This small campground stretches along the banks of the south fork of the Rio
Grande River among mature spruce and cottonwood trees. Many sites are adjacent
to the river. US Highway 160 is very close by so some traffic noise is common
day and night. With heavy understory, the campground has the feel of spacious
seclusion and is very cool and shady.  
This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.  
  
There is fishing nearby in the South Fork of the Rio Grande and Park Creek.
Wolf Creek Pass is 9.5 miles west from the campground. The facilities include
13 newly remodeled gravel sites with tables and steel fireplace rings
(firewood is not provided), 2 vault type toilets, a centralized refuse bin and
a developed drinking water system with hand pumps (in season) and adequate
turn around and parking space for trailers.  This is a great nightly stop over
campground for travelers on US Highway 160.

Scroll down to Information Center to see individual campsite descriptions.

<p>This small&nbsp;campground&nbsp;stretches along&nbsp;the banks of the south fork of the Rio Grande River&nbsp;among mature spruce and cottonwood trees.&nbsp;Many sites are adjacent to the&nbsp;river.&nbsp;US Highway 160 is very close by so some traffic noise&nbsp;is common day and night. With heavy understory, the campground has the feel of spacious seclusion and is very cool and shady.&nbsp;<br />This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.<br /><br />There is fishing nearby in the South Fork of the Rio Grande and Park Creek. Wolf Creek Pass is 9.5 miles west from the campground. The facilities include 13 newly remodeled gravel sites with tables and steel fireplace rings&nbsp;(firewood is not provided), 2 vault type toilets, a centralized refuse bin and a developed drinking water system with hand pumps (in season) and adequate turn around and parking space for trailers.&nbsp; This is a great nightly stop over campground for travelers on US Highway 160.&nbsp;</p><p>Scroll down to Information Center to see individual campsite descriptions.</p>

Single site - $27 to $31/night.  
Double site - $54 to $58/night.  
$12 for day use picnicking.  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Bird's eye view of the campground

Park Creek Campground

Tewksberry Trail makes a gentle ascent over scenic Meadow Pass between Cattle
Mountain and Demijohn Peak. Throughout the trail, spruce, Douglas fir and
aspen stands shade the pathway. Interspersed with the trees are open grassy
meadows. For the first 2 miles, Tewksberry Creek meanders near and
occasionally crosses the trail.

A few Non-Forest Service System foot and horse trails depart from the main
motorized trail. All ATV's and Motorcycles must stay on the main motorized
trail. If you wish to explore these non-system trails, park your ATV or
motorcycle a few feet off the trail, and hike them.

<p>Tewksberry Trail makes a gentle ascent over scenic Meadow Pass between Cattle Mountain and Demijohn Peak. Throughout the trail, spruce, Douglas fir and aspen stands shade the pathway. Interspersed with the trees are open grassy meadows. For the first 2 miles, Tewksberry Creek meanders near and occasionally crosses the trail.</p><p>A few Non-Forest Service System foot and horse trails depart from the main motorized trail. All ATV&rsquo;s and Motorcycles must stay on the main motorized trail. If you wish to explore these non-system trails, park your ATV or motorcycle a few feet off the trail, and hike them.</p>

Tewksberry Trailhead #842

The campground is composed of two sections laid out under ponderosa pine.
Parking on several sites is side-by-side providing little privacy between
sites. The nearby Beaver Creek Reservoir features a boat ramp and fishing for
brown, brook and rainbow trout and kokanee salmon.

<p>The campground is composed of two sections laid out under ponderosa pine. Parking on several sites is side-by-side providing little privacy between sites. The nearby Beaver Creek Reservoir features a boat ramp and fishing for brown, brook and rainbow trout and kokanee salmon.</p>

Single site - $27 to $31/night.  
Double site - $54 to $58/night.  
Day-use - $12/day (picnicking).  Shoulder Season - $10/night  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Upper Beaver Creek Campground

This campground is conveniently located with two loops located right along US
Highway 160 4.1 miles west of South Fork, Colorado. The lower loop is
comprised of Aspen and a few Ponderosa pines and includes all the tent sites.
The upper loop circles a knoll above US Highway 160 with shade provided by
mature Ponderosa pines. This loop also provides excellent views of the
surrounding area and mountains. The south fork of the Rio Grande provides
fishing opportunities just south of the campground down in the valley. The
newly remodeled (2010) facilities include 13 campsites with tables and
fireplaces, 2 vault type toilets, and adequate turnaround and parking space
for RV's. No drinking water or firewood is provided.  **Scroll down to
Information Center for individual site descriptions.**

<p>This&nbsp;campground is conveniently located with two loops located right along US Highway 160 4.1 miles west of South Fork, Colorado. The lower loop is comprised of Aspen and a few Ponderosa pines and includes all the tent sites. The upper loop circles a knoll above US Highway 160 with shade provided by mature Ponderosa pines. This loop also provides excellent views of the surrounding area and mountains. The south fork of the Rio Grande&nbsp;provides fishing opportunities just south of the campground down in the valley. The newly remodeled (2010) facilities include 13 campsites with tables and fireplaces, 2 vault type toilets, and adequate turnaround and parking space for RV&#39;s. No drinking water or firewood is provided.&nbsp; <strong>Scroll down to&nbsp;Information Center&nbsp;for individual site descriptions.</strong></p>

Single Site - $23 to $25/night  
$12 for day use (picnicking).  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Highway Springs Campground

