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Elk Creek Campground Introduce

Welcome to Elk Creek Campground, a diverse and inviting destination that truly embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure in Colorado. As a prominent establishment within the "Campgrounds & RV Parks" category, Elk Creek Campground presents a range of experiences, from rustic national forest sites to more amenity-rich private resort settings, catering to a wide spectrum of campers, including tent enthusiasts, RV travelers, and those seeking the comfort of cabins. This introduction will synthesize information about different Elk Creek Campground locations, primarily focusing on the well-documented ones in Curecanti National Recreation Area (near Gunnison, CO) and the Rio Grande National Forest (near Antonito, CO), while also acknowledging a private resort in New Castle, CO, to provide a comprehensive overview for local users.

The environment at Elk Creek Campground locations across Colorado offers distinct yet equally captivating natural beauty. The Elk Creek Campground within the Curecanti National Recreation Area is famously situated near the vast Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water entirely within Colorado. Here, the landscape is characterized by its open, high-desert environment, with an elevation of approximately 7,540 feet. While fewer towering trees provide shade, the panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding mesas are breathtaking. The area is known for dramatic weather shifts, with warm daytime temperatures and cool nights, and occasional afternoon thunderstorms in summer. In contrast, the Elk Creek Campground in the Rio Grande National Forest, near Antonito, sits at a higher elevation of 8,500 feet. This location is lightly wooded with spruce and ponderosa pines, offering a more traditional forest camping experience, with some sites nestled directly alongside Elk Creek. The understory is primarily grass, contributing to a serene and natural feel. All Elk Creek Campground locations benefit from clean, crisp mountain air and the soothing sounds of nature, whether it's the gentle lapping of reservoir waves or the tranquil flow of a forest creek. Wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and potentially bears (requiring proper food storage), are common inhabitants, enhancing the immersive outdoor experience. The diverse environments allow visitors to choose their preferred natural setting, from wide-open reservoir vistas to secluded forest glades.

As comprehensive offerings within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, the various Elk Creek Campground locations provide a range of services designed to meet diverse camper needs. The Elk Creek Campground in Curecanti National Recreation Area features a large number of sites (155 total), including standard tent sites, RV-friendly sites, and a significant number (27) of electric hookup sites in Loop D, a rare amenity in national park campgrounds. It offers flush toilets (seasonally) and vault toilets (year-round), potable water, and a dump station accessible year-round. Trash/recycling collection is also available. In contrast, the Elk Creek Campground in the Rio Grande National Forest offers 31 campsites (6 pull-through) with tables and fireplaces, 3 vault toilets, and drinking water via three hand pumps. While some sites in the overflow loop lack tables and fireplaces, grills are provided at others. A private Elk Creek Campground, such as the one near New Castle, Colorado, often provides a more resort-like experience with full hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp electric, water, sewer) for RVs, as well as rustic log cabins with electricity and heat (though bedding and pillows are not provided). These private campgrounds typically boast amenities like hot showers, clean restrooms, laundry facilities, and sometimes even a camp store. Across all locations, staff or camp hosts are usually on-site, especially during peak seasons, to assist campers and ensure adherence to rules. While specific services vary, the core aim is to provide necessary conveniences while promoting an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Elk Creek Campground locations offer a wealth of features and recreational opportunities tailored to their respective environments. At Curecanti's Elk Creek Campground, the proximity to Blue Mesa Reservoir is a major draw, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (trout and salmon), boating (with boat launches available), and various water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing. Hiking trails provide access to scenic overlooks and diverse ecosystems. The relative openness of the sites can be a feature for those seeking sun or easy satellite access, though shade is minimal. In the Rio Grande National Forest, Elk Creek Campground is a haven for fishing in Elk Creek and the nearby Conejos River. It provides access to hiking trails such as Elk Creek Trail 731, Duck Lake 732, and Poso Trail 732, leading into the vast South San Juan Wilderness. Opportunities for viewing plants, scenery, and wildlife are abundant. The private Elk Creek Campground near New Castle, CO, often features the actual Elk Creek running through it, providing opportunities for wading, swimming, and fishing. This type of resort may also offer a fully fenced dog park for off-leash play, horseshoe pits, and easy access to hiking and biking trails like Centennial Trailhead and East Elk Trailhead. Some private campgrounds even offer on-site cabin rentals for a glamping experience. All locations emphasize outdoor science and learning through wildlife viewing and appreciating natural features. The diverse offerings ensure that whether you're a serious angler, an avid hiker, or a family seeking a relaxing natural retreat, there are activities and features to enhance your stay.

