Thompson Creek Campground

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Fishing and Boating

Thompson Creek offers some great fishing opportunities. Anglers can often catch brown trout. Fly-fishing is also popular in the Roaring Fork River. Trout and whitefish are the most common catches. The area where the Roaring Fork and Crystal Rivers meet is often considered to be the best fishing location.

Climbing

The Carbondale area offers incredible rock-climbing opportunities. The Coal Creek Boulders, for example, provide 52 routes of varying difficulties. About half of the routes are bouldering, but there are also sport and top rope options. The Frying Pan, located near Reudi Dam, offers 37 sport, traditional, and bouldering options.

Wildlife Viewing

Thanks to its remote location, the Thompson Creek Campground and Thompson Creek Recreation Management Area are excellent locations to see a variety of wild animals. Species native to the area include mountain goats, black bears, mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, cougars, and a variety of small mammals and birds. Ducks, geese, and other waterfowl are particularly common.

Picnicking

Glenwood Park is a great option for nearby picnicking. This lovely park provides shaded picnic tables and barbecues, and there are areas to play soccer or basketball. Rifle Falls State Park also offers 10 picnic sites with tables spread throughout the park. Visitors to the park will have easy access to hiking options.