Shepherds Rim Campground

For Colorado locals seeking to genuinely "get off the beaten path and away from the crowds," Shepherds Rim Campground offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. Tucked away high in the White River National Forest near Meeker, this campground is a true gem, consistently praised by visitors for its serene atmosphere, immaculate facilities, and the exceptional hospitality of its camp hosts. As a premier basecamp for exploring the awe-inspiring Flat Tops Wilderness Area and the pristine Trappers Lake, Shepherds Rim provides a perfect blend of comfort and rugged beauty. Whether you're pulling a trailer, pitching a tent, or simply looking to immerse yourself in vast mountain views and abundant outdoor activities, this campground promises an unforgettable and deeply rejuvenating Colorado adventure.

Shepherds Rim Campground is located in the beautiful White River National Forest, with its address listed as Meeker, CO 81641, USA. More specifically, it's situated at an elevation of approximately 9,720 to 9,781 feet, near the iconic Trappers Lake. Getting to Shepherds Rim is part of the adventure, involving a scenic drive that gradually takes you deeper into the mountains. From Meeker, you'll typically take Colorado Highway 13 east for about 1 mile, then turn right onto Rio Blanco County Road 8. Follow this well-maintained road for approximately 39 miles until you reach Trappers Lake Road #205. Turn south on Trappers Lake Road #205 and continue for about 10 miles, just past the Trappers Lake Outlet Trailhead. Shepherds Rim Campground will be on your right.

The accessibility is a notable feature, with about 30 miles on asphalt and the final 20 miles on a "well maintained dirt road," as highlighted by a visitor. This makes the campground reachable for a variety of vehicles, including trailers up to 29 feet (and even up to 54 feet for some sites), providing "plenty of room" at sites like #6. While the drive takes approximately "an hour and a quarter" from Meeker (totaling about 51 miles), the journey is worth it for the sense of remoteness and the stunning high-country environment. The campground's proximity to Trappers Lake and numerous trails ensures that once you arrive, exploration is just steps away, making it an accessible yet wonderfully secluded mountain escape for Coloradans.

Shepherds Rim Campground offers a thoughtful selection of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience in a high-alpine wilderness setting.

• Campsites: The campground features 15 scenic campsites, including one tent-only site and 14 standard sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Sites are generally spacious, with reviews noting "plenty of room" for trailers up to 29 feet bumper to tongue. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring for cooking and enjoyment (subject to fire restrictions).

• Potable Water: Water is available within the campground, although not at individual sites. There is a "threaded water spigot near site 14" where campers can fill their fresh water tanks, eliminating the need to haul water from lower elevations.

• Clean Vault Toilets: A standout feature highlighted by multiple reviewers is the exceptional cleanliness of the vault toilets. Visitors consistently praise them as "one of the cleanest we've ever utilized!" and confirm camp hosts keep them "in great shape."

• Camp Host: The presence of an "awesome camp host," specifically mentioning "Tim," is a recurring positive theme. Hosts are described as "great guy and is very good at what he does," contributing significantly to the well-maintained and welcoming atmosphere.

• RV Dump Station Nearby: For RV campers, there is an RV dump station conveniently located within the broader Trappers Lake complex, just down the road, making post-trip cleanup much easier.

• Bear-Proof Storage: While not explicitly detailed in all amenities lists, as a campground in bear country within the White River National Forest, campers should expect and practice proper bear-aware food storage, typically utilizing bear-resistant containers or keeping food secured in vehicles.

• Reservations: Shepherds Rim Campground is the only campground at Trappers Lake that accepts reservations, primarily through Recreation.gov. This is a significant advantage for those who prefer to plan their trips in advance, though some sites may still be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Shepherds Rim Campground is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a highly sought-after destination for Colorado outdoor enthusiasts.

• Unbeatable Location for Flat Tops Exploration: The campground serves as a superb "basecamp" for venturing into the magnificent Flat Tops Wilderness Area, one of Colorado's largest designated wildernesses. It offers "walking distance to trails and the lake," providing immediate access to countless hiking and exploration opportunities.

• Proximity to Trappers Lake: Being situated near Trappers Lake, often called the "Cradle of Wilderness," is a major draw. This large, non-motorized alpine lake is renowned for its fishing, particularly for native cutthroat trout. Its designation as non-motorized ensures a peaceful atmosphere for boating (canoeing, kayaking) and enjoying the pristine waters.

• Stunning Mountain Views: Campers are treated to "amazing views" of the surrounding mountains and forests. The high elevation (9,720 feet) ensures panoramic vistas and a genuinely immersive alpine experience, complete with abundant wildlife like bighorn sheep and elk.

• Quiet and Secluded: Reviews consistently highlight its appeal for those "looking to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds." The campground offers a serene and quiet environment, allowing for true relaxation and connection with nature, away from the hustle and bustle.

• Well-Maintained and Friendly: The combination of "super friendly" camp hosts and "bathrooms in great shape" underscores the commitment to providing a pleasant and well-cared-for camping environment. This attention to detail significantly enhances the overall visitor experience.

• Generous Site Sizes: Many sites, particularly pull-through options like #6, offer "plenty of room" for larger RVs and trailers, as well as ample space for tents and outdoor living, making it comfortable even for extended stays.

• Abundant Wildlife: The White River National Forest is teeming with wildlife. Visitors have excellent opportunities to observe elk, deer, moose, and various bird species, enhancing the wilderness immersion.

For inquiries and to make reservations for Shepherds Rim Campground, the primary point of contact is the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the White River National Forest, specifically the Blanco Ranger District.

• Address: While the campground's physical location is near Meeker, CO 81641, USA, for administrative inquiries, the relevant Forest Service office is:

  Blanco Ranger District

  220 East Market Street

  Meeker, CO 81641

• Phone: The provided phone numbers for Shepherds Rim Campground are (970) 878-4039 and +1 970-878-4039. These numbers likely connect directly to the Blanco Ranger District or the campground host during the operating season. For reservations, it is best to use the national reservation system:

  Recreation.gov Reservation Line: (877) 444-6777

  Local Information for Shepherds Rim Campground (as per Recreation.gov): (970) 927-0107

It is highly recommended to check Recreation.gov directly for the most up-to-date information on campsite availability, operating seasons, fees, and to make reservations, as Shepherds Rim is a reservable campground. Calling the local ranger district is also beneficial for current conditions and specific inquiries.

For Colorado locals, Shepherds Rim Campground is truly an ideal destination that embodies the best of our state's outdoor offerings. Its location near the iconic Flat Tops Wilderness and Trappers Lake makes it a prime base for unparalleled hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing experiences, all within "walking distance." The journey itself, along well-maintained dirt roads, adds to the sense of adventure, leading you to a place that genuinely feels "off the beaten path and away from the crowds." The consistent praise for "super friendly" camp hosts and "exceptionally clean" facilities means that while you're embracing the rugged outdoors, you're doing so with unexpected comfort and support. For RV and trailer owners, the ample site sizes and access to water spigots and a nearby dump station are significant conveniences, allowing for longer, more comfortable stays. Shepherds Rim provides an authentic, high-altitude mountain retreat where locals can reconnect with nature, enjoy pristine surroundings, and create lasting memories in one of Colorado's most cherished wilderness areas. It's a testament to the fact that some of the most rewarding experiences are found where the paved road ends.

Shepherds Rim Campground

Meeker, CO 81641, USA