## Overview

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to **first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival** as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

## Facilities

The campground is situated on a gently sloping hillside surrounded by aspen
trees, within walking distance to the lake. It is a popular campground for
anglers and sites fill up quickly on weekends. If the campground is full,
dispersed camping is permitted along road 344 half-mile west of Cottonwood
Lake.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.</p>
<p>If this option is available, you will need to <strong>first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival</strong> as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The campground is situated on a gently sloping hillside surrounded by aspen trees, within walking distance to the lake.  It is a popular campground for anglers and sites fill up quickly on weekends. If the campground is full, dispersed camping is permitted along road 344 half-mile west of Cottonwood Lake.</p>

<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

Bird's eye view of the campground

Cottonwood Lake - PSICC (Co)

## Overview

Collegiate Peaks Campground is located 11 miles west of Buena Vista, Colorado,
along Middle Cottonwood Creek near the top of Cottonwood Pass. The campground
offers well-spaced campsites and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Visitors enjoy fishing and exploring local trails. A commercial hot springs
inn and spa is located about 5 miles east of the campground.

**"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be
available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a
popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early
as Thursday, so plan accordingly.**

## Recreation

Hiking and fishing are among the most popular activities. The Denny Creek
Trailhead is less than a mile away and it take hikers through Collegiate Peaks
Wilderness Area to destinations such as Kroenke Lake and Mt. Yale. The
Ptarmigan Lake Trailhead is less than 3 miles from the campground and boasts
views of vivid wildflowers. Middle Cottonwood Creek is small but fairly well-
stocked with brook trout. Determined anglers can often pull rainbow and
cutthroat trout from the beaver ponds west of the campground.

## Facilities

The campground offers several single-family sites on three loops. Each site is
equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring and grill. Vault toilets and
drinking water are provided. Sites# 1, and 18-30 are first come-first served,
also called "Walk-up" sites. All other sites are reservable. Site #2 is used
by the host from mid-May through September. After that time it is available as
a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.

## Natural Features

The campground sits at an elevation of 9,800 feet, tucked in a dense stand of
mixed conifers and aspen. Some sites sit alongside the creek while others are
tucked back in the woods. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer
months.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

## Nearby Attractions

Cottonwood Pass is a high mountain pass across the Continental Divide in the
Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. The road reaches the divide at an
elevation of 12,126 feet. The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness offers challenging
trails and prime backcountry fishing lakes. The Town of Buena Vista is only a
short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique
shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of antique shops. The
area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or
kayak in, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors can choose from
recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking,
rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping and swimming.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations

Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start
date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.

A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival
will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including
tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid
and will not be subject to an additional service fee.

No-Shows

A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not
cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled
arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day
following the arrival date.

No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate,
taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Refunds

Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile
within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued
after the 7 days has ended.

Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the
original bank or credit card used to pay.

For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for
refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with
the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.

In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility
manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact
information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Collegiate Peaks Campground is located 11 miles west of Buena Vista, Colorado, along Middle Cottonwood Creek near the top of Cottonwood Pass. The campground offers well-spaced campsites and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors enjoy fishing and exploring local trails. A commercial hot springs inn and spa is located about 5 miles east of the campground.</p>

<p><strong>"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early as Thursday, so plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
Hiking and fishing are among the most popular activities. The Denny Creek Trailhead is less than a mile away and it take hikers through Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area to destinations such as Kroenke Lake and Mt. Yale. 

The Ptarmigan Lake Trailhead is less than 3 miles from the campground and boasts views of vivid wildflowers. 
  
Middle Cottonwood Creek is small but fairly well-stocked with brook trout. Determined anglers can often pull rainbow and cutthroat trout from the beaver ponds west of the campground.<h2>Facilities</h2>
The campground offers several single-family sites on three loops. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring and grill. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.


Sites# 1, and 18-30 are first come-first served, also called "Walk-up" sites. All other sites are reservable.
Site #2 is used by the host from mid-May through September. After that time it is available as a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground sits at an elevation of 9,800 feet, tucked in a dense stand of mixed conifers and aspen. Some sites sit alongside the creek while others are tucked back in the woods. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months. 
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Cottonwood Pass is a high mountain pass across the Continental Divide in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. The road reaches the divide at an elevation of 12,126 feet. The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness offers challenging trails and prime backcountry fishing lakes. 
  


The Town of Buena Vista is only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of antique shops.  The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak in, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping and swimming.
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Cancellations</p>
<p>Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. </p>

<p>A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.</p>

<p>Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.</p>

<p>No-Shows</p>
<p>A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.</p>

<p>No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.  </p>

<p>Refunds</p>
<p>Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended.</p>

<p>Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay.</p>

<p>For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. </p>

<p>In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.</p>

COLLEGIATE PEAKS

Campsite with a view of aspen trees with fall foliage.

Campsite with view of aspen trees with fall foliege

Campsite with picnic table surrounded by trees.

Campsite with shade and picnic table

Campsite surrounded by trees

Shaded campsite with picnic table and fire pit

Picnic table with aspen trees with fall foliage

Collegiate Peaks

## Overview

Cascade Campground is located in beautiful Chaffee County, Colorado. This
popular facility sits near Cascade Falls and is within 5 miles of a private
hot springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation.

**"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be
available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a
popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early
as Thursday, so plan accordingly.**

## Recreation

Stream fishing is best above Cascade Falls, just accross the road from the
campground. Nearby Chalk Lake is heralded as a great family fishing lake with
rainbow, brook and brown trout. Plenty of off-road vehicle trails are a short
distance away. Recommended rides include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup
Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, Hancock Lakes. Hiking in the area includes
the Colorado Trail, The Narrow Gauge trail and the Cascade Loop Trail (Across
from Chalk Lake Campground)

## Facilities

The campground offers 21 single-family sites, each equipped with a picnic
table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided.
Firewood is sold on-site. Sites #2- 7 and 11, 12 are "walk-up" first-come,
first served. All other sites are reservable. Site #1 is used by the host from
mid-May to Labor Day weekend. After that time it is available as a "walk-up",
first-come, first-served site.

## Natural Features

The campground is situated in a dense forest of Douglas fir and aspen at an
elevation of 9,000 feet in Chalk Creek Canyon, which gets its name from the
soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon walls. Kaolinite is a clay mineral
that was deposited by percolating hot springs.  
  
Chalk Creek is just across the road from the campground. It flows 27 miles
eastward from the Collegiate Peaks before joining the Arkansas River. Chalk
Lake is a mile east of the campground.

## Nearby Attractions

Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from
the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic
structures remain from the days of its mining glory. The city of Salida and
Town of Buena Vista are only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy
distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large
selection of antique shops. The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas
River to raft, fish, float or kayak in. as well as fifteen 14,000 ft
mountains. Visitors choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking,
ATVing, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping, swimming

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations

Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start
date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.

A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival
will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including
tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid
and will not be subject to an additional service fee.

No-Shows

A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not
cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled
arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day
following the arrival date.

No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate,
taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Refunds

Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile
within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued
after the 7 days has ended.

Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the
original bank or credit card used to pay.

For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for
refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with
the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.

In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility
manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact
information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Cascade Campground is located in beautiful Chaffee County, Colorado. This popular facility sits near Cascade Falls and is within 5 miles of a private hot springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation.</p>

<p><strong>"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early as Thursday, so plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
Stream fishing is best above Cascade Falls, just accross the road from the campground. Nearby Chalk Lake is heralded as a great family fishing lake with rainbow, brook and brown trout.
  
Plenty of off-road vehicle trails are a short distance away. Recommended rides include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, Hancock Lakes.


Hiking in the area includes the Colorado Trail, The Narrow Gauge trail and the Cascade Loop Trail (Across from Chalk Lake Campground)<h2>Facilities</h2>
The campground offers 21 single-family sites, each equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Firewood is sold on-site.

Sites #2- 7 and 11, 12 are "walk-up" first-come, first served. All other sites are reservable.
Site #1 is used by the host from mid-May to Labor Day weekend. After that time it is available as a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground is situated in a dense forest of Douglas fir and aspen at an elevation of 9,000 feet in Chalk Creek Canyon, which gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon walls. Kaolinite is a clay mineral that was deposited by percolating hot springs.
<br/><br/>
Chalk Creek is just across the road from the campground. It flows 27 miles eastward from the Collegiate Peaks before joining the Arkansas River. Chalk Lake is a mile east of the campground. 
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic structures remain from the days of its mining glory. 



  
The city of Salida and Town of Buena Vista are only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of antique shops.  The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak in. as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATVing, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping, swimming
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Cancellations</p>
<p>Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. </p>

<p>A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.</p>

<p>Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.</p>

<p>No-Shows</p>
<p>A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.</p>

<p>No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.  </p>

<p>Refunds</p>
<p>Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended.</p>

<p>Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay.</p>

<p>For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. </p>

<p>In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.</p>

Photo of campsite with fire pit and picnic table

Campsite with trees, picnic table, fire pit, mountain in background

Campsite, fire pit, picnic table, green foliage

Campsite surrounded by trees with picnic table and fire pit

CASCADE (COLORADO)

Gravel road in forest with person walking in background

Campsite surrounded by trees with picnic table

Campsite with picnic table and fire pit with mountain in background

Campground, fall foliage, picnic table, fire pit

Cascade (Colorado)

## Overview

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to **first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival** as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

## Facilities

Iron City Campground is located within the Chalk Creek Canyon, which is one of
the valley's most popular areas, offering access to many ATV trails. This is a
small campground with 15 campsites. It is located near the historic townsite
of St. Elmo. The Iron City cemetery is located on the east end of the
campground. An interpretive sign at the entrance to the cemetery provides
information on the early settlers and miners who are buried there.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.</p>
<p>If this option is available, you will need to <strong>first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival </strong>as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Iron City Campground is located within the Chalk Creek Canyon, which is one of the valley's most popular areas, offering access to many ATV trails. This is a small campground with 15 campsites. It is located near the historic townsite of St. Elmo. The Iron City cemetery is located on the east end of the campground. An interpretive sign at the entrance to the cemetery provides information on the early settlers and miners who are buried there.</p>


<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

Iron City

## Overview

Chalk Lake Campground is located in beautiful Chaffee County, Colorado. This
popular facility sits near Chalk Lake and is within 4 miles of a private hot
springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation.

**"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be
available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a
popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early
as Thursday, so plan accordingly.**

## Recreation

Chalk Lake is located next to the campground and is a great family fishing
spot with rainbow, brook and brown trout. Motorized boats are not allowed on
the lake. Chalk Creek also offers fishing, and it's best above Cascade Falls.
Plenty of off-road vehicle trails are near the campground. Recommended rides
include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes,
and Hancock Lakes. The Cascade Loop Trail is located across the street from
the campground. The Chalk Creek Trailhead is about 2 miles east of the
campground which gives hikers access to the extensive Colorado Trail, which
extends nearly 500 miles from Denver to Durango.

## Facilities

The campground offers single-family sites, a few of which are accessible. Each
site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Accessible vault
toilets are provided. Firewood is sold on-site. Sites: #4-9, and 14 "walk-up",
first-come, first-served sites. All other sites are reservable. Site #1 is
used by the host from mid-May to mid-September. After that time it is
available as a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.

## Natural Features

The campground sits at an elevation of 9,000 feet in Chalk Creek Canyon, which
gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon walls.
Kaolinite is a clay mineral that was deposited by percolating hot springs. A
variety of wildlife makes its home in the area, including chipmunks,
hummingbirds, birds of prey and mule deer.

## Nearby Attractions

Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from
the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic
structures remain from the days of its mining glory. Rock hounds come to the
area in search of quartz and aquamarine. The city of Salida and Town of Buena
Vista are only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive
restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of
antique shops. The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft,
fish, float or kayak in, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors can
choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding,
kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping and swimming.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations

Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start
date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.

