Osprey Campground

For Colorado locals seeking a serene and accessible outdoor escape, Osprey Campground in Sedalia offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and straightforward camping. Nestled along the banks of the renowned South Platte River, this small, tent-only campground provides a back-to-basics experience that prioritizes fishing, water activities, and a quiet connection with nature. Unlike larger, more amenity-rich sites, Osprey Campground appeals to those who appreciate simplicity and the opportunity to truly unplug in a picturesque Colorado setting.

The charm of Osprey Campground lies in its intimate size and direct access to the river, making it a prime destination for anglers and water enthusiasts. Whether you're casting a line for trout, taking a refreshing dip, or enjoying a leisurely float, the South Platte River is the undeniable centerpiece of the camping experience here. While it might not boast extensive shade trees or constant mobile connectivity, these very aspects contribute to its rustic appeal, encouraging campers to embrace the outdoors fully. Many visitors appreciate the friendly and considerate atmosphere created by fellow campers, reinforcing its suitability for a peaceful getaway.

Osprey Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a tranquil haven where the sounds of the river provide a soothing soundtrack to your Colorado adventure. It’s a favored spot for those in the Denver metro area and surrounding communities who are looking for a convenient yet authentic outdoor experience, especially during the quieter weekdays when the campground tends to be less crowded. If your ideal camping trip involves clean sites, a crackling campfire, and the gentle flow of a world-class fishing river, Osprey Campground is a destination worth exploring.

Osprey Campground is strategically located at 80903 East Jefferson Street, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA. This places it directly on the banks of the South Platte River, a significant feature that defines much of the campground's appeal. Sedalia is a community situated south of Denver, making Osprey Campground an easily accessible option for residents of the Denver metropolitan area, as well as those coming from Colorado Springs and other Front Range communities.

The drive to Osprey Campground typically involves navigating well-maintained roads that offer scenic views of the surrounding Colorado landscape. While the campground feels remote, it is generally considered accessible for standard vehicles. It's important for visitors to note that while the park entrance is straightforward, mobile signal can be limited or non-existent in this area and along parts of the river, so planning ahead and downloading maps is advisable. The campground is about 9 miles from Deckers, another popular recreation hub in the area, indicating its placement within a beloved outdoor recreational corridor of Colorado.

As a first-come, first-served campground, accessibility also refers to its availability. While it's open year-round, popular periods, especially weekends during the summer and early fall, can see it fill up quickly. Arriving early on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons is often recommended to secure one of the 13 available tent-only sites.

• Tent Camping Only: Osprey Campground is exclusively for tent camping. No RVs or travel trailers are permitted on the sites.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites cannot be reserved in advance and are available on a strictly first-come, first-served basis.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenient outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings: Every site includes a fire ring, perfect for campfires and cooking, contributing to that essential camping experience.
• Portable Toilets/Vault Toilets: Portable toilets are available during peak season (typically Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend). Vault toilets may also be present.
• No Potable Water: Visitors should be aware that there is no potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring their own water supply.
• Trash Disposal: Trash receptacles are provided, encouraging a "pack it in, pack it out" mentality and helping maintain the cleanliness of the campground.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all campers and wildlife.
• Quiet Hours: Designated quiet hours are observed from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., promoting a peaceful atmosphere for all visitors.
• Fee Area: A fee is required for overnight camping, typically payable by cash, check, or money order at a self-service fee tube.

• Direct Access to South Platte River: The most significant highlight is its prime location directly on the banks of the South Platte River. This offers unparalleled access for fishing, swimming, and tubing.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Reviews consistently praise the "great fishing" at Osprey Campground. The South Platte River is renowned for its trout fishing, attracting anglers from across the state.
• Secluded, Small Campground: With only 13 sites, Osprey offers a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger campgrounds. This can lead to a more peaceful stay, especially during weekdays.
• Clean Sites and Fire Pits: Campers often note that the "fire pit and site were clean," indicating a well-maintained environment despite its primitive nature.
• Friendly and Considerate Fellow Campers: Customer reviews mention that "the other campers were all friendly and considerate," contributing to a positive and welcoming community atmosphere.
• Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Beyond fishing, the area around Sedalia and the South Platte River corridor offers opportunities for hiking, enjoying scenic drives, and exploring the wider Pike National Forest.
• Year-Round Access: The campground is open year-round, allowing for different seasonal camping experiences, though full services (like portable toilets) are only guaranteed during peak season.
• Rustic and Unplugged Experience: The lack of mobile signal for some providers and the absence of extensive amenities encourage a true disconnect from daily distractions, allowing for a deeper connection with nature.
• Beautiful River Sounds: The constant presence of the river provides a natural, calming soundtrack to your camping experience.

For general inquiries about Osprey Campground, including current conditions, fees, and rules, you can reach out to the managing body, which is typically the U.S. Forest Service or an operating concessionaire like ExplorUs under the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands.

Address: 80903 East Jefferson Street, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the National Recreation Reservation Service, a common point of contact for many national forest campgrounds.)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777

While this phone number connects to a national system, they can often provide information specific to Osprey Campground. For more localized information, especially regarding real-time conditions or specific questions, it might be beneficial to contact the South Platte Ranger District office of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests. However, the provided number is the official contact for booking and information about many federal recreation sites.

Osprey Campground is an ideal destination for Colorado locals who cherish straightforward, nature-focused camping along one of the state's most beloved rivers. Its location in Sedalia offers convenient access from the Front Range, making it perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip or a mid-week escape without extensive travel time. For those in Denver, Colorado Springs, or surrounding communities, it provides a quick and direct route to a truly immersive outdoor experience.

The "first-come, first-served" nature of the campground, while requiring a bit of flexibility, often means that dedicated locals who know the rhythms of the seasons and weekdays can secure a peaceful spot. The primary draw—the South Platte River—offers unparalleled opportunities for fishing, a favorite pastime for many Coloradans. Being able to "walk straight out your tent and into the streams" is a significant advantage that few campgrounds can boast. The simple amenities like picnic tables and fire rings encourage traditional camping joys, fostering a sense of community among fellow outdoor enthusiasts who share a love for the river and the quiet of the mountains.

While the lack of shade trees and potential for limited cell signal might be a consideration for some, for many Colorado residents, these aspects contribute to the authentic, unplugged charm of Osprey. It's a place where families can teach kids to fish, friends can gather around a campfire, and individuals can find solace in the sounds of nature. The positive experiences shared by previous campers, highlighting clean sites and considerate neighbors, reinforce its suitability as a go-to spot for a genuine, respectful, and highly enjoyable Colorado camping adventure.

You can see a video about Osprey Campground, Pike National Forest (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbMzYTK_1vU).

Osprey Campground

80903 East Jefferson Street, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA