Ponderosa Campground (Co)
00 reviewPonderosa Campground, Soap Creek Road, Colorado
Ponderosa Campground (Co)
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard nightly fee is $20.00. Senior or Access pass holders pay a discounted rate of $10.00. Payment is made via the Recreation.gov mobile app, or by cash, check, or credit card using the self-pay envelope on-site.
About this campground
Escape to Ponderosa Campground, where tranquility meets breathtaking vistas at the secluded northwest corner of Blue Mesa Reservoir's Soap Creek Arm. Perched at an elevation of 7,880 feet, this peaceful retreat beckons adventurers with diverse camping options—from convenient car camping and trailer sites to intimate walk-in tent spots that promise a true connection with nature. Here, solitude isn't just promised; it's delivered with panoramic views that stretch across Colorado's stunning high country.
Ponderosa Campground offers standard nonelectric sites that cater to both tent and RV campers. It is a first-come, first-served campground with a focus on rustic and natural experiences.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Ponderosa, where summer days unfold in a comfortable range of 50-90°F (10-32°C), perfect for outdoor adventures. As evening approaches, temperatures settle into a crisp 40-60°F (4-15°C), ideal for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. While rainfall remains refreshingly scarce, nature adds excitement with afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the reservoir, painting the sky with dramatic clouds. Be prepared for the mountain's signature strong winds that whisper tales of the high country throughout your stay.
ElevationAt 7,880 feet above sea level, Ponderosa Campground offers a refreshing alpine escape where the air is crisp and the views are endless. This elevated paradise provides natural air conditioning during warm summer months while treating visitors to sweeping vistas of Blue Mesa Reservoir below—Colorado's largest body of water shimmering like a sapphire jewel in the rugged landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where water meets sky in spectacular fashion. Ponderosa Campground serves as your front-row seat to Blue Mesa Reservoir's azure waters, framed by the dramatic peaks and ridges of Colorado's mountainous terrain. The upper loop features a thoughtfully placed horse corral, inviting equestrian adventurers to explore this magnificent backcountry on horseback. Every campsite offers its own window to this natural amphitheater, where golden sunrises and painted sunsets become daily performances.
Geological RegionNestled at the confluence of water and stone, Ponderosa Campground claims its stunning perch at the northwest tip of Soap Creek Arm, one of Blue Mesa Reservoir's most scenic fingers. This mountainous sanctuary sits at 7,880 feet (2,402 meters), where ancient geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape of ridges, valleys, and the massive reservoir basin below. It's a place where the raw beauty of Colorado's high country geology creates an unforgettable backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has unpaved surfaces, which may limit accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campground can accommodate tents and medium-sized RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacySites offer an average level of privacy, with layouts intended to balance proximity and solitude.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTents and medium-sized RVs are best accommodated at this campground.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1PM
Check-out
1PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 nights during a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites may fit up to eight people, two tents, an RV, a boat trailer, and/or other vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes car camping sites, trailer sites, and walk-in tent sites. It also has a horse corral in the upper loop.
Open and Closed SeasonPonderosa Campground is open seasonally from May 1 to November 26. It is closed during the winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through Recreation.gov, specifically via their Scan and Pay system, which requires payment upon arrival.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment must be made immediately upon occupying a site.
Cancellation PolicyThis is a Scan and Pay campground. There are no refunds, modifications, cancellations, or other fee changes allowed with Scan and Pay payments.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ponderosa Campground emphasizes outdoor recreation, offering access to hiking, boating, and equestrian activities. Its proximity to Blue Mesa Reservoir further enriches the outdoor experience.
Boating
The nearby Blue Mesa Reservoir features a hand-launched watercraft ramp, making it accessible for boating and paddling enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
The serene setting offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, enhancing the natural camping experience.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months, so no winter activities are available.Water Sports
Hand-launched watercraft can be used in the reservoir, allowing for activities like kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in grates provided. Building fire pits is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsRain can make Soap Creek Road impassable. Thunderstorms and strong winds are common during summer.
Active alertsWater may not be available due to freezing temperatures or water quality testing.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesApril 26, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingSeasonal trash and recycling collection is available on-site, making it easier for campers to manage their waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated at the northwest end of the Soap Creek Arm of Blue Mesa Reservoir.
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Campground Map
Ponderosa Campground, Soap Creek Road, Colorado
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 50, turn onto CO Highway 92. In less than 1 mile you will cross over the Blue Mesa Dam. Approximately one half (.5) mile after crossing the dam, turn right on Soap Creek Road (a gravel road also known as County Road 721 and/or Blue Mesa Drive). Proceed 7 miles (11 km) north on Soap Creek Road to reach the campground.
Access is via Soap Creek Road, a gravel road. "During dry conditions, the first 7 miles (11 km) of Soap Creek Road are passable to trailers and RVs. Rain can make the Soap Creek Road impassable."Nearby places
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Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Ponderosa Campground (Co) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are currently available to provide insights into visitor experiences.
Review Summaries
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Last updated August 10, 2025