USFS · Camping Area · Free
Designated camping area in the Slate River drainage, close to Crested Butte. 19 sites are available and camping is allowed only in designated sites, 4x4 recommended for sites 18 and 19. Each site has a fire ring and is marked with a unit marker.
From the USFS.
Yes. Slate River Camping Area is free to use. It is managed by the USFS.
From Crested Butte take County Road 317 north to the junction with County Road 734. Follow County Road 734 for 5.5 miles to the forest boundary. Designated campsites may be found along the roads throughout the Slate River area.
This is bear country: campers must properly store food and other attractants.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.