Elliot Creek Campground

Greetings, fellow Colorado adventurers! Are you ready to trade the everyday for stunning mountain vistas, the soothing sounds of nature, and direct access to refreshing waters? Look no further than Elliot Creek Campground, nestled within the magnificent White River National Forest near Silverthorne. This popular spot offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our state, particularly if you love paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water.

For us Coloradans, camping is more than just an activity; it's a cherished ritual, a chance to recharge amidst the unparalleled beauty of our landscapes. Elliot Creek Campground caters to this desire for authentic outdoor experiences, providing a setting that blends convenience with the wild charm of the high country. While some sites are cozier than others, and the generator hum from the dam might be a soft lullaby, its prime location and direct access to Green Mountain Reservoir make it a highly sought-after destination for locals. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Elliot Creek Campground, from its layout to its unique features, ensuring you're fully prepared for your next Colorado getaway.

When planning a camping trip in our beautiful state, understanding the specific characteristics of each campground is crucial for a successful and enjoyable experience. Elliot Creek Campground, with its mix of tent and RV-friendly sites and its proximity to the reservoir, offers diverse opportunities for different camping styles. The reviews highlight key aspects like water access for paddleboarding and the prevalence of local wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and mountain goats—a true testament to its wild setting. It also points out practical considerations like campsite proximity and the importance of being aware of mountain storms, which are part of our unpredictable high-country weather.

The spirit of Colorado is one of embracing adventure and respecting nature, and Elliot Creek Campground perfectly embodies this. It's a place where you can launch your paddleboard onto clear waters, spot incredible wildlife, and enjoy the freedom of the outdoors. This description is tailored to help you, our local Colorado community, gain a detailed understanding of Elliot Creek Campground, helping you decide if it’s the ideal base for your next outdoor escapade.

Elliot Creek Campground is conveniently located on Forest Rd 1809, Silverthorne, CO 80498, USA, placing it directly within the breathtaking White River National Forest. Its prime position on the northwest side of Green Mountain Reservoir offers an ideal setting for a multitude of recreational activities, both on the water and on land. For those traveling from the Denver metropolitan area, the drive involves navigating scenic mountain passes, which can be part of the adventure itself. From Silverthorne, take Colorado Highway 9 north for about 24 miles. After passing Green Mountain Reservoir, turn left onto Heeney Road (County Rd 30) for approximately 2 to 2.5 miles, and the campground entrance will be just after the dam on your left.

This accessible location makes Elliot Creek Campground a popular choice for locals looking for a quick escape or a longer vacation. While some of the initial sites upon entering the campground might be relatively close, as noted by visitors, there are also areas that offer more space and privacy. The campground's direct trail access down to the Green Mountain Reservoir allows for easy launching of paddleboards, kayaks, or simply finding a spot to relax by the water. It’s important for campers to be mindful of mountain weather, as sudden storms can roll in, a common occurrence in Colorado's high country. Additionally, while the hum of the nearby dam's generator might be audible at night, reviews suggest it’s not overly intrusive, fading into the background of the natural sounds.

• Designated Campsites: Elliot Creek Campground features 20 standard sites suitable for tents and smaller trailers. While specific details on site amenities (like picnic tables or fire rings) are not explicitly detailed in all reviews, these are standard for National Forest campgrounds.
• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are provided, offering basic restroom facilities for campers.
• Water Access: Direct access to Green Mountain Reservoir via trails from some campsites, ideal for water activities.
• Fire Pits: Campfires are permitted when there is no burn ban in effect, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires (always check current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Limited RV Accommodation: While some sites can accommodate smaller trailers, sites 1-7 are specifically recommended for RVs due to space constraints, and there's limited room for turning around after the creek crossing by site 5.
• No Reservations (First-Come, First-Served): Based on public information, Elliot Creek Campground is often noted as a first-come, first-served campground, meaning early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Excellent Reservoir Access: A major highlight is the direct access to Green Mountain Reservoir, enabling activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and general water enjoyment directly from the campground or nearby points.
• Paddleboarding Heaven: Specifically mentioned by a visitor, the ease of launching paddleboards from the campground makes it a prime destination for this popular water sport.
• Abundant Wildlife: Campers have reported sightings of bears, mountain lions, and mountain goats throughout the site and nearby areas, offering incredible wildlife viewing opportunities (remember to practice bear-safe food storage!).
• Clean and Ready Sites: Site 15 was noted as clean and ready upon arrival, suggesting good maintenance by the campground staff.
• Scenic Beauty: Situated in the White River National Forest, the campground boasts beautiful surroundings, including forested terrain and views of the surrounding mountains and reservoir.
• Opportunity for Campfires: The ability to have a campfire when there's no burn ban adds to the quintessential camping experience.
• Generator Hum: While a minor downside for some, the sound of the dam's generator running at night was noted as not being "too loud," indicating it's a manageable background noise for most.
• Variety of Site Types: While some sites are close together, there is a variety, with some offering more space. Sites 1-7 are suggested for RVs, and others are well-suited for tent camping.

Address: Forest Rd 1809, Silverthorne, CO 80498, USA

Phone: (801) 226-3564

Mobile Phone: +1 801-226-3564

Elliot Creek Campground truly is a gem for Colorado locals seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor experience. Its prime location within the White River National Forest, coupled with direct access to Green Mountain Reservoir, makes it an ideal spot for those who love water activities like paddleboarding and fishing. For us Coloradans, the chance to launch directly onto the water from a campsite is a significant advantage, providing unparalleled convenience for a day of fun.

The consistent presence of local wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and mountain goats, offers a genuine wilderness experience. While it necessitates practicing proper food storage and awareness, it also provides incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, which is a big part of what makes camping in Colorado so special. The "no burn ban" allowance for campfires (when conditions permit) adds that classic touch to evenings under the stars, a deeply ingrained part of our camping culture.

While some sites might be closer together and the distant hum of the dam's generator is present, these are minor considerations when weighed against the breathtaking scenery, the wealth of recreational opportunities, and the overall rustic charm of the campground. Colorado locals are often prepared for such conditions, bringing their own ways to create privacy or simply embracing the communal spirit of a popular campground. The insight about specific sites for RVs and the awareness of mountain storms demonstrate a local understanding of how to best navigate our unique outdoor environments.

In essence, Elliot Creek Campground is perfectly suited for Colorado locals who are looking for an accessible, yet wild, camping destination. It offers the perfect blend of lakeside recreation, abundant wildlife, and the rugged beauty of the White River National Forest, making it an excellent choice for your next mountain escape.

Elliot Creek Campground

Forest Rd 1809, Silverthorne, CO 80498, USA