Parrish Ranch Campground

For those of us in Colorado who appreciate a truly unique and rustic outdoor experience, Parrish Ranch Campground in Berthoud offers something distinct from your typical state park or private resort. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a sprawling, historic property that serves as both a campground and a charming event venue, rich with an unpolished, authentic Colorado spirit. If you're seeking a spot with character, a connection to the past, and a relaxed, natural setting, Parrish Ranch invites you to discover its unconventional appeal.

Parrish Ranch has a storied history, once a working ranch that, in 1958, transformed with the addition of a square dance barn by the Little Thompson River. As square dancing gained popularity, RVers started visiting, leading to the creation of hook-ups and even unique wooden teepees for those without RVs. This evolution has shaped Parrish Ranch into a versatile destination, capable of hosting large events like weddings and music festivals, while simultaneously offering individual campsites for a more laid-back escape. It’s a place where the sounds of nature blend with the echoes of past celebrations, offering a truly distinctive atmosphere.

The property spans several acres, providing a lush, green environment with mature trees that offer natural shade, a welcome respite during Colorado's warm summers. The Little Thompson River meanders through the ranch, inviting campers to take a refreshing dip or simply enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water. This natural beauty forms the backdrop for various camping options, from traditional tent sites to RV spots with electric and water hookups, and even those charming, rustic teepees for a memorable glamping-style adventure.

What truly sets Parrish Ranch apart is its dual identity. It’s a functioning campground where you can enjoy the quiet of nature, spot wildlife, and listen to abundant bird calls, yet it also boasts the infrastructure to host lively gatherings. This blend offers a dynamic experience; sometimes it’s a tranquil retreat, and at others, it’s buzzing with the energy of a special event. For locals, this means flexibility – a peaceful family outing on one weekend, or a lively celebration venue on another. Its rustic charm is part of its allure, appealing to those who prefer a less manicured, more genuine connection to the land.

While Parrish Ranch embraces its rustic nature, it's important for visitors to understand that this means a different kind of camping experience. It’s for those who value space, natural surroundings, and a unique history more than perfectly manicured lawns or state-of-the-art facilities. It encourages a sense of community around shared spaces, and a readiness to engage with the environment as it is. For locals searching for a campground that stands out from the crowd and offers a memorable story, Parrish Ranch presents an intriguing option right here in Berthoud.

Location and Accessibility

Parrish Ranch Campground is conveniently located at 15720 Parrish Rd, Berthoud, CO 80513, USA. Situated at the base of Rabbit Mountain, with the Little Thompson River running through the property, it offers a serene, rural feel while remaining accessible from major Front Range communities. Its location provides a good balance between a feeling of escape and practical travel times for Colorado locals.

To reach Parrish Ranch, visitors will typically navigate a long dirt road and may pass through cattle gates. While this adds to the "far-from-civilization" feel, most vehicles, including RVs, can generally make it through, though drivers with larger rigs should be mindful of width and potential passing situations. This access method contributes to the peaceful ambiance once you arrive, as it deters casual drive-through traffic.

The campground's proximity to various local attractions enhances its appeal:

• Carter Lake is only a 5-minute drive away, offering additional recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
• It’s well-positioned for exploring the broader Northern Front Range, being within a reasonable driving distance of towns like Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont, and Boulder.
• The rural setting, while feeling remote, is not excessively far from essential services and supplies in nearby Berthoud.

The combination of a rustic, peaceful setting and relatively straightforward access makes Parrish Ranch a viable option for many Colorado residents looking for a quick getaway that still feels truly immersed in nature.