For those planning a visit to an Elk Creek Campground, it is essential to consult official sources for promotional information and booking details, as these vary significantly by location and management. For the national forest and national park campgrounds, reservations are typically made via Recreation.gov (or by calling their toll-free number). These sites operate seasonally, usually from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends for the Rio Grande National Forest location, and often year-round with seasonal closures of certain loops for Curecanti. Fees vary; for instance, at Curecanti, non-electric sites might be around $24-29/night, with electric sites costing more ($34/night). Single units at the Rio Grande National Forest site might be $29/night, with double units at $58/night. Additional weekend and holiday fees may apply. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes typically provide a 50% discount on single campsites. Private campgrounds, like Elk Creek Campground near New Castle, will have their own pricing structures, which can be higher, often ranging from $80-$90/night for RV sites, but may also offer discounts (e.g., Good Sam discounts, veteran/first responder discounts). It is always recommended to check the specific campground's official website or their Recreation.gov page for the most up-to-date pricing, reservation policies, check-in/check-out times, and any specific rules or restrictions (e.g., maximum RV length, pet policies, fire restrictions, bear awareness guidelines). Cell service can be unreliable in some remote locations, so planning ahead with downloaded maps or information is advisable. By verifying details directly with the relevant managing authority, campers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Elk Creek Campground of their choice, making the most of the diverse opportunities available within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category.

Location

OregonTillamook CountyTillamookWilson River Highway

Customer Reviews

4.0
149 reviews
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Perkins L
Apr 12, 2025

Great little camp sight just of the main road. It was quite/ and easy to find a spot. Just rocked up with no booking, paid cash on arrival and it’s open 24/7 so you can just go whenever you want to and not worry about checking in. Had a toilet but unfortunately no showers. However there was a creek that ran by that you could dip in to refresh.

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Almond
Mar 25, 2025

This was a really clean and well kept campsite. Stayed here for about 2 night with some friends and there was not any service but it was close enough to town you could drive in to Tilamook and enjoy the town of Tilamook while also enjoy being part of nature. Saw some otters sadly didn't get there photo but some other cool nature photos. Logistics wise there was a place for a campfire at each site and a table as well. With 2 restrooms with plenty of toilet paper.

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Susana Quan
Sep 29, 2021

Such a great place to go hiking with little kids. It’s mostly flat except when you decide to go off the path and closer to the river, which is very easy climb down. Going close to the river and off the path could be dangerous for little kids, they should be aided down and around the rocks. The sound of the water going down into the rocks is loud, therapeutical, so relaxing and beautiful. There’s so many trees and green foliage that’s a delight for the senses. Our red head golden retriever loves to climb in and out of the river and swim in the running cold water. It’s so much fun watching him enjoy the water. This is one of my most favorite spots to do a little exercise and relax next to the river.

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Corey Breiland
Feb 27, 2020

Gorgeous grounds and hiking trails. The creek is crystal clear and you can see all types of trout. No fishing there but still fun to look. Fairly quiet, can hear SOME road noise depending on your camping spot. A lot of fun and it’s only $10 a night. Can’t beat it.

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Anne-Marie Legault
Oct 20, 2021

Beautiful large campsites, beautiful forest. There are some cons: you can hear the highway, the camp gets super crowded on weekends, and outhouse TP does not get refilled often it seems. That said, it's worth going, the trees are magnificent