North Creek Campground

For those in Colorado who truly appreciate a raw, back-to-nature camping experience, North Creek Campground near Wetmore offers an authentic taste of dispersed camping. This isn't your typical developed campground with paved sites and numerous amenities; instead, it provides a more rugged, less-structured environment perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and direct immersion in the wilderness. If your idea of a perfect escape involves quiet nights under a star-filled sky, the gentle sounds of a creek, and a chance to truly disconnect, then North Creek Campground might just be your next favorite spot.

Unlike commercial campgrounds, North Creek embodies the spirit of dispersed camping. It’s an informal area where you’ll find a few established spots rather than designated, numbered campsites. This setup fosters a sense of freedom and allows for a more personal connection with the natural surroundings. It’s a place where you bring everything you need and leave no trace, honoring the wild beauty of Colorado. Locals who cherish quiet moments and prefer to avoid crowded tourist spots often find this type of camping incredibly rewarding.

While some may be accustomed to more amenities, the charm of North Creek lies in its simplicity. It’s a reminder of what camping truly is about – roughing it slightly, appreciating the unadorned landscape, and finding peace in the absence of modern distractions. This isn't to say it's without its considerations, but for the right kind of explorer, its raw appeal is exactly what makes it so special and beloved by those who discover its understated charm.

North Creek Campground is located in Wetmore, CO 81253, USA, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Custer County. To reach this rustic gem, you'll need to be attentive, as finding the entrance can be a bit of an adventure in itself. Access off the main highway involves a relatively hard, steep, and short 90-degree turn. This particular entry point is a key consideration for visitors, especially those with larger vehicles.

Based on local insights, the road leading into the camping area can appear much like a private driveway, which has sometimes led to confusion for those unfamiliar with the spot. Keep an eye out for any subtle indicators, as official signage may be minimal or absent. The road itself is unpaved and can be bumpy, with some reviews mentioning overgrown brush that could potentially scrape against larger vehicles. This makes it an ideal spot for tent campers, smaller SUVs, or compact trailers, but those with large RVs, particularly fifth wheels, might find the access challenging and potentially damaging to their rig due to the steep slope and tight turn.

There are typically a couple of spots for dispersed camping on the north side of the county road, accessed via a short, overgrown spur road. Additionally, there might be a larger parking area on the south side of the road with a walk-in spot located along the creek. These areas are not formally marked campgrounds but rather natural pull-offs where previous campers have set up. Given its rustic nature, it's wise to approach with a suitable vehicle and be prepared for unpaved conditions.

As a dispersed camping area, North Creek Campground operates with minimal amenities, emphasizing self-reliance and a "leave no trace" ethos. This differs significantly from developed campgrounds you might find in state or national parks. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Informal Camping Spots: There are no designated, numbered campsites. Instead, you'll find a few established, informal areas where campers have previously set up, often marked by existing fire rings. These are essentially pull-offs or clearings suitable for pitching a tent or parking a small camper.
• Fire Pits: You'll typically find existing fire pits at these informal camping spots. It's crucial to use these established rings and to always check current fire restrictions before lighting any fire.
• No Potable Water: Unlike many developed campgrounds, North Creek Campground does not provide potable water. Campers must bring all their own drinking water for the duration of their stay.
• No Restroom Facilities: There are no developed restrooms (vault toilets or flush toilets) on site. Campers are responsible for practicing proper human waste disposal, following Leave No Trace principles (e.g., digging cat holes far from water sources and trails).
• No Trash Disposal: There are no trash bins or dumpsters available. All waste, including food scraps, packaging, and any other garbage, must be packed out with you. Adhering to "pack it in, pack it out" is essential to keep the area clean and beautiful.
• No Hookups: For RVs or trailers, there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups. This is a dry camping experience.
• Limited or No Cell Service: Due to its remote nature, cell phone service can be unreliable or non-existent, making it an excellent opportunity to truly disconnect.
• Dog-Friendly: While not a formal service, dispersed camping generally allows dogs, provided they are kept under control and all pet waste is properly managed and packed out.

• True Dispersed Camping Experience: North Creek offers an authentic, undeveloped camping experience, perfect for those who prefer to be self-sufficient and enjoy a rustic outdoor adventure away from crowds.
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Many visitors seek out North Creek for its peaceful environment, providing a true escape from noise and light pollution. It's an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and enjoying the sounds of nature.
• Creek Side Access: Some of the camping spots are located along North Creek, offering the soothing sound of flowing water and potential opportunities for creek-side relaxation.
• Ideal for Tents and Small Campers: The terrain and access road are best suited for tent camping or very small, nimble trailers, allowing these campers to reach spots that larger rigs cannot.
• "Leave No Trace" Principles: This location is an excellent place to practice and uphold the Leave No Trace outdoor ethics, including packing out all trash and properly disposing of human waste, fostering a responsible approach to enjoying public lands.
• Proximity to Wetmore Area: While remote, it’s still relatively close to Wetmore, which offers a small taste of local Colorado charm and a potential base for re-stocking supplies before heading back into the wild.
• Star Gazing Opportunities: With minimal light pollution, North Creek offers fantastic opportunities for stargazing on clear nights, showcasing the brilliance of the Colorado night sky.
• Potential for Wildlife Viewing: Being in a natural, undeveloped area increases the chances of spotting local wildlife, from various bird species to deer or other forest creatures.

Address: Wetmore, CO 81253, USA

As North Creek Campground is a dispersed camping area and not a formal, managed campground, there isn't a direct phone number or specific contact information in the traditional sense. It falls under the jurisdiction of the local Forest Service or BLM office that manages the public lands in the Wetmore area. For general inquiries about the region, fire restrictions, or regulations concerning dispersed camping in Custer County, it is advisable to contact the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands office which oversees this area. A general number for the forest service in the region might be found online, but there isn't one specifically for this informal camping spot.

For Colorado locals, North Creek Campground represents a fantastic opportunity to embrace the authentic, rugged side of our state’s outdoor offerings. This isn't the manicured RV park or the crowded state park campground; it's a true dispersed camping experience, appealing directly to those who value solitude, self-sufficiency, and a deeper connection with nature. We Coloradans know that sometimes the best adventures are found off the beaten path, and North Creek perfectly embodies that spirit.

Its "no frills" approach means you won't find bustling crowds, loud generators, or the typical distractions of more developed sites. Instead, you'll find quiet moments by the creek, unblemished night skies for stargazing, and the peace that comes from truly being in the wild. This makes it particularly suitable for tent campers and those with smaller, more versatile vehicles who can navigate the slightly challenging access road. It’s an ideal spot for a weekend warrior looking to escape the city limits for a quick, impactful dose of wilderness.

Furthermore, North Creek serves as a prime location to hone your outdoor skills and practice Leave No Trace principles, which are deeply ingrained in Colorado's outdoor culture. By bringing all your supplies, managing your waste responsibly, and respecting the natural environment, you contribute to preserving these precious wild spaces for future generations. For the local seeking an intimate, unspoiled camping experience where the focus is solely on the beauty of Colorado's natural landscape, North Creek Campground near Wetmore is an invaluable, authentic option.

North Creek Campground

Wetmore, CO 81253, USA