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Burning Bear Campground

Closed

Currently closed for early season. Opens May 22, 2026. Full service season with water, trash, and a host runs Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. Extended season through late December may not have water, trash service, or a host available.

Pike National Forest

Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness

This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.

Pike National Forest

Weed Free Forage Products

The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.

Pike National Forest

Cave Closure and Restrictions

The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.

About

Burning Bear Campground is nestled in a beautiful valley along the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway at 9,813 feet elevation in Pike National Forest. The campground offers 13 sites including 12 standard nonelectric sites and one tent-only site, accommodating RVs up to 50 feet. A campground host is present during full service season. Ponderosa pines scattered throughout provide some privacy between sites. The location is ideal for accessing Mount Evans Wilderness directly behind the campground via the Abyss Trail (also called Scott Gomer Trail). Burning Bear Trail across the road is open to both hiking and mountain biking. Mount Bierstadt, a popular fourteener at 14,060 feet, lies about 7 miles north. The Guanella Pass Road is excellent for wildlife viewing, including bighorn sheep, elk, deer, moose, marmot, pika, and bear. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water from a hand pump, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. There are no hookups, dump station, or showers. Maximum occupancy is 8 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles or 1 RV per site. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Expect rough road conditions with potholes and washboarding on the access road.

Directions

From Denver, travel US Highway 285 south toward Fairplay to the town of Grant. Turn north on Park County Route 62 toward Guanella Pass. Burning Bear Campground is 5 miles north on the right.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $28

Vehicle

Max RV Length 50ft
Max Trailer Length 50ft
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (303) 275-5610

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

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