Hanson's Mill Campground

For Coloradans, the Rocky Mountains are more than just a backdrop; they are an integral part of life, offering endless opportunities for adventure, solitude, and connection with nature. Nestled high in the Rio Grande National Forest near the charming town of Creede, Hanson's Mill Campground stands as a testament to Colorado's rugged beauty and its appeal to those seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This isn't your typical crowded RV park; instead, it's a horse-friendly, first-come, first-served dispersed camping area that promises stunning views, direct trail access to iconic destinations, and a serene night sky.

Hanson's Mill Campground is a true gem for those who appreciate a more rustic and self-sufficient camping style. It’s a place where the sounds of ATVs might be heard by day, but the nights are peacefully quiet, allowing for breathtaking stargazing. What truly sets this campground apart is its exceptional suitability for equestrian enthusiasts, with dedicated facilities for horses and direct access to renowned trails. However, it also serves as an excellent base for hikers, off-highway vehicle (OHV) users, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the high-altitude splendor of the Colorado Rockies.

This comprehensive guide will delve into what makes Hanson's Mill Campground a must-visit for local Coloradans. We'll cover its unique location and how to access it, the essential services it provides, its standout features and highlights, and important contact information. Prepare to discover a campground that embodies the spirit of Colorado's wild country, offering both adventure and tranquility in equal measure.

Location and Accessibility

Hanson's Mill Campground is located in the Rio Grande National Forest, approximately 16.8 miles east of Creede, CO 81130, USA. Its remote, high-elevation setting (around 10,800 feet) offers spectacular vistas of distant mountains and a true sense of being in the heart of the Rockies. Access to the campground is via Forest Road 600, also known as Pool Table Road. Reviews consistently note that Pool Table Road is "very well maintained," making the journey relatively simple for trucks and trailers, including those hauling horse trailers.

Directions from Creede involve traveling southeast on Colorado Highway 149 (toward South Fork) for 7.3 miles, then turning northwest onto Forest Road #600 (Pool Table Road) for approximately 9.5 miles. While the road is generally good, its high elevation means it can be inaccessible due to snow levels or spring road closures, typically from December 1 through May 15. It's always advisable to check current road conditions with the Rio Grande National Forest before planning your trip, especially during shoulder seasons. This dispersed camping area is open year-round, but deep snow can render it impassable for vehicles for a significant portion of the year.

The campground's location serves as a strategic launching point for numerous adventures, including the famous Wheeler Geologic Site, accessible via a designated 4x4 road and hiking trails directly from the campsite. Its proximity to Creede, a historic mining town with unique charm, offers a convenient place to resupply or explore local attractions before or after your wilderness adventure.

Services Offered

Hanson's Mill Campground provides essential, yet minimal, services to maintain its dispersed and rustic character. Campers should arrive prepared for a self-sufficient experience.

• Designated Campsites: The campground has 3 officially designated dispersed sites with picnic tables and fire rings. However, there is "plenty of room for other campers in the area," suggesting additional space for dispersed camping. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Picnic Tables: Each designated site is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are present at each site for campfires, cooking, and warmth. Visitors must always check for current fire restrictions or bans, which are common in Colorado's dry seasons.
• Vault Toilets: The campground offers "two good spots for toilet stalls that are fully enclosed." Reviews commend these as the "cleanest and best maintained vault toilet I've used," which is a significant plus for a dispersed camping area. These facilities are also wheelchair accessible.
• Horse Facilities: The campground is "very horse friendly," featuring multiple hitching posts and two permanent high lines. This makes it an ideal base for equestrian activities.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that potable water is NOT available at Hanson's Mill. Campers must bring all their own drinking, cooking, and washing water. While a small stream (East Bellows Creek) may be nearby, it should only be used for emergency drinking water if treated or boiled.
• No Trash Service: This is a "pack out all garbage" campground. Visitors are responsible for packing out everything they pack in, leaving no trace behind.
• No Fees or Permits for Camping: There is no fee or permit required for dispersed camping at Hanson's Mill, although a 14-day camping limit applies.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Horse Friendliness: This is a primary highlight. The campground is specifically designed to accommodate horses and riders, with ample space for trucks and trailers, hitching posts, and high lines. This makes it a top choice for Colorado's equestrian community.
• Gateway to Wheeler Geologic Site: Hanson's Mill serves as the trailhead for the 4x4 road and hiking/horse trails leading to the unique and stunning Wheeler Geologic Site. This is a major draw, offering an incredible geological marvel within reach.
• Spectacular Views: The campground boasts "spectacular" views of distant mountains and an eastern-facing orientation, promising beautiful sunrises over the high country.
• Well-Maintained Vault Toilets: A rare commendation for primitive restrooms, the "cleanest and best maintained vault toilet" is a definite bonus for visitor comfort.
• Abundant Wildlife: Visitors have the opportunity to see and hear various wildlife, including wild turkey families roosting in trees, and the delightful sound of pikas. Free-roaming cows are also a charming presence, adding to the rural ambiance.
• Direct Trail Access: Beyond Wheeler, several other trails and 4WD roads are nearby, including East Bellows Trail #790 (foot or horse only) and Trail #798 West Alder (open to vehicles 50-inch width or less and non-motorized users), providing diverse recreational options.
• Secluded and Peaceful Nights: While ATVs might be active during the day, the nights are described as "peaceful," offering an opportunity for quiet reflection and excellent stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
• High Elevation Experience: At 10,800 feet, campers experience true Colorado high-country camping, with cooler temperatures, even in summer, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations.

Important Safety Note: The area has been significantly impacted by beetle kill, resulting in a "large quantity of dead trees." Campers must exercise "extreme caution" during high wind conditions due to the risk of falling trees.

Contact Information

As a dispersed camping area within a National Forest, Hanson's Mill Campground does not have a dedicated on-site staff or direct phone number. All inquiries and information should be directed to the managing U.S. Forest Service office for the Rio Grande National Forest.

Address: Creede, CO 81130, USA (This is the physical location for navigation; not a mailing address for contact)

For current conditions, road status (especially concerning snow or closures on Forest Road 600), fire restrictions, and general information about the Rio Grande National Forest, please contact the relevant Ranger District:

Divide Ranger District

Address: 13308 West US Hwy 160, Del Norte, CO 81132

Phone: (719) 657-3321

Additionally, information can often be found on the official Rio Grande National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/riogrande).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Coloradans, Hanson's Mill Campground offers an ideal embodiment of the state's rugged, beautiful, and adventure-filled spirit. This dispersed camping area is perfectly suited for locals who crave an authentic mountain experience away from the crowds often found in more developed campgrounds. Its horse-friendly nature is a significant draw, aligning perfectly with Colorado's strong equestrian culture and providing unparalleled access to vast trail networks for horseback riding. For those with trailers and horses, the "very well maintained" Pool Table Road makes the journey relatively stress-free, a practical advantage that locals will appreciate.

The opportunity to access the iconic Wheeler Geologic Site directly from the campground is a major highlight. This unique geological formation is a bucket-list destination for many Colorado outdoor enthusiasts, and having a basecamp just before the challenging 4x4 road or a significant hike makes the expedition much more manageable. The stunning views, peaceful nights, and chance to encounter local wildlife like pikas and wild turkeys contribute to an immersive wilderness experience that resonates deeply with those who live in and love the Colorado high country.

While the presence of beetle-killed trees necessitates caution, it's a stark reminder of the natural cycles of the forest, something many locals are accustomed to acknowledging when venturing into the wild. The "first-come, first-served" system for its few sites, combined with the option for more dispersed camping nearby, appeals to a local sense of adventure and flexibility, allowing for more spontaneous trips. The minimal amenities, including the surprisingly clean vault toilets and the need to pack out all trash, foster a strong "Leave No Trace" ethic, which is often a cornerstone of responsible outdoor recreation for Coloradans.

In essence, Hanson's Mill Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a launchpad for genuine Colorado wilderness adventures. It caters to specific local interests like horse riding and exploring unique geological wonders, all while providing the solitude and natural beauty that defines the Rocky Mountain experience. For any Coloradan seeking a true escape into the high country, where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the only sounds are those of nature, Hanson's Mill Campground stands as an exceptional choice.

Hanson's Mill Campground

Creede, CO 81130, USA