Trappers Lake/Shephards Rim Campground

Closed

The campground operates seasonally, typically opening in late May or early June and remaining open through late October or early November depending on weather and hunting seasons. Reservations via Recreation.gov are accepted until October 1; after that date, the campground operates first-come, first-served through rifle season. At 9,720 feet elevation, opening dates are snow-dependent.

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.

White River 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.

White River National Forest

Weed Free Forage Products

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

About

Shepherds Rim Campground is a scenic, high-elevation campground at 9,720 feet in the Blanco Ranger District of the White River National Forest. Located at the edge of the Flat Tops Wilderness, the campground provides access to one of Colorado's most iconic fishing destinations. Trappers Lake, approximately 302 surface acres, is home to a strain of native Colorado River cutthroat trout and is managed as a catch-and-release fishery. The campground has 16 sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food locker. Vault toilets and potable water are provided. An RV dump station is available within the Trappers Lake complex. There are no hookups or showers. Trappers Lake lies entirely within the Flat Tops Wilderness, where motorized boats and wheeled boat carts are prohibited. The area offers extensive hiking opportunities, including access to the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway and numerous alpine lakes and peaks. Certified weed-free hay is required for anyone bringing livestock.

Directions

From Meeker, take Colorado Highway 13 east for 1 mile, then turn right on Rio Blanco County Road 8 and follow it for 39 miles to Trappers Lake Road (Forest Road 205). Turn south on Trappers Lake Road and continue for 10 miles past the Outlet Trailhead. Shepherds Rim Campground is the last campground on the right after crossing the bridge.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station Yes
Wifi No
Pets Allowed —
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store No
Price $25

Vehicle

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

Contact

Phone +1 (970) 927-0107

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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