Campsite 1

For Colorado residents seeking a classic mountain camping experience with convenient access to a charming mountain town, "Campsite 1" at Kelly Dahl Campground near Nederland, CO, presents an ideal option. Situated within the picturesque Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Kelly Dahl Campground offers a traditional camping setting with designated sites, making it a reliable choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Unlike dispersed camping, Kelly Dahl provides a more structured environment with amenities that enhance comfort while still immersing you in the great outdoors. Its location along the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway means not only easy access but also breathtaking drives and proximity to a wealth of recreational opportunities. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer vacation, Campsite 1 at Kelly Dahl Campground offers a gateway to exploring the unique character of Nederland and the boundless wilderness of the surrounding national forest. It’s a place where you can unwind under the ponderosa pines, enjoy the cool mountain air, and create cherished memories of your Colorado adventure.

Campsite 1 is located within the well-regarded Kelly Dahl Campground, nestled near Nederland, CO 80466, USA. The campground's address places it strategically along the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway, a renowned route celebrated for its spectacular mountain vistas and access to various mountain towns. Kelly Dahl Campground is approximately four miles south of the town of Nederland, making it incredibly convenient for campers to access essential services and local attractions.

For those traveling from major Colorado cities, the campground is easily accessible. From Denver, it's typically about an hour's drive by heading north on Interstate 25, then west on US Highway 36 to Boulder, and finally taking Colorado Highway 119 (Canyon Boulevard) west to Nederland, before continuing south for a few miles to the campground. This straightforward drive makes Kelly Dahl an excellent choice for a quick weekend getaway from the Front Range. Situated at an approximate elevation of 8,600 feet, campers can enjoy cooler summer temperatures and the invigorating crispness of mountain air. The gravel/dirt road within the campground is generally manageable for most vehicles, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs, ensuring a smooth arrival for a wide range of campers.

Kelly Dahl Campground, including Campsite 1, provides a good balance of natural immersion and essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience:

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers 46 single-family sites, including those suitable for tents, trailers, or RVs. Campsites #1 through #20 are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for spontaneous trips.

• Site-Specific Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining, and a campfire ring with a grill, allowing for cooking and enjoying a traditional campfire experience (subject to fire restrictions, which should always be checked).

• Sanitation Facilities: Vault toilets are provided throughout the campground for guest convenience, promoting a cleaner and more comfortable environment.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available within the campground, a crucial amenity that reduces the need for campers to haul large quantities of water.

• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and follow Leave No Trace principles, which is vital for preserving the natural beauty of the forest.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for purchase within the campground, offering a convenient option for those who wish to have campfires without bringing their own wood.

• Recreational Facilities: A playground suitable for small children is located within the campground, making it a great choice for families with younger campers.

Kelly Dahl Campground, and by extension Campsite 1, boasts several features that make it a compelling choice for campers in Colorado:

• Picturesque Mountain Setting: The campground is beautifully situated among ponderosa pines, offering a tranquil and scenic environment. While some areas may have less shade due to past pine beetle infestations, the overall setting remains a classic Colorado mountain landscape.

• Proximity to Nederland: Being just four miles from Nederland is a significant advantage. This allows campers easy access to the town's amenities, including grocery stores, hardware supplies, gas stations, unique restaurants, and local shops, providing a balance of wilderness and convenience.

• Gateway to Outdoor Recreation: While formal trails within the campground are limited, several closed roads offer opportunities for exploration. More importantly, popular trailheads like West Magnolia and East Portal are just a short drive away, providing access to extensive networks for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the surrounding wilderness. The famous Rollins Pass Road (Moffat Road) and other off-road routes are also in the vicinity.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The presence of a playground and the generally safe and accessible nature of the campground make it particularly suitable for families with children, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.

• First-Come, First-Served Sites: The availability of first-come, first-served sites (including Campsite 1) for a portion of the campground allows for spontaneous trips without the need for advance reservations, which can be a huge benefit for flexible travel plans.

• Managed by National Forest Service: As a National Forest Campground, Kelly Dahl operates under the regulations of the U.S. Forest Service, ensuring consistent standards and management focused on preserving the natural environment.

For inquiries about Kelly Dahl Campground, including specific details about Campsite 1 or current conditions, it is best to contact the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests.

Address: Nederland, CO 80466, USA (General vicinity of Kelly Dahl Campground)

For campground inquiries, the specific phone number for Kelly Dahl Campground is often managed by the broader Forest Service district. You can typically reach them at:

Phone Number: (303) 541-2500 (This number is associated with the Boulder Ranger District, which oversees the area including Kelly Dahl Campground.)

Mailing Address for the overseeing Forest Service office:
9054 U.S Hwy 285
Morrison CO 80465

For the most current information, including reservation details for sites beyond the first-come, first-served ones, it is recommended to visit the Recreation.gov website for "Kelly Dahl Campground, Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee Ng."

For Colorado locals, Campsite 1 at Kelly Dahl Campground offers a quintessential Front Range camping experience that balances rustic appeal with convenient amenities. Its strategic location near Nederland provides the best of both worlds: immediate access to the serene beauty of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, alongside the practical advantages of a nearby town for supplies and local charm.

This campground is particularly well-suited for families, thanks to its playground and the traditional, well-maintained campsites that offer a comfortable entry point to outdoor adventure. The availability of essentials like vault toilets, potable water, and trash collection means less hassle and more enjoyment of the natural surroundings. For Coloradans who cherish quick escapes to the mountains, Kelly Dahl provides a reliable and accessible option, whether planning a trip in advance or seeking a last-minute first-come, first-served spot. It's a place where the fresh mountain air, the towering pines, and the proximity to outdoor recreation combine to create a truly authentic and enjoyable Colorado camping experience, making it a beloved destination for residents time and again.

Campsite 1

Nederland, CO 80466, USA