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Pelton Creek

Overview

The campground is at the eastern edge of the Platte River Wilderness, and has 14 sites. It is a single loop with one side running parallel to Pelton Creek among Lodgepole pines. Some sites overlook the creek and a meadow. The understory is grass and the sites are fairly close together providing minimal privacy. 

A trailhead provides wilderness access via the Douglas Creek Trail or the Platte Ridge Trail. 14 day stay limit. Stock unloading facility near campground, however no stock are allowed in the campground. Picnic tables, toilets, drinking water, and campfire rings. Fishing is available in Douglas Creek. 

This campground will have a mix of reservation sites and first-come, first-served sites for the 2024 season. If you are not reserving your site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by cash, check, or by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

Recreation

In addition to the camping and fishing provided by this campground, the Platte Ridge and Douglas Creek Trails take off from the north end of the campground and go deep into the heart of the Platte River Wilderness

Facilities

In addition to the camping and fishing provided by this campground, the Platte Ridge and Douglas Creek Trails take off from the north end of the campground and go deep into the heart of the Platte River Wilderness

Natural Features

Pelton Creek Campground lies at the convergence of Douglas Creek and Pelton Creek, just outside of the Platte River Wilderness. Although the Mullen Fire went through this area in 2020, the campground was spared and it remains as a remote oasis for developed recreation.

The campground itself still retains tall pine trees that provide excellent shade and ambiance for a summer camping destination. The meandering creeks and tall brush can attract moose so be sure to know what's around you if you venture down to the water's edge.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (307) 745-2300.

Nearby Attractions

Platte River Wilderness mainly lies within the Medicine Bow National Forest in Wyoming, but also includes a small portion within the Routt National Forest in Colorado. It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and is located on the Brush Creek/Hayden, Laramie and Parks Ranger Districts. Average elevation is 7,700 feet.

The United States Congress designated the Platte River Wilderness in 1984 and it has a total of 23,492 acres. Colorado contains approximately 743 acres. Wyoming contains approximately 22,749 acres.

The North Platte River features blue-ribbon trout fishing, as well as rafting and kayaking. North Gate Canyon is a popular white-water rafting section of water. Douglas Creek is also noted for its' excellent trout fishing opportunities. Hiking, backpacking and hunting are other popular activities.

The Douglas Creek Trail follows the creek for 9.5 miles through an open canyon with trailheads at both ends. You can hike a loop from the Pelton Creek Trailhead by exiting the Douglas Creek Trail to return via the Platte River Trail.

Activities

Media

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