59
Total Campsites
Campground
24
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
9
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND
Overview The popular Big Creek Lakes Campground offers a peaceful, scenic setting in the heart of the Rocky Mountains of northern Colorado. The campground is located in Routt National Forest at an elevation of 9,000-ft., and is adjacent to Big Creek Lake, where fishing, boating and hiking are available. Recreation This campground offers boating and fishing on Colorado's second largest natural lake, hiking in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness and ATV trails nearby. There are also ample opportunities for viewing wildlife, including moose. Fishing for trout, muskie, grayling and Kokanee salmon is available in the lake. Anglers also have access to a creek. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the upper section of the lake and motorized boats are permitted on the lower section. Facilities This campground offers boating and fishing on Colorado's second largest natural lake, hiking in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness and ATV trails nearby. There are also ample opportunities for viewing wildlife, including moose. Fishing for trout, muskie, grayling and Kokanee salmon is available in the lake. Anglers also have access to a creek. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the upper section of the lake and motorized boats are permitted on the lower section. Natural Features Big Creek lies among Lodgepole pine and fir trees. Some previously forested areas of the campground have been thinned due to pests and now provide more sun. The campground offers beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. The wetlands around the lake are prime moose territory. Black bear, bobcat, coyote, elk, mule deer and moose are just some of the many animals that inhabit these rich and diverse lands. The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland, encompass nearly 3 million acres from central and northeastern Wyoming to north-central Colorado. Nearby Attractions The closest town is Walden, Colorado, about 35 miles from the campsite. Many more outdoor recreation opportunities exist in the surrounding national forests and grasslands, including hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, OHV riding, fishing, hunting, sightseeing and winter sports.
- 59 total campsites listed.
- 24 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 9 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: management (35).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND special
Tucked into the high country of the Routt National Forest, Big Creek Lakes Campground offers one of northern Colorado's most rewarding escapes. With 59 sites spread across a peaceful, scenic setting in the Rocky Mountains, this campground strikes a rare balance between accessibility and genuine seclusion. Tall stands of spruce and fir frame each site, while the surrounding meadows burst with wildflowers through midsummer. The twin Big Creek Lakes anchor the experience here. Anglers will find willing brook trout in both lakes and the creek that connects them, while hikers can set out on trails that wind through the Mount Zirkel Wilderness just to the east. Moose sightings are common along the marshy shorelines at dawn, and the birdwatching is exceptional throughout the season. Evenings at Big Creek Lakes belong to the stars. At this elevation, far from any town glow, the Milky Way stretches in breathtaking detail across the sky. Campfire conversations come easy when the backdrop is this spectacular. The campground typically opens in late June and closes after Labor Day, depending on snowpack. Roads are well-maintained gravel, suitable for most vehicles and RVs within posted length limits. Whether you come for a long weekend of fishing or a full week of mountain solitude, Big Creek Lakes delivers the kind of quiet Colorado camping that keeps people coming back year after year.
Campsite Inventory
59 sites to choose from
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
24
Reservable
9
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
0:00 AM, 2:00 PM
Check-out time
0:00 AM, 2:00 PM
Driveway entry
Back-In, Pull-Through
Driveway length (ft)
100, 125, 30, 50
Driveway surface
Gravel
GRILLS
Yes
Grills/Fire Ring
Yes
Horse Hitching Post
Yes
Horse Stall/Corral
Yes
Max guests
10
Max vehicle length (ft)
20, 30, 40, 50
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Yes
Shade
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
970-723-2700
Getting There
From Walden, follow Route 125 north for 9 miles into Cowdrey. Turn left (west) onto CR 6W and travel 18 miles to Pearl. Turn onto Forest Road 600 and drive for 6 miles, following signs to campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND?
BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND currently lists MANAGEMENT (35), STANDARD NONELECTRIC (24).
Where is BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND located?
BIG CREEK LAKES CAMPGROUND is in Colorado. Coordinates: 40.9364, -106.6117.
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