Stillwater Campground - Pay Station

For Colorado residents eager to embrace the state's unparalleled natural beauty, Stillwater Campground on the northern shore of Lake Granby stands as a premier destination. Located at 8590 US-34 in Granby, this popular campground within the Arapaho National Forest offers a breathtaking blend of majestic mountain views, direct access to a sprawling reservoir, and a host of amenities designed for a comfortable and memorable outdoor experience. Whether you're planning a family vacation in your RV, a serene tent camping trip, or an active adventure filled with fishing, boating, and hiking, Stillwater Campground provides an ideal base.

Colorado is renowned for its diverse landscapes, and the area surrounding Lake Granby is a testament to this, offering a pristine alpine environment at an elevation of 8,300 feet. Stillwater Campground is not just a place to pitch your tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to an array of recreational opportunities in the Arapaho National Recreation Area. We understand that local Coloradans seek out campgrounds that offer both convenience and a genuine connection to nature, and Stillwater Campground delivers on both fronts.

This article is crafted to provide comprehensive and factual information about Stillwater Campground, drawing from official data and genuine visitor feedback. We will delve into its superb location and accessibility, detail the range of services and facilities available, and highlight its most appealing features. Furthermore, we’ll provide essential contact information to assist with your planning and conclude by outlining why Stillwater Campground is perfectly suited for residents looking to explore and enjoy the natural wonders of their home state. Prepare to discover why Stillwater Campground is a beloved choice for many Colorado outdoor enthusiasts.

Stillwater Campground is strategically located at 8590 US-34, Granby, CO 80446, USA, placing it directly on the picturesque northern shore of Lake Granby. This prime position in Grand County, within the Arapaho National Forest, offers immediate access to one of Colorado's largest and most scenic bodies of water. The campground's address along US-34 ensures excellent accessibility, making it a straightforward drive for residents coming from various parts of Colorado, including the Denver metropolitan area and other Front Range communities.

The accessibility of Stillwater Campground is a significant convenience. US-34 is a well-maintained state highway, accommodating all types of vehicles, from passenger cars to large RVs and those towing trailers. This ease of navigation allows for a less stressful journey, enabling campers to arrive and settle into their lakeside retreat promptly. For many Coloradans, the relatively short and scenic drive is a key factor in choosing this popular destination for weekend escapes or longer vacations.

A defining feature of its location is the unparalleled access to Lake Granby. As noted by many visitors, the campground is "right on the lake," with "easy lake access via numerous paths." This means campers are only steps away from launching a kayak, fishing from the shore, or simply enjoying the tranquil waters. Additionally, a boat ramp and dock are conveniently located on-site, providing direct entry for motorized and non-motorized vessels onto Lake Granby.

The campground's elevated position, at approximately 8,300 feet, affords "absolutely amazing" and "beautiful views" of Lake Granby and the surrounding Rocky Mountains from many of its sites. While some sites, particularly in popular loops, might be "very close to other" campsites, leading to a "crowded" feel during peak season, the stunning vistas often compensate for the closer proximity. It's also important to note that due to past pine beetle infestations and subsequent tree removal for safety, some areas of the campground may have "little to no shade" and can be "windy at times." However, the trade-off for these open sites is often an unobstructed view of the lake and mountains. The campground is also situated near trailheads for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, and the towns of Grand Lake and Granby are just a short drive away, offering additional services and attractions.

• Campsites: Stillwater Campground offers 129 reservable campsites, including both single- and double-family sites. These accommodate a range of equipment, from tents to RVs, with spur lengths ranging from 25 to 40 feet. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, and tent pad.

• Hookups: Many RV sites offer electric hookups (30 amp), and some also provide water hookups. Visitors are advised that water pressure can be quite high, recommending the use of a regulator.

• Restrooms and Showers: Flush and vault toilets are provided throughout the campground. Showers are also available, with some reviews indicating they are free and hot, although there have been occasional reports of some shower facilities being out of order or needing maintenance.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available within the campground, although some sites might experience pressure fluctuations.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is provided for RVs, ensuring convenient waste disposal.

• Lake Access: Easy and direct access to Lake Granby via numerous paths and an on-site boat ramp and dock for boating, fishing, swimming, and paddling activities.

• Camp Hosts: On-site camp hosts are available for assistance, although visitor experiences with communication and proactivity have varied.

• Reservations: Most sites are reservable up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov or by phone. A small number of sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis during the shoulder season.

• Additional Vehicle Fees: One vehicle is included per reservation. Additional vehicles will be charged an extra fee per night, collected by the camp host.

• Required Passes: A valid Colorado hunting or fishing license, or an Arapaho National Recreation Area (ANRA) pass, is required for entry to the SWA for those 16 or older, in addition to camping fees.

• No WiFi/Limited Cell Service: While some reviews indicate good cell service (AT&T and Verizon accessible), others note limited or poor reception for some carriers, particularly T-Mobile. WiFi is generally not available, promoting an unplugged experience.

• Stunning Lakeside Views: The paramount feature of Stillwater Campground is its spectacular location directly on Lake Granby, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Rocky Mountains from many campsites.

• Direct Water Access: With easy paths leading to the shoreline and an on-site boat ramp and dock, the campground is ideal for a wide array of water activities including boating, sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming (though the water can be cold).

• Excellent Fishing: Lake Granby is renowned for its fishing opportunities, with anglers frequently catching kokanee salmon, brown trout, rainbow trout, and mackinaw/lake trout. The campground provides a convenient base for fishing enthusiasts.

• Proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park: Stillwater Campground is just a short 15-minute drive from the Grand Lake Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the park's iconic trails, wildlife, and scenic drives.

• Access to Hiking and Biking Trails: Numerous hiking and mountain biking trails are accessible nearby, including sections of the Continental Divide Trail (e.g., East Shore Trail) and trails leading into the Indian Peaks Wilderness, such as Monarch Lake and Roaring Fork trailheads.

• Clean and Maintained Facilities: Despite occasional reports of maintenance needs, visitors generally praise the cleanliness and well-kept nature of the grounds and restroom facilities, including hot showers.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Campers have opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including moose, elk, deer, black bears, bald eagles, and osprey, especially around the lake and in the adjacent national forest.

• Nearby Town Amenities: The close proximity to the charming towns of Granby and Grand Lake (approximately 8 miles to each) provides convenient access to grocery stores, restaurants, shops, and other services.

• Varied Site Types: The campground offers a mix of RV and tent sites, including those with electric and water hookups, catering to different camping preferences.

Address: Stillwater Campground, 8590 US-34, Granby, CO 80446, USA

Phone: (970) 887-4100

Mobile Phone: +1 970-887-4100

For reservations, the national reservation line for federal campgrounds is often used: 1-877-444-6777 or Recreation.gov. For general information or specific inquiries about current conditions, fees, or seasonal closures, contacting the Sulphur Ranger District of the Arapaho National Forest is advisable at (970) 295-6600. It is always recommended to check for the latest updates before your visit, especially concerning fire bans, water availability, and road conditions.

Stillwater Campground is a truly exceptional destination for Colorado locals, offering a comprehensive and quintessential mountain-lake camping experience that is both accessible and deeply rewarding. For residents across the state, its convenient location on the northern shore of Lake Granby, just off US-34, makes it an ideal choice for a relatively short drive to a world-class outdoor playground. This ease of access means less time traveling and more time enjoying the stunning natural beauty that Colorado is famous for.

The campground’s robust amenities and diverse recreational opportunities are perfectly aligned with the active Colorado lifestyle. With direct lake access, locals can effortlessly engage in popular activities such as fishing for kokanee salmon and trout, kayaking, paddleboarding, or motorboating on Lake Granby. The on-site boat ramp and dock further enhance this convenience, allowing seamless transitions from land to water. Beyond the lake, the proximity to trailheads for hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding provides endless exploration opportunities within the vast Arapaho National Forest and near the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. For Coloradans who value direct access to a variety of outdoor pursuits, Stillwater Campground truly delivers.

While the campground can be popular and some sites might feel less private, the trade-off is often breathtaking views and well-maintained facilities, including showers and flush toilets, which add a level of comfort that many local families and campers appreciate. The availability of RV sites with electric and water hookups caters to modern camping needs, while tent sites allow for a more traditional experience. The natural beauty, from the expansive lake to the surrounding peaks, creates a truly immersive environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.

Ultimately, Stillwater Campground offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for Colorado residents. It's a place where you can create cherished memories, whether through a thrilling day on the water, a peaceful hike in the mountains, or simply unwinding under the vast Colorado sky. For anyone seeking to fully experience the natural wonders of their home state, Stillwater Campground provides an inviting and well-appointed base for an unforgettable Rocky Mountain adventure.

Stillwater Campground - Pay Station

Stillwater Campground, 8590 US-34, Granby, CO 80446, USA