Troy W.
Traveler
TravelerTwin Peaks Dispersed Campground- Colorado
Love love love!
Easily one of my favorite places to camp in Colorado! It’s a must stay every year for me. Killer views, great hiking, beach days and a peaceful location.
Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Meredith, CO
Chapman Campground and Dearhamer Campground welcome pets near Meredith, Colorado, maintaining pet-friendly policies across their established sites. Ruedi Reservoir campgrounds feature clean vault toilets and dedicated fire rings, with several sites offering creek-side options that provide natural shade and water access beneficial for cooling dogs during hot summer days. Most area campgrounds require pets to remain leashed at all times, though specific designated areas may permit controlled off-leash activity. Tent camping, RV sites, and a limited number of cabin accommodations accept pets throughout the region. Campsites at Little Mattie provide more seclusion for nervous dogs or those sensitive to crowds, while sites closer to the reservoir offer convenient water access. The campsites along the creek at Dearhamer are consistently recognized for their shade coverage, though some sites in the middle of campgrounds lack adequate shade for pets during peak summer heat. Local campgrounds are searchable through The Dyrt's listings.
The Frying Pan River offers excellent opportunities for fishing with dogs, with gold medal waters located just two miles from the Marina Campground. Trails surrounding Ruedi Reservoir provide multiple pet exercise options, though visitors should note there is zero cell service in most camping areas, with the closest service available in Basalt, approximately 30 minutes away. Dog owners should prepare for significant temperature variations, as nights can be chilly even when days are hot. Wildlife is abundant in the area, requiring vigilant pet supervision. Campers report the reservoir water level fluctuates seasonally, affecting shoreline access for pet swimming areas. Pet waste stations are limited at most sites, so campers should bring waste bags and plan for proper disposal. The Ruedi Reservoir area experiences peak visitor traffic during summer weekends, with boating activity potentially disturbing noise-sensitive pets, making the more secluded Little Mattie Campground a preferred option for those with anxious animals.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Meredith, Colorado (244)
1. Difficult Campground
34 ReviewsAspen, CO15 milesWebsite+1 (970) 927-0107$33 - $120 / night
"You can fill up your RVs water tank at this location! Town is real close by like 6 miles. Great bike paths hang out areas. And the sound of the creek is nice. I've camped there twice and love it!"
"So much of Colorado is impressive, let me just start with that."
2. Little Maud Campground
13 ReviewsMeredith, CO5 milesWebsite+1 (801) 226-3564$32 / night
"We loved tent camping here with our dog. We saw plenty of trailers and smaller RVs as well. The road around the loop is paved but the sites themselves are not. You tent peg into the dirt."
"The drive from Basalt was stunning as only Colorado can do. The whole area was so scenic and beautiful and the water is a two minute walk away."
3. Chapman Campground And Group Camp - White River NF
11 ReviewsMeredith, CO6 milesWebsite+1 (970) 927-0107$30 - $260 / night
"There is a small store in Meredith, 10 min away, in case you forgot any essentials. Ruedi Reservoir is about 15 minutes away and motor boats are allowed. This area is absolutely breathtaking!!!"
"On the whole you visit Chapman to enjoy the backcountry experience and to get away from everything. "
4. Sylvan Lake Campground — Sylvan Lake State Park
12 ReviewsWhite River National Forest, CO8 milesWebsite+1 (970) 328-2021$14 - $190 / night
"Located 15 miles south of Eagle off of I-70 in the White River National Forest sits Sylvan Lake State Park."
"Slyvan Lake State Park is located outside of the Town of Eagle, CO. It takes about 20 minutes to drive from town to the park. Upon entering, there is a multitude of activities you can partake in."
5. Mollie B_white River
10 ReviewsMeredith, CO5 milesWebsite+1 (970) 927-0107"The heart of Colorado beats quietly and steadily at this campground."
"There's running water, and secure dumpsters around the grounds. Each campsite also has its own secure bear box that was large enough to fit my 50qt cooler."
6. Homestake Road Dispersed - CO
21 ReviewsRed Cliff, CO14 milesWebsite"Fishing, hiking, climbing and biking close by. Plenty of room for pets to run. And plenty of wood for fires."
"Homestake Road is your gateway to a variety of off-road and primitive camping sites in the beautiful White River National Forest. We spent two nights here, each night at a different campsite."
7. Dearhamer Campground
8 ReviewsMeredith, CO0 milesWebsite+1 (801) 226-3564$29 / night
"Stay away from camp grounds 4 & 7 is you can. They are the only ones with no tree coverage."
"Easy access to the lake and good fishing. Each site has a fire ring and table. Host was friendly and kept campground clean."
8. Little Mattie Campground — White River National Forest
7 ReviewsMeredith, CO4 miles+1 (970) 927-0107$29 / night
"This is a very calm campground, surrounded by trees, aspens, coniferous, etc. It is a little far from the lake but there is one entrance next to the campground."
"The site was tucked in the corner but very close to site 15."
9. Yeoman Park
8 ReviewsWhite River National Forest, CO10 milesWebsite+1 (970) 328-6388$8 / night
"Creek at entrance. Wildlife dept offers educational entertainment on Saturday evenings at their tiny amphitheater. Great for children. Sylvan lake is approx 20 min drive."
"i went on a sunday night so it was completely empty but if you get as lucky as me make sure to get the spot next to the trailhead"
10. Portal Campground
27 ReviewsAspen, CO21 milesWebsite+1 (970) 925-3445"The water a crazy blue color. 4 wheel drive is probably the best as the road is very rough. There were plenty of spaces to camp along the road to the campground and beyond it."
"This was a stunning campground tucked away high up in the mountains on Independence pass."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Meredith, CO
220 Photos of 244 Meredith Campgrounds
Kate R.
Mollie B_white River
Fain H.
Little Maud Campground
Lise F.
Chapman Campground And Group Camp - White River NF
Fain H.
Sylvan Lake Campground — Sylvan Lake State Park
Monique B.
Yeoman Park
Amber W.
Homestake Road Dispersed - CO
Erik S.
Difficult Campground
Alicia O.
Lincoln Creek Dispersed
Karl G.
Halfmoon Campground
Reames C.
Basalt Mountain Dispersed
AJ F.
Bellyache Road
Jesse
Dispersed Camping - Turquoise Lake
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Meredith, CO
1997 Reviews of 244 Meredith Campgrounds
Joey B.
GuideOh Be Joyful Campground
Perfect weather in October!
Drove out with some friends from Kansas in early October this year and the views and weather was Amazing! Campsite has “fees” through an honor system so you no host to worry about you come and camp as you go here. Place has fire pits bathrooms! One of my favorite spots to camp in Colorado so far.
Jason F.
LegendGore Creek Campground
So good, I don’t want to tell you about it.
Gore Creek Campground is a true gem of the National Forest Service. If you are looking for a great boondocking location that is close to great trails and breathtaking views, this just might be the place for you. The entrance to the campground is ~2 miles off of I-70 Exit 180 on Bighorn Road. Only 10 minutes from Vail Village and 25 minutes from Frisco.
We stayed in Site #8, which provided plenty of room for our 22’ travel trailer and pickup. The sites each have a large picnic table and fire ring.
Pit toilets are spread through the campground and were very clean and well maintained. The campground hosts do a great job of keeping everything tidy and looking great. They also have bundles of firewood for sale for $7 at their site just inside the entrance to the campground.
I can’t say enough about this place. It’s probably my favorite spot to camp in Colorado. I almost didn’t post this review for fear of the secret getting out.
- SStephen D.
ScoutParry Peak — Psicc
Great campground, close to the pass and lots of hiking.
Some spots close to the road but it gets quiet at night as Independence pass is not heavily trafficked after dark. It is in a great location, close to Twin Lakes but also all the hiking up the pass. All first come first serve. Pets are allowed, we had our dog with us.
- Jennifer F.Traveler
Snowy Peaks RV Park
Great staff & Clean
Staff is accommodating and friendly, campground and facilities are clean, they are pet friendly. Have a club house, mail service, 24 clean efficient laundry room. Nothing allowed on their grass except the picnic table they provide, no shade tents, dog pens or mats we had a gravel area behind our site where we were allowed to put our dog pen, small foldable table with Our BBQ grill on it (they will allow BBQ grills on their picnic tables) and fire ring they provided for us.
- ccraig T.Traveler
Halfmoon East — Psicc
Great For Hitting the 14ers Early
This area is beautiful with access to Halfmoon Creek and tucked away under groves of pines. It’s just over a half-hour drive from Leadville so if you ran out of supplies or just want a better breakfast than oatmeal with boiled water, you’re in luck. There’s designated fire rings and many of the campsites can fit multiple cars if you decided carpooling wasn’t an option. When I camp here again, I will definitely be looking for campsites that are away from the road a bit more. There’s a few that are down a modest hill closer to the creek. The reason for this is this area is super popular for hikers climbing Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert. (The tallest and second tallest peaks in Colorado) You will experiences cars driving through late at night and even super early in the morning to get to the trailheads. I’m talking starting at 3:00am…I know because my tent was blasted with headlights from numerous cars rolling through. Be aware if you bring kids or pets as well because some cars do not drive through at a respectful speed. Overall it’s a great place to camp, especially if you need a quick weekend getaway.
- Kelly B.Traveler
Homestake Road Dispersed - CO
Great for larger group
We love this spot for any size group. It’s not to far from home for us so we can even get back to work the next day. No charge for camping. Fishing, hiking, climbing and biking close by. Plenty of room for pets to run. And plenty of wood for fires.
