Pawnee
4.68185 reviewsARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT
Quick Facts
10,350 ftPrice
$29 - $58/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
83 campsites
Season
Open June 27th throu...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
10,350 ftPrice
$29 - $58/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
83 campsites
Season
Open June 27th throu...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPawnee
$29.00 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $29 for standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites to $58 for double/group sites.
Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$58.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$87.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider303-541-2500
What Campers Say
4.68
Top-Rated
Based on 185 reviews
88 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanhikingwaterfriendly
"Pawnee Campground is highly praised for its clean facilities, natural beauty, and proximity to recreational activities. Common themes in reviews include the cleanliness of vault toilets, excellent hