Radium River Access Campground

For those of us who live in Colorado, the call of the river is often as strong as the call of the mountains. The Colorado River, a lifeline through our state, offers countless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled beauty. If your ideal getaway involves waking up to the sound of flowing water, with easy access to fishing, floatboating, or simply enjoying a tranquil riverside setting, then Radium River Access Campground near Bond, Colorado, is a destination you'll want to explore. This article is crafted specifically for you, our local Colorado audience, to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes Radium River Access a distinctive and appealing choice for your next outdoor escape.

Radium River Access Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a strategically located hub for river recreation within the Upper Colorado River Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA). It offers a unique combination of natural beauty, convenient facilities, and direct access to the mighty Colorado River. As one satisfied camper noted, despite some unpredictable weather, "this place was so great!!! Driving there is beautiful; and we were close to the river." This highlights its core appeal: a direct connection to the water in a picturesque setting. Our aim here is to provide you with all the essential details about Radium River Access Campground, from its precise location and how to reach it, to the specific services it provides and the unique features that set it apart. We’ll also cover practical advice to help you plan your visit effectively.

We understand that choosing the right campground is key to a memorable outdoor experience. By highlighting its riverside location, reservable campsites, well-maintained facilities (including regularly checked bathrooms), and suitability for both individual and group campers, we hope to illustrate why Radium River Access Campground is an excellent choice for Coloradans who love water-based activities and a comfortable yet authentic outdoor setting. Prepare to discover a truly great Colorado gem, where even the occasional "barker" dog can't diminish the overall charm, especially with a pair of earplugs!

Radium River Access Campground is idyllically situated along the banks of the Colorado River, with its address listed as Bond, CO 80423, USA. This places it within the Upper Colorado River Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA), an area renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Kremmling Field Office.

Accessing Radium River Access Campground typically involves driving off of US Highway 9 onto Trough Road (also known as Grand County Road 1). From Trough Road, you would turn onto County Road 11 (sometimes referred to as Sheephorn Road or Radium Road). The campground is located approximately 15 miles from Highway 9, along these scenic routes. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering "beautiful" vistas as you approach the river corridor.

The campground is strategically positioned for direct river access. It features "2 developed boat ramp sites" (Launch 1 is even ADA accessible), making it an ideal base for those looking to launch rafts, kayaks, canoes, or simply enjoy river fishing. While the roads leading to the campground are generally manageable, visitors should always be prepared for unpaved sections common on BLM-managed lands. All vehicles and any towed trailers must be parked within the sites' assigned parking areas and not in the roadway, with specific parking size limitations for different site types (e.g., walk-in sites vs. pull-through sites).

For those interested in exploring beyond the river, the area also provides access to trails, including the Warm Springs Trail and Ol' Warm Springs Trail, which lead to the primitive Radium Warm Springs. Access to the hot springs via vehicle is limited, with new trailheads and parking areas developed to encourage foot travel, making the campground a convenient starting point for such excursions.

The closest town for supplies and services is Kremmling, located slightly north. While not directly adjacent, Kremmling offers necessary provisions, making it a viable resupply point for campers. This combination of relative accessibility via scenic routes and direct river access makes Radium River Access Campground a highly desirable location for water enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque Colorado getaway.

Radium River Access Campground, as a developed BLM site within the Upper Colorado River SRMA, offers a range of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and convenient river-based camping experience. These services are well-suited for both individual campers and larger groups, enhancing their time along the Colorado River.

• Reservable Campsites: A key service is that "All sites require a reservation through Recreation.gov." This provides peace of mind for campers, allowing them to plan their trips in advance and secure a spot, rather than relying on first-come, first-served availability. There are "16 single campsites and 2 Group Campsites," catering to various party sizes.
• Varied Campsite Types: Campsites are designed with varying parking spaces to accommodate different vehicle and trailer sizes. "Campsites 1-4 are walk-in sites" with parking for one vehicle, ideal for tent campers. "Campsites 5-13 have pull through parking areas and can typically fit one to two vehicles and small trailers," while "Campsites 14-16 have pull in parking and is 30 feet in length or less." Each site includes a "picnic table" and a "fire ring" with a "grill on it," providing essential amenities for outdoor living.
• Restroom Facilities (Vault Toilets): The campground features "9 vault toilets" conveniently located throughout the area. Reviewers noted that "The bathrooms were constantly checked on," and there was "plenty of TP," indicating good maintenance. This ensures basic hygiene facilities are readily available.
• Trash Receptacles: Large trash bins are available "near the changing rooms or entrance to general parking." This allows campers to properly dispose of their waste, contributing to the cleanliness and preservation of the area.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that "There is no potable water provided at this area." Campers must either bring all their drinking water or be equipped with reliable water filtration/purification systems for treating water from the Colorado River.
• Developed Boat Ramps: A significant service for river users is the provision of "2 developed boat ramp sites," including one that is ADA accessible. This makes launching and taking out watercraft much easier and safer.
• Dressing Rooms: The presence of "nice dressing rooms" near the river access points is a valuable amenity for those engaging in water activities, allowing them to change comfortably.
• On-site Host: Reviewers praise the "host Kelly" who was "absolutely amazing with our group." This suggests that during the peak season, there is an on-site camp host who can provide assistance, local information, and ensure a smooth experience for visitors.
• Quiet Hours and Pet Policy: The campground enforces "Quiet Hours between 10:00pm and 6:00am" and requires "Pets must be leashed or under the direct and immediate voice control of a responsible person at all times," contributing to a peaceful and respectful environment for all campers.

These comprehensive services, though lacking potable water, ensure a well-managed and enjoyable camping experience focused on river access and outdoor recreation.

Radium River Access Campground offers a distinct set of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for those seeking an engaging outdoor experience along the Colorado River:

• Direct Colorado River Access: The most prominent highlight is its prime location directly on the Colorado River. It boasts "2 developed boat ramp sites," making it an unparalleled base for "fishing and floatboating." This is ideal for rafters, kayakers, and anglers who want immediate access to the water.
• Stunning Natural Scenery: The "area is gorgeous" with a "beautiful" drive leading to it. Campers are immersed in picturesque landscapes, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and outdoor activities. The proximity to the river means constant exposure to the sights and sounds of flowing water.
• Well-Maintained and Convenient Sites: Reviewers appreciate that "the campsites are level and convenient to restrooms." This attention to site quality ensures a comfortable and accessible camping experience, even for larger groups, with one reviewer noting "many tables there for our big group!"
• Attentive Management and Cleanliness: The bathrooms were "constantly checked on" and "provided sanitizer," indicating a commitment to cleanliness and visitor well-being. The positive mention of "host Kelly" highlights the presence of helpful staff who enhance the camping experience.
• Family and Group Friendly: With "16 single campsites and 2 Group Campsites," along with multiple tables at group sites, Radium River Access is highly suitable for both individual travelers and larger gatherings. This makes it an excellent choice for family reunions or group outdoor adventures.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Being nestled in a natural river corridor, the campground offers potential for wildlife sightings. While one reviewer had an unfortunate experience with a barking ranch dog, the presence of such sounds also hints at a vibrant local ecosystem, where coyotes, river otters, muskrats, beavers, deer, elk, moose, bears, and mountain lions may be spotted in the broader Upper Colorado River SRMA.
• Proximity to Radium Hot Springs: The campground is relatively close to the primitive Radium Warm Springs, accessible via a hike (Warm Springs Trail or Ol' Warm Springs Trail). This offers an additional unique natural attraction for adventurous campers.
• Reservable Sites: The fact that "All sites require a reservation through Recreation.gov" is a significant highlight, allowing campers to plan their trips well in advance without the uncertainty of first-come, first-served availability.
• Designated Dressing Rooms: For river users, the availability of "nice dressing rooms" at the access points is a practical and appreciated feature, making pre and post-river activities more comfortable.

These features collectively ensure that Radium River Access Campground provides a well-equipped, scenic, and adventure-ready base for exploring the Colorado River and its surroundings.

