Weir and Johnson Campground

Hello, fellow Colorado adventurers! If you’re yearning for a genuine escape into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where the hustle and bustle fade away and the sounds of nature take over, then Weir and Johnson Campground might just be your next favorite destination. Nestled within the expansive Mesa National Forest near Collbran, this campground offers a back-to-basics camping experience that many Colorado locals cherish. It's a place where simplicity reigns, allowing you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that our state is so famous for.

Weir and Johnson Campground is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and its focus on providing a more primitive, yet incredibly rewarding, outdoor adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prioritize quietude and easy access to hiking, rather than seeking extensive amenities or vibrant social scenes. If your ideal camping trip involves fresh mountain air, starry nights without light pollution, and direct access to trails, then this hidden gem is certainly worth exploring. It’s a testament to the diverse camping opportunities available right here in Colorado, catering to those who appreciate a less developed and more authentic wilderness experience.

Weir and Johnson Campground is strategically situated in the Mesa National Forest, specifically at Forest Rd 126, Collbran, CO 81624, USA. This location places it deep within the natural beauty of Western Colorado, offering a true sense of remoteness and an escape from urban environments. However, accessing this tranquil retreat requires navigating some unpaved roads. Visitors should be prepared for an approximately eight-mile stretch of washboard road leading to the campground. While this can be a bit bumpy, it's a small price to pay for the serenity and seclusion that awaits.

The drive itself becomes part of the adventure, guiding you through scenic landscapes that build anticipation for your arrival. Despite the unpaved access, the campground is a viable option for most vehicles, though slower speeds are recommended on the washboard section. Its location in the national forest ensures direct access to numerous outdoor activities and provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Given its rustic nature, it’s always wise to check current road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather, to ensure a smooth journey to your high-country escape. The remoteness also means you'll find true peace and quiet, far from the sounds of traffic or city life.

Services Offered:

• Limited Number of Sites: Weir and Johnson Campground features only 12 campsites, contributing to its quiet and less crowded atmosphere. This limited capacity enhances the sense of seclusion and ensures a more intimate camping experience.
• Self-Pay System: The campground operates on a self-pay system, requiring campers to deposit their fees upon arrival. This convenient method allows for flexible check-ins and emphasizes personal responsibility in maintaining the campground.
• Senior Discount Available: For qualifying individuals, a senior discount is offered, reducing the nightly fee. As of current information, the rate is $16, with an $8 senior discount, making it an affordable option for many.
• Walk-In Tent Sites: A portion of the campsites are designated as walk-in sites, primarily suitable for tent campers. These sites often offer more privacy and a more immersive experience in nature, away from vehicle noise.
• Vault Toilet: The campground provides a clean and well-maintained vault toilet for the convenience of campers. While basic, these facilities are regularly serviced, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Garbage Containers: For responsible waste disposal, garbage containers are available at the campground. Campers are encouraged to utilize these facilities to keep the area clean and free from litter, upholding the Leave No Trace principles.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that there is no potable water available at Weir and Johnson Campground. Visitors must bring their own supply of drinking water for the duration of their stay. This is a common feature of more rustic forest service campgrounds.
• No Wood Available: Campers should also be aware that firewood is not provided or sold at the campground. If you plan to have a campfire, you will need to bring your own firewood or gather dead and downed wood in accordance with forest regulations and fire bans.
• No Cell Signal: For those truly looking to disconnect, Weir and Johnson Campground offers no cell phone signal. This ensures an uninterrupted experience with nature, free from digital distractions, and encourages a true "unplugged" getaway.

Features / Highlights:

• Rustic and Peaceful Atmosphere: Weir and Johnson Campground is celebrated for its quiet, rustic ambiance. With only 12 sites, it provides a sense of seclusion and tranquility, perfect for those seeking to escape the noise and crowds of daily life.
• Excellent Hiking Proximity: A major highlight of this campground is its close proximity to numerous hiking trails. Visitors can easily access various routes directly from the campground, offering opportunities for all skill levels to explore the Mesa National Forest's beautiful landscapes.
• Clean Vault Toilets: Despite being a more primitive campground, the vault toilets are consistently noted by visitors as being clean and well-maintained, contributing positively to the overall camping experience.
• Shaded Sites: The campground offers a good amount of shade, which can be a welcome relief during warmer Colorado days. While this might impact solar panel charging or Starlink connectivity for some, it provides a cool and comfortable environment for traditional camping.
• Affordable Camping: With a basic rate and a senior discount available, Weir and Johnson Campground offers an economical option for enjoying the Colorado outdoors, making it accessible to a wider range of campers.
• Limited Crowds: Due to its smaller size and slightly remote access, the campground typically experiences fewer crowds than larger, more developed sites, especially during weekdays, ensuring a more private and serene experience.
• "No Views" - Focus on Immersion: While some reviewers note a lack of expansive "views" from the campsites themselves, this characteristic often translates to a more immersive forest experience. Instead of distant vistas, campers are enveloped by the immediate beauty of the trees and forest floor.
• "Lakes are Small and Being Drawn Down" - Tranquil Water Bodies: The presence of small lakes nearby, even if drawn down, still offers a peaceful setting for short walks or observing local wildlife. These smaller, less trafficked water bodies contribute to the overall quietude of the area.

Contact Information:

Address: Mesa National Forest, Forest Rd 126, Collbran, CO 81624, USA

Phone:

For Colorado locals, Weir and Johnson Campground represents an authentic slice of the state’s natural heritage. It's the ideal spot for those who appreciate the true essence of camping: a quiet retreat where the focus is on nature, simplicity, and disconnecting from the digital world. The fact that it's often less crowded than more popular spots means you can truly find peace and quiet, making it perfect for a spontaneous weekend escape or a mid-week re-charge. Its rustic charm, combined with accessible hiking trails, offers a quintessential Colorado outdoor experience without the frills that can sometimes detract from the wilderness feeling.

The self-pay system and the senior discount further underscore its appeal to the local community, providing an affordable and convenient option for everyone to enjoy the national forest. While the lack of cell service, potable water, or extensive amenities might deter some, for many Coloradans, these very limitations are what make Weir and Johnson so appealing. It encourages preparedness, self-reliance, and a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures of the outdoors. It's a place where memories are made around a campfire, under a blanket of stars, far from the distractions of modern life—a true gem for those who call Colorado home and cherish its wild spaces.

Weir and Johnson Campground

Mesa National Forest, Forest Rd 126, Collbran, CO 81624, USA