Crooked Creek Dispersed Area

Open

Open for the season. The access road is typically snowed in from December 1 through May 1. No fire restrictions are currently in place on the Rio Grande National Forest.

Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO

October 9th, 10:53 AM — October 12th, 6:00 PM

ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.

Rio Grande 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.

Rio Grande National Forest

Weed Free Forage Products

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

About

Crooked Creek Dispersed Area is a small, primitive camping destination tucked along Crooked Creek in the Rio Grande National Forest, approximately 21 miles west of Creede, Colorado. The site accommodates 1 to 4 camping parties across four rough-level dirt pull-outs where tents and trailers can be set up. A single vault toilet is provided across Forest Road 520 from the campsites. This is true dispersed camping with minimal amenities. No potable water is available, so campers must bring an adequate supply. There is no fee to camp here. The area sees light usage, making it an appealing option for those seeking solitude and a rustic backcountry experience. Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby creek and streams. The campground is technically open year-round but is typically snowed in from December 1 through May 1 due to winter conditions at this elevation.

Directions

From Creede, Colorado, take State Highway 149 west for 19 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 520 and travel west for 2 miles. The campsites are on the left (south) side of the road.

Amenities

Water No
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 $0

Vehicle

Max RV Length —
Max Trailer Length —
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites —

Contact

Phone +1 (719) 657-3321

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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