Bristol Head Campground

Nestled in the breathtaking Rio Grande National Forest, Bristol Head Campground offers a quintessential Colorado mountain experience. For those of us living in or visiting the Centennial State, finding a perfect spot to reconnect with nature, breathe crisp mountain air, and gaze at a sky full of stars is a true treasure. Bristol Head Campground provides just that: a serene and picturesque setting that invites relaxation and outdoor adventure.

This campground is a popular choice for local Coloradans seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Its natural beauty, coupled with well-maintained facilities, makes it an ideal destination for families, solo adventurers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the stunning high-altitude landscape of southwestern Colorado. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer wilderness immersion, Bristol Head Campground offers an accessible and unforgettable experience.

Bristol Head Campground is strategically located at Forest Road 510.1A, Creede, CO 81130, USA. This puts it deep within the Rio Grande National Forest, offering a truly immersive natural experience. Getting there is straightforward; from Creede, Colorado, you'll take Highway 149 south (towards Lake City) for approximately 21.6 miles to the North Clear Creek Road sign (Forest Road 510). A right turn onto Forest Road 510, a well-maintained gravel road, for about 0.3 miles will lead you directly to the campground sign, where another right turn brings you into the campground itself.

While providing a sense of seclusion, the campground remains relatively accessible. Drive times from major Colorado cities vary, but it's a manageable journey for a weekend trip. For instance, it's roughly a 3.5-hour drive from Grand Junction, about 4.5 hours from Pueblo, and approximately 4 hours and 48 minutes from Colorado Springs. This makes it a feasible destination for many Colorado residents looking for a scenic escape without an excessively long drive. The elevation here is around 9,500 feet, so visitors should be mindful of the altitude, especially if coming from lower elevations.

Services Offered:

• Potable water: Fresh drinking water is available on-site, a significant convenience for campers.
• Restrooms: The campground provides vault toilets, which are frequently noted by visitors for their cleanliness.
• Picnic tables: Each of the 15 campsites is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining.
• Fire rings: Designated fire rings are available at each campsite, allowing for campfires (always check for fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Trash service: Trash bins are provided, and service is offered by the concessionaire from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ensuring a clean environment.
• Limited Wi-Fi/Cell service: While generally a place to disconnect, some reports indicate fair cell service (e.g., Verizon often has good coverage), but reliable Wi-Fi is not a primary amenity.
• First-come, first-served sites: Many of the 15 campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's advisable to arrive early during peak season.
• Accessible campsites: The campground offers a mix of dead-end spurs and pull-through sites, accommodating various vehicle and RV lengths (up to 55 feet).

Features / Highlights:

• Stunning mountain views: Every campsite at Bristol Head Campground boasts incredible views of towering mountains, dominated by the impressive Bristol Head Peak.
• Proximity to South Clear Creek: The campground sits on a "bench" above South Clear Creek, providing the soothing sound of rushing water and opportunities for fishing.
• Hiking trails: A short trail from the campground leads to an overlook of the Clear Creek Canyons and a beautiful waterfall, perfect for a short, scenic hike. Longer trails are also accessible in the surrounding national forest.
• Wildlife viewing: The area is renowned for its wildlife, with visitors often spotting moose and other local fauna, offering fantastic photography opportunities.
• Quiet and secluded atmosphere: Many visitors commend the campground for its peaceful ambiance, allowing for a truly tranquil camping experience.
• Wildflowers: During the warmer months, the grassy fields between the campsites and the creek are dotted with vibrant wildflowers, adding to the picturesque scenery.
• Spruce and Aspen trees: These trees line the meadow, providing natural shade and adding to the overall beauty of the landscape.
• Clean facilities: As noted by many campers, the pit toilets are exceptionally clean, a testament to the diligent camp hosts.
• Cows grazing nearby: A unique and charming highlight for many visitors is the presence of friendly cows grazing in nearby meadows, adding to the pastoral feel.

Contact Information:

Address: Forest Rd 510.1A, Creede, CO 81130, USA

For inquiries, you can often reach the Divide Ranger District, which manages the Rio Grande National Forest campgrounds:

Divide Ranger District

Phone: (719) 657-3321 or (719) 658-2556

It is always recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most current information regarding opening dates, fees, and any fire restrictions before planning your trip.

For Coloradans, Bristol Head Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an accessible gateway to the unparalleled natural beauty that defines our state. Its quiet, secluded nature makes it perfect for escaping the everyday, whether you're seeking solitude, a family adventure, or a chance to capture stunning landscape photography. The consistent praise for the cleanliness of its facilities, especially the restrooms, ensures a comfortable stay, a detail often overlooked but greatly appreciated by local campers.

The opportunity to wake up to gorgeous mountain views, embark on a hike to a cascading waterfall, or try your hand at fishing in South Clear Creek provides a rich outdoor experience right in our backyard. The chance to observe local wildlife, from majestic moose to the charming grazing cows, adds a unique and memorable element to any visit. With its blend of convenience, natural splendor, and well-maintained amenities, Bristol Head Campground stands out as a prime destination for Colorado residents looking to embrace the wild and create lasting memories in one of the state's most beautiful regions. It truly embodies the spirit of Colorado's outdoor lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for anyone in the state seeking an authentic and refreshing camping adventure.

Bristol Head Campground

Forest Rd 510.1A, Creede, CO 81130, USA