A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival
will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including
tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid
and will not be subject to an additional service fee.

No-Shows

A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not
cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled
arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day
following the arrival date.

No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate,
taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Refunds

Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile
within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued
after the 7 days has ended.

Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the
original bank or credit card used to pay.

For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for
refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with
the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.

In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility
manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact
information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Chalk Lake Campground is located in beautiful Chaffee County, Colorado. This popular facility sits near Chalk Lake and is within 4 miles of a private hot springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation.</p>

<p><strong>"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early as Thursday, so plan accordingly.</strong></p>

<h2>Recreation</h2>
Chalk Lake is located next to the campground and is a great family fishing spot with rainbow, brook and brown trout. Motorized boats are not allowed on the lake. Chalk Creek also offers fishing, and it's best above Cascade Falls. 
  
Plenty of off-road vehicle trails are near the campground. Recommended rides include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, and Hancock Lakes.
  
The Cascade Loop Trail is located across the street from the campground. The Chalk Creek Trailhead  is about 2 miles east of the campground which gives hikers access to the extensive Colorado Trail, which extends nearly 500 miles from Denver to Durango.<h2>Facilities</h2>
The campground offers single-family sites, a few of which are accessible. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Firewood is sold on-site.

Sites: #4-9, and 14 "walk-up", first-come, first-served sites. All other sites are reservable. 
Site #1 is used by the host from mid-May to mid-September. After that time it is available as a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground sits at an elevation of 9,000 feet in Chalk Creek Canyon, which gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon walls. Kaolinite is a clay mineral that was deposited by percolating hot springs. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area, including chipmunks, hummingbirds, birds of prey and mule deer.
  

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic structures remain from the days of its mining glory. Rock hounds come to the area in search of quartz and aquamarine.
  


The city of Salida and Town of Buena Vista are only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of antique shops.  The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak in, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping and swimming.
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Cancellations</p>
<p>Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. </p>

<p>A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.</p>

<p>Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.</p>

<p>No-Shows</p>
<p>A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.</p>

<p>No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.  </p>

<p>Refunds</p>
<p>Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended.</p>

<p>Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay.</p>

<p>For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. </p>

<p>In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.</p>

Campsite with small camp trailer with trees in background

CHALK LAKE

Waterfall surrounded by rock outcroppings

Campsite with Chalk Cliffs in background

Campsite in trees with tents, fire pit and picnic table

Chalk Creek

Campsite near creek surrounded by trees

Chalk Lake

## Overview

Mount Princeton Campground is located in beautiful Chalk Creek Canyon in
central Colorado. This popular facility is within 4 miles of a private hot
springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation.

**"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be
available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a
popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early
as Thursday, so plan accordingly.**

## Recreation

Stream fishing is best above Cascade Falls, about 2 miles west of the
campground. Nearby Chalk Lake is heralded as a great family fishing lake with
rainbow, brook and brown trout.  
  
Nearby ATV/UTV and 4X4 rides include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass,
Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, Hancock Lakes.

## Facilities

The campground offers single-family sites, a few of which are wheelchair
accessible. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with
grill. Wheelchair accessible vault toilets are provided. Firewood is sold on-
site. Parking spurs are gravel.  
  
Sites #1, and 14-17 are "walk-up", first-come, first-served sites. All other
sites are reservable.  
Site #2 is used by the host from mid-May to Labor Day weekend, after that it
is available as a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.

## Natural Features

The campground is situated at an elevation of 8,600 feet in Chalk Creek
Canyon, which gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon
walls. Kaolinite is a clay mineral that was deposited by percolating hot
springs. A stand of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir offers partial shade in the
campground. Chalk Creek can be accessed from the campground. It flows 27 miles
eastward from the Collegiate Peaks before joining the Arkansas River. Chalk
Lake is about a mile west of the campground.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

## Nearby Attractions

Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from
the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic
structures remain from the days of its mining glory. Rock hounds come to the
area in search of quartz and aquamarine.  
  
  
  
  
The city of Salida and Town of Buena Vista are only a short drive away where
visitors can enjoy unique restaurants, shops, and art galleries. The area
boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak, as
well as fifteen 14,000 ft. mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational
activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing,
horseback riding, ziplining and swimming.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations

Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start
date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.

A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival
will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including
tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid
and will not be subject to an additional service fee.

No-Shows

A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not
cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled
arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day
following the arrival date.

No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate,
taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Refunds

Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile
within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued
after the 7 days has ended.

Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the
original bank or credit card used to pay.

For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for
refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with
the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.

In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility
manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact
information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Mount Princeton Campground is located in beautiful Chalk Creek Canyon in central Colorado. This popular facility is within 4 miles of a private hot springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation.</p>

<p><strong>"First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early as Thursday, so plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Stream fishing is best above Cascade Falls, about 2 miles west of the campground. Nearby Chalk Lake is heralded as a great family fishing lake with rainbow, brook and brown trout.<br>  <br>Nearby ATV/UTV and 4X4 rides include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, Hancock Lakes.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The campground offers single-family sites, a few of which are wheelchair accessible. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with grill. Wheelchair accessible vault toilets are provided. Firewood is sold on-site. Parking spurs are gravel.<br><br>Sites #1, and 14-17 are "walk-up", first-come, first-served sites. All other sites are reservable.<br>Site #2 is used by the host from mid-May to Labor Day weekend, after that it is available as a "walk-up", first-come, first-served site.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground is situated at an elevation of 8,600 feet in Chalk Creek Canyon, which gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon walls. Kaolinite is a clay mineral that was deposited by percolating hot springs. A stand of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir offers partial shade in the campground.   
  
