Oh Be Joyful Campground
30
Total Campsites
Campground
29
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
13
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Oh Be Joyful Campground
Overview Approximately 5 miles from Crested Butte, Colorado, Oh Be Joyful Campground is a 30-unit campground along the Slate River. The campground itself gets its name from nearby Oh Be Joyful Creek that features massive waterfalls and colorful wildflowers in the summer months. The campground is located at approximately 9,000 feet in elevation and the views are spectacular. Recreation This premier area is known for camping, fishing, horseback riding, sight-seeing, hiking/walking, water play, kayaking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing, and motorized recreational uses. A foot bridge allows visitors to access the west side of the Slate River to hike along Oh Be Joyful Creek and into the Raggeds Wilderness. Facilities This premier area is known for camping, fishing, horseback riding, sight-seeing, hiking/walking, water play, kayaking, mountain biking, wildflower viewing, and motorized recreational uses. A foot bridge allows visitors to access the west side of the Slate River to hike along Oh Be Joyful Creek and into the Raggeds Wilderness. Natural Features The campground sits directly on the east bank of the Slate River and is nestled in a valley with mountains on either side of the valley. Due to the abundance of moisture in the spring and early summer, wildflowers are abundant. Look for our State flower the Columbine and other species including Indian Paintbrush and Avalanche Lilies. Nearby Attractions
- 30 total campsites listed.
- 29 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- 13 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: walk to (15).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes Oh Be Joyful Campground special
Oh Be Joyful Campground lives up to its extraordinary name. Set at 9,000 feet along the Slate River near Crested Butte, this 30-site campground is surrounded by the kind of scenery that stops you mid-sentence — massive waterfalls cascading down cliff faces, meadows exploding with wildflowers in July, and mountain views that stretch to the horizon in every direction. Fishing the Slate River produces willing trout, and horseback riding trails wind through valleys that feel lifted straight from a Western film. The wildflower bloom from late June through mid-August is legendary and draws photographers from across the country. At this elevation, summer is short but intense, and afternoon thunderstorms are routine, so plan outdoor activities for mornings. Snow can linger into June and return by late September. The road may require high clearance depending on conditions. Oh Be Joyful is made for wildflower enthusiasts, photographers, anglers, equestrians, and anyone who believes a campground name should be a promise rather than just a label.
Campsite Inventory
30 sites to choose from
WALK TO
15
Reservable
0
Accessible
RV NONELECTRIC
13
Reservable
11
Accessible
GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC
1
Reservable
1
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
1
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
ACCESSIBLE CAMPSITES
Accessible Campsites
ACCESSIBLE VAULT TOILETS
Accessible Vault Toilets
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Driveway entry
Back-in, Parallel
Driveway length (ft)
16, 20, 35, 36
Driveway surface
Gravel
FOOD STORAGE LOCKER
Food Storage Locker
Hike In Distance to Site
100 feet, 120 feet, 200 feet, 260 feet
Location Rating
Good, Poor, Prime
Max guests
20, 8
Minimum guests
9
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Picnic Table
Proximity to Water
Riverfront
RIVER ACCESS
River Access
Shade
Yes
Site Access
Drive In, Hike In
Site Rating
Basic, Preferred
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
970-642-4940
kacarson@blm.gov
Getting There
From the town of Crested Butte, drive north on Gothic Road. (County road 317) towards Mount Crested Butte. Cross the Slate River and turn left on Slate River Road (County Road 734). Follow this up the valley for approximately 5 miles to BLM Road 3220. Turn left onto BLM Road 3220 and continue for approximately 0.3 miles to a Oh Be Joyful Campground. BLM Road 3220 is steep and rough, low clearance vehicles and larger RVs may want to scout the road before driving down to the campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Oh Be Joyful Campground.
How do reservations work for Oh Be Joyful Campground?
Reservation availability for Oh Be Joyful Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Oh Be Joyful Campground?
Oh Be Joyful Campground currently lists WALK TO (15), RV NONELECTRIC (13), GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC (1), MANAGEMENT (1).
Where is Oh Be Joyful Campground located?
See this page for location details and directions.
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