Pickle Gulch
The campground is currently open for the 2026 season. Reservations are required for all camping and can be made through Recreation.gov. Group sites accommodate 1-30 people each. Check-in is at 2:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM. Bear precautions are required and fire restrictions may apply seasonally.
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
Pickle Gulch Group Campground sits at 9,100 feet elevation in the Arapaho National Forest, set among a fairly level forest of lodgepole pine and aspen. The campground offers six group tent-only sites designed for larger parties, each with picnic tables, campfire circles, and tent pads. All sites are walk-to from the parking area; RVs and trailers are not permitted past the lot. Vault toilets and potable water from hand pumps are shared between sites, and wheelbarrows are available from the camp host to haul gear. The separate day-use area accommodates up to 150 people and includes two volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, a playground, and a vault toilet. Visitors enjoy scenic driving along the Peak to Peak Byway, nearby hiking and biking trails, fishing in area creeks and lakes, and off-road driving opportunities. The historic mining town of Central City is nearby, hosting events including Lou Bunch Day and the Central City Opera and Jazz festivals. Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a short drive away, offering over 35 miles of hiking trails. Note that due to mountain pine beetle infestation and hazardous tree removal, shade may be limited at some sites.
Directions
From I-25 in Denver, travel west on 6th Avenue to State Highway 6 and continue through Clear Creek Canyon. Turn on State Highway 119 toward Black Hawk and Central City. Follow the highway 4 miles north of Black Hawk. Just past Gilpin County School, turn left at the Pickle Gulch sign and follow signs from there.
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 | $69 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 529-0578 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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