Big Creek Lakes Campground

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, particularly in the mornings or evenings.

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. Open season is early June to mid - late October.

This site was approved for a fee change - Click here for more information

Reservations

Make Reservations Here

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.

General Information

Early June - Mid to Late October (weather dependent)

No permit required, however fishing licenses are required and can be obtained online from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

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.

$20/site, exact cash or check only, payment instructions are found on the kiosk.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 40.93646

Longitude: -106.612395

Elevation

9,000 feet

Directions

One hour drive fom Walden, go 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.