- MM B.Traveler
Hornsilver Campground
good spot for a night
looking for primitive camping in the area - it was all taken by 2p on a Tuesday (#summer) - so found a spot at this off the road side.
pros off the road good size sites some are in the aspens fire pits communal bear proofed trash can good views for sunset and sunrise restrooms pets allowed
cons off the road (you will hear he cars) $19 per night little privacy between sites
if you’re driving down 24 and need a spot outdoors for the night, I highly recommend it. we stayed in spot #7 which was pleasant once the sun went down. great views of the cliffs across the street and only interrupted when a vehicle passed. for a night outside it was great! just be aware that it’s bear country however we only saw a chipmunk while there and I completely get safe with my pup there too.
- Keri F.Guide
Middlefork RV Resort
Perfection
Amazing view, great sites
Pizza place on site
Pet friendly
Small catch and release trout pond on site
Guide to Meredith
Dispersed camping options exist near Meredith, Colorado at elevations ranging from 7,800 to 10,500 feet throughout the White River National Forest. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through early October, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 40°F even during summer months. Most campsites require bear-proof storage containers, and visitors should note that reservoir water levels can fluctuate significantly throughout the season.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Chapman Campground And Group Camp - White River NF offers multiple hiking options within the Holy Cross and Hunter Frying Pan Wilderness areas. "Best Hikes: Shorter ones - Sawyer Lake, Chapman Lake, Frying Pan Overlook. Longer ones - Lyle Lake, Tellurium Lake, NY Lake, Eagle Lake," notes Henrietta R.
Non-motorized water sports: Portal Campground provides access to Grizzly Reservoir at 10,500 feet elevation. "The campground features well-maintained sites surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, providing ample shade and privacy. The reservoir is small, but an awesome place to escape and do some light paddleboarding or fishing," according to Andrew C.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "During our stay, we were woken up early in the morning by a mountain lion, saw 3 moose cross the river about 100 yards from the camper, and saw a huge mule deer buck hanging out in the bushes near the river several nights in a row," reports Elena R. from the Homestake Road dispersed camping area.
What campers like
Creek-side site selection: Dearhamer Campground features riverside camping spots that provide natural white noise. "The sites are super close together - we were a fairly large group and felt that we were right on top of our neighbors. Half are stream side, but if you're in one you'll hear the steam as you sleep!" writes Maddie O.
Bear-resistant storage: Most campgrounds supply bear boxes at individual sites. "Each campsite also has its own secure bear box that was large enough to fit my 50qt cooler. Firewood is available for sale, and the campground hosts are very friendly and helpful!" according to Allison G. from Mollie B Campground.
Off-season camping: Late season visits offer greater solitude and camping availability. "We camped here in late fall last year, a few weeks before closing. Chapman is huge, 80 something sites I think. We were the only ones there!" shares Mitch K., who enjoyed having the entire campground to themselves.
What you should know
Road access considerations: Many campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. Little Mattie Campground — White River National Forest is accessible by standard vehicles, while others have more challenging approaches. "After you turn off of Hwy 82 it's 6.5 miles up a 4x4 road. I made it in a small 'crossover' AWD SUV, but anything lower might have trouble," writes Christina S. about accessing Portal Campground.
Temperature variations: Pack for significant temperature swings. "Cold nights, down to between 29 and 34 the first 4 nights were we there," reports Bill R. from Little Maud Campground in September. Even summer months can see frost.
No cell service: Plan communications accordingly as most camping areas have zero connectivity. "There is no cell service at all out here though, and it is easily a 20-30 minute drive to Basalt," notes Allison G. about the Ruedi Reservoir area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly education: Yeoman Park offers weekend nature programs. "Wildlife dept offers educational entertainment on Saturday evenings at their tiny amphitheater. Great for children," recommends Ladawn S.
Lake proximity: Choose sites based on water access needs. "It's nice to be able to camp so close to the lake, but ultimately you are shoulder to shoulder with your neighbors and your are fully exposed to the wind and sun. Perhaps this is nice if you have kids, want to allow them on the lake but in close view, and are new to camping," suggests Morgan Y. about Sylvan Lake Campground.
Pet-friendly trails: Bring leashes for pet exercise on local trails. "We stayed for 3 nights in site 2. The lake is beautiful and is great if you have a means of getting on the water," writes Michelle M. about the pet-friendly camping at Little Maud Campground.
Tips from RVers
Campsite sizing: Sylvan Lake Campground — Sylvan Lake State Park accommodates various RV sizes. "The campground is large and can accommodate a lot of campers, the bathrooms are fully equipped and clean. They are even building a new section of a campground that looks like it will accommodate more RVs and boats. It is called fisherman's paradise," notes Hayley K.
Loop selection for larger vehicles: Chapman Campground offers loop-specific recommendations for larger rigs. "If you have a long-ish rig or are not good at backing up - stay away from loop C. Loop D along the creek have great shade but are close together," advises Carrie H.
Winter considerations: Many campgrounds close seasonally, with limited winter options. "Summer is packed. Winter you will be by yourself," explains Morgan Y. about seasonal variations at Sylvan Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Meredith, CO?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Meredith, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Meredith, CO is Difficult Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 34 reviews.
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dog-friendly camping near
Meredith, CO?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Meredith, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 244 dog-friendly camping locations near Meredith, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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