Camping
Camping in Rio Grande National Forest is the ideal situation to take some time to yourself and unwind while enjoying nature and avoiding people. Ninety-five percent of Mineral County is public lands. You'll be sure to find your ideal camp spot, from a campground to an RV site, and even a dispersed camping location.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace while you are enjoying the backcountry. Remember, you are in the forest and may encounter wildlife. Be sure to lock your food and trash in your vehicle at night and that you have cleaned up your campsite before calling it a day. Looking to build a campfire? Take a moment and watch this Campfire Etiquette video.
Scroll down and enjoy some virtual tours of the campgrounds in our neck of the woods. Be sure to stop by the Visitors Center for an area guide and up-to-date information regarding any fire restrictions. The Mineral County Landfill is open Monday, Thursday, and Saturday to accept your trash. There is an RV dump station 1 mile south of town at the Mineral County Fairgrounds where you may empty your RV tank at the credit card operated station ($10). There is NO potable water at the Fairgrounds. Drinking water can be found on the North side of the building at the Visitors Center/Chamber, and donations are appreciated!
Campgrounds in the Rio Grande National Forest near Creede
- Bristol Head Campground • Video Tour
- Ivy Creek Campground
- Lost Trail Campground • Video Tour
- Marshall Park Campground • Video Tour
- North Clear Creek Campground • Video Tour
- Rio Grande Campground • Video Tour
- River Hill Campground • Video Tour
- Road Canyon Campground • Video Tour
- Silver Thread Campground • Video Tour
- Thirty Mile Campground • Video Tour
- Palisade Campground • Video Tour
Happy Camper Tips
- Camping is limited to 14 days in a 30 day period. Reserve spot at www.recreation.gov
- Keep our land as pristine as you found it: Dispersed campers should choose spots that are previously used sites, 200ft from water source, and that keep vehicles within 300ft of a road
- Trash the Trash - pack it in, pack it out. Creede offers a paid trash drop at the gas station
($5/bag). Bury human waste/tp 2ft deep, and 200ft from water; or pack it out! - Pets: Scoop their poop and keep them leashed.
- Plan for cold nights, even in July! At high elevations, temperatures drop significantly once the sun goes down
- Bring plenty of water. There are only a few places to fill up: the RV Dump Station, at the Visitor Center for a donation; or at the gas station