The campground lies at 8400-foot in elevation. Fishing in nearby Beaver
Reservoir and Beaver Creek. Hiking on nearby trails. The facilities include 18
newly remodeled (2010) sites with tables and fireplaces, vault type toilets,
centralized refuse bin and a developed drinking water system with hand pumps
(in season) and ample turn around and parking space for trailers. 15 sites are
dead end spurs and 3 sites are pull through spurs.  Attractions in the area
include fishing in Beaver Creek and Beaver Reservoir and Tewksberry Trail #842
is available for hiking, biking, ATV riding just to the west. The nearby
Beaver Creek Reservoir features a boat ramp and fishing for Brown, Brook and
Rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon.    **Scroll down to  Information Center to
see individual site descriptions. **

<p>The campground lies at 8400-foot in elevation. Fishing in nearby Beaver Reservoir and Beaver Creek. Hiking on nearby trails. The facilities include 18 newly remodeled (2010) sites with tables and fireplaces, vault type toilets, centralized refuse bin and a developed drinking water system with hand pumps (in season) and ample turn around and parking space for trailers. 15 sites are dead end spurs and 3 sites are pull through spurs.&nbsp; Attractions in the area include fishing in Beaver Creek and Beaver Reservoir and Tewksberry Trail #842&nbsp; is available for hiking, biking, ATV riding just to the west. The nearby Beaver Creek Reservoir features a boat ramp and fishing for Brown, Brook and Rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <strong>Scroll down to&nbsp;Information Center&nbsp;to see individual site descriptions.&nbsp;</strong></p>

Single site - $27 to $31/night.  
Double site - $54 to $58/night.  
Shoulder season - $10/night (Sometime after Labor Day weekend)  
$12 for day use (picnicking)  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Lower Beaver Creek Campground

There are 12 sites located on both side of Cross Creek just above the Beaver
Reservoir inlet.  Fishing in nearby Beaver Reservoir and Beaver Creek. Hiking
or ATV riding up Cross Creek Trail. Cross Creek Campground is in the Beaver
Creek drainage southwest of the town of South Fork. Fishing sites include
Beaver Creek and Beaver Reservoir (1/4 mile north). Cross Creek Trail 512 has
the biggest Douglas fir tree in the Rio Grande National Forest. The facilities
include 12 sites with tables and fireplaces (firewood is not provided), vault
type toilet, trash cans, ample parking for cars, but turn around and parking
space for trailers is limited. There is an RV waste station next to the
Rainbow Grocery at intersection of US Rt. 160 and State Rt. 149 in South Fork,
CO - no fee. Beaver Creek Reservoir is 300 acres - no wake boating.

<p>There are 12&nbsp;sites located on both side of Cross Creek just above the Beaver Reservoir inlet.&nbsp; Fishing in nearby Beaver Reservoir and Beaver Creek. Hiking or ATV riding up Cross Creek Trail. Cross Creek Campground is in the Beaver Creek drainage southwest of the town of South Fork. Fishing sites include Beaver Creek and Beaver Reservoir (1/4 mile north). Cross Creek Trail 512 has the biggest Douglas fir tree in the Rio Grande National Forest. The facilities include&nbsp;12 sites with tables and fireplaces (firewood is not provided), vault type toilet, trash cans, ample parking for cars, but turn around and parking space for trailers is limited. There is an RV waste station next to the Rainbow Grocery at intersection of US Rt. 160 and State Rt. 149 in South Fork, CO - no fee. Beaver Creek Reservoir is 300 acres - no wake boating.</p>

Single Site - $27 to $29/night  
Special Site - $34 to $36/night  
Shoulder Season - $10/night (Sometime after Labor Day weekend)  
Day use - $12/day (picnicking).  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Cross Creek Campground

The Trout trail is 10.4 miles long. It begins at Hwy 160 and ends at Forest
Road 430. The trail is open for the following uses: Motorcycle Trail Riding,
Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) less than or equal to 50 inches wide, Mtn Biking,
Foot and Horse Travel.

<p>The Trout trail is 10.4 miles long. It begins at Hwy 160 and ends at Forest Road 430. The trail is open for the following uses: Motorcycle Trail Riding, Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) less than or equal to 50 inches wide, Mtn Biking, Foot and Horse Travel.</p>

Trout Trailhead #831

## Overview

Big Meadows is located in the San Juan Mountains in south-central Colorado,
about 11 miles west of South Fork. The campground is lightly wooded with
spruce trees, creating a beautiful meadow atmosphere.  
  
The Rio Grande National Forest spans 1.86 million acres in south-central
Colorado. The Continental Divide runs for 236 miles along most of the forest's
western border, presenting a myriad of ecosystems from alpine desert to dense
wilderness.

## Recreation

An accessible fishing pier, located on the north shore of the reservoir,
allows anglers to cast for rainbow, brown and brook trout. Hunting, boating
and hiking are also popular pastimes.  
  
Hikers and horseback riders will enjoy the 6-mile Archuleta Trail. The trail
accesses the Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest wilderness, which boasts
the headwaters of dozens of major streams and rivers that feed into the Rio
Grande and San Juan rivers.

## Facilities

Each site has a campfire ring and picnic tables. Drinking water is available.  
  
The nearest dump station is 13 miles away, and a boat ramp is located on the
north shore of the reservoir.

## Natural Features

The campground meanders up a mountainside above Big Meadows Reservoir in a
series of loops. As a sub-alpine region, the campground gets more rainfall
than the opposite side of the lake, resulting in plentiful wildflowers and
aspens surrounding the campsites.

## Nearby Attractions

The surrounding area has plenty to keep visitors busy, with attractions like
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Native American ruins, remnants of the Spanish
Conquistadors and gold rush ghost towns. The Sangre de Cristo and San Juan
Ranges are laced with trails for avid hikers.

## Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (805) 434-1996.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Big Meadows is located in the San Juan Mountains in south-central Colorado, about 11 miles west of South Fork. The campground is lightly wooded with spruce trees, creating a beautiful meadow atmosphere.
<br/><br/>
The Rio Grande National Forest spans 1.86 million acres in south-central Colorado. The Continental Divide runs for 236 miles along most of the forest's western border, presenting a myriad of ecosystems from alpine desert to dense wilderness.<h2>Recreation</h2>
An accessible fishing pier, located on the north shore of the reservoir, allows anglers to cast for rainbow, brown and brook trout. Hunting, boating and hiking are also popular pastimes. <br/><br/>
Hikers and horseback riders will enjoy the 6-mile Archuleta Trail. The trail accesses the Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest wilderness, which boasts the headwaters of dozens of major streams and rivers that feed into the Rio Grande and San Juan rivers.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Each site has a campfire ring and picnic tables. Drinking water is available.
<br/><br/>
The nearest dump station is 13 miles away, and a boat ramp is located on the north shore of the reservoir.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The campground meanders up a mountainside above Big Meadows Reservoir in a series of loops. As a sub-alpine region, the campground gets more rainfall than the opposite side of the lake, resulting in plentiful wildflowers and aspens surrounding the campsites.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The surrounding area has plenty to keep visitors busy, with attractions like Great Sand Dunes National Park, Native American ruins, remnants of the Spanish Conquistadors and gold rush ghost towns. The Sangre de Cristo and San Juan Ranges are laced with trails for avid hikers.
<h2>Contact Info</h2>
For facility specific information, please call (805) 434-1996.

Walk to the group area in Big Meadows Campground

Group of Aspen Trees

Site from group area showing view of Big Meadows Reservoir.

Tent pad for the group site viewing lake.

BIG MEADOWS DEL NORTE

Group Site seating

Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central CO)

This high-altitude campground (9,600 feet) is a single loop tucked into a
grove of spruce trees adjoining an open grassy meadow. Many of the mature
spruce trees within the campground have been killed by the Spruce Bark Beetle
and were all removed during the spring of 2015. Today the campground is much
more open and sunny with open views of Fox Mountain. The two Tucker Ponds are
across the road from the entrance to the campground and offer a good family
fishing experience. The 2 Tucker Ponds are about 10 acres each. Rainbow trout
(stocked) are usually plentiful and fishermen can also fish in Pass Creek by
hiking west of the campground. Pass Creek can be fished with artificial flies
and lures only and all cutthroat trout must be released immediately back into
the creek (Rio Grande Cutthroat recovery area). For hiking adventures, going
on south of the campground you can drive forest road 390 to Campo Molino and
then take forest road 388 to the Bonito Pass trail which takes you to the
Continental Divide Trail.

<p>This high-altitude campground (9,600 feet) is a single loop tucked into a grove of spruce trees adjoining an open grassy meadow. Many of the mature spruce trees within the campground have been killed by the Spruce Bark Beetle and were all removed during the spring of 2015.&nbsp;Today the campground is much&nbsp;more open and sunny with open views of Fox Mountain.&nbsp;The two Tucker Ponds are across the road from the entrance to the campground and offer a good family fishing experience. The 2 Tucker Ponds are about 10 acres each. Rainbow trout (stocked) are usually plentiful and fishermen can also fish in Pass Creek by hiking west of the campground.&nbsp;Pass Creek can be fished with artificial flies and lures only and all cutthroat trout must be released immediately back into the creek (Rio Grande Cutthroat recovery area).&nbsp;For hiking adventures, going on south of the campground you can drive forest road 390 to Campo Molino and then take forest road 388 to the Bonito Pass trail which takes you to the Continental Divide Trail.</p>

Single site - $26 to $30/night.  
Double site - $52 to $56/night.  
Day use - $12/day (picnicking).  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Tucker Ponds Campground

## Overview

Alder Guard Station is located 2 miles north of the town of South Fork along
Alder Creek in the Rio Grande National Forest. The guard station was
constructed in 1910 and was the residence and office for the local ranger
district. Today the historic cabin is a comfortable getaway for guests seeking
relaxation and recreation in south central Colorado.  
  
Visitors may reserve the cabin for a maximum of five nights to allow others
the opportunity to rent the cabin.

## Recreation

The Alder Bench trailhead is located north of the guard station on Forest Road
610. In the past, this trail was used by stockmen taking livestock up to the
high country towards Blue Park and Long Park.  
  
In the fall, visitors use this trail to hunt elk and deer as this area is
considered winter range for both. The 6.5 mile trail is also open for off-road
single track riding, horse and foot travel, and mountain biking, but can be
very rocky and steep in places.  
  
Anglers will enjoy the scenic backdrop of Alder Creek when casting lines for a
variety of trout.

## Facilities

The two story cabin is furnished with 2 beds in each bedroom (2 bedrooms), and
a futon on the first floor. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs,
electric stove, refrigerator, cooking utensils and some pots and pans.  
  
The bathroom has hot water and a flush toilet. A wood stove is the only source
of heat for the guard station. Picnic tables are also on site. Firewood is not
provided; please bring all the firewood you will need for your stay.  
  
Although the cabin has several amenities, guests do need to provide their own
sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid
kit, toilet paper and garbage bags.  
  
Lighting is available, however guests are advised to bring an additional light
source in case of emergency.

Occasionally the water well overflows due to ground water pressures. The water
then may not test safely. To avoid this you are encouraged to bring spare
drinking/cooking water.

## Natural Features

The Rio Grande National Forest encompasses of a myriad of ecosystems ranging
from high elevation desert to the craggy peaks of the majestic Sangre de
Cristo Mountains.  
  
The Alder Guard Station, located in the Divide Ranger District, is surrounded
by mixed conifer forests, aspen groves, and wilderness areas, though its
immediate vicinity is manicured, with a fenced lawn.

<h2>Overview</h2>
Alder Guard Station is located 2 miles north of the town of South Fork along Alder Creek in the Rio Grande National Forest. The guard station was constructed in 1910 and was the residence and office for the local ranger district. Today the historic cabin is a comfortable getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in south central Colorado.<br/><br/>

Visitors may reserve the cabin for a maximum of five nights to allow others the opportunity to rent the cabin.<h2>Recreation</h2>
The Alder Bench trailhead is located north of the guard station on Forest  Road 610.  In the past, this trail was used by stockmen taking livestock up to the high country towards Blue Park and Long Park. <br/><br/>
In the fall, visitors use this trail to hunt elk and deer as this area is considered winter range for both. The 6.5 mile trail is also open for off-road single track riding, horse and foot travel, and mountain biking, but can be very rocky and steep in places.
<br/><br/>
Anglers will enjoy the scenic backdrop of Alder Creek when casting lines for a variety of trout.<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The two story cabin is furnished with 2 beds in each bedroom (2 bedrooms), and a futon on the first floor. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, electric stove, refrigerator, cooking utensils and some pots and pans. <br><br>The bathroom has hot water and a flush toilet. A wood stove is the only source of heat for the guard station. Picnic tables are also on site. Firewood is not provided; please bring all the firewood you will need for your stay.<br><br>Although the cabin has several amenities, guests do need to provide their own sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags.<br> <br>Lighting is available, however guests are advised to bring an additional light source in case of emergency.</p>

<p>Occasionally the water well overflows due to ground water pressures.  The water then may not test safely.   To avoid this you are encouraged to bring spare drinking/cooking water.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The Rio Grande National Forest encompasses of a myriad of ecosystems ranging from high elevation desert to the craggy peaks of the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains.<br/><br/>

The Alder Guard Station, located in the Divide Ranger District, is surrounded by mixed conifer forests, aspen groves, and wilderness areas, though its immediate vicinity is manicured, with a fenced lawn.

Alder Guard Station

Living Room

Fire Pit/Picnic Table

Front Porch

Front View

Bedroom 2

Restroom

Back

Front

Restroom2

Bedroom 1

Back Door

Located right on the Rio Grande, this is the only campground in the canyon
between Creede and South Fork. It is located adjacent to Colorado Highway 149
for easy access to travelers passing through. Active railroad tracks bisect
the campground. Highway 149 runs along the northeast side of the campground
and there is no screening between the two. There is some highway traffic year-
around and occasionally a scenic railroad excursion passes through the
campground. Some of the 12 sites are out in the open, while other sites are
screened with cottonwoods/aspen/spruce/fir. There is a vault type toilet with
lights that is accessible to the handicapped. Firewood is not provided but may
be gathered on Forest lands in the area. There is ample overflow parking near
the entrance sign. A host is usually stationed at the campground. Fishing, and
rafting are popular on the river. This is a popular area and heavily used in
the summer. It tends to stay full from mid-June through August. Early
afternoon arrival is recommended. The Rio Grande is considered a Trophy
Fishing River and is very popular with rafters.

<p>Located right on the Rio Grande, this is the only campground in the canyon between Creede and South Fork. It is located adjacent to Colorado Highway 149 for easy access to travelers passing through. Active railroad tracks bisect the campground. Highway 149 runs along the northeast side of the campground and there is no screening between the two. There is some highway traffic year-around and occasionally a scenic railroad excursion passes through the campground. Some of the 12 sites are out in the open, while other sites are screened with cottonwoods/aspen/spruce/fir. There is a vault type toilet with lights that is accessible to the handicapped. Firewood is not provided but may be gathered on Forest lands in the area. There is ample overflow parking near the entrance sign. A host is usually stationed at the campground.&nbsp;Fishing, and rafting are popular on the river. This is a popular area and heavily used in the summer. It tends to stay full from mid-June through August.&nbsp;Early afternoon arrival is recommended. The Rio Grande is considered a Trophy Fishing River and is very popular with rafters.</p>

Single site - $29 to $31/night.  
$12 for day use (picnicking).  
Shoulder season - $10  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.

Palisade Campground

## Overview

Elwood Cabin sits in a saddle along the San Juan Mountains  
  
overlooking an open meadow, offering guests a unique lodging  
  
opportunity.  
  
  
  
The cabin was built in 1911 by the Mountain States Telephone Company as a
"line  
  
shack" to support crews maintaining the transcontinental telephone line.
Remnants of this  
  
old telephone line are still found along Iron Creek to the southeast. The
cabin was also used  
  
as a Forest Service Station from 1950 until 1962, serving as living quarters
for Forest Service  
  
employees who worked on numerous projects in the area.  
  
  
  
Although the phone line has been abandoned, today the cabin is a high-altitude
getaway for  
  
guests seeking relaxation and recreation in south-central Colorado.  
  
  
  
During summer months the cabin can  
  
be accessed by motorized travel. During winter months access to the cabin is
by  
  
snowmobiles, cross country skiing or snow shoeing.

