1 of 8 photos

Pickle Gulch

Notice

STAGE 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT: Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland.

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal barbecue, or grill, except if using a device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device. 36 CFR § 261.52(a)

2. Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building. 36 CFR § 261.52(d)

3. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame. 36 CFR § 261.52(h)

4. Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b)

5. Possessing or using a motor vehicle off NFS roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the motor vehicle. 36 CFR § 261.56.

Jul 2, 2026 – Jan 1, 2027

Overview

Pickle Gulch is a group picnic and camping facility located just off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway/Highway 119. Visitors enjoy the area for its scenic and off-road driving, and nearby hiking and fishing opportunities.

Recreation

Many hiking and biking trails are found nearby. Scenic driving is available along Highways 119 and 72, which is also known as the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. Numerous creeks, rivers and lakes in the area provide fishing opportunities. Off-road enthusiasts will find many jeep roads in the vicinity.

Facilities

Pickle Gulch is an area that offers day-use picnic sites and six campsites to accommodate large groups. The picnic site can accommodate up to 150 people and is equipped with picnic tables and campfire circles. A parking area, vault toilets and a playground are provided. The group campsites are all walk-to sites for tent camping only. Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables, a campfire circle and tent pads. Vault toilets and drinking water spigots are shared between sites. A separate day-use area contains two volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, picnic tables and a vault toilet. Firewood may be gathered from the surrounding forest, if available, or purchased from the host.

Natural Features

The site offers many scenic views of the surrounding area. It is set among a fairly level forest of lodgepole pine trees, dotted with aspens.

Due to the mountain pine beetle infestation and removal of hazardous trees, there may be little to no shade at these sites.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (970) 234-1110.

Nearby Attractions

The historic mining town of Central City is nearby. The town hosts various popular events, including Lou Bunch Day and the Central City Opera and Jazz festivals.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a short drive from the campground. This scenic park offers more than 35 miles of hiking trails. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also allowed on some trails. Every stream and pond within the park is open to fishing.

Charges & Cancellations

Modifications for this campground must be made through Recreation.gov or by calling the call center at 1-877-444-6777 PRIOR to your reservation start date. Customers and contact center agents cannot modify reservations on or after the check-in date.

Directions

From Interstate 25 in Denver, travel west on 6th Avenue to State Highway 6 and continue through Clear Creek Canyon. Turn on State Highway 119 toward Black Hawk and Central City. Follow the highway 4 miles north of Black Hawk, to the campground.