Heaton Bay

Come and hide in the mountains at Heaton Bay Campground, nestled in the White River National Forest of Colorado. Campers here can enjoy the amazing terrain of mountain peaks, as the grounds themselves sit at a 9,000 feet elevation! The grounds sit close to Dillon Reservoir, a beautiful water basin located in the mountains.

The campground itself is made up of 87 paved sites, many of which are first-come-first-served. On each site, you will find a campfire ring with a grill for cooking. Picnic tables are provided, as are hookups, drinking water, and a boat ramp. This area has been ravaged by the pine beetle, so visitors are asked to only buy firewood from local vendors. Because of these pests, you won't find much shade on the grounds. Each site also has a food locker to protect your goods from bears, which do inhabit the area.

The incredible natural surroundings offer lots for campers to do. While you have to keep your body out of the water, the reservoir makes for excellent sailing, fishing, and boating. Many people use Heaton Bay as their ground-zero as they discover the 10 mountain peaks that are accessible from the camp. The rugged terrain also makes for great off-roading if you have the right vehicle for it! The Old Dillon Reservoir Trail is a great path for people of all hiking abilities, while Ptarmigan Wilderness offers a bit more of a challenge. Mountain biking is another pastime that is frequently partaken of at this site. 

As you are in bear country, it is always a good idea to keep your pup close by and leashed. Cleaning up their waste properly is also important, as it keeps those big, hairy visitors from coming in for a closer sniff -- so bring those poop bags with you! As no humans are allowed to swim in the reservoir, you need to ensure your woofer doesn't take a dip, either.

If getting out in the wild mountains of Colorado is what you seek, be sure to check out Heaton Bay for your next adventure!