13, 2025, to September 29, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites are held until noon the day following the reservation start date. Walk-up availability depends on cancellations or no-shows.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations carry a $10 fee. Cancellations before check-in incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No refunds after the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Little Mattie Campground provides a variety of outdoor activities for recreation and relaxation. The nearby Frying Pan River is renowned for fly fishing, offering opportunities to catch rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. The Ruedi Trail provides hiking and biking options, with an eight-mile trail that gains 3,000 feet in elevation, leading to panoramic views. Boating, swimming, and water skiing are also available on Ruedi Reservoir. Wildlife viewing is common, and interpretive programs offer educational experiences.
Hiking
The Ruedi Trail offers an 8-mile hike that gains over 3,000 feet in elevation and culminates in spectacular panoramic views. The trailhead is located 200 feet north of the Jeep trail near the boat ramp and parking lot.Fishing
The Frying Pan River is designated as Gold Medal Waters and is famous for fly fishing. Anglers can catch rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout. Special regulations require the use of artificial flies and lures, and all trout except brown trout must be released, with a limit of two brown trout over 14 inches.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Ruedi Reservoir, providing opportunities for families and individuals to enjoy the water during warm weather.Biking
The Ruedi Trail is accessible for biking and provides a challenging route with significant elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced bikers.Boating
Boating activities such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and water skiing are available on Ruedi Reservoir. Campers describe the reservoir as a hub for water-based recreation.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding mixed conifer forest and proximity to water attract diverse wildlife, providing good opportunities for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are available, offering educational experiences about the local environment and history.Winter Activities
No information provided about winter activities in the campground.Water Sports
The reservoir supports water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings, subject to local fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are Not specified, but general quiet hours are expected to be enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife, including bears, may visit the campground. Campers are advised to use bear boxes provided at each site. Fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons.
Active alertsCurrently, no potable water is available at the campground. Campers need to bring water or obtain it from nearby campgrounds.
Weather at Little Mattie Campground
18
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are accessible in Basalt, CO, 14 miles away, including medical facilities and law enforcement services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 13, 2025 - September 29, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo explicit information about trash and recycling facilities is provided. Campers are generally encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Ruedi Reservoir, campers have access to lake activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. A small cove is accessible from the campground.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions include the lack of potable water, some sites being too small for larger RVs, and the additional $7 fee for a second vehicle, which is not advertised.
HostThere is a camp host on-site who maintains clean facilities and is helpful to visitors. Firewood may be available for purchase from the host.
Campground Map
Aspen Sopris Ranger District, PO Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623
Driving directionsTake I-70 west of Denver to Glenwood Springs Exit 116, Highway 82 to Basalt. At Basalt, take Frying Pan Road 15 miles to the Ruedi Complex Entrance.
The campground is accessible via Frying Pan Road, which is approximately 15 miles from Basalt, CO. Roads are paved but may involve some curves and elevation gain.Nearby places
Basalt, CO - 14 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies and groceries can be obtained in Basalt, CO, which is 14 miles from the campground. Firewood is available at nearby campgrounds.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
30 reviews
Little Mattie Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Little Mattie Campground as a clean, well-maintained, and scenic destination. Visitors appreciate the spacious sites, proximity to recreational activities, and clean vault toilets. However, some note smaller campsite sizes and the absence of water at times.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive themes include the exceptional cleanliness of the vault toilets, friendly and proactive camp hosts, and beautiful natural surroundings. Many users also appreciated the proximity to...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water at times, small campsite sizes, and occasional difficulty backing trailers into certain sites. Some users also mentioned the $7 daily fee for a...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing your own water and being selective about campsites to ensure adequate space. Site #16, for example, is praised for its privacy. Firewood and other supplies may be obtained...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground can get crowded during peak summer weekends but is quieter and more pleasant midweek. Fire bans, when in place, affect the camping experience.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The vault toilets were the cleanest and best smelling I have ever experienced!" - Megan F. "Beautiful well-maintained and manicured campground. Bathrooms very clean!!" - Josh Gibson. "Not much...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is noted for its proximity to the lake though access may depend on water levels. Sites #2 and #3 are described as challenging for trailer backing, while site #16 is lauded for being a great,...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for disabled visitors.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and one user highlighted their dog’s enjoyment of the campground, emphasizing its pet-friendly nature.
Based on 30 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement