Thirty Mile Campground

For Colorado locals, the call of the San Juan Mountains and the vast wilderness of the Rio Grande National Forest is a powerful one. Finding a campground that offers both the serene beauty of nature and comfortable amenities can make all the difference in a perfect outdoor escape. Thirty Mile Campground, nestled on the banks of the Rio Grande and Grizzly Creek near Pagosa Springs, embodies this ideal balance, making it a beloved destination for generations of Colorado families.

Thirty Mile Campground is more than just a collection of campsites; it's a gateway to some of Colorado's most stunning natural landscapes. Its strategic location provides direct access to the mighty Rio Grande and the pristine Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest wilderness area. This means unparalleled opportunities for fishing, hiking, and simply soaking in the immense beauty of the high country, all from a welcoming and well-maintained base camp.

This overview will delve into the unique aspects that make Thirty Mile Campground a highly suitable choice for Colorado residents. We'll explore its inviting atmosphere, the thoughtful amenities that enhance your stay, and the myriad of recreational opportunities that lie just steps from your tent or RV. From the spacious campsites to the famously clean restrooms and the welcoming camp hosts, Thirty Mile consistently delivers a memorable experience. Prepare to discover why this campground has been a cherished family tradition for over 50 years and why it continues to be a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts across Colorado.

Thirty Mile Campground is ideally situated on Co Rd 18C, near Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, USA, deep within the heart of the Rio Grande National Forest. Its location is a significant draw, placing it just a short mile from the beautiful Rio Grande Reservoir and directly alongside the flowing waters of the Rio Grande River and Grizzly Creek. This provides immediate access to water-based activities and the soothing sounds of the river.

Access to Thirty Mile Campground is generally straightforward. From Creede, Colorado, visitors can take State Highway 149 south for approximately 19.3 miles (toward Lake City) to the Rio Grande Reservoir sign (Forest Road 520). A left turn onto Rd. 520 for 0.5 miles leads to a "Y" intersection. Bearing left onto the dirt road, staying on Rd. 520, for another 10.8 miles will bring you to the campground sign, with a final left turn into the campground. While the last stretch is on a dirt road, reviews often indicate it's easily navigable for 2WD vehicles, though conditions can vary with weather.

The campground's elevation is approximately 9,300 feet, offering a true high-mountain Colorado experience with cooler temperatures and fresh air. This high-altitude setting, combined with its location between the Rio Grande and Grizzly Creek in a meadow among mature spruce and aspen trees, provides a stunning backdrop for any camping adventure. The proximity to the Weminuche Wilderness, directly across from the campground, offers adventurers the chance to explore Colorado's largest wilderness area, with peaks reaching over 14,000 feet. The campground is also open year-round, though snow levels can make it inaccessible during winter months, typically November through April.

Thirty Mile Campground is well-regarded for providing a balance of essential amenities within a natural setting, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for various types of campers.

• Spacious Campsites: The campground offers 35 sites, including nine pull-through sites, designed to accommodate both tent and trailer camping. A key highlight noted by visitors is the "plenty of space between campsites and picnic tables," ensuring privacy and room to spread out.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for convenient outdoor dining and enjoyable campfires (subject to local fire restrictions).
• Clean Restrooms: A frequently praised amenity are the "clean, well-lit bathrooms with two stalls per gender." This attention to cleanliness significantly enhances the camping experience, particularly for those who prefer not to rely solely on primitive facilities. These are vault toilets.
• Potable Drinking Water: Drinking water is available within the campground, typically during the summer season (Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend). During the off-season, water may not be available.
• On-site Firewood Sales: Firewood is sold on-site, providing a convenient way for campers to fuel their campfires without needing to transport it from elsewhere.
• Trash Disposal: Trash bins are available, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and practice responsible waste management.
• Camp Hosts: The presence of dedicated and friendly camp hosts, like Leah and Tami mentioned in reviews, is a significant service. They contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, maintain the facilities, and are often available to assist campers with questions or concerns.
• Interpretive Programs: The campground occasionally offers regular interpretive programs, providing educational opportunities about the local environment and wildlife.
• Reservations and First-Come, First-Served: Sites can be reserved up to six months in advance via Recreation.gov, with some sites also available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility.
• Ample Parking: There is ample parking available for day visitors, although stock unloading and horse trailers are not permitted directly within the campground. A dedicated stock unloading area with public corrals is located 3/4 miles east on Forest Road 520.

