USFS · Campground · Fee
Kelsey Campground is far enough from town that there is no corner store while being close enough that the drive to and from home is part of an enjoyable getaway. Southwest of Denver at an elevation of 8,000 ft., Kelsey Campground offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals or families to enjoy the great outdoors. Nearby is a scenic overlook, trails and river fishing. Summer temperatures range from 75-80 degrees during the day to a pleasant 55-65 degrees at night. All dates are weather dependent. Dates of operation below are dates visitors may expect full service. The area also has an extended season when services such as water, trash or a host may not be available between April 30, 2021 and September 27, 2021.
From the USFS.Official page
No. Kelsey Campground charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
From U.S. Highway 285 turn south at Pine Junction on to Jefferson County Road 126. Follow Jefferson County Road 126 16.5 miles south to the Kelsey Campground. The campground will be on the west (right) side of the highway.
The following restrictions apply to this campground : Maximum 8 persons per site, 2 tents and 2 vehicles or 1 recreation vehicle. Dogs must be leashed at all times. No discharge of firearms or fireworks. Only licensed vehicles can operate inside campground. Camping is NOT ALLOWED behind a LOCKED GATE. Bears frequent the area and a bear closure order is in place. All bear attractants, both food and non-food items which can attract bears, should be kept in a bear resistant manner. Bear bags, bear boxes, and coolers within hard-sided vehicles are safer ways of storing attractants. Pop-ups, tents, and open-top vehicles are not safe storage areas. Tips for camping in bear country are available from camp hosts.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.