Thompson Creek Campground

Thompson Creek Campground is a remote, no-fee site in the Thompson Creek Recreation Management Area on Bureau of Land Management land in the Upper Colorado River District, about a few miles southwest of Carbondale, Colorado. The campground sits in the southwest corner of the recreation area, with the Lorax trail on the north end and the Thompson Creek trail winding along the creek to views of the area's rare geologic "fin" formations. The campsite has four shaded campsites along the creek, each with a metal fire ring. There are no picnic tables or restrooms, and visitors must pack out all human waste to protect the creek, which has no waste collection facilities. The site is best used in dry conditions, and access is not recommended during wet or snowy weather. Late spring and early fall are the most comfortable times to visit. Typical averages from a nearby weather station show May highs around 71°F and September highs around 78°F, with July peaking near 89°F. Nearby options include the Thompson Creek canoeing route, the Middle Thompson Creek Road hike, the Colorado Midland Railway for cross-country skiing, and the Carbondale / Crystal River KOA campground.