Columbine campground

For Colorado locals, the call of the mountains often leads to adventures off the beaten path, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. If your ideal getaway involves exploring vast trail networks, enjoying the crisp mountain air, and setting up camp amidst the pines, then Columbine Campground near Central City, Colorado, might be just the spot you’re looking for.

Nestled within the Arapaho National Forest at an elevation of 9,200 feet, Columbine Campground offers a rustic yet accessible camping experience. It's particularly favored by those with a passion for off-road adventures, given its direct access to numerous jeep roads and trails. This article aims to provide a clear and engaging overview of Columbine Campground, highlighting its key features, services, and why it's a suitable destination for Colorado residents seeking an authentic outdoor escape.

Columbine Campground is a U.S. Forest Service campground located in the scenic mountains west of Denver, near the historic mining towns of Central City and Black Hawk. It features 46 sites spread across two loops, accommodating both tents and RVs (though without electrical hookups). Each site typically includes a picnic table, campfire ring, and grill, providing the basic necessities for a comfortable outdoor stay.

The campground is well-regarded for its direct access to an extensive network of off-road vehicle (OHV) trails, making it a popular hub for ATV and jeep enthusiasts. As one reviewer noted, "Can be a little noisy since there is an off-road vehicle parking spot close by, but that's why we camped here - very close to a ton of off-road trails." This highlights its specific appeal to the OHV community. Beyond motorized recreation, the surrounding area also offers opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.

While many visitors have positive experiences, describing the campground as having "great open spaces, very clean bathrooms, friendly camp manager," it's important to acknowledge varying experiences. One reviewer recounted a negative encounter with a "campground host is a creep" and experienced unexpected site changes and perceived discomfort. This contrasting feedback underscores the importance of individual interactions and expectations. Despite such isolated incidents, Columbine Campground is generally known for being a relatively quiet, clean, and relaxing environment, especially for those who embrace its rustic nature. It is typically open from mid-May to mid-September, making it a prime summer and early fall destination.

Columbine Campground is conveniently situated at 2987 Bald Mountain Rd, Central City, CO 80427, USA. Its location just off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Highway 119/72) positions it perfectly for a scenic drive from the Denver metropolitan area, making it an accessible mountain escape for Front Range residents.

The drive from Denver typically involves taking I-70 West, then connecting to Highway 6 through Clear Creek Canyon, and finally heading north on Highway 119. From there, access to the campground involves turning onto Gilpin County Road 279 (Gregory St. in Black Hawk, which becomes Eureka St. in Central City), which eventually turns to gravel. The campground is about two miles northwest of Central City via this route. While the main roads are paved, the final approach to the campground on County Road 279 (also known as Forest Road 176) is gravel and can be dirt within the campground loops. This suggests that while most vehicles can access it, some sections might be rougher.

At an elevation of 9,200 feet, visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures, even in summer, and aware of potential altitude effects. The campground's proximity to Central City and Black Hawk means that essential services like gas, limited groceries, and dining options are just a short drive away, blending wilderness immersion with convenient access to town amenities. This balance of seclusion and accessibility makes Columbine Campground a practical choice for locals seeking a mountain adventure.

Columbine Campground provides a set of basic but essential services typical of a national forest campground:

• Campsites: The campground has 46 sites, with five designated for tents only and the rest suitable for both RVs and tents. Each site includes a picnic table, campfire ring, and grill.

• Vault Toilets: "Very clean bathrooms" (vault toilets) are available, maintained by the campground staff, contributing to a comfortable stay.

• Potable Water: "Water spouts to fill up" are available, providing access to clean drinking water, which is a significant amenity for a rustic campground.

• Firewood for Sale: Campers can "buy firewood there" from the onsite camp manager, offering convenience for those planning campfires (when permitted by fire restrictions).

• Trash Service: Trash disposal services are provided, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and practice Leave No Trace principles.

• On-site Camp Host: A camp host is present to manage the campground, assist campers, and enforce rules. While individual experiences with hosts can vary, their presence ensures oversight and support.

• No Hook-ups: It's important to note that there are "no RV hook-ups or electricity" at this campground, meaning RVs must be self-sufficient for power and water/sewer connections.

• Off-Road Vehicle (OHV) Access: A major highlight is its direct access to "a ton of off-road trails" and "many jeep roads," making it a prime destination for ATV and 4x4 enthusiasts.

• Spacious Sites: Many "lots are good size and you can have multiple tents/RV in one site - up to 8 people," offering ample space for groups.

• Mountain Views & Tree Coverage: Situated in a grove of aspen and lodgepole pine at 9,200 feet, the campground offers "views of mountains" and "good shade" (though some areas may have less shade due to beetle infestation and tree removal efforts).

• Clean Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the "very clean bathrooms" (vault toilets), indicating good maintenance.

• Quiet (Often): While close to OHV trails, many visitors report it as "quiet, clean and relaxing," particularly when not affected by nearby off-roading noise.

• Nearby Historic Towns: Its proximity to Central City and Black Hawk provides opportunities to explore historic mining towns, casinos, and local events like the Central City Opera and Jazz festivals.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: Numerous hiking and biking trails are found nearby, offering additional recreational opportunities beyond off-roading.

• Affordable Option: Compared to some other local campgrounds, at "$26 a night" (as noted by one reviewer), it offers a relatively affordable option for camping in the Colorado mountains, though some comparisons to even lower-priced alternatives exist.

Address: 2987 Bald Mountain Rd, Central City, CO 80427, USA

Phone: (For campground inquiries, general information for Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests can be reached at 801-226-3564, or reservations can be made via Recreation.gov at 1-877-444-6777.)

For Colorado locals, Columbine Campground offers a compelling choice for a mountain getaway, especially for those who cherish the state's vast recreational opportunities. Its location near Central City makes it an easily accessible escape from the Front Range, allowing for more time enjoying the outdoors and less time traveling.

The campground's primary suitability lies in its direct access to extensive off-road vehicle trails, making it an ideal basecamp for OHV enthusiasts who want to explore the rugged beauty of the Arapaho National Forest. For other outdoor lovers, nearby hiking and biking trails, combined with the scenic drive along the Peak to Peak Byway, add to its appeal. The relatively spacious sites, presence of clean vault toilets, and access to potable water are practical advantages for a rustic experience.

While individual experiences with camp hosts can vary, as highlighted by some feedback, many visitors find the overall environment to be "quiet, clean and relaxing," providing a genuine connection with nature. For those who understand and appreciate a more primitive camping style without electrical hookups, and who are seeking adventure on the trails or simply a peaceful retreat amidst the aspens and pines, Columbine Campground presents a valuable and frequently revisited option for enjoying the heart of Colorado's great outdoors. It’s a straightforward, unpretentious place to call home while exploring the majestic landscapes near Central City.

Columbine campground

2987 Bald Mountain Rd, Central City, CO 80427, USA