Chalk Creek can be accessed from the campground. It flows 27 miles eastward from the Collegiate Peaks before joining the Arkansas River. Chalk Lake is about a mile west of the campground.
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic structures remain from the days of its mining glory. Rock hounds come to the area in search of quartz and aquamarine.<br>  <br><br><br><br>The city of Salida and Town of Buena Vista are only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy unique restaurants, shops, and art galleries. The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft. mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, ziplining and swimming.</p>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Cancellations</p>
<p>Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. </p>

<p>A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.</p>

<p>Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.</p>

<p>No-Shows</p>
<p>A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.</p>

<p>No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.  </p>

<p>Refunds</p>
<p>Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended.</p>

<p>Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay.</p>

<p>For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. </p>

<p>In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.</p>

Pike San Isabel National Forest

View of creek from a campsite in campground.

Creek flowing through forest

Campsite with rees, picnic tableand fire pit

Photo of campsite at Mt. Princeton Campground.

campsite with picnic table and fire pit with blue sky and mountains in background.

Campsite with picnic table, fire pit and mountains in background

Mount Princeton

## Overview

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to**first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival** as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.</p>
<p>If this option is available, you will need to<strong> first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival </strong>as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.</p>

Bootleg

## Overview

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to **first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival** as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

## Facilities

This campground is the highest elevation campground on the Salida Ranger
District. The elevation is 11,000 feet and the campsites are situated on the
north shore of the North Fork Reservoir. The road to the campground is very
rough and not recommended for vehicles towing trailers. High clearance
vehicles are a requirement for reaching this campground. No trash service.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.</p>
<p>If this option is available, you will need to <strong>first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival</strong> as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>This campground is the highest elevation campground on the Salida Ranger District. The elevation is 11,000 feet and the campsites are situated on the north shore of the North Fork Reservoir. The road to the campground is very rough and not recommended for vehicles towing trailers. High clearance vehicles are a requirement for reaching this campground. No trash service.</p>

<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

North Fork Campground (Salida, CO)

## Overview

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors
are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a
site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a
QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to**first download the free
Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your
arrival** as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.</p>
<p>If this option is available, you will need to<strong> first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival</strong> as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.</p>

<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

Angel of Shavano

## Overview

Angel of Shavano Group Campground is considered one of the area's best kept
camping secrets. It is situated next to the North Fork South Arkansas River
and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and
fishing. **Reservations are REQUIRED at this facility. Reservations can be
made up to 1 year in advance.**

## Recreation

The Colorado Trail begins within the campground and provides excellent hiking,
horseback riding and biking opportunities. The trail stretches 487 miles
across Colorado from Denver to Durango, with segments ranging in elevation
from 5,500 to 13,300 feet. The North Fork South Arkansas River flows next to
the campground and it offers rainbow and brook trout fishing. Fun facilities
like a volleyball court, baseball field and horseshoe pits are available
within the campground. Visitors must bring their own equipment.

## Facilities

Angel of Shavano offers one group campsite best suited for tent camping. It
can accommodate up to 100 people and 12-14 vehicles. Parking is not available
for large RVs. The site is equipped with a picnic shelter, tables, six
pedestal grills and a campfire circle with benches. Vault toilets and trash
collection are provided. No drinking water is available within the group site,
but it is available at the nearby family campground.

## Natural Features

The campground is named after an image of an angel that appears as winter snow
fall on Shavano Mountain. The site lies at an elevation of 9,200 feet along
the North Fork South Arkansas River. A forest of aspen and pine covers the
area. Beaver ponds dot the landscape at the base of nearby Shavano Mountain.

## Nearby Attractions

From the Angel of Shavano Group Campground the road continues west for 6 miles
to the North Fork reservoir and campground. The road is extremely rocky and
rough and high clearance vehicles are recommend. The reservoir is regularly
stocked with rainbow trout and it offers anglers a chance to fish one of the
area's most popular high elevation lakes. It is situated at 11,000 feet so
anglers should be prepared for all types of weather. The Monarch Crest Scenic
Tramway is located on the top of Monarch Pass at 11,312 feet (3.45 km), which
is on the Continental Divide at the southern end of the Sawatch Mountain
Range. The Monarch Crest is along the border between Gunnison and Chaffee
counties, approximately 25 miles (40 km) west of the town of Salida.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

## Charges & Cancellations

Group Sites

Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): A visitor who cancels a group
overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will
pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.

No-Shows

A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not
cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled
arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day
following the arrival date.

No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate,
taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Refunds

Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile
within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued
after the 7 days has ended.

Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the
original bank or credit card used to pay.

For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for
refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with
the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.

In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility
manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact
information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Angel of Shavano Group Campground is considered one of the area's best kept camping secrets. It is situated next to the North Fork South Arkansas River and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. <strong>Reservations are REQUIRED at this facility. Reservations can be made up to 1 year in advance.</strong></p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
The Colorado Trail begins within the campground and provides excellent hiking, horseback riding and biking opportunities. The trail stretches 487 miles across Colorado from Denver to Durango, with segments ranging in elevation from 5,500 to 13,300 feet.
  
The North Fork South Arkansas River flows next to the campground and it offers rainbow and brook trout fishing. 
  
Fun facilities like a volleyball court, baseball field and horseshoe pits  are available within the campground. Visitors must bring their own equipment.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Angel of Shavano offers one group campsite best suited for tent camping. It can accommodate up to 100 people and 12-14 vehicles. Parking is not available for large RVs. 
  
The site is equipped with a picnic shelter, tables, six pedestal grills and a campfire circle with benches. Vault toilets and trash collection are provided. No drinking water is available within the group site, but it is available at the nearby family campground.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground is named after an image of an angel that appears as winter snow fall on Shavano Mountain. The site lies at an elevation of 9,200 feet along the North Fork South Arkansas River. A forest of aspen and pine covers the area. Beaver ponds dot the landscape at the base of nearby Shavano Mountain.
  

<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
From the Angel of Shavano Group Campground the road continues west for 6 miles to the North Fork reservoir and campground. The road is extremely rocky and rough and high clearance vehicles are recommend. The reservoir is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and it offers anglers a chance to fish one of the area's most popular high elevation lakes. It is situated at 11,000 feet so anglers should be prepared for all types of weather. 


The Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway is located on the top of Monarch Pass at 11,312 feet (3.45 km), which is on the Continental Divide at the southern end of the Sawatch Mountain Range. The Monarch Crest is along the border between Gunnison and Chaffee counties,  approximately 25 miles (40 km) west of the town of Salida.
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Group Sites</p>
<p>Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): A visitor who cancels a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.</p>

<p>No-Shows</p>
<p>A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.</p>

<p>No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.  </p>

<p>Refunds</p>
<p>Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended.</p>

<p>Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay.</p>

<p>For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. </p>

<p>In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.</p>

Group of cooking grills with trees and mountain in background

Wooden pavilion with picnic tables

Picnic area with pavilion, wooden picnic tables with mountains and trees in the background

Angel Of Shavano Group

## Overview

Dawson Cabin provides campers with a rustic, remote getaway in the beautiful
Clear Creek Canyon. The Clear Creek Historical District offers visitors a
taste of mining history from the mid-19th Century, when people came far and
wide looking for gold, silver and other precious minerals. By the 1890s, about
50,000 residents lived in the valley, in search of great fortune.  

## Recreation

Off-road vehicle trails and hiking trails are nearby. Some hiking trails lead
into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, which is named for the numerous 14,000
ft. peaks named after colleges, such as Yale, Harvard and Princeton.  
  
Collegiate Peaks is the headwaters for the Arkansas, Gunnison, and Roaring
Fork Rivers. The landscape is composed of alpine tundra, high lake basins and
glacial river valleys.  

## Facilities

The cabin comfortably fits up to four guests, but two additional guests may
fit. Camping outside is permitted as well. Furnishings include a wood burning
stove and an indoor picnic table. Guests should bring cots to sleep on, or at
least bring a pad to sleep on the floor.  
  
No water or electricity is available. Guests should bring plenty of water.
Creek water may be boiled and treated for consumption. Other items to pack
include bedding, food, lanterns, matches, cooking utensils, dish soap and a
first aid kit. (Click here for more cabin details.)  

## Natural Features

Dawson Cabin is nestled at the base of Ervin Peak in Clear Creek Canyon, at an
elevation of about 9,600 feet. It is on the outskirts of the Collegiate Peaks
Wilderness in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. Clear Creek passes
near the cabin.  
  
The cabin is located in the Leadville Ranger District, which is home to the
Sawatch Range, the highest mountain range in Colorado. These rugged, glaciated
mountains form the crest of the Continental Divide. Mount Elbert, at 14,443
feet, is Colorado's highest peak and one of ten "fourteeners" located in the
District.  

## Nearby Attractions

The historic town of Winfield is about 5 miles farther up the valley. The
nearest place for pay phones and a grocery store is in Buena Vista, about a 45
minute drive.  
  
  
Visitors can head to Clear Creek Reservoir, about 5 miles east, for fishing
and boating. Fish species include brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and
tiger muskie. A few miles further is the Arkansas River, where whitewater
rafting is a big hit.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Dawson Cabin provides campers with a rustic, remote getaway in the beautiful Clear Creek Canyon. The Clear Creek Historical District offers visitors a taste of mining history from the mid-19th Century, when people came far and wide looking for gold, silver and other precious minerals. By the 1890s, about 50,000 residents lived in the valley, in search of great fortune. <br/><h2>Recreation</h2>
Off-road vehicle trails and hiking trails are nearby. Some hiking trails lead into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, which is named for the numerous 14,000 ft. peaks named after colleges, such as Yale, Harvard and Princeton.  
<br/><br/>
Collegiate Peaks is the headwaters for the Arkansas, Gunnison, and Roaring Fork Rivers. The landscape is composed of alpine tundra, high lake basins and glacial river valleys. <br/><h2>Facilities</h2>
The cabin comfortably fits up to four guests, but two additional guests may fit. Camping outside is permitted as well. Furnishings include a wood burning stove and an indoor picnic table. Guests should bring cots to sleep on, or at least bring a pad to sleep on the floor. 
<br/><br/>
No water or electricity is available. Guests should bring plenty of water. Creek water may be boiled and treated for consumption. Other items to pack include bedding, food, lanterns, matches, cooking utensils, dish soap and a first aid kit. (<a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/psicc/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=12464&actid=101" rel="nofollow">Click here for more cabin details.</a>) <br/><h2>Natural Features</h2>
Dawson Cabin is nestled at the base of Ervin Peak in Clear Creek Canyon, at an elevation of about 9,600 feet.  It is on the outskirts of the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. Clear Creek passes near the cabin.
<br/><br/>
The cabin is located in the Leadville Ranger District, which is home to the Sawatch Range, the highest mountain range in Colorado. These rugged, glaciated mountains form the crest of the Continental Divide. Mount Elbert, at 14,443 feet, is Colorado's highest peak and one of ten "fourteeners" located in the District. <br/>
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The historic town of Winfield is about 5 miles farther up the valley.  The nearest place for pay phones and a grocery store is in Buena Vista, about a 45 minute drive. <br/>
<br/><br/>
Visitors can head to Clear Creek Reservoir, about 5 miles east, for fishing and boating. Fish species include brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and tiger muskie. A few miles further is the Arkansas River, where whitewater rafting is a big hit.

Dawson Cabin vault toilet

Dawson Cabin interior 1

Dawson Cabin exterior 1

Dawson Cabin picnic table

Dawson Cabin interior 2

Dawson Cabin

Dawson Cabin exterior 2

Dawson Cabin view

Dawson Cabin interior 3

## Overview

Cabin campers can escape the city - and escape modern day amenities - by
staying at the fully rustic, historic Crescent Mining Camp cabins. The cabins
offer a true old fashioned taste of life on the mine in the 19th century, with
no electricity or running water. Visitors can focus on the sounds of nature
and the incredible views of the Rocky Mountains from its creekside location.
The mining camp was built in the 1890s during the boom of mining and milling
in Clear Creek Canyon. Miners sought mostly gold and silver, and attracted
about 50,000 residents in the valley that is now rather remote. The cabins are
adjacent to a road heavily used by off-highway vehicles (OHV) but have a
private drive with a locking gate. Crescent Mining camp is a good location for
OHV enthusiasts, but not visitors seeking quiet and solitude

## Recreation

Off-road vehicle trails begin near the site of the cabins and hiking
trailheads are within several miles. The most popular trails lead into the
Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, which boasts nine mountain peaks over 14,000
feet.

## Facilities

There are four cabins at Crescent, but only cabins Numbered 1 and 2 (one and
two) are available for reservations. The two cabins are rented together; one
cabin sleeps two, the other sleeps four. Visitors must bring furniture such as
cots, portable tables and chairs; in addition, tent and RV camping is
permitted for those who rent the site. No water, heat, electricity, or trash
service is provided. Guests should bring plenty of water. Creek water may be
boiled and treated for consumption. Other items to pack include cook stove,
bedding, food, lanterns, matches, cooking utensils, dish soap, bring firewood
or an axe to collect (dead/down trees only), and a first aid kit.

## Natural Features

Crescent Mining Camp is located within the Leadville Ranger District, which is
home to the Sawatch Range, the highest mountain range in Colorado. These
rugged, glaciated mountains form the crest of the Continental Divide. Mount
Elbert, at 14,443 feet, is Colorado's highest peak and 1 of 10 "fourteeners"
located on the District.  
  
At an elevation of approximately 10,000 feet, Crescent Mining Camp sits at the
base of Ervin Peak in Clear Creek Canyon. It is on the outskirts of the
Collegiate Peaks Wilderness in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. Clear
Creek passes near the cabins and the Clear Creek Reservoir and the Arkansas
River Valley are 9 miles east.

## Nearby Attractions

The nearest spot for pay phones and a grocery store is in Buena Vista, about
an hour's drive.  
  
Visitors can head to Clear Creek Reservoir, about 9 miles east, for fishing
and boating. Fish species include brook trout, brown trout and tiger muskie. A
few miles further is the Arkansas River, in a section where whitewater rafting
is popular.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Cabin campers can escape the city - and escape modern day amenities - by staying at the fully rustic, historic Crescent Mining Camp cabins. The cabins offer a true old fashioned taste of life on the mine in the 19th century, with no electricity or running water. Visitors can focus on the sounds of nature and the incredible views of the Rocky Mountains from its creekside location.
  
The mining camp was built in the 1890s during the boom of mining and milling in Clear Creek Canyon. Miners sought mostly gold and silver, and attracted about 50,000 residents in the valley that is now rather remote. 
  
The cabins are adjacent to a road heavily used by off-highway vehicles (OHV) but have a private drive with a locking gate. Crescent Mining camp is a good location for OHV enthusiasts, but not visitors seeking quiet and solitude<h2>Recreation</h2>
Off-road vehicle trails begin near the site of the cabins and hiking trailheads are within several miles. The most popular trails lead into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, which boasts nine mountain peaks over 14,000 feet.<h2>Facilities</h2>
There are four cabins at Crescent, but only cabins Numbered 1 and 2 (one and two) are available for reservations. The two cabins are rented together; one cabin sleeps two, the other sleeps four. Visitors must bring furniture such as cots, portable tables and chairs; in addition, tent and RV camping is permitted for those who rent the site.
   
No water, heat, electricity, or trash service is provided. Guests should bring plenty of water. Creek water may be boiled and treated for consumption. Other items to pack include cook stove, bedding, food, lanterns, matches, cooking utensils, dish soap, bring firewood or an axe to collect (dead/down trees only), and a first aid kit.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
Crescent Mining Camp is located within the Leadville Ranger District, which is home to the Sawatch Range, the highest mountain range in Colorado. These rugged, glaciated mountains form the crest of the Continental Divide. Mount Elbert, at 14,443 feet, is Colorado's highest peak and 1 of 10 "fourteeners" located on the District.
<br/><br/>
At an elevation of approximately 10,000 feet, Crescent Mining Camp sits at the base of Ervin Peak in Clear Creek Canyon. It is on the outskirts of the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. Clear Creek passes near the cabins and the Clear Creek Reservoir and the Arkansas River Valley are 9 miles east.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The nearest spot for pay phones and a grocery store is in Buena Vista, about an hour's drive.
<br/><br/>
Visitors can head to Clear Creek Reservoir, about 9 miles east, for fishing and boating. Fish species include brook trout, brown trout and tiger muskie. A few miles further is the Arkansas River, in a section where whitewater rafting is popular.

Crescent Mining Cabin marker

Crescent Mining Cabin 1 interior 1

Crescent Mining Cabins

Crescent Mining Cabin trail

Crescent Mining Cabin 2

Crescent Mining Cabin Vault toilet

CRESCENT MINING CAMP Cabin 2

Crescent Mining Cabin fire ring

Crescent Mining Cabins preview

Crescent Mining Cabin 2 interior 2

Crescent Mining Cabin 1 interior 2

Crescent Mining Cabin 1 exterior 2

Crescent Mining Cabin 2 interior 1

CRESCENT MINING CAMP

Crescent Mining Camp

## Overview

This Campground is Closed for the 2024 Season for renovation. Will reopen in
2025.

Monarch Park is nestled at the base of Monarch Ridge, a short drive north of
Monarch Pass on Highway 50. Some campsites at the family-friendly destination
are located on the banks of the South Fork Arkansas River, while others lie
along a creek. Popular activities in the area include hiking the
Colorado/Continental DivideTrail and fishing. Beaver ponds near the entrance
to the campground make a great fishing spot for families with young children.  
  
Monarch Pass is a high mountain pass along the southern part of Colorado's
Sawatch Range. The pass crosses the Continental Divide at an altitude of
11,312 feet.

## Recreation

Popular trails near Monarch Park include Waterdog Lakes, the Monarch Crest
Trail and the Hunt and Boss Lakes trails. Wildflowers are abundant on these
trails in late summer. The river and nearby ponds provide quality fishing for
all ages. Brook trout is the most likely reward for fishing efforts.

## Facilities

Drinking water from a hand pump is available. Vault toilets are available and
one is wheelchair accessible. All sites come with picnic tables and campfire
rings. Firewood is sold onsite. No electrical or sewer hookups are available.  
  
  
  
The nearest RV dump station is at the Poncha Springs Visitor Center located at
7001 Highway 285 (near the intersection of US Highway 285 and US Highway 50)
in Poncha Springs, CO.

## Natural Features

The elevation is 10,500 feet, and visitors should plan for cool nighttime
temperatures. Some campsites are located near the south fork of the Little
Arkansas River.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

## Nearby Attractions

The city of Salida is only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy unique
restaurants, shops, art galleries, and antique shops. The area boasts more
than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak, as well as
fifteen 14,000 ft. mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational activities
like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback
riding, zip lining, and swimming.

## Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations

Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start
date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.

A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival
will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including
tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid
and will not be subject to an additional service fee.

No-Shows

A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not
cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled
arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day
following the arrival date.

No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate,
taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.

Refunds

Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile
within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued
after the 7 days has ended.

Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the
original bank or credit card used to pay.

For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for
refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with
the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.

In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility
manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact
information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>This Campground is Closed for the 2024 Season for renovation.  Will reopen in 2025.</p>
<p>Monarch Park is nestled at the base of Monarch Ridge, a short drive north of Monarch Pass on Highway 50. Some campsites at the family-friendly destination are located on the banks of the South Fork Arkansas River, while others lie along a creek. Popular activities in the area include hiking the Colorado/Continental DivideTrail and fishing. Beaver ponds near the entrance to the campground make a great fishing spot for families with young children.<br> <br>Monarch Pass is a high mountain pass along the southern part of Colorado's Sawatch Range. The pass crosses the Continental Divide at an altitude of 11,312 feet.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
Popular trails near Monarch Park include Waterdog Lakes, the Monarch Crest Trail and the Hunt and Boss Lakes trails. Wildflowers are abundant on these trails in late summer. 
  
The river and nearby ponds provide quality fishing for all ages. Brook trout is the most likely reward for fishing efforts. <h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Drinking water from a hand pump is available. Vault toilets are available and one is wheelchair accessible. All sites come with picnic tables and campfire rings. Firewood is sold onsite. No electrical or sewer hookups are available. <br><br><br><br>The nearest RV dump station is at the Poncha Springs Visitor Center located at 7001 Highway 285 (near the intersection of US Highway 285 and US Highway 50) in Poncha Springs, CO.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The elevation is 10,500 feet, and visitors should plan for cool nighttime temperatures. Some campsites are located near the south fork of the Little Arkansas River.
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>The city of Salida is only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy unique restaurants, shops, art galleries, and antique shops.  The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft. mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zip lining, and swimming.</p>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Cancellations</p>
<p>Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. </p>

<p>A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite.</p>

<p>Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.</p>

<p>No-Shows</p>
<p>A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date.</p>

<p>No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.  </p>

<p>Refunds</p>
<p>Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended.</p>

<p>Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay.</p>

<p>For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. </p>

<p>In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.</p>

Grassy meadow with spruce trees and mountains in background

Grassy meadow with river and trees in the back ground

MONARCH PARK

Fishing pond with mountains in background

Monarch Park

## Overview

Bassam Guard Station was built in 1911 as one of a network of remote stations
to be used by the first forest rangers and guards to monitor grazing sheep and
cattle, manage timber harvesting, apprehended poachers, and report fire, road
and weather conditions on National Forest lands. This cabin provides visitors
with access to many recreation opportunities in the remote back country.

## Recreation

Visitors may wish to take a day trip to the Arkansas River for kayaking,
whitewater rafting or fishing. There are many recreational activities on the
Salida Ranger District including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and OHV
riding on designated forest roads and trails.  
  
Or take a trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo. An old saloon, county
courthouse and many other historic structures remain from the days of its
mining glory.  
  
The City of Salida and Town of Buena Vista offer visitor’s unique restaurants,
shops, and art galleries to enjoy.

## Facilities

The 14 x 16 cabin includes a full-sized bed, dresser, a small table with two
chairs, a two-burner propane stove for cooking, and a wood-burning stove for
heat. A metal campfire ring and picnic table are onsite. The cabin sleeps two
adults, and an additional six adults may camp outside in tents or a camper.
The bunkhouse and barn are off-limits to the public. Horses may be picketed or
corralled outside of the fenced area by the entrance of the cabin site.
Portable corrals are permitted, but must be moved every few days to prevent
damage to vegetation and soil. Water is available at a hand pump, but guests
are advised to bring extra drinking water. Limited cooking and dining utensils
are provided. Guests should also bring food, matches, toilet paper,
flashlights, bedding, garbage bags, and an ax for chopping firewood. Dead and
downed wood may be collected and used in campfires and in the wood-burning
stove.

## Natural Features

The cabin sits in a stand of Aspens at an approximate elevation of 9,700 feet,
south of Bassam Ridge. The cabin is within the Salida Ranger District,
spanning 440,000 acres of public lands in central Colorado. The Arkansas River
valley is known locally as the "Banana Belt of Colorado" because of the
generally mild temperatures and sunny days. Springtime can be deceptive with
sporadic spring snowstorms occurring from March to May. During the summer
months, days are warm with cool nights. Afternoon thundershowers are common
during July and August. The fall months are are generally dry and sunny with
cooler morning temperatures.