## Recreation

The area around Elwood cabin offers a variety of recreational opportunities
year-round. Summertime brings excellent scenic tour opportunities in and
around the Summitville area as well as exploration of several historical
mining sites.  
  
Anglers have a spectacular backdrop to fishing streams such as Iron Creek or
Treasure Creek. Nearby Platoro Reservoir, which feeds the Conejos River,
provides excellent fishing for trout and salmon.  
  
Great hiking can be found around the area, as it spans both the Rio Grande and
San Juan National Forests, as well as the South San Juan Wilderness.  
  
In winter, the Elwood cabin area can be blanketed with as much as ten feet of
snow, requiring preparation and knowledge of winter travel. Snowmobiling,
skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities in the area.

## Facilities

The one room log cabin is furnished with two bunk beds with single beds on the
top and on the bottom of each bunk, accommodating up to four individuals total
for the cabin. The cabin has a wood stove for heat, propane lighting and a
propane stove. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, cooking
utensils, pots and pans and a fire extinguisher. Firewood is available in the
adjoining shed. An outdoor vault toilet is also on-site.

Guests must provide a sufficient supply of water for cooking, cleaning and
washing. Guests are also encouraged to bring an additional light source in
case of emergencies.

Although the cabin has some amenities, guests do need to provide their own
food, sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit,
avalanche equipment, toilet paper and garbage bags.

## Natural Features

High in the San Juan Mountains at an elevation of 11,000 feet, this cabin
provides guests with views of nearby peaks, meadows filled with wildflowers
and alpine forests.  
  
While staying at such a high elevation guests will notice how light plays
differently on the landscape and stars blanket the sky on clear cold evenings.
Elk, deer, and other wildlife are often seen in meadows adjacent to the cabin.
Bear, marmot and chipmunks also call the area home.

## Nearby Attractions

Summitville is a nearby ghost town where gold was first discovered in 1870,
then mined until the early 1990s. When contaminants leaked off-site and flowed
into the local watershed the government forced it to shut down. Now a water
treatment plant is on the site as part of a federal clean up program.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Elwood Cabin sits in a saddle along the San Juan Mountains <br><br>overlooking an open meadow, offering guests a unique lodging <br><br>opportunity.<br><br> <br><br>The cabin was built in 1911 by the Mountain States Telephone Company as a "line <br><br>shack" to support crews maintaining the transcontinental telephone line. Remnants of this <br><br>old telephone line are still found along Iron Creek to the southeast. The cabin was also used <br><br>as a Forest Service Station from 1950 until 1962, serving as living quarters for Forest Service <br><br>employees who worked on numerous projects in the area.<br><br><br><br>Although the phone line has been abandoned, today the cabin is a high-altitude getaway for <br><br>guests seeking relaxation and recreation in south-central Colorado.<br><br> <br><br>During summer months the cabin can <br><br>be accessed by motorized travel. During winter months access to the cabin is by <br><br>snowmobiles, cross country skiing or snow shoeing.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
The area around Elwood cabin offers a variety of recreational opportunities year-round. 

Summertime brings excellent scenic tour opportunities in and around the Summitville area 

as well as exploration of several historical mining sites.<br/><br/>

Anglers have a spectacular backdrop to fishing streams such as Iron Creek or Treasure Creek. 

Nearby Platoro Reservoir, which feeds the Conejos River, provides excellent fishing for trout 

and salmon.<br/><br/>

Great hiking can be found around the area, as it spans both the Rio Grande and San Juan 

National Forests, as well as the South San Juan Wilderness.<br/><br/> 

In winter, the Elwood cabin area can be blanketed with as much as ten feet of snow, requiring 

preparation and knowledge of winter travel. Snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing are 

popular activities in the area. <h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>The one room log cabin is furnished with two bunk beds with single beds on the top and on the bottom of each bunk, accommodating up to four individuals total for the cabin. The cabin has a wood stove for heat, propane lighting and a propane stove. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, cooking utensils, pots and pans and a fire extinguisher. Firewood is available in the adjoining shed. An outdoor vault toilet is also on-site.</p>
<p>Guests must provide a sufficient supply of water for cooking, cleaning and washing. Guests are also encouraged to bring an additional light source in case of emergencies.</p>
<p>Although the cabin has some amenities, guests do need to provide their own food, sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, avalanche equipment, toilet paper and garbage bags.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
High in the San Juan Mountains at an elevation of 11,000 feet, this cabin provides guests with views of nearby peaks, 

meadows filled with wildflowers and alpine forests.<br/><br/>

While staying at such a high elevation guests will notice how light plays differently on the 

landscape and stars blanket the sky on clear cold evenings. Elk, deer, and other wildlife are 

often seen in meadows adjacent to the cabin. Bear, marmot and chipmunks also call the 

area home.


<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Summitville is a nearby ghost town where gold was first discovered in 1870, then mined until 

the early 1990s. When contaminants leaked off-site and flowed into the local watershed the 

government forced it to shut down. Now a water treatment plant is on the site as part of a 

federal clean up program.

Elwood Cabin

Elwood Cabin Wood Shed

Elwood Cabin in the Elwood Pass Area USFS

Front of Elwood Cabin

Elwood Vista

Elwood Cabin Outhouse

Elevation: 10,800' This small, isolated dispersed (HORSE FRIENDLY) campground
is located 16.8 miles east of Creede on Forest Road 600. Campers will find
this to be a good vantage point for viewing vistas of distant mountains. There
are 3 camping units at this site with picnic tables and fire rings. There is a
vault-type toilet, but no water or refuse receptacles. **A small stream can
provide emergency drinking water only if it is treated or boiled.** Trails and
4 WD roads are nearby, as well as fishing in East Bellows Creek. There is lots
of room here to accommodate large groups (family reunions, etc.).  This is a
very Horse Friendly campground with plenty of nearby grazing and room for
trucks/trailers.   The 4x4 road takes off here for the Wheeler Geological Area
attraction.  East Bellows trail #790 goes into the Wilderness Area from here
to Wheeler Geologic Area and is a foot or horse trail only, no motorized
vehicles or mountain bikes allowed.  Call 719-658-2556 for "real time"
conditions.  **14 DAY CAMPING LIMIT.**

<p>Elevation: 10,800&#39; This small, isolated dispersed (HORSE FRIENDLY) campground is located 16.8 miles east of Creede on Forest Road 600. Campers will find this to be a good vantage point for viewing vistas of distant mountains. There are&nbsp;3 camping units at this site with picnic tables and fire rings. There is a vault-type toilet, but no water or refuse receptacles. <strong>A small stream can provide emergency drinking water only if it is treated or boiled.</strong> Trails and 4 WD roads are nearby, as well as fishing in East Bellows Creek. There is lots of room here to accommodate large groups (family reunions, etc.).&nbsp; This is a very Horse Friendly campground with plenty of nearby grazing and room for trucks/trailers.&nbsp; &nbsp;The 4x4 road takes off here for the <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/attmain/riogrande/specialplaces">Wheeler Geological Area</a> attraction.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=28996&amp;actid=51">East Bellows trail #790</a> goes into the Wilderness Area from here to Wheeler Geologic Area and is a foot or horse trail only, no motorized vehicles or mountain bikes allowed.&nbsp; Call 719-658-2556 for &quot;real time&quot; conditions.&nbsp; <strong>14 DAY CAMPING LIMIT.</strong></p>

Hansen Mill Dispersed Camping

## Overview

**The cabin is only accessible by 50" width or less vehicles and non-motorized
uses (e.g. foot or horseback). YOU CANNOT DRIVE A PASSENGER VEHICLE TO THE
CABIN.** Off Cow Camp is a small cabin located in a high elevation meadow at
10,500 feet on Burro Creek near an off-highway vehicle trail. The cabin and
barn were renovated in 2010 and a vault toilet was installed. Visitors may
reserve the cabin for a maximum of fourteen nights to allow others the
opportunity to rent the cabin.

## Recreation

The surrounding area offers many recreation opportunities, including hunting,
hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, horseback riding, mountain biking,
snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, and fishing.

## Facilities

The small, rustic cabin sleeps four (two bunk beds). There is a wood burning
cook stove, outhouse, barn for horses, fire ring, table and chairs. There is
no potable water. Natural sources of water should be treated before use.
Firewood not provided. Firewood can be gathered near the cabin.

## Natural Features

There are meadows, aspen groves and spruce/fir forests near the cabin. At 13,
200 feet, Bennett Peak sits southeast of the cabin. Fitton Guard Station is
located 400 yards upstream from Off Cow Camp and is available as a rental
cabin to the public.

## Nearby Attractions

The Burro Creek off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails connect many miles of OHV
trails and forest roads in the area. The trails are also used by motorcycles,
mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders. During the winter, snowmobilers
and backcountry skiers use the area near the cabin.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p> <strong>The cabin is only accessible by 50" width or less vehicles and non-motorized uses (e.g. foot or horseback). YOU CANNOT DRIVE A PASSENGER VEHICLE TO THE CABIN. </strong>Off Cow Camp is a small cabin located in a high elevation meadow at 10,500 feet on Burro Creek near an off-highway vehicle trail. The cabin and barn were renovated in 2010 and a vault toilet was installed. Visitors may reserve the cabin for a maximum of fourteen nights to allow others the opportunity to rent the cabin.</p><h2>Recreation</h2>
The surrounding area offers many recreation opportunities, including hunting, hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, and fishing.<h2>Facilities</h2>
The small, rustic cabin sleeps four (two bunk beds).  There is a wood burning cook stove, outhouse, barn for horses, fire ring, table and chairs. There is no potable water.  Natural sources of water should be treated before use. Firewood not provided. Firewood can be gathered near the cabin.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
There are meadows, aspen groves and spruce/fir forests near the cabin.  At 13, 200 feet, Bennett Peak sits southeast of the cabin.  Fitton Guard Station is located 400 yards upstream from Off Cow Camp and is available as a rental cabin to the public.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The Burro Creek off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails connect many miles of OHV trails and forest roads in the area.  The trails are also used by motorcycles, mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders.  During the winter, snowmobilers and backcountry skiers use the area near the cabin.

OFF COW CAMP CABIN

Off Cow Camp Cabin

## Overview

Fitton Guard Station is a small cabin located in a high elevation meadow at
10,600 feet on Burro Creek near along an off-highway vehicle trail. **The
cabins are only accessible by 50" width or less vehicles and non-motorized
uses (e.g. foot or horseback). YOU CANNOT DRIVE A PASSENGER VEHICLE TO THE
CABINS.**

Visitors may reserve the cabin for a maximum of 14 days to allow others the
opportunity to rent the cabin. The combination to the cabin is provided in the
confirmation letter.

## Recreation

The surrounding area offers many recreation opportunities, including hunting,
hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, backcountry
skiing, horseback riding and fishing.

