Erickson Springs Campground

For us Coloradans, the call of the mountains is an irresistible siren song. There’s nothing quite like escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life for the crisp, clean air and stunning vistas of our beloved Rockies. When it comes to finding that perfect spot to pitch a tent or park an RV for a true outdoor immersion, some places stand out for their natural beauty and serene atmosphere. One such gem is Erickson Springs Campground, nestled within the magnificent Gunnison National Forest near Somerset. This isn't your average commercial campground; it’s a tranquil, rustic escape designed for those who truly want to connect with nature and experience the authentic Colorado wilderness.

Erickson Springs Campground offers a refreshing departure from overcrowded parks, providing a quieter, more intimate setting where the sounds of the rushing stream and chirping birds replace the din of traffic. It's a place where you can truly unplug, recharge, and rediscover the simple joys of camping. Whether you're an avid hiker eager to hit the trails, a fishing enthusiast looking for a peaceful spot, or simply someone yearning for starry nights and the scent of pine, Erickson Springs has something special to offer. Its charm lies in its simplicity and its deep connection to the surrounding natural environment, making it a beloved spot for many locals seeking a genuine outdoor experience.

In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Erickson Springs Campground an ideal choice for your next Colorado adventure. We’ll cover its location and how to get there, the essential services it provides, and the unique features that make it a highlight for campers. We’ll also share important contact information to help you plan your trip, and conclude with why this specific campground is a particularly suitable retreat for us Coloradans who value authentic outdoor experiences over amenity-rich resorts.

Location and Accessibility

Erickson Springs Campground is located at 25130 Co Rd 12, Somerset, CO 81434, USA, deep within the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests. This placement in a dense spruce and fir forest near Anthracite Creek means it offers a truly immersive natural experience. While its address is Somerset, it's often associated with Paonia, which is approximately 14 miles northeast of the campground via State Highway 133, and then about 6 miles east on County Road 12 (Kebler Pass Road).

Accessing Erickson Springs Campground requires navigating some scenic, albeit sometimes unpaved, mountain roads. County Road 12, also known as Kebler Pass Road, is a famous scenic byway, renowned for its stunning fall colors. While generally passable for most vehicles during the open season (typically late spring through fall, weather permitting), it is a dirt and gravel road in sections and can be dusty in dry conditions or muddy after rain or snow. RVs and trailers up to 35 feet can generally access the campground, though larger rigs should exercise caution and check road conditions, especially if coming from the Crested Butte side of Kebler Pass.

The campground's relative seclusion is a significant part of its appeal. It's far enough from major towns to offer a sense of peaceful isolation, yet still within a reasonable drive for resupplies in nearby Paonia. For those coming from larger Colorado cities, it’s about a 3-4 hour drive from Denver or Colorado Springs, making it a feasible weekend getaway or a longer vacation destination. The journey itself is part of the experience, winding through some of Colorado's most breathtaking mountain scenery.

Upon arrival, the campground's proximity to Anthracite Creek is immediately noticeable, with the soothing sound of the rushing water providing a constant natural soundtrack. This serene auditory backdrop contributes significantly to the peaceful ambiance that many campers seek. Its location also serves as a gateway to the Raggeds Wilderness Area, offering unparalleled access for hikers, equestrians, and those looking to explore deeper into the wilderness.

Services Offered

• Primitive Campsites: Erickson Springs Campground offers 18 primitive campsites. These sites are designed for a more traditional camping experience, allowing campers to connect directly with nature.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with essential amenities for a comfortable stay. This includes a parking spur for your vehicle, a picnic table for outdoor meals, a fire ring for campfires, a grill for cooking, and a designated tent pad for pitching tents.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are basic, non-flush restroom facilities. These are maintained by the Forest Service and offer a necessary convenience in a rustic setting.
• Trash Collection: Dumpsters are available for trash disposal, encouraging campers to practice Leave No Trace principles and keep the campground clean.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that potable (drinking) water is NOT available at Erickson Springs Campground. Visitors must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes.
• No Electric Hookups: As a primitive US Forest Service campground, there are no electric hookups available at any of the campsites. Campers should be prepared for off-grid camping.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All campsites at Erickson Springs Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Reservations are not accepted, meaning visitors must physically arrive at the campground to claim and pay for a site. This can require arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak season, to secure a spot.
• Camp Host On-Site (seasonal): During the operating season, a camp host may be present to assist with fees, provide information, and answer questions.
• Firewood for Sale (seasonal): Firewood may be available for purchase on-site, offering a convenient option for those planning campfires.
• ATV/Horse Trailer Parking: A separate ATV parking area is located near the campground, and the main parking area can accommodate horse trailers, providing access for equestrian enthusiasts to nearby wilderness areas.

