Difficult Campground

For Colorado locals seeking an unforgettable mountain getaway, Difficult Campground, conveniently located at CO-82, Aspen, CO 81611, USA, presents an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourselves in the stunning beauty of the White River National Forest. Despite its seemingly challenging name, derived from a nearby creek, this campground offers a surprisingly accessible and rewarding experience, serving as a premier basecamp for exploring the world-renowned Aspen area and the majestic Independence Pass. It’s a place where the fresh mountain air, the sounds of the Roaring Fork River, and the vibrant aspen groves create an idyllic setting for outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Difficult Campground is a popular choice for a reason, attracting a "heavy" usage due to its prime location and well-maintained facilities. Reviews consistently highlight the quality of its staff, with one camper enthusiastically stating, "Wonderful camp hosts, Rebecca and Lauren were a great help, and if we needed anything, they were always around and very friendly and professional. More camp hosts should be like them, they are the best we've come across. We will definitely be back." This dedication to visitor experience ensures a welcoming and supportive environment, even amidst the occasional challenges of camping in bear country.

While there have been past discussions and temporary restrictions regarding tent camping due to bear activity – a critical reminder of the need for proper food storage in Colorado's wilderness – it's important to note that "tents, soft-side campers and roof-top tents are allowed at Difficult Campground" provided campers adhere to strict bear precautions. This balance of natural beauty and necessary wildlife precautions underscores the authenticity of the experience. With 47 campsites, including options for both tents and RVs, and a dedicated group area, Difficult Campground is designed to accommodate a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. This article will provide a detailed overview of Difficult Campground, covering its strategic location, accessibility, the services it offers, its standout features, and why it remains a top-tier choice for Colorado locals looking to explore the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

Difficult Campground is conveniently located five miles southeast of Aspen, Colorado, directly off Highway 82 (CO-82), past Mile Marker 45. This strategic position places it within the White River National Forest, one of the most visited national forests in the United States. Situated at an elevation of approximately 8,180 feet, the campground enjoys a cool mountain climate, especially refreshing during Colorado's summer months. The Roaring Fork River flows alongside the campground, providing a picturesque backdrop and opportunities for various water-based activities.

Accessibility to Difficult Campground is generally straightforward. Highway 82 is a well-maintained paved road, allowing access for most vehicles, including cars, RVs, and trailers. However, it's crucial for campers to note a significant restriction: "vehicles over 35 feet in length are prohibited over Independence Pass but can access the campground via Aspen, CO." This means if you are coming from the east (e.g., from Twin Lakes), you cannot bring large RVs over the pass; you must approach from the Aspen side. The campground itself has "limited spurs to accommodate trailers up to 40'," and some internal roads may have "tight turns" and "brush encroaching on roadways and spurs," requiring careful maneuvering for larger rigs.

Despite some of these navigational considerations, the proximity to Aspen (a mere 10-minute drive) is a major advantage. This allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of the forest while still having easy access to the town's amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cultural events. The campground's location also serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring Independence Pass when it's open seasonally, offering breathtaking high-altitude views and access to numerous trails. The paved road leading to Independence Pass is also popular for road cyclists seeking a challenging climb. With its relatively easy approach from Aspen and its direct connection to wilderness and town, Difficult Campground is highly accessible for most Colorado visitors.

• Campsites: Difficult Campground offers 47 individual campsites suitable for both tents and RVs. Additionally, there is a dedicated group campsite that can accommodate up to 20 people and 10 vehicles.

• Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring with a grill, and a bear-proof food storage locker (cabinet). These lockers are crucial for proper food storage in this active bear country.

• Vault Toilets: Well-maintained vault toilets are conveniently located throughout the campground loops, providing essential restroom facilities.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from spigots located within the main campground, ensuring campers have access to fresh water.

• Trash Collection: Garbage disposal facilities are provided, encouraging campers to keep their sites clean and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

• Camp Hosts: The campground benefits from "fantastic camp hosts" who are often available on-site to assist visitors, provide information, and ensure compliance with campground regulations.

• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the camp host, making it convenient for campers to enjoy a campfire (subject to fire restrictions).

• Reservations: Campsites at Difficult Campground are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov (or by calling 1-877-444-6777). Reservations are highly recommended due to the campground's popularity, especially during peak season. A limited number of sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• No Hookups or Dump Station: It's important to note that the campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites, nor does it have an RV dump station. Campers needing these services should plan accordingly before or after their stay.