For Radium River Access Campground, the primary contact information is associated with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Kremmling Field Office, which manages the Upper Colorado River Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) where the campground is located. While there isn't a direct phone for an on-site office at the campground itself, general inquiries and specific questions can be directed to the managing BLM office.

Phone:
(970) 724-3000
Mobile Phone: +1 970-724-3000

This phone number is for the BLM Kremmling Field Office. This is the best point of contact for inquiries regarding current campground operating dates, site availability, road conditions, fire restrictions, special regulations for river use, and any general questions about the Radium Recreation Area.

Address:
Radium River Access Campground
County Road 11 (also referred to as Radium Road or Sheephorn Road)
Bond, CO 80423, USA

For mailing inquiries, the BLM Kremmling Field Office can be reached at:
PO BOX 68
Kremmling CO 80459

Online Resources:
For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to consult the official websites of the Bureau of Land Management and the national recreation reservation system.

• Recreation.gov: Reservations for all campsites at Radium River Access Campground are made through Recreation.gov (www.recreation.gov). This is the primary platform where you will check availability, make reservations, and find detailed information about specific campsites, including amenities, photos, and policies. It is crucial to check this site for reservation requirements and availability, especially during peak season, as sites are popular.
• Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Website: Navigate to the BLM Colorado website, specifically the section for the Kremmling Field Office (e.g., blm.gov/office/kremmling-field-office). Here you can find detailed information on the Upper Colorado River SRMA, including recreational opportunities, current conditions, alerts (such as fire bans or river advisories), and maps. This site will provide crucial context and safety information for preparing for your trip.

Always verify operating seasons, current conditions of access roads, river levels, and fire restrictions directly through the BLM phone number or website before planning your trip, as conditions in river environments can change frequently and impact recreational safety.

For those of us who proudly call Colorado home, Radium River Access Campground offers an outdoor experience that perfectly aligns with our state's diverse recreational passions. It's a place that caters directly to the local love for river-based adventures, striking an excellent balance between convenience and immersion in nature.

Firstly, its prime location directly on the Colorado River is an undeniable draw for Coloradans. We live in a state defined by its incredible waterways, and Radium provides immediate access for "floatboating" and "fishing." Whether you're a seasoned angler, a family looking for a gentle river float, or a group planning a multi-day rafting trip, having "developed boat ramp sites" and the river just steps from your tent makes this campground exceptionally convenient. This direct connection to the water is a cherished aspect of the Colorado outdoor lifestyle.

The "well-maintained campsites" with "level" ground and "many tables" for groups speak directly to the practical needs of Colorado campers. We appreciate functional facilities that make our outdoor stays comfortable and enjoyable. The attentive "host Kelly" and the consistently "checked on" bathrooms, complete with "sanitizer," demonstrate a commitment to visitor experience and cleanliness, which elevates the appeal for discerning locals. While one reviewer mentioned a barking dog, it's clear the overall positive experience, and the availability of "ear plugs," quickly overcome minor inconveniences, highlighting the robust appeal of the site itself.

The fact that "All sites require a reservation through Recreation.gov" is a significant advantage for locals. We understand the popularity of Colorado's outdoor spaces, and the ability to plan and secure a campsite in advance provides invaluable peace of mind. This allows for thoughtful trip planning, ensuring that our precious weekends and vacation days are spent enjoying the river, rather than scrambling for an available spot.

Furthermore, the opportunity for both individual and group camping, alongside nearby attractions like the Radium Warm Springs (accessible via a scenic hike), ensures there's something for every type of local adventurer. It’s a place where families can bond by the river, friends can embark on memorable float trips, and solo campers can find tranquility amidst the stunning natural beauty.

In conclusion, Radium River Access Campground is an ideal destination for Colorado locals who seek a direct, convenient, and well-managed riverside camping experience. It offers the perfect blend of recreational access, comfortable amenities, and the breathtaking natural beauty that defines our beloved state. It’s a place where you can create lasting memories, whether through the thrill of the river or the simple peace of a well-pitched tent by the water's edge.

Radium River Access Campground

Bond, CO 80423, USA