Services Offered

Parrish Ranch Campground offers a range of services designed to accommodate various camping styles, alongside its capabilities as an event venue.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Offers primitive tent camping, RV sites with electric and water hookups (30 amp, with one 50 amp site often used for food trucks), and unique wooden teepee cabins.
• Restrooms and Showers: Public restrooms and showers are available on-site.
• Communal Fire Pit: A shared fire pit is available, encouraging community gatherings and fireside jams (subject to fire restrictions).
• Full Kitchen Access: A full commercial kitchen is available in the event center/dance hall, particularly useful for teepee campers or event attendees.
• River Access: Direct access to the Little Thompson River, ideal for cooling off or exploring.
• Event Facilities: Features a large, two-story historic dance hall suitable for weddings, music festivals, family reunions, and other large gatherings.
• Tables and Chairs: Available for event rentals (approximately 11 eight-foot tables and 90 chairs).
• Refrigeration: Includes a walk-in fridge (though sometimes unavailable) and two standard refrigerators (one in the dance hall kitchen, one in the campground).
• On-site Host: A camp host is typically present, with some reviews praising their helpfulness and responsiveness.

Features / Highlights

• Historic Dance Hall: A unique, two-story venue that adds character and serves as a central point for events.
• Rustic Charm: The property maintains an authentic ranch feel with old structures and a less manicured appearance, appealing to those seeking a genuine, unpolished experience.
• Lush, Green, Shaded Camping: Many sites are set in grassy areas with mature trees, offering desirable shade.
• Little Thompson River Access: Provides opportunities for cooling off, exploring, and enjoying the sounds of nature by the stream.
• Unique Teepee Cabins: Offers a distinctive glamping experience with wooden teepees that may include electricity, refrigerators, and microwaves.
• Versatile Event Space: Perfect for weddings, music festivals, family reunions, corporate retreats, and other large gatherings, with ample space for up to 350 people for single-day events.
• Community Atmosphere: The design encourages interaction, particularly around the communal fire pit and at events.
• Beautiful Stargazing: Away from city lights, the night sky offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.
• Wildlife and Bird Calls: The natural setting is conducive to observing local wildlife and enjoying diverse bird calls.
• Proximity to Rabbit Mountain: Offers nearby hiking opportunities and scenic views.

Contact Information

Address: 15720 Parrish Rd, Berthoud, CO 80513, USA

Phone: (303) 803-3247

Mobile Phone: +1 303-803-3247

Website: For reservations and the most current information, it is recommended to visit their official website or Hipcamp listing, as specific booking details and event schedules are typically managed there.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Colorado locals, Parrish Ranch Campground offers a compelling and multifaceted reason to visit, perfectly aligning with a certain kind of adventurous and community-minded spirit. This isn't a glossy, resort-style destination; instead, it presents itself as an authentic, rustic escape with a deep sense of place and history, making it particularly suitable for those who appreciate character and a less conventional outdoor experience.

Firstly, its location in Berthoud offers a convenient escape from the Front Range's urban centers. While feeling wonderfully remote once you're on the property, complete with a dirt road and cattle gates, it's still close enough for a spontaneous weekend trip. This balance of accessibility and a genuine feeling of being "away from it all" is highly valued by Coloradoans seeking quick, impactful getaways.

Secondly, the diverse camping options cater to a wide range of local preferences. Whether you're a traditional tent camper, an RVer seeking basic hookups in a natural setting, or looking for a unique experience in a wooden teepee, Parrish Ranch accommodates. This flexibility, combined with its lush, shaded grounds and access to the Little Thompson River, provides a comfortable and engaging environment for families, couples, and individuals alike. The presence of a historic dance hall and its function as an event venue also means that locals can experience it in various capacities—from a quiet camping trip to attending a vibrant music festival or even hosting their own special event.

Moreover, the unpolished charm and rustic nature of Parrish Ranch are precisely what appeals to many who live here. Colorado locals often seek genuine experiences that connect them with the state's heritage and natural beauty, rather than overly manicured tourist traps. The communal fire pit and the general atmosphere encourage interaction among campers, fostering a friendly and welcoming environment where new connections can be made, reflecting a strong sense of community. Despite some varying feedback on maintenance, the underlying potential for peaceful relaxation, great stargazing, and abundant bird calls consistently shines through, promising memorable moments.

In essence, Parrish Ranch Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's an invitation to experience a piece of Colorado's rustic charm, a versatile venue for celebration, and a peaceful haven by the river. For locals seeking a camping adventure with character, convenience, and a touch of history, Parrish Ranch stands as a unique and suitable choice.

Parrish Ranch Campground

15720 Parrish Rd, Berthoud, CO 80513, USA