• Proximity to Aspen: A major highlight is its close proximity to downtown Aspen, just a 10-minute drive away. This allows campers to enjoy wilderness tranquility while easily accessing Aspen's world-class dining, shopping, cultural events, and other amenities.

• Riverside Setting and Fishing: Situated alongside the Roaring Fork River, the campground offers a beautiful setting with the soothing sounds of flowing water. The river is renowned for its excellent fly fishing, sustaining populations of large rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and brook trout, making it a dream spot for anglers.

• Access to Independence Pass: Difficult Campground serves as a prime gateway to Independence Pass (CO-82), one of Colorado's highest paved mountain passes. When open seasonally, it offers spectacular panoramic views, high-altitude hiking, and challenging cycling routes.

• Abundant Hiking Opportunities: Numerous hiking trails are accessible directly from or very near the campground. The Difficult Creek Trail, for instance, starts nearby and leads through beautiful alpine scenery. Other trails on Independence Pass, like Lost Man Loop, offer stunning vistas.

• Wildlife Viewing: The White River National Forest is teeming with wildlife. Campers have opportunities to spot deer, elk, bighorn sheep, pika, various bird species, and occasionally even bears (emphasizing the need for strict food storage).

• Shaded and Private Campsites: Many campsites are nestled in a mixed forest of aspen, cottonwood, pine, and spruce, providing ample shade and a good sense of privacy, with sites described as "spacious" and "secluded by trees and vegetation."

• Clean Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets and the well-maintained nature of the campground overall.

• Bear Awareness and Safety Measures: The campground is proactive about bear safety, providing bear-proof food lockers at each site and emphasizing proper food storage, allowing campers to enjoy the natural environment responsibly.

Difficult Campground is managed by the USDA Forest Service, specifically under the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District of the White River National Forest. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's best to consult official Forest Service channels and the National Recreation Reservation Service.

Address: CO-82, Aspen, CO 81611, USA. The physical location is often cited as 665 Difficult Campground Rd, Aspen, CO 81611.

Phone Numbers:

• National Recreation Reservation Service (for reservations): (877) 444-6777 (Toll-Free)

• Mobile Phone (same as above): +1 877-444-6777

• Aspen-Sopris Ranger Station (for local inquiries, current conditions, alerts): (970) 925-3445 or (970) 927-0107.

Reservations: Reservations for individual and group campsites are highly recommended due to the campground's popularity and can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov or by calling the toll-free reservation line. While a few sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, securing a reservation is the most reliable way to guarantee a spot, especially during the peak summer season (typically mid-May to early October).

Before your trip, it is crucial to check the official White River National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/whiteriver) and Recreation.gov for the latest information on fees, operational dates, road conditions (especially concerning Independence Pass and vehicle length restrictions), and any fire restrictions or bear activity alerts. Given the high elevation, weather can change rapidly, and preparedness is key.

For Colorado locals, Difficult Campground offers an unparalleled camping experience that perfectly balances wilderness immersion with convenient access to a vibrant mountain town. Its prime location just five miles from Aspen makes it incredibly suitable for residents seeking a true Rocky Mountain escape without venturing too far off the beaten path. This isn't just a place to stay; it's a strategic base for experiencing the best of the Colorado high country.

The campground's direct access to the Roaring Fork River provides fantastic opportunities for fly fishing, a beloved pastime for many Coloradans. Hikers will appreciate the trailheads accessible directly from the campground, leading to stunning alpine scenery and challenging treks. Furthermore, the close proximity to Independence Pass, when open, offers breathtaking scenic drives and high-altitude adventures that are quintessential Colorado experiences.

While the presence of bears necessitates diligent food storage practices, this aspect is a testament to the campground's truly wild setting—a feature many locals actively seek. The "fantastic camp hosts" ensure a well-managed and friendly environment, making the experience smoother for everyone. With reservable sites, potable water, and clean vault toilets, Difficult Campground provides a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, where anglers can cast their lines in pristine waters, and where anyone can reconnect with the majestic beauty of the Colorado Rockies, solidifying its status as a premier local camping destination.

Difficult Campground

CO-82, Aspen, CO 81611, USA