• Riverside and Creekside Camping: Thirty Mile Campground is uniquely positioned right on the Rio Grande River and Grizzly Creek, with many sites enjoying the soothing sounds of flowing water and some directly overlooking the creek. This is a major highlight for anglers and those seeking a tranquil water-side experience.
• Gateway to Weminuche Wilderness: Directly across from the campground lies the Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest wilderness area. Two trailheads, Squaw Creek Trail #814 and Weminuche Creek Trail #818, lead directly from the campground into this famously rugged region, linking up to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
• Excellent Hiking Opportunities: With convenient trailheads at the campground, visitors have easy access to a variety of hiking experiences, from gentle walks along the river to challenging treks into higher elevations. Reviews highlight the ease of access to higher elevations by road as well.
• Superb Fishing: Anglers frequently praise the excellent trout fishing opportunities in the Rio Grande River and Squaw Creek, which are easily accessible from the campsites.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, Thirty Mile offers "plenty of space between campsites," ensuring a more private and enjoyable experience for campers. Sites are nicely shaded by mature spruce and aspen trees.
• Welcoming and Attentive Camp Hosts: The positive feedback about camp hosts, specifically mentioning their dedication to keeping restrooms clean and making campers feel welcome, underscores a significant feature that enhances visitor satisfaction.
• Long-Standing Family Favorite: The review mentioning "Over 50 years of family camping at Thirty Mile and it never disappoints" speaks volumes about the campground's enduring appeal and consistent quality as a cherished family tradition.
• Bear Country Awareness: The campground is in bear country, and visitors are advised to practice safe food storage techniques, indicating a true wilderness experience.
• Opportunities for Canoeing and Swimming: The proximity to the Rio Grande River and Reservoir makes it a perfect location for canoeing, kayaking, and even swimming (though waters can be very cold).
• No Cell Service: While a challenge for some, the lack of cell service is a highlight for those seeking a true digital detox and uninterrupted connection with nature.

Phone: (719) 658-2556

Mobile Phone: +1 719-658-2556

Address: Co Rd 18C, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, USA

The provided phone numbers are for the Divide Ranger District of the Rio Grande National Forest, which manages Thirty Mile Campground. This is the most reliable contact point for inquiries about current conditions, specific site availability, fire restrictions, road accessibility, and any other pertinent information before or during your visit. While individual camp hosts may have their own communication methods once on-site, the Forest Service office is the official channel for comprehensive details and assistance with planning your trip to this area of the Rio Grande National Forest. For reservations, campers should utilize the Recreation.gov website, as the phone numbers primarily serve as general information lines for the district.

Thirty Mile Campground stands as an exceptionally suitable destination for Colorado locals, embodying the very essence of a pristine mountain escape combined with comforting amenities. For residents of Colorado, the opportunity to immerse oneself in the vastness of the Rio Grande National Forest and the raw beauty of the Weminuche Wilderness, all from a well-appointed and friendly base camp, is truly invaluable.

The spacious campsites, a feature often overlooked in more crowded areas, provide the privacy and elbow room that Coloradans appreciate for a genuine outdoor experience. The meticulously clean and well-maintained restrooms are a significant convenience, making primitive camping more accessible and enjoyable for families and those who prefer a bit more comfort. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated and welcoming camp hosts fosters a sense of community and security, reflecting the friendly spirit of Colorado's outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond the amenities, Thirty Mile's prime location on the Rio Grande and Grizzly Creek offers immediate access to world-class fishing and the soothing sounds of flowing water, perfect for relaxation. The direct trailheads into the Weminuche Wilderness mean that epic hiking and backpacking adventures are literally at your doorstep. This seamless transition from comfortable camping to serious wilderness exploration is a key draw for active Coloradans. The long history of family camping at Thirty Mile, stretching back over 50 years, speaks volumes about its consistent appeal and suitability as a place where generations can create cherished memories in the heart of our state's stunning natural landscapes.

Thirty Mile Campground

Co Rd 18C, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, USA