Open
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Full-service camping with trash collection runs from May 1 through the weekend after Labor Day. During the extended season outside those dates, services like trash pickup may not be available. No potable water on site. 14-night consecutive stay limit.
About
Platte River Campground is a small, tent-only campground in the Pike National Forest's South Platte Ranger District. The 10 walk-in sites sit at 6,400 feet elevation along the scenic South Platte River, a renowned Gold Medal trout fishery. Campers must park in the designated lot and walk to their sites, making this a poor choice for those with heavy gear but ideal for minimalist tent campers.
Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring or grate. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. The campground operates first-come, first-served only with no advance reservations. On-site payment can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan and Pay feature, though the app should be downloaded before arrival due to limited cell service.
The campground enforces a maximum of 8 people, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles per site. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed. Firearms and fireworks are prohibited. Check-in is at 2 p.m. and checkout by noon, with quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Directions
From Denver, take US Highway 285 to Pine Junction. Turn south on Jefferson County Road 126 and drive approximately 25 miles to Douglas County 67 at Deckers. The campground is located 4 miles north of Deckers on the right side. From Sedalia, take US Highway 67 south to Sprucewood, stay straight on 67 South until reaching pavement at the South Platte River, then go 1 mile south; campground is on the left.