Redstone Campground

For Colorado locals, discovering a campground that truly excels in every aspect – from its natural beauty to its amenities and management – is a real treat. Redstone Campground, nestled in the scenic Crystal River Valley near Carbondale, is widely celebrated as such a place, earning accolades like "phenomenal" for its hosts and "spotless" for its facilities. This is not just a place to pitch a tent; it's a meticulously maintained retreat offering stunning views, the soothing sounds of the river, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned RVer, a tent camper, or looking for a group gathering spot, Redstone Campground consistently delivers a high-quality experience that resonates deeply with the spirit of Colorado outdoor living.

Redstone Campground is ideally situated on CO-133, Carbondale, CO 81623, USA. This location places it along the scenic West Elk Loop, just north of the charming and historic village of Redstone, and approximately 15 miles south of Carbondale. Its precise elevation is around 7,800 feet, providing a refreshing mountain climate. Accessibility is generally excellent, as the campground is directly off a state highway. While you might experience "some road noise," reviews indicate "not too much traffic," allowing for a largely peaceful environment. The campground's position offers stunning views, particularly of the "stunning cliffs of Maroon Fm. Sandstone" that truly come alive "against a sunrise." This strategic location provides the best of both worlds: convenient access to essential supplies in Carbondale and the unique attractions of Redstone, while still feeling deeply immersed in the White River National Forest. The drive itself along CO-133 is picturesque, winding through a beautiful landscape that immediately sets the tone for your mountain escape.

Redstone Campground is renowned for its comprehensive and exceptionally well-maintained services, designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

• Diverse Campsites: The campground features 37 spacious campsites and a group campground capable of accommodating up to 50 people. Sites are suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs, with some able to handle lengths up to 80 feet.
• Water and Electric Hookups: Sites 1-19 offer cold running water and electrical hookups (15-amp and 30-amp available) for an additional fee, a highly sought-after amenity in mountain campgrounds. Water is also available from hydrants for sites 21-38.
• Hot-Water Showers: A major highlight for many campers are the "spotless" bathrooms and the availability of hot-water showers, providing a welcome comfort after a day of outdoor activities.
• Flush and Vault Toilets: The campground offers a mix of facilities, including one bathroom with a flush toilet and hot/cold running water, along with three composting/vault toilet facilities, all noted for their cleanliness.
• Bear Boxes/Food Lockers: Each site is equipped with large, sturdy "bear boxes" for secure food and trash storage. This is a crucial service for visitor safety and wildlife protection.
• Picnic Tables, Fire Rings, and Grills: Every campsite includes a picnic table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfires (fire bans permitting).
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are available, making responsible waste disposal easy for campers.
• Camp Hosts: Phenomenal, friendly, and hard-working camp hosts (like "Todd") are on-site, consistently praised for their helpfulness and dedication to keeping facilities "spotless."
• Recreational Facilities: The campground features a playground, an open play area, a basketball court, horseshoe pits, and a picnic shelter, providing ample options for family fun and recreation.
• Firewood for Sale: Campers can purchase firewood directly from the camp host, adding to the convenience.

Redstone Campground is packed with features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Stunning Scenery and Views: The "stunning cliffs of Maroon Fm. Sandstone" and the picturesque setting amidst aspen groves and diverse forest create a truly beautiful backdrop. Visitors are immersed in the natural splendor of the White River National Forest.
• Privacy and Spacious Sites: Sites are "widely spaced" and offer a "good amount of privacy," thanks to the natural understory of tall grass and scattered trees, allowing campers to unwind in peace.
• Crystal River Access: The campground is located next to the Crystal River, with many sites offering access. The "sound of the river at night is awesome," providing a soothing natural soundtrack to your stay. The river is also excellent for fishing.
• Exceptional Camp Hosts: The consistently positive reviews highlight the "phenomenal," "friendly," and "hard working" camp hosts as a major asset, providing assistance and ensuring a pleasant experience.
• Proximity to Charming Towns: Its location is unbeatable – only about "10 min to Marble or Redstone" and roughly "40 to Carbondale." This allows for easy day trips to explore the historic coke ovens, the Redstone Castle, the town of Marble (famous for its quarry), and the amenities and dining options in Carbondale.
• Abundant Outdoor Activities: The area is a hub for recreation, including world-class fishing in the Crystal River, extensive hiking trails, mountain biking, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The paved Crystal Valley Trail is accessible right at the campground entrance.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground, basketball court, horseshoe pits, and spacious sites, the campground is well-suited for families with children, offering plenty of activities for all ages.
• No Cell Service (A Feature for Disconnecting): While some might see it as a drawback, the lack of cell service allows for a genuine opportunity to disconnect from technology and fully immerse oneself in nature, which is a desirable feature for many seeking a true escape.

For all inquiries and to make reservations for Redstone Campground, the primary contact is through the Recreation.gov system, or the managing Forest Service district. The campground's address is CO-133, Carbondale, CO 81623, USA. The primary phone number for general campground inquiries is (970) 927-0107, which connects to the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District of the White River National Forest. For reservations, it is essential to use Recreation.gov directly (or call their toll-free number 1-877-444-6777). Redstone Campground is reservable, with booking windows often opening up to six months in advance. Given its high popularity, especially for sites with hookups or group sites, booking well in advance is strongly recommended, particularly for peak season weekends. It is also advisable to contact the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District before your trip for the most current information on fire bans, local conditions, and any wildlife advisories, ensuring a safe and well-prepared camping experience.

Redstone Campground truly stands out as a five-star destination for Colorado locals, offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and exceptional service. The consistently praised camp hosts exemplify the welcoming spirit that defines a great camping experience, going "that extra mile to keep things nice." For those who appreciate the comfort of "spotless bathrooms and showers," this campground provides a level of cleanliness not always found in mountain settings. The "stunning cliffs" and the constant, calming sound of the Crystal River create an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Furthermore, the ability to secure sites with water and electric hookups caters to a wide range of camping styles, from RVers to tent campers. Its strategic location offers both peaceful seclusion and convenient access to the unique charms of Redstone and Marble, as well as the larger town of Carbondale for supplies. Whether you're seeking world-class fishing, extensive hiking opportunities, or simply a beautiful and well-managed place to unwind with loved ones, Redstone Campground provides a memorable and genuinely Coloradoan outdoor experience that will keep you coming back.

Redstone Campground

CO-133, Carbondale, CO 81623, USA