There’s something truly special about RVing in the high country of Colorado. The air is thinner, the views are bigger, and the challenges are just a bit different. Finding a good, accessible dump station when you’re pushing 10,000 feet in elevation isn’t always easy. That’s what makes Middlefork RV Park in Fairplay such a fantastic find. Cruising along US-285, a scenic route that connects Denver to the heart of the Rockies, you’ll find this private park waiting for you. For a $15 fee, which is pretty standard for a private park in a location this remote and beautiful, you get a clean, reliable place to take care of your tanks. It’s more than just a dump station; it’s a gateway to the incredible alpine world of the South Park basin.
Fairplay proudly calls itself "The Real South Park," and it has a gritty, authentic frontier charm that’s hard to resist. This isn’t a polished resort town; it’s a place with real history. The absolute must-see attraction here is the South Park City Museum. It’s not your typical stuffy museum; it’s an entire recreated 1880s mining town with over three dozen restored buildings and thousands of artifacts that transport you back in time. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon. The town is surrounded by some of Colorado’s most famous "fourteeners," the local term for peaks over 14,000 feet high, like the majestic Quandary Peak. Whether you’re an ambitious hiker aiming for a summit or an angler looking to cast a line for trout in a crystal-clear stream, this area delivers. The climate up here is no joke; even in the middle of July, the nights can get chilly, and afternoon thunderstorms can roll in with surprising speed, so packing layers is non-negotiable.
The experience of using the dump station at a place like Middlefork is a world away from a hectic truck stop. Here, you’re on mountain time. You’ll need to check in at the front office first, pay your fee, and the friendly staff will point you toward the station. It’s located inside the park gates, so the traffic is minimal, consisting mostly of fellow campers. The approach is paved and well-maintained, and the concrete pad is clean, a clear sign that it’s looked after. The pace is slower, more relaxed. You don’t feel rushed. And here’s the best part: they have potable water right at the station. This is a huge bonus. You can give your sewer hose a proper rinse, flush your black tank, and, most importantly, fill up your fresh water tank with clean mountain water before you head out for some boondocking in the nearby Pike National Forest or continue your journey on US-285.
The amenities here are geared toward the overnight camper, but day-use dumpers can benefit too. Having potable water available is a game-changer, just make sure you have your own dedicated drinking-safe hose. If you’re traveling with a four-legged co-pilot, you’ll love the fenced dog run. It’s a fantastic spot to let your dog burn off some energy safely while you’re handling the tank chores. The park can refill smaller propane cylinders, and for big rigs, the Sinclair gas station in town can top you off. If you decide the view is too good to leave, you can always grab a site for the night and take advantage of the hot showers and laundry facilities, a welcome comfort after a few days off-grid. The sites come with 30/50-amp service, but that’s for registered guests only. You can also get rid of your accumulated trash in the large dumpsters near the office, which is always a welcome sight.
At $15, the fee might seem a little steep compared to a basic forest service dump, but you’re paying for more than just a hole in the ground. You’re paying for the convenience, the cleanliness, the potable water, and the stunning scenery. When you factor in the ability to fill your fresh tank and maybe even take a shower, the value proposition starts to look very good, especially in a remote mountain town where services are few and far between.
A few insider tips for a smooth visit: if you’re heading there on a summer weekend, it’s a good idea to call the office ahead of time. The park can get busy, and the driveway is a bit narrow, so they can tell you the best time to swing by. Also, a little high-altitude RVing advice: it’s a good practice to drain and refill your water heater occasionally, as the mineral content in mountain water can be different and lead to buildup over time. And take the weather seriously. Those afternoon thunderstorms are a daily occurrence in the summer. Try to plan your stop for the morning to avoid dealing with a muddy dump station and the risk of lightning. Finally, stock up on supplies at the Fairplay Mercantile before you head south toward Buena Vista, as grocery options become more limited. In the end, Middlefork RV Park is more than just a dump station. It’s a clean, safe, and beautiful stop that provides peace of mind and essential services in the heart of the Rockies.
255 US Hwy 285, Fairplay, CO 80440
(719) 836-4857
Cost: $15
Category: RV park
Has Water
middleforkrvpark.com