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Big Creek Lakes Campground
6/17/2024: Currently there is no potable water, campers should come prepared with their own water. No date has been determined as to when it will have potable water again.
Big Creek Lakes Campground is the most popular campground on The Parks Ranger District and is located an hour drive northwest of the town of Walden, CO. This campground offers 54 campsites and a day-use area and lake-side camping. 24 of the campsites are under the reservation system at www.recreation.gov and the remainder 30 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The sites are situated next to Big Creek Lake, a scenic lake of 343 acres near the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. There are boating facilities and the lake is a popular destination area for camping and trout fishing. The wetlands around the lake are prime moose territory and moose are often seen near the campground.
Campers should come prepared as summer temperatures are fairly cool at this elevation.
Numerous hiking trails are nearby, both in and out of Mount Zirkel Wilderness. Big Creek Lakes are 35 miles and about an hour drive northwest of Walden, CO. This area has been affected by the mountain pine beetle epidemic and has been logged in recent years.
This site was approved for a fee change - Click here for more information
At a Glance
| Reservations: | 24 of the campsites are under the reservation system and the remainder 30 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov. |
|---|---|
| Area Amenities: | Accessible, Boat ramp, Tent camping, Camping trailer, Fee charged for some activities, Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking |
| Fees: | $20/single site, $40/double site per day. Exact cash or check only as there is no option for change back if paying cash. NO CREDIT CARDS accepted. Payment instructions are found on the kiosk. |
| Open Season: | Early June - Through October (weather dependent) |
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Restrictions: | Dogs must be leashed in campground and day use areas; horses only at Seven Lakes Trailhead corral, and are not allowed in campsites. Wilderness restrictions apply within Mount Zirkel Wilderness. |
| Closest Towns: | Walden, Colorado (one hour drive) |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | Vault Toilet |
| Operated By: | Parks Ranger District |
| Information Center: | Parks Ranger District 970-723-8204 100 Main Street Walden, CO 80480 |
General Information
Directions:One hour drive fom Walden, CO. Head north on Highway 125 for 9 miles to Cowdrey, CO. Turn left at Cowdrey onto County Road 6W for 18 miles to Pearl. Take Forest Road 600 for 6 miles to the campground. Follow the signs.
Parking:
Overflow parking available in lot outside of campground.
Activities
Campground Camping
Campsites only (No cabin rentals available)
Lake and Pond Fishing
Popular for trout
Day Hiking
Mount Zirkel Wilderness.
Horse Riding
Horses allowed only at Seven Lakes Trailhead corral, and are not allowed in campsites.
Amenities
| Camping trailer: | Max length varies. Larger sites can accomodate up to 45 ft. |
|---|---|
| Parking: | Overflow parking available outside campground near entrance |
| Toilets: | Vault Toilet |
| Drinking water: | Yes, but subject to change at anytime, always pack in water to be prepared |
Caring for the Land
Location
