Kelly Flats Campground

As Colorado locals, we cherish the unparalleled natural beauty and diverse outdoor opportunities our state offers. Among the myriad of incredible camping spots, finding a place that combines stunning scenery with well-maintained facilities and a true sense of escape can be a real treasure. Kelly Flats Campground, nestled in the picturesque Cache la Poudre Canyon near Livermore, stands out as just such a gem. It offers a classic Colorado camping experience, perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy the soothing sounds of a flowing river, and truly unplug from the demands of everyday life.

Kelly Flats Campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the serene environment of the Roosevelt National Forest. With its coveted sites right on the Poudre River, commitment to cleanliness, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a destination that resonates deeply with the spirit of Colorado outdoor enthusiasts. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to Kelly Flats Campground, detailing its location, the services it offers, its standout features, and why it's an ideal choice for your next Colorado camping adventure.

Kelly Flats Campground is located near Livermore, CO 80536, USA. This prime location places it directly within the breathtaking Cache la Poudre Canyon, a designated National Wild and Scenic River. For Colorado locals, this means a relatively accessible drive from population centers like Fort Collins, yet far enough to feel truly immersed in the wilderness. The journey to the campground itself is part of the experience, traversing scenic canyon roads that offer spectacular views of the Poudre River as it carves its way through the landscape.

Access to Kelly Flats is primarily via paved roads, which are generally well-maintained. However, as noted by visitors, the drive can involve sharp turns against canyon walls. While manageable for most vehicles, including some larger rigs, drivers should exercise caution and be aware of their vehicle's dimensions, especially around corners. The roads are in good shape, contributing to a smooth approach despite the winding nature of the canyon. One significant aspect of its location, highlighted by past campers, is the complete lack of cell service at the campground. For those needing to connect, a short drive of about 6 miles up the road to Rustic is necessary to find Verizon service. This absence of connectivity is, for many, a major highlight, facilitating a genuine digital detox and allowing campers to fully embrace their surroundings.

The campground's direct proximity to the Poudre River is arguably its biggest draw. Many sites are literally steps from the water, providing not only beautiful views but also easy access for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of the river. This riverside setting, combined with the encompassing beauty of the national forest, makes Kelly Flats a sought-after destination for those seeking an authentic Colorado riverside camping experience.

• Individual Campsites: Offers well-defined campsites, many with direct access or views of the Poudre River.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for dining and food preparation.
• Fire Pits with Cooking Racks: Every site includes a fire pit, complete with a cooking rack, perfect for campfires and grilling meals.
• Bear Lockers: Essential bear-proof food storage lockers are provided at campsites, ensuring safe food storage in bear country.
• Clean Restrooms: Camp hosts maintain very clean and tidy vault toilets, a significant plus for campers.
• Camp Host On-Site: A dedicated camp host is present, actively working to keep the campground clean and assist campers.
• Space for Canopies: Sites offer adequate space for setting up canopies, providing shade and additional shelter.
• Trash Services: Facilities for trash disposal are available, encouraging responsible waste management.
• No Cell Service: While not a traditional "service," the lack of cell service offers an enforced digital detox for those seeking to unplug.
• Proximity to Water Activities: Easy access to the Poudre River for fishing, kayaking (check river conditions), or simply enjoying the water.

• Riverside Sites: The absolute highlight for many, with numerous campsites situated directly on the Poudre River, offering stunning views and easy access to the water.
• Immaculate Cleanliness: Consistently praised for the cleanliness maintained by the camp hosts, especially the restrooms and overall site tidiness.
• Beautiful Scenery: Located within the picturesque Cache la Poudre Canyon, surrounded by natural beauty, including towering canyon walls and lush riparian areas.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Generally a very peaceful and serene environment, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature's sounds.
• Unplugged Experience: The complete absence of cell service provides a rare opportunity for a true digital detox, allowing for deeper connection with nature and companions.
• Well-Equipped Sites: Each site comes with essential amenities like a fire pit with a cooking rack and a bear locker, enhancing the camping convenience.
• Friendly and Dedicated Camp Hosts: Visitors frequently commend the camp hosts for their diligence, helpfulness, and commitment to maintaining the campground.
• Good for Tent Camping: Offers nice tent sites with space to set up, making it ideal for traditional tent campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The canyon environment provides opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Close to Outdoor Activities: Beyond the campground, the canyon offers extensive opportunities for fishing, hiking, rafting (seasonal), and scenic drives.

Address: Livermore, CO 80536, USA

Please note that Kelly Flats Campground, being a U.S. Forest Service campground, typically does not have a direct dedicated phone line for individual site inquiries. For reservations and detailed information, it is best to use the national reservation system. For general inquiries about the area or forest regulations, you can contact the Canyon Lakes Ranger District, which manages this part of the Roosevelt National Forest. Their general information line is typically (970) 295-6700, but please verify current contact information on the official USDA Forest Service website.

For Colorado locals, Kelly Flats Campground embodies the quintessential Rocky Mountain escape. We understand the allure of crisp mountain air, the calming rush of a river, and the profound peace that comes from truly disconnecting. Kelly Flats delivers on all these fronts, offering an accessible yet wonderfully remote experience that perfectly aligns with our state's outdoor ethos. The consistently clean facilities, diligently maintained by dedicated camp hosts, mean we can focus entirely on enjoying our time outdoors without unnecessary concerns.

The star attraction, undoubtedly, is the Poudre River itself. Having sites literally on the river's edge is a premium feature that transforms a simple camping trip into a truly immersive natural experience. Whether it's casting a line, listening to the water flow, or just enjoying a morning coffee with a riverside view, this connection to the water is what many Coloradoans seek. Furthermore, the enforced digital detox—the absence of cell service—is a welcome relief for those of us constantly plugged into the modern world. It's an opportunity to truly be present, engage with family and friends, and rediscover the simple joys of nature.

While the winding drive through the canyon might require a bit of extra caution, it's a small price to pay for access to such a beautiful and well-kept natural sanctuary. Kelly Flats Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's an opportunity to reset, recharge, and revel in the spectacular beauty that is uniquely Colorado. For a serene, clean, and authentically unplugged riverside camping adventure, Kelly Flats remains a top choice for locals.

Kelly Flats Campground

Livermore, CO 80536, USA