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Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground

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Within White River National Forest, Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground requires a two-mile hike from the Maroon Lake trailhead to reach its eleven designated sites. This free backcountry campground sits near Crater Lake with sites spread far apart along the shoreline and extending toward the base of the Maroon Bells peaks.

Site 1 sits closest to Crater Lake, while site 11 positions campers near the towering fourteeners Maroon Peak and Pyramid Peak. The area supports wildlife including mountain goats and mule deer. Bear canisters are required and can be rented from local outfitters in Aspen. Campers seeking developed amenities can consider Maroon Bells Amphitheatre, which offers vehicle access and established facilities.

Fee Info

$10 permit required to camp here. Must check availability and apply for the permit.

https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4675333

Reservation Info

NOTE: Overnight permit system will be implemented starting in 2023 BEAR CANISTERS ARE REQUIRED AT THIS CAMPGROUND

Dogs are prohibited in the Conundrum Hot Springs Zone. Dogs must be on leash everywhere else in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

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Location

Public Campground

Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Directions

If you plan to start your trip at the Maroon Scenic Area, you will need to reserve a parking or shuttle bus reservation. You will receive a link in your confirmation email to reserve parking or bus transportion. There are a limited number of parking spaces availabe so you may need to reserve a bus ticket.

Coordinates

39.0874439 N
106.965628 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Pets

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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2 Reviews

Tara D.
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2018

Most beautiful spot I have ever seen

Snowmass lake is on the 4 pass loop trek near Aspen. You have to hike in either covering 3 passes going clockwise from maroon bells or 1 pass going counterclockwise. The most gorgeous place I have ever been. Highly reccomend.

Month of VisitJuly
Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2018

This place is amazing!

Its about a 2 mile hike in, but its a great, easy hike and the campsite makes it totally worth it. The views of Maroon bells at crater lake are unbelievable. There is wildlife everywhere. We saw many mountain goats, mule deer, and other critters. Its a primitive/backcountry site, so no amenities. There are 11 total marked sites and theyre pretty far apart. site 1 is very close to crater lake and the first you run into when approaching from maroon lake. site 11 is past the lake and near the base of maroon bells. we used this as basecamp for summiting 14ers maroon peak and pyramid peak. Bear canister required but can be rented cheap at ute mountaineering in aspen.

Site1
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground by Cory D., July 13, 2018
  • Review photo of Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground by Cory D., July 13, 2018
  • Review photo of Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground by Cory D., July 13, 2018
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations for camping at Crater Lake in Colorado?

While Crater Lake offers primitive backcountry camping, permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. During peak season (summer through fall), securing wilderness permits in advance is highly recommended as this is an extremely popular area. Contact the White River National Forest office or visit their website for the most current permit information and reservation procedures. The limited number of camping spots can fill quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.

Can you camp with an RV near Crater Lake and Maroon Bells?

No, you cannot camp with an RV at Crater Lake Campground itself. This is a primitive backcountry site that requires a 2-mile hike to access, making it inaccessible to vehicles of any kind. For RV camping options, check the developed campgrounds near the Maroon Bells entrance or in the Aspen area. These established campgrounds typically offer vehicle access and some amenities more suitable for RV camping.

Where is Crater Lake Campground located in Colorado?

Crater Lake Campground is located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area near Aspen, Colorado. It's a backcountry campground situated approximately 2 miles from the Maroon Bells trailhead via an easy hiking trail. The campground sits adjacent to Crater Lake, offering spectacular views of the iconic Maroon Bells peaks. This primitive camping area is part of the larger wilderness region that includes the popular Four Pass Loop trek.

What activities can you do while camping at Crater Lake near Maroon Bells?

Camping at Crater Lake offers numerous outdoor activities. Hiking is the primary attraction, with options ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging routes like the renowned Four Pass Loop. Wildlife viewing is exceptional—mountain goats, mule deer, and various small mammals are commonly spotted. Photography opportunities abound with stunning views of the Maroon Bells reflected in the lake. Fishing is available (with proper Colorado fishing license), and stargazing is spectacular due to minimal light pollution. The area also serves as an excellent base camp for peak-bagging adventures or simply enjoying the pristine alpine environment.

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