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Arapaho-Roosevelt/Ansel Watrous
Overview
Ansel Watrous Campground offers a serene escape within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. Situated along the banks of the Cache la Poudre River, this facility provides a quintessential Colorado mountain experience for those seeking a connection with nature. It serves as a premier gateway for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Poudre Canyon while remaining within a reasonable driving distance of local urban centers like Fort Collins.
Location & Surroundings
Located just off Highway 14 near Bellvue, Colorado, the campground is nestled in a dense forest of ponderosa pine and cottonwood trees. The landscape is dominated by the rushing water of the river and dramatic, steep canyon walls that provide a sense of seclusion. This area is part of Colorado's only National Wild and Scenic River corridor, ensuring that the natural integrity and breathtaking views are preserved for all visitors to enjoy.
Amenities & Park Features
As a rustic forest service site, Ansel Watrous provides an authentic dry camping experience. Travelers will find paved parking spurs that can accommodate moderate-sized RVs and trailers, though hookups are not available. On-site amenities include vault toilets and potable drinking water during the peak season. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a heavy-duty fire ring, perfect for cool mountain evenings spent under the stars along the riverbank.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw for visitors to this canyon. Anglers frequent the area for world-class trout fishing, while the river’s varying rapids attract whitewater rafters and kayakers throughout the summer. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the nearby Young Gulch Trail or the iconic Greyrock Trail. For a change of pace, the historic Mishawaka Amphitheatre is nearby, offering live music in a stunning riverside setting just minutes away.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for self-contained RV travelers who prioritize natural beauty and direct water access over modern luxury amenities. It is a perfect fit for fly-fishermen, wildlife photographers, and families looking for a traditional camping atmosphere. Those with smaller to mid-sized rigs will find this an excellent basecamp for exploring the scenic wonders and hiking trails of Northern Colorado without the distractions of a commercial park.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
HMS Beangle
Beautiful campground right on the water. Water on site, friendly camp host, excellent fishing. Zero cell service or groceries within 25 minutes drive, so prepare accordingly. Only complaint might be the loud whitewater groups that go by occasionally. Bathrooms could use deodorizer blocks, but were well stocked with TP which is much more important. Road in and out is very narrow and can be busy, so we didn’t dare ride the bicycles on it.
Gracie Perez
It was a beautiful campground. Definitely will be back
Patrick S.
Had a good time. There is good fishing right there. The hosts were nice and kept everything very clean.
Lauren Robinson
Great campsite. We had spot 15 on the lower loop so we were right by the Poudre. They had several paths directly down to the lake. Clean campground and vault bathrooms. Lots of traffic and those fun people that just like driving by campgrounds honking several times. Other than the loud night traffic it was an absolutely beautiful spot. They do not have electric plug ins.
Brian Roberts
Great campground in the Poudre River Valley. This year we needed our rain gear and bug spray. Far enough away from everything to disconnect but close enough drive to Fort Collins to enjoy one of the many great breweries.