Silver Thread Campground

For Colorado residents, the call of the mountains is undeniable, and finding a serene escape that combines natural beauty with accessibility is always a win. Silver Thread Campground, located near the charming town of Creede, offers just such an opportunity. Nestled along the historic Silver Thread Scenic Byway (Highway 149) and within the vast Rio Grande National Forest, this campground is a gateway to some of our state's most breathtaking landscapes, including the captivating South Clear Creek Falls. While it presents a more rustic and less amenity-heavy experience, its prime location and natural attractions make it a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic Colorado outdoor adventure.

Silver Thread Campground is particularly known for its immediate proximity to South Clear Creek Falls, a truly stunning natural wonder that is easily accessible even for day visitors. The ability to simply walk from your campsite to witness this impressive waterfall is a significant draw, offering a unique highlight that many other campgrounds can't boast. This blend of convenient access to natural spectacles and a classic camping environment provides a distinct charm that resonates with Coloradans who value direct engagement with the wilderness.

Feedback from previous visitors often centers on the raw, natural beauty of the area. While some opinions on maintenance and pricing vary, the consensus remains that the surrounding landscape, particularly the waterfall, is a significant draw. This suggests that for those who prioritize the natural environment and outdoor activities over extensive modern amenities, Silver Thread Campground provides considerable value. It’s a place where the grandeur of the San Juan Mountains and the soothing sounds of South Clear Creek become the main attractions, inviting campers to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the Colorado high country.

The campground’s location also makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Rio Grande National Forest. Whether your interests lie in fishing the gold-medal waters of nearby creeks, venturing onto hiking trails that lead into the wilderness, or simply enjoying the scenic drives along the Silver Thread Byway, Silver Thread Campground positions you perfectly for a diverse range of outdoor pursuits. It caters to those who are self-reliant and eager to explore the vast natural playground that surrounds them, rather than expecting a highly manicured experience.

For many Colorado locals, the appeal of a national forest campground like Silver Thread lies in its authentic feel. It’s a place where you can experience camping as it was meant to be – under the stars, surrounded by towering trees, and with the sounds of nature as your soundtrack. While basic facilities are provided, the true essence of the trip comes from your interaction with the environment, making it an ideal choice for those who embrace the spirit of adventure and appreciate the wild heart of Colorado.

Silver Thread Campground is located at Creede, CO 81130, USA. More specifically, it is strategically positioned along Colorado State Highway 149, also known as the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, approximately 23 miles south of Creede and about 29 miles north of Lake City. This central location makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring this picturesque route through the San Juan Mountains. The campground entrance is situated on an inside curve along Highway 149, which means drivers should be attentive to the signs to locate it easily. Its address within the Rio Grande National Forest ensures immediate access to vast expanses of wilderness.

Accessing Silver Thread Campground is generally straightforward for most vehicles, including RVs, as it is directly off a state highway. The campground features both gravel pull-through sites and dead-end gravel spur sites, accommodating various camping setups. While the main roads leading to the campground are paved, the internal campground roads are gravel. Given its mountainous location at an elevation of approximately 9,500 feet, it's always prudent to check weather and road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when snow or mud can affect travel. The relative ease of access combined with its remote, natural setting makes it an appealing choice for Coloradans looking for a mountain getaway without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Silver Thread Campground offers essential services designed to support a traditional camping experience within a beautiful natural setting. While not a full-service resort, it provides key amenities for a comfortable stay.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 10 to 11 designated campsites, including a mix of gravel pull-through sites suitable for RVs and dead-end gravel spurs primarily for tents or smaller setups. Some sites offer partial shade from aspen and spruce trees.
• Potable Water: A significant convenience for campers, potable water is available from centrally located spigots within the campground during the main operating season (typically Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained vault toilets are provided for visitor use.
• Dumpster Service: Trash disposal is available via a dumpster during the peak season, promoting a clean camping environment. (Note: During the shoulder season after Labor Day, trash must be packed out.)
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Every site includes a fire ring, often with a grill grate, allowing for safe campfires and outdoor cooking (subject to any fire restrictions in place).
• Camp Host: During the busiest season (Memorial Day to Labor Day), a camp host often resides in Site 10 to assist campers and provide local information.
• Day Use Parking: There is designated day parking available for visitors who wish to access the trail to South Clear Creek Falls without camping overnight.

The features and highlights of Silver Thread Campground predominantly center around its spectacular natural surroundings and the unique recreational opportunities they present. These elements are what make it a memorable Colorado camping destination.

• South Clear Creek Falls Access: The absolute highlight is the short, easy hike from the campground to South Clear Creek Falls. This stunning waterfall is a must-see and provides a dramatic natural backdrop for your camping trip. The trail is considered kid-friendly and suitable for most ages.
• Scenic Location: Situated at 9,500 feet elevation within the Rio Grande National Forest, the campground boasts breathtaking mountain views and is surrounded by a mix of aspen and spruce trees, offering a truly immersive high-country experience.
• Fishing Opportunities: South Clear Creek, adjacent to the campground, and nearby Browns Lake State Wildlife Area (about 1.5 miles west) offer excellent fishing for trout, including brook, brown, and rainbow. Browns Lake also allows non-motorized and trolling motor boating.
• Silver Thread Scenic Byway Access: The campground's location directly on Highway 149 provides easy access to one of Colorado's most beautiful scenic drives, inviting exploration of the historic mining towns of Creede and Lake City, and other natural attractions along the way.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding national forest is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot deer, elk, and various bird species. The area is known for good moose habitat, and campers should always practice bear-aware food storage.
• Hiking Trails: Beyond the waterfall trail, the area provides access to more extensive hiking opportunities, including portions of the Continental Divide Trail and trails leading into the Weminuche Wilderness (e.g., Grizzly Creek Trail #814 & Weminuche Trail #818).
• AT&T Cell Service: Uncommonly for a remote national forest campground, there are reports of 2 bars of AT&T cell service, which can be a valuable feature for those who need some connectivity.

For inquiries or to confirm details about Silver Thread Campground, it's best to contact the managing body, which is the Rio Grande National Forest, specifically the Divide Ranger District.

Address: Creede, CO 81130, USA (Located along CO-149, the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, within the Rio Grande National Forest)

For current conditions, fees, or operational details, please contact:

Rio Grande National Forest - Divide Ranger District

Phone: (719) 657-3321

It is always advisable to call ahead, especially during peak season or if you plan to visit during shoulder seasons, to confirm opening and closing dates, fire restrictions, and any other pertinent information that might affect your stay.

Silver Thread Campground is an excellent choice for Coloradans who seek an accessible yet authentic mountain camping experience. For locals, its draw lies in its straightforward approach to outdoor recreation and its direct connection to iconic Colorado landscapes. If you're someone who appreciates the raw beauty of our state's mountains, enjoys the simple pleasures of a campfire, and values being just a short walk from a stunning natural wonder like South Clear Creek Falls, then this campground is perfectly suited for you. It offers a genuine escape into the Rio Grande National Forest without requiring extensive backcountry travel, making it an ideal weekend getaway or a basecamp for exploring the scenic Silver Thread Byway. While the fees are noted, the value comes from the prime location and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendor that defines Colorado. For those who prioritize natural attractions and a traditional camping atmosphere over resort-style amenities, Silver Thread Campground provides a truly memorable and convenient option for experiencing the best of the Colorado outdoors.

Silver Thread Campground

Creede, CO 81130, USA