## Nearby Attractions

The cabin is located near the eastern boundary of Browns Canyon National
Monument. Explore the monument from the Bassam Park area on foot or mountain
bike (trail 1435). Or, for those with high clearance vehicles, take a scenic
drive along Aspen Ridge Road (road 185). Note that much of the monument's
western side is being managed as a wilderness study area, so motorized
vehicles and bicycles are not allowed.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Bassam Guard Station was built in 1911 as one of a network of remote stations to be used by the first forest rangers and guards to monitor grazing sheep and cattle, manage timber harvesting, apprehended poachers, and report fire, road and weather conditions on National Forest lands. This cabin provides visitors with access to many recreation opportunities in the remote back country.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Visitors may wish to take a day trip to the Arkansas River for kayaking, whitewater rafting or fishing. There are many recreational activities on the Salida Ranger District including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and OHV riding on designated forest roads and trails. <br><br>Or take a trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic structures remain from the days of its mining glory.<br><br> The City of Salida and Town of Buena Vista offer visitor’s unique restaurants,  shops, and art galleries to enjoy.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
The 14 x 16 cabin includes a full-sized bed, dresser, a small table with two chairs, a two-burner propane stove for cooking, and a wood-burning stove for heat. A metal campfire ring and picnic table are onsite. The cabin sleeps two adults, and an additional six adults may camp outside in tents or a camper. The bunkhouse and barn are off-limits to the public.
  
Horses may be picketed or corralled outside of the fenced area by the entrance of the cabin site. Portable corrals are permitted, but must be moved every few days to prevent damage to vegetation and soil. 
  
Water is available at a hand pump, but guests are advised to bring extra drinking water. Limited cooking and dining utensils are provided. Guests should also bring food, matches, toilet paper, flashlights, bedding, garbage bags, and an ax for chopping firewood. Dead and downed wood may be collected and used in campfires and in the wood-burning stove.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The cabin sits in a stand of Aspens at an approximate elevation of 9,700 feet, south of Bassam Ridge. The cabin is within the Salida Ranger District, spanning 440,000 acres of public lands in central Colorado. The Arkansas River valley is known locally as the "Banana Belt of Colorado" because of the generally mild temperatures and sunny days. Springtime can be deceptive with sporadic spring snowstorms occurring from March to May. During the summer months, days are warm with cool nights. Afternoon thundershowers are common during July and August. The fall months are are generally dry and sunny with cooler morning temperatures.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The cabin is located near the eastern boundary of Browns Canyon National Monument. Explore the monument from the Bassam Park area on foot or mountain bike (trail 1435). Or, for those with high clearance vehicles, take a scenic drive along Aspen Ridge Road (road 185). Note that much of the monument's western side is being managed as a wilderness study area, so motorized vehicles and bicycles are not allowed.

cabin exterior

Bassam Cabin

wood stove in cabin

entrance gate

Furniture in cabin

Bassam Guard Station

Bassam Guard Station hand pump

Wooden sign

Sign with information about Bassam cabin

Dirt road through aspen trees

Cabin with grass, flowers and trees

**Peaks to Prairies - Tracks to Trails**

Pike and San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National
Grasslands (forest locator map) cover nearly 3 million acres, between the
prairies of western Kansas and some of Colorado's highest mountain peaks along
the Continental Divide. These sprawling forests and grasslands are an eight
hour drive from boundary to boundary. This landscape offers a variety of
ecosystems rich in history, geology, scenery, wildlife habitat and recreation
opportunities.

The rolling prairies to the east are home to prairie chickens, wildflowers,
paleontological resources and historical areas. The snow-capped Rockies to the
west are a scenic backdrop to millions of residents and a draw to forest
visitors. The forests are home to nearly half of Colorado's fourteeners with
numerous alpine lakes, reservoirs and key rivers. Over 385,000 acres of
Wilderness, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Colorado Trail, and
Santa Fe National Historic Trail are special areas worth exploring.

People who live near these areas maintain a strong relationship to the lands.
The commitment and volunteerism that these community members have for these
public lands is the foundation for our ability to maintain a quality,
sustainable recreation program in the face of intense, and growing, urban
demand.

****Critical Information about the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems****

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or “drones” are increasing in popularity and
can provide wonderful opportunities to explore the forest. Please be aware
that these drones are regulated and must follow certain laws to be safe and
legal.

  * Recreational Drone Tips (.pdf)
  * Forest Service Unmanned Aircraft Systems policy (fs.fed.us)

<p><strong>Peaks to Prairies - Tracks to Trails</strong></p>

<p>Pike and San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (<a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/locatormap/index.php?lat=37.59&long=-104.77&zoom=7" rel="nofollow">forest locator map</a>) cover nearly 3 million acres, between the prairies of western Kansas and some of Colorado's highest mountain peaks along the Continental Divide. These sprawling forests and grasslands are an eight hour drive from boundary to boundary. This landscape offers a variety of ecosystems rich in history, geology, scenery, wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities.</p>

<p>The rolling prairies to the east are home to prairie chickens, wildflowers, paleontological resources and historical areas. The snow-capped Rockies to the west are a scenic backdrop to millions of residents and a draw to forest visitors. The forests are home to nearly half of <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r2/recreation/?cid=stelprd3798321" rel="nofollow">Colorado's fourteeners</a> with numerous alpine lakes, reservoirs and key rivers. Over 385,000 acres of <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/psicc/recreation/recarea/?recid=37201" rel="nofollow">Wilderness</a>, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Colorado Trail, and Santa Fe National Historic Trail are special areas worth exploring.</p>

<p>People who live near these areas maintain a strong relationship to the lands. The commitment and volunteerism that these community members have for these public lands is the foundation for our ability to maintain a quality, sustainable recreation program in the face of intense, and growing, urban demand.</p>

<p><strong><strong>Critical Information about the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems</strong></strong></p>

<p>Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or “drones” are increasing in popularity and can provide wonderful opportunities to explore the forest. Please be aware that these drones are regulated and must follow certain laws to be safe and legal.</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3846515.pdf" rel="nofollow">Recreational Drone Tips</a> (.pdf)</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/science-technology/fire/unmanned-aircraft-systems" rel="nofollow">Forest Service Unmanned Aircraft Systems policy</a> (fs.fed.us)</li>
</ul>