## Facilities

The small, rustic cabin sleeps four (two bunk beds). There is a wood burning
cook stove,outhouse, barn for horses, fire ring, table, chairs and a small
covered porch. There is no potable water. Natural sources of water should be
treated before use.Firewood not provided. Firewood can be gathered near the
cabin.

## Natural Features

**There are meadows, aspen groves and spruce/fir forests near the cabin. At
13, 200 feet, Bennett Peak sits southeast of the cabin. Off Cow Camp is
located 400 yards downstream from Fitton Guard Station and is available as a
rental cabin to the public.**

## Nearby Attractions

The Burro Creek off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails connect to many miles of OHV
trails and forest roads in the area. The trails are also used by motorcycles,
mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders. During the winter, snowmobilers
and backcountry skiers use the area near the cabin.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Fitton Guard Station is a small cabin located in a high elevation meadow at 10,600 feet on Burro Creek near along an off-highway vehicle trail.  <strong>The cabins are only accessible by 50" width or less vehicles and non-motorized uses (e.g. foot or horseback). YOU CANNOT DRIVE A PASSENGER VEHICLE TO THE CABINS.</strong></p><p>Visitors may reserve the cabin for a maximum of 14 days to allow others the opportunity to rent the cabin. The combination to the cabin is provided in the confirmation letter.</p><h2>Recreation</h2>
The surrounding area offers many recreation opportunities, including hunting, hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, horseback riding and fishing.<h2>Facilities</h2>
The small, rustic cabin sleeps four (two bunk beds).  There is a wood burning cook stove,outhouse, barn for horses, fire ring, table, chairs and a small covered porch.  There is no potable water.  Natural sources of water should be treated before use.Firewood not provided. Firewood can be gathered near the cabin.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<b>There are meadows, aspen groves and spruce/fir forests near the cabin.  At 13, 200 feet, Bennett Peak sits southeast of the cabin.  Off Cow Camp is located 400 yards downstream from Fitton Guard Station and is available as a rental cabin to the public.</b>
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
The Burro Creek off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails connect to many miles of OHV trails and forest roads in the area.  The trails are also used by motorcycles, mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders.  During the winter, snowmobilers and backcountry skiers use the area near the cabin.

FITTON GUARD STATION CABIN

Fitton Guard Station Cabin

This facility has 4 developed sites each with a picnic table and fireplace
ring. It underwent a major remodel in 2010. There is a vault type toilet
designed for the handicapped, but it is not wheelchair accessible. Sites 1 and
2 would accommodate small trailers or tents.  There is a foot bridge that goes
across Ivy Creek from a small parking lot  to the developed camp units 3 & 4,
which are suited only for small tent camping. Parking space tight but is
ample. No firewood, drinking water or refuse receptacles are provided. This
campground is considered to be remote and is normally not heavily used, yet it
is very attractive with  the free flowing creek, and open grassland nearby.
This area looks very different now due to the removal of dead and dying trees,
a result of the spruce beetle. The road into the campground is too narrow and
rough for large trailers and RV's. The campground is really more suitable for
tents and popup camping trailers, as there are no long developed spurs or
pull-throughs. **Scroll Down to Information Center to see the individual
campsite descriptions.  ** This is also the site of the Ivy Creek Trailhead
and Bulletin Board. All Parking for the trailhead users is outside the fenced
in campground where there is a hitching rail and room for horse trailers.  Ivy
Creek Trail #805 goes into the Wilderness and provides the quickest route to
Goose Lake. This is a trail open to foot and horse travel only. Here you will
find district maps, Weminuche Wilderness maps and information and trail
registration forms.

**14 DAY CAMPING LIMIT.**

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 6pt 0in 10pt; line-height: 13.8pt;"><span 10pt="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:;">This facility has 4 developed sites each with a picnic table and fireplace ring. It underwent a major remodel in 2010. There is a vault type toilet designed for the handicapped, but it is not wheelchair accessible. Sites 1 and 2 would accommodate small trailers or tents.<span>&nbsp; </span>There is a foot bridge that goes across Ivy Creek from a small parking lot <span>&nbsp;</span>to the developed camp units 3 &amp; 4, which are suited only for small tent camping. Parking space tight but is ample. No firewood, drinking water or refuse receptacles are provided. This campground is considered to be remote and is normally not heavily used, yet it is very attractive with&nbsp; the free flowing creek, and open grassland nearby. This area looks very different now due to the removal of dead and dying trees, a result of the spruce beetle. The road into the campground is too narrow and rough for large trailers and RV&rsquo;s. The campground is really more suitable for tents and popup camping trailers, as there are no long developed spurs or pull-throughs. <strong>Scroll Down to Information Center to see the individual campsite descriptions.&nbsp;</strong> This is also the site of the Ivy Creek Trailhead and Bulletin Board. All Parking for the trailhead users is outside the fenced in campground where there is a hitching rail and room for horse trailers.<span>&nbsp; </span>Ivy Creek Trail #805 goes into the Wilderness and provides the quickest route to Goose Lake. This is a trail open to foot and horse travel only. Here you will find district maps, Weminuche Wilderness maps and information and trail registration forms.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 6pt 0in 10pt; line-height: 16.8pt;"><span 10pt="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:;"><o:p><strong>14 DAY CAMPING LIMIT.</strong></o:p></span></p>

Single Site - $10/night  
Day use - $10 (picnicking)  
Fee envelopes and collection box located near the entrance.

Ivy Creek Campground

Stunner campground sits at 9700-foot in elevation beside the Alamosa River,
two miles below the top of Stunner Pass. There are 5 campsites with tables,
fire pits, a vault-type toilet, and adequate parking.

There is no water supply, so plan to bring your own. Firewood is limited.
Convenient trailer spaces available. The Alamosa River is nearby for fishing.
Unfortunately, naturally acidic water severely limits fishing in the Alamosa
River between Stunner Campground and Terrace Reservoir. Big game hunting is
possible.

The ghost town of Stunner is just east of the campground. This was a mining
town that failed, due to nonproducing mines and transportation problems. Parts
of the town are private property, so pack out all your trash and observe
posted no-trespassing signs.

<p>Stunner campground sits at 9700-foot in elevation beside the Alamosa River, two miles below the top of Stunner Pass. There are 5 campsites with tables, fire pits, a vault-type toilet, and adequate parking.</p><p>There is no water supply, so plan to bring your own. Firewood is limited. Convenient trailer spaces available. The Alamosa River is nearby for fishing. Unfortunately, naturally acidic water severely limits fishing in the Alamosa River between Stunner Campground and Terrace Reservoir. Big game hunting is possible.</p><p>The ghost town of Stunner is just east of the campground. This was a mining town that failed, due to nonproducing mines and transportation problems. Parts of the town are private property, so pack out all your trash and observe posted no-trespassing signs.</p>

Stunner Campground

Cathedral Campground is northwest of Del Norte and northeast of South Fork, on
Embargo Creek. It was remodeled in 2010 and now has 22 sites.   17 are dead
end spurs and 5 are pull through sites.  The sites vary from 35 to 45 feet in
length.  This campground is located in a mature aspen and spruce grove with a
beautiful view of Cathedral Rock to the north. Embargo Creek flows alongside
the east side of the grounds. There is ample fishing in Embargo Creek and
hiking/horseback riding/mountain biking on Cathedral Creek Trail #794, Embargo
Trail # 792 and Fremont's Camp Trail #885. Motorcycles may use both Cathedral
and Embargo Trails. ATV's are not allowed on the trails.The campground is
composed of two large loops along Cathedral Creek. The left-hand loop features
a large meadow and a few open sites. The right-hand loop has a dense Aspen and
spruce (including Blue) forest and a more rustic feel.  **Scroll down to
Information Center for individual site details.**

John Charles Fremont's winter camp is nearby. He attempted an ill-fated
expedition across the Rocky Mountains for a transcontinental railroad route in
late 1848.

<p>Cathedral Campground is northwest of Del Norte and northeast of South Fork, on Embargo Creek. It was remodeled in 2010 and now has 22 sites.&nbsp;&nbsp; 17 are dead end spurs and 5 are pull through sites.&nbsp; The sites vary from 35 to 45 feet in length.&nbsp; This campground is located in a mature aspen and spruce grove with a beautiful view of Cathedral Rock to the north. Embargo Creek flows alongside the east side of the grounds. There is ample fishing in Embargo Creek and hiking/horseback riding/mountain biking on Cathedral Creek Trail #794, Embargo Trail # 792 and Fremont&#39;s Camp Trail #885. Motorcycles may use both Cathedral and Embargo Trails. ATV&rsquo;s are not allowed on the trails.The campground is composed of two large loops along Cathedral Creek. The left-hand loop features a large meadow and a few open sites. The right-hand loop has a dense Aspen and spruce (including Blue) forest&nbsp;and a more rustic feel.&nbsp; <strong>Scroll down to Information Center for individual site details.</strong></p><p>John Charles Fremont&#39;s winter camp is nearby. He attempted an ill-fated expedition across the Rocky Mountains for a transcontinental railroad route in late 1848.</p>

Single Site - $10/night  
Day use - $10 (picnicking)  
Envelopes and fee tube are available near the entrance.

Cathedral Campground

West Frisco Trailhead #850

10,000-foot elevation. 22 campsites near Mix Lake. Convenient to the Conejos
River, the San Juan Wilderness, Platoro Reservoir, and other nearby ponds and
lakes. Numerous trailheads in the area. Mix Lake Campground is one mile west
of Platoro in the Conejos River drainage. This is a good access point for the
South San Juan Wilderness. Mix Lake, Platoro Reservoir, Conejos River, Lily
Pond and Kerr Lake can all be accessed for fishing. Trail accesses include
Lake Fork Trail 716 and Sawmill Gulch Trail. One can also visit the historic
town of Platoro and the Mix Lake overlook is on-site. The campground has 22
sites with tables and fireplaces. 3 vault type toilets, refuse receptacles and
pickup, ample parking with convenient trailer spaces and drinking water are
provided

<p>10,000-foot elevation. 22 campsites near Mix Lake. Convenient to the Conejos River, the San Juan Wilderness, Platoro Reservoir, and other nearby ponds and lakes. Numerous trailheads in the area. Mix Lake Campground is one mile west of Platoro in the Conejos River drainage. This is a good access point for the South San Juan Wilderness. Mix Lake, Platoro Reservoir, Conejos River, Lily Pond and Kerr Lake can all be accessed for fishing. Trail accesses include Lake Fork Trail 716 and Sawmill Gulch Trail. One can also visit the historic town of Platoro and the Mix Lake overlook is on-site. The campground has 22 sites with tables and fireplaces. 3 vault type toilets, refuse receptacles and pickup, ample parking with convenient trailer spaces and drinking water are provided</p>

Single site - $26 to $30/night.  
$12 for day use (picnicking).  
Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance.