Ansel Watrous
Open year-round. The upper loop remains accessible through winter. Drinking water is available seasonally until late September; fees are discounted 25% when water is off. The lower loop does not accommodate trailers due to a tight switchback entrance.
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.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
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
Ansel Watrous Campground occupies a scenic stretch of the Cache la Poudre River corridor in the Canyon Lakes Ranger District of Roosevelt National Forest. The terrain transitions from dense Ponderosa pine forest to open meadows, surrounded by steep mountain slopes at 5,800 feet elevation. Each of the 17 sites includes a 12x15 tent pad, picnic table, fire ring with grill, and bear locker. The Cache la Poudre River draws anglers targeting brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. Whitewater rafting runs through the canyon attract paddlers of all skill levels. The nearby 4-mile Young Gulch Trail and other routes provide hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. Wildlife viewing and birding round out the recreation options. The campground operates in two loops. The upper loop accommodates parking spurs from 25 to 45 feet and stays open year-round. The lower loop features a hairpin switchback at the entrance that restricts RVs and trailers to 30 feet maximum overall length. No hookups or dump station are available.
Directions
Drive 11 miles north of Fort Collins on US Highway 287. Turn left (west) onto Colorado Highway 14 (Poudre Canyon) and travel approximately 13 miles.
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 | — |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 40ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 295-6700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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