Thompson Creek Campground
RV Guide
Introduction
Located in the beautiful state of Colorado, the Thompson Creek Campground is a sight for sore eyes. There you will find towering aspen and pine trees that are surrounded by cliffs and valleys. The closest town is just a handful of miles away and goes by the name of Carbondale. If you’re looking for a serene and remote getaway, Thompson Creek Campground is a great option.
If you’re visiting during the peak season, there are plenty of activities for you to enjoy. You can go hunting or fishing in and around the creek. There is also a plethora of hiking opportunities in the area as well. During the off-season, visitors can enjoy relaxing and looking for wildlife that roams the area.
It’s also a beautiful place to photograph or bundle up and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa. If you do decide to visit Thompson Creek Campground, consider staying a night or two. This Bureau of Land Management- managed area is the perfect place to pitch a tent or park the RV and enjoy an evening under the bright Colorado stars.
RV Rentals in Thompson Creek Campground
Transportation
Driving
Located just outside of Carbondale, right between Twin Peaks and the White River National Forest, you will find Thompson Creek Campground. The closest main roads are State Highway 133 and County Road 108. The easiest way to reach Thompson Creek Campground is from Carbondale via Highway 133 going west. Eventually, you’ll be driving on North Thompson Creek Road and there is parking available at the head of the Lorax Trail.
There is also the option to continue for another three miles if you want to get to the campground directly. The road that leads to the campground, South Thomspon Creek Road, is not marked. It’s also important to note that the entrance into the campground is over two miles long. Once you arrive, most people will get around on foot.
Pack a great pair of hiking boots to easily travel around on the changing terrain. In the winter you can pack a pair of skis or snowshoes to make getting around a lot less work. It’s important to note that driving to Thompson Creek Campground is not advised during wet or snowy weather, as the roads become hard to navigate.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Thompson Creek Campground
Campsites in Thompson Creek Campground
First-come first-served
Thompson Creek Campground
There’s no need to drive to another campground during your visit to Thompson Creek Campground. The campground has four campsites that are all places along the creek. There is plenty of shade at each campground, making it a perfect spot for a summer trip. Each of the four campsites is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no picnic tables or restrooms available here, but each campsite does have a metal fire ring.
Because there isn’t a restroom available, visitors are required to remove all human waste they leave to keep the creek uncontaminated. RV campers are more than welcome, but it’s important to note that there are no RV hookups available. Whether you crack the window open to the RV or you pitch a tent, Thompson Creek makes a beautiful soundtrack to fall asleep to. You’ll be close to everything during the day and get to sleep under the beautiful Colorado evening sky.
Avalanche Campground
A short distance away from Thompson Creek Campground is Avalanche Campground. There you will find a total of six campsites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is located right on Avalanche Creek. This provides you with summer activities and calming background noise for sleeping. There are trailheads near the campground, making it perfect for those who enjoy an evening hike. Avalanche Campground is open to both RV and tent campers.
There are picnic tables and fire rings available at all six campsites. This campground has amazing phone service and also has toilets available. The area is surrounded by dense forests, giving the feeling of seclusion and privacy. If you’re a solo camper or couple, this is the perfect campground for you. Because the creek is so close at this campground, keep an extra set of eyes on any children that you’re traveling with.
Little Maud Campground
Little Maud Campground is open from the middle of May through the end of September. It is located at nearly 8,000 feet in elevation, near the Ruedi Reservoir. If the first two camping options are full, Little Maud Campground offers 21 campsites. Camping is available for tents, RVs, trailers, and hammocks. Each of the 21 campsites is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. There are also bathrooms available for the campground to share.
There is conveniently drinking water available as well. For RV campers it’s important to note that there is no access to any modern hookups, including electric or sewer. Camping at Little Maud Campground is available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a great place to stay if you’re camping with kids. There is plenty of stuff to do during the day, including fly fishing at the nearby Ruedi Dam and playing in the woods.
Seasonal activities in Thompson Creek Campground
In-Season
Fishing
Thompson Creek has a variety of smaller fish. It’s a fairly popular place for campers to throw in a line and hope to catch some fresh dinner. The most commonly found fish in the creek are rainbow trout and brown trout.
If you’re an angler yourself or you’re camping with one, this is a fun activity that people can enjoy all year round. Don’t forget to have the proper fishing license before you cast a line.
Hunting
Hunting is another popular peak season activity that people enjoy when visiting Thompson Creek Campground. Just like fishing, you’ll want to make sure that you’re hunting within the season and that you have the correct licenses before your trip begins.
There is large game that includes moose and elk. You’ll also find white-tailed deer, antelope, and black bears. To help maintain Thompson Creek Campground, be sure to pick up and shells or ammo and bring it with you out of the campground.
Hiking
The last peak season activity that you’ll be reading about is hiking. Hiking is not only a great way to get around the campground, but it is also an awesome way to get in some exercise during your trip. There are a variety of different trails in the area to choose from.
Just over three miles down the road from the campground is the start of the Lorax Trail. This is a great trail that is perfect for those with moderate hiking experience.
Off-Season
Wildlife Viewing
Colorado is filled with so many beautiful animals. If you’re looking for a laid back activity that the entire family can enjoy, consider an afternoon of wildlife viewing. Put a few chairs outside of the RV, grab a pair of binoculars, and be patient. You may see a black bear, big horned sheep, elk, moose, and more. There are also plenty of birds flying over the skies of Thompson Creek. Hawks and eagles are the most commonly spotted birds.
Photography
If you’re a creative individual or you’re traveling with one, Thompson Creek Campground is a stunning place to photograph. There are lush forests, sky-high cliffs, and the creek that all make amazing backgrounds for photos. You can take pictures of wildlife, the landscape, or even yourself enjoying your vacation. You don’t need a big fancy camera either. You’ll be able to snap great shots just using the camera that you already have on your phone!
Skiing
Are you planning to visit Thompson Creek Campground during the winter months? If so, pack a pair of skis in the RV to have an awesome time. The trails that are used for hiking in the warmer months can be used for skiing during the winter. There are areas where people can enjoy a casual afternoon cross country skiing. You will also see spots that are designed for people with a bit more experience. This is a fun activity, just be sure to wear proper safety gear.
