Parry Peak Campground

Parry Peak Campground, located near Independence Pass in Colorado, is a peaceful, high-altitude camping area that offers breathtaking views of the Sawatch Range and the surrounding wilderness. Situated along the shores of Lake Creek, this campground provides a serene setting for nature enthusiasts, hikers, anglers, and anyone looking to escape into the beauty of the White River National Forest. Its location makes it convenient for exploring both Aspen and Twin Lakes, while also offering numerous recreational opportunities in the nearby mountains, streams, and trails.

Campground Features and Amenities

• Campsites:
  • Parry Peak Campground offers 25 campsites suitable for tents, smaller RVs, and trailers (up to 30 feet in length). Many sites are situated near Lake Creek, providing the soothing sound of flowing water and lovely views.
• Toilets:
  • Vault toilets are available for campers.
• Water:
  • Drinking water is provided, but it is recommended to bring extra water during peak season as supplies may be limited.
• Amenities:
  • Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers to protect food and minimize wildlife encounters.
• Accessibility:
  • The campground is located off Highway 82 and is accessible to most vehicles, though care should be taken when navigating the road during early or late season when snow or rain may impact conditions.

Reservation Information

Parry Peak Campground operates on a reservation system for most campsites, while some are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• How to Reserve:
  • Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
• Reservation Window:
  • Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance.
• Fees:
  • Campsites typically cost $25–$30 per night, depending on the site and season.
• Season:
  • Parry Peak Campground is open seasonally, from late May to early October, depending on snow conditions.

Proximity to Aspen

• • The campground is located approximately 19 miles east of Aspen, a scenic 40-minute drive via Independence Pass. Aspen offers world-class dining, shopping, and cultural events, making it a great destination for a day trip.

Near-by Climbing

Monitor Rock, Outlook Rock, Black Slab, Dump Wall, Diemer Wall, Valley Views Wall, Broken Butt Wall, Broken Chain Wall, Broken Pole Wall

Near-by Bouldering

Lackawanna Gulch

Nearby Activities

Parry Peak Campground is surrounded by numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation:

Hiking

• Lost Man Trailhead:
  • Located nearby, this trail offers a moderate-to-challenging hike through alpine meadows, along streams, and to pristine alpine lakes.
• Independence Lake Trail:
  • A trail that leads to a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by rugged peaks.
• Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail:
  • These iconic long-distance trails pass through the Twin Lakes area, offering access to some of the most scenic sections of the Sawatch Range.
• Grottos Trail:
  • A short drive from the campground, this trail features ice caves, waterfalls, and unique rock formations.

Fishing

• Lake Creek:
  • Flowing next to the campground, Lake Creek is an excellent spot for trout fishing.
• Twin Lakes Reservoir:
  • A short drive away, Twin Lakes offers fishing opportunities for trout and kokanee salmon.
• Roaring Fork River:
  • Located closer to Aspen, this river is a popular destination for fly-fishing enthusiasts.

Scenic Drives

• Independence Pass Scenic Byway:
  • Known for its dramatic vistas, this high-altitude mountain road offers incredible views, scenic pullouts, and opportunities for exploration along the route.

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

• Parry Peak Campground is an excellent spot for spotting wildlife such as deer, elk, marmots, and birds of prey. The surrounding alpine meadows and forests also provide plenty of opportunities for nature photography.

Cycling

• Road Cycling:
  • Independence Pass is a challenging and rewarding route for road cyclists, offering stunning mountain views and a rigorous climb.
• Mountain Biking:
  • Nearby trails and forest roads provide exciting opportunities for mountain biking enthusiasts.

Nearby Towns and Attractions

• Twin Lakes:
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Twin Lakes. Hike to the historic Interlaken Resort, a preserved 19th-century luxury retreat accessible by boat or trail.

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