Clear Creek Reservoir Campground

Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Colorado, Clear Creek Reservoir Campground offers an unparalleled outdoor experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Located near Buena Vista, this tranquil haven provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting you to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned camper, an avid angler, or simply looking to unwind amidst picturesque scenery, Clear Creek Reservoir Campground is a local gem that promises unforgettable memories.

Known for its serene atmosphere and abundant recreational opportunities, Clear Creek Reservoir Campground stands out as a prime destination for those seeking a true Colorado outdoor adventure. The campground provides a rustic camping experience, emphasizing connection with nature. It’s a place where you can wake up to the sounds of local wildlife, breathe in crisp mountain air, and enjoy unparalleled views that stretch across the reservoir and into the surrounding peaks. This isn't just a campsite; it's a gateway to exploring the wild heart of Colorado.

Clear Creek Reservoir Campground is conveniently situated at 23303 Co Rd 390, Buena Vista, CO 81211, USA. This prime location places it in Chaffee County, a region renowned for its stunning mountain vistas and a wealth of outdoor activities. Access to the campground is straightforward, typically involving a drive along US Highway 24, with a turn onto County Road 390 (Clear Creek Road). While the initial few miles of County Road 390 pass through private property, visitors are advised to stay on the road, which leads directly to the campground. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering scenic views as you approach this secluded retreat.

Its proximity to Buena Vista means that while you're enjoying a rustic camping experience, you're not too far from essential services or charming local amenities should you need them. The campground's setting, near the largest lake in Chaffee County, makes it an ideal base for exploring the central Colorado Rockies, including nearby towns and various trailheads.

• Public Bathrooms: The campground provides public bathrooms, though campers are advised to bring their own toilet paper as supplies can vary.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and gathering with fellow campers.
• Fire Rings/Pits: Designated fire pits are available at sites, allowing for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting). Some sites also offer charcoal BBQ facilities.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes furry friends, making it a great option for those who want to bring their pets along for the adventure (pets must be leashed).
• Dispersed Camping Options: Beyond the main campground, continuing further down County Road 390 offers opportunities for dispersed camping, providing even more solitude for those seeking it.
• RV and Tent Camping: The campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with spacious sites that often offer a good degree of privacy. Note that there are no electric hookups or potable drinking water facilities available at the campground, so campers should come prepared.

• Exceptional Fishing: Clear Creek Reservoir is renowned as a highly productive and dependable fishing location in the upper Arkansas River basin. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of trout, including rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout, with an average length of 13 inches. When well-stocked, kokanee salmon and even tiger muskie might be found. Both boat and shore fishing are excellent, with the inlet and stream just above the reservoir being prime spots for fly fishing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is a haven for wildlife. Visitors frequently spot hawks, eagles, finches, and Bluejays. In late fall, keep an eye out for Bald Eagles. Other common sightings include rabbits, coyotes, red fox, deer, and elk, particularly along the highway and near the willows upstream from the lake. The presence of moose has also been noted in the broader region.
• Colorado Trail Access: A portion of the famous Colorado Trail is easily accessible from Clear Creek Reservoir Campground. This provides fantastic opportunities for hiking and exploring a segment of this iconic long-distance trail. Specifically, Segment 12 of the Colorado Trail begins at Clear Creek Road (CR 390), offering a challenging and rewarding experience with sections above 11,000 feet and views of several "Fourteeners" (Mounts Oxford, Harvard, and Columbia).
• Stunning Scenery and Views: The campground boasts truly breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the expansive Clear Creek Reservoir. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular, and many sites offer waterfront access or are tucked into shaded areas with scenic views. The rugged topography and natural beauty of the area are a constant highlight.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: While it can get busy on weekends, particularly during peak season, many visitors praise the campground for its generally quiet and peaceful ambiance, especially during weekdays. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking for a tranquil outdoor escape.
• Boating Opportunities: Motorized boats are permitted on the 400-acre reservoir during designated hours (typically May through September, Thursday through Sunday, 7 AM to 5 PM). There is a concrete boat ramp and dock, making launching easy. The lake is also popular for paddleboarding and kayaking.

Address: 23303 Co Rd 390, Buena Vista, CO 81211, USA

Phone: (719) 530-5520

Mobile Phone: +1 719-530-5520

For Colorado locals, Clear Creek Reservoir Campground presents an ideal opportunity to reconnect with the state's incredible natural environment without venturing too far from home. Its location in Buena Vista, a hub for outdoor recreation in Chaffee County, makes it easily accessible for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The campground offers a genuine Colorado camping experience – rustic, surrounded by stunning landscapes, and rich with opportunities for outdoor activities.

The exceptional fishing, from trout to salmon, provides a rewarding pursuit for anglers of all skill levels. The readily available access to the Colorado Trail means hikers and bikers can embark on adventures right from their campsite, exploring some of the state's most iconic trails. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are daily pleasures, offering a chance to observe Colorado's diverse ecosystems up close. Even with basic amenities, the natural beauty and array of activities make up for it, creating an authentic and immersive experience that truly embodies the spirit of Colorado. This is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a community resource for rejuvenation, adventure, and appreciation of the wild Colorado landscape, making it perfectly suitable for anyone in the Colorado region seeking an authentic outdoor escape.

Clear Creek Reservoir Campground

23303 Co Rd 390, Buena Vista, CO 81211, USA