Jacks Gulch Campground

For those of us in Colorado who cherish the peace and beauty of our Rocky Mountains, Jacks Gulch Campground in Bellvue offers a truly refreshing escape. This "wonderful first come, first served campground" is nestled in a picturesque ponderosa pine forest, dotted with vibrant aspen clones, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you can truly unplug, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the natural splendor that defines our state. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking for a new family tradition, Jacks Gulch provides a classic Colorado outdoor experience.

What makes Jacks Gulch Campground particularly appealing to Colorado locals is its commitment to providing a genuine wilderness experience with just the right amount of comfort. Unlike some overly developed sites, Jacks Gulch maintains a rustic charm while offering essential amenities. The "first come, first served" approach for most sites provides flexibility for spontaneous trips, a quality many Coloradans value when seeking a quick escape to the mountains. While reviews note that sites can be "very close together" and potentially "too crowded" on busy weekends, this also highlights the beauty of visiting during the "shoulder seasons" or mid-week for a truly secluded experience. Many campers have enjoyed having "the only ones in the campground," underscoring the potential for profound tranquility.

Beyond the camping experience itself, Jacks Gulch Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the rich recreational opportunities of the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests. From scenic drives to challenging hikes and unique equestrian adventures, it caters to a diverse range of outdoor interests. For Coloradans looking for an authentic mountain getaway that combines beautiful scenery with accessible outdoor activities, Jacks Gulch Campground stands out as a reliable and cherished destination. It promises a refreshing break from city life and a chance to reconnect with the wild heart of Colorado.

Jacks Gulch Campground is conveniently located at 6515 N Co Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO 80512, USA. This places it approximately 48 miles northwest of Fort Collins, in northern Colorado, making it a relatively accessible mountain retreat for residents of the Front Range and beyond. The campground is situated adjacent to the Pingree Park Road (County Road 63E) and the Old Flowers Road, providing clear directional access.

The drive to Jacks Gulch is part of the experience, winding through scenic mountain landscapes. Roads leading to and within the campground are generally described as "very well maintained roads and sites," ensuring smooth passage for various vehicle types. The campground is designed to accommodate a range of camping setups, including RVs, trailers, and tents. RV sites range from 30 to 80 feet in length, providing ample space for larger vehicles, though it's important that "RVs, trailers or other vehicles must fit on the parking spur because driving or parking off road is not permitted."

Jacks Gulch's location offers excellent access to a variety of outdoor activities. It sits on the edge of two wilderness areas, Comanche Peak and Indian Peaks, providing a gateway to extensive hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. While some areas might have been impacted by the Cameron Peak Fire, the campground aims to continue providing access to this beautiful region. The proximity to Fort Collins and Rustic also means that essential supplies or services are within a reasonable driving distance, balancing the feeling of being in the wilderness with the convenience of nearby towns. This combination of remote beauty and practical accessibility makes Jacks Gulch Campground a prime location for Colorado locals seeking an authentic mountain adventure.

Jacks Gulch Campground offers a variety of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and traditional camping experience in the Colorado mountains.

• Campsites: The campground features 56 RV sites and 8 walk-in sites for tents only. The Columbine Loop has 27 sites with electrical hookups (30/50 Amp), while the Yarrow Loop has 28 sites without electricity.

• Equestrian Camp: A unique highlight, there is an equestrian camp with 5 sites. Each of these sites includes four horse stalls and room to accommodate a horse trailer, catering specifically to horse riders.

• Restrooms: Vault toilets are available throughout the campground, described by visitors as "clean facilities," ensuring basic sanitation for campers.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is usually available throughout the camping season, typically through late September, which is a key convenience for all campers.

• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with a tent pad, fire grate, and picnic table, providing essential amenities for cooking and gathering.

• Bear Lockers: Some sites within the campground have bear lockers, which are crucial for safe food storage in bear country and help prevent human-wildlife conflicts.

• First-Come, First-Served: Most single-family campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips (note: group and equestrian sites may be reservable).

• Firewood: Unless fire restrictions are in effect, campfires are allowed in the provided fire rings. Dead and down wood may be gathered from the forest, or firewood can be purchased from campground hosts.

• Camp Hosts: The campground is operated by Vista Recreation, and camp hosts are typically on-site to assist campers and provide information.

It's important to note that while electrical hookups are available at some sites, there are no water or sewer hookups at RV sites, and no dump stations on-site. Campers should plan accordingly for water filling and waste disposal.

Jacks Gulch Campground is renowned for several key features and highlights that draw campers to this beautiful part of Colorado.

• Stunning Natural Setting: The campground is situated in a "ponderosa pine forest setting with scattered clones of aspen," offering a beautiful and varied natural backdrop. "Abundant wildflowers" are present at certain times of the season, enhancing the scenic beauty.

• Views of the Mummy Range: A portion of the hiking trail that circumnavigates the campground serves as a self-guided nature hike and "offers a stunning view of the Mummy Range," providing breathtaking vistas.

• Variety of Campsite Options: With 56 RV sites (27 with electric hookups), 10 walk-in tent sites, and 5 unique equestrian sites (each with four horse stalls), the campground caters to diverse camping styles and preferences.

• Excellent Recreational Opportunities: Popular activities in the area include "hiking, stream fishing, mountain biking, scenic driving and some four-wheel driving." A nature trail circles the entire area of Jacks Gulch, with segments perfect for exploring.

• Proximity to Wilderness Areas: Jacks Gulch sits on the edge of the Comanche Peak and Indian Peak Wilderness areas, providing access to extensive backcountry exploration, though mountain bikes are not permitted in wilderness areas.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Reviews frequently highlight the campground's "peaceful atmosphere." Despite sites being "very close together," campers during mid-week or shoulder seasons often report being "the only ones in the campground" and not hearing other campers, indicating periods of significant tranquility.

• Well-Maintained and Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the "clean facilities, including vault toilets," which contribute to a comfortable stay.

These features collectively make Jacks Gulch Campground a versatile and appealing destination for those seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor experience in the Colorado mountains.

For inquiries or further information regarding Jacks Gulch Campground, you may use the following contact details:

Address: 6515 N Co Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO 80512, USA

Phone: (970) 295-6700 (General inquiry for Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests)

For Coloradans, Jacks Gulch Campground is an outstanding choice for immersing oneself in the natural beauty of our state's mountains. Its unique blend of accessibility, diverse camping options, and abundant recreational opportunities makes it perfectly suited for locals seeking an authentic outdoor experience. The "first come, first served" system for most sites offers the flexibility that many spontaneous adventurers in Colorado appreciate, allowing for spur-of-the-moment trips into the wilderness.

One of the campground's most compelling draws for locals is its spectacular setting within a ponderosa pine and aspen forest. This creates a visually stunning backdrop, especially when the aspens turn golden in the fall. The "pretty decent views" from tent sites and the "stunning view of the Mummy Range" from the nature trail offer daily reminders of Colorado's majestic landscapes. For those who own horses, the unique equestrian sites with stalls are an exceptional feature, providing unparalleled access to horse-friendly trails.

While some reviews note that sites can be close, particularly on busy weekends, this also highlights the beauty of visiting during the quieter "shoulder seasons" or mid-week. Many locals will find the peace and solitude during these times to be exactly what they are looking for, allowing for a deeper connection with nature. With opportunities for "hiking, stream fishing, mountain biking, scenic driving and some four-wheel driving" all readily available, Jacks Gulch serves as a fantastic basecamp for any outdoor enthusiast. Its well-maintained facilities, including clean vault toilets and available drinking water, add to the comfort without detracting from the rustic charm. Jacks Gulch Campground truly embodies the spirit of Colorado's outdoor lifestyle, offering a memorable and accessible mountain escape for everyone.

Jacks Gulch Campground

6515 N Co Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO 80512, USA