Features / Highlights

• Rushing Stream Ambiance: A standout feature, as noted by visitors, is the constant, soothing sound of the rushing Anthracite Creek. This natural white noise effectively drowns out any distant traffic and creates an incredibly peaceful and immersive outdoor atmosphere.
• Secluded and Quiet Setting: Erickson Springs is highly praised for its quiet and secluded nature. Nestled deep within the forest, it offers a true escape from urban noise and light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing and peaceful relaxation.
• Direct Access to Dark Canyon Trail: The campground serves as a direct trailhead for the Dark Canyon Trail (#830), which provides access into the Raggeds Wilderness Area. This is a significant highlight for hikers, backpackers, and those looking to explore rugged mountain terrain.
• Proximity to Raggeds Wilderness Area: For serious adventurers, the campground offers excellent access to the vast and pristine Raggeds Wilderness, known for its challenging trails and untouched natural beauty.
• Dense Forest Environment: The campground is situated in a dense spruce and fir forest, providing ample shade, a cooler environment even in summer, and a classic Colorado mountain camping experience.
• Equestrian Friendly: With parking accommodating horse trailers and access to wilderness trails, it's a great base for those exploring the mountains on horseback.
• Primitive and Authentic Camping Experience: For those who prefer a less developed, more "back to basics" camping style, the primitive nature of Erickson Springs (no hookups, vault toilets) is a highlight, offering a genuine wilderness feel without being fully dispersed.
• Scenic Location on Kebler Pass Road: The drive to the campground along County Road 12 (Kebler Pass Road) is incredibly scenic, especially during the fall when the aspen trees burst into vibrant colors, enhancing the overall camping journey.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The secluded forest setting makes it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see deer, elk, and various bird species.

Contact Information

As a US Forest Service campground, Erickson Springs Campground does not typically have a direct, dedicated phone line for individual campsites. However, information and assistance can be obtained through the managing Ranger District or the broader Forest Service office.

For inquiries and the most up-to-date information, including seasonal opening/closing dates, current conditions, and fee structures, it is best to contact the Paonia Ranger District or the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests office.

The general contact information for the managing district is:

Paonia Ranger District (managing entity):

Phone: (970) 527-4131

Address: 25130 Co Rd 12, Somerset, CO 81434, USA (this is the physical address of the campground, but the district office handles inquiries)

Always verify operating seasons and conditions before planning your trip, as they can change due to weather, wildfires, or other factors in Colorado's high country.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For us Coloradans, Erickson Springs Campground isn't just another dot on the map; it’s a perfect reflection of why we love living in this state. It’s uniquely suited for locals because it offers an authentic, no-frills mountain experience that prioritizes nature and tranquility over commercial amenities. This campground truly embodies the spirit of Colorado outdoor adventure, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of residents.

Firstly, its rustic, first-come, first-served nature appeals to the independent spirit of many Colorado campers. We’re often comfortable with a more primitive setup, preferring the peace and quiet of a vault toilet and no electric hookups if it means we can truly escape the crowds. The lack of reservable sites means that for those willing to arrive early or during off-peak times, a spontaneous mountain getaway is always a possibility, perfectly suiting our flexible outdoor lifestyles.

Secondly, the campground’s location deep within the Gunnison National Forest, with the constant serenade of Anthracite Creek, offers the immersive wilderness experience that many of us crave. It’s far enough from major population centers to provide a genuine sense of escape, allowing for truly dark skies for stargazing and an abundance of peace and quiet. This deep connection to nature, where the sounds of the stream replace urban noise, is a highly valued aspect for Coloradans looking to de-stress and reconnect with the natural world.

Furthermore, Erickson Springs serves as a gateway to the incredible recreational opportunities that define our state. With direct access to the Dark Canyon Trail and the vast Raggeds Wilderness, it’s a dream come true for hikers, backpackers, and equestrians. The scenic drive along Kebler Pass Road to get there is an adventure in itself, especially in the fall when the aspens are ablaze – a sight that holds deep meaning for every Coloradan. This campground isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s a basecamp for exploring some of our most stunning and rugged landscapes.

Finally, for locals, the simplicity and natural beauty of Erickson Springs Campground make it a cost-effective and truly rewarding option. It’s not about luxury or endless amenities, but about the unparalleled access to nature, the quiet nights, and the fresh mountain air. It’s where memories are made around a campfire, under a canopy of stars, with the gentle sound of the stream in the background – a quintessential Colorado camping experience that’s always worth the journey for those of us who call this incredible state home.

Erickson Springs Campground

25130 Co Rd 12, Somerset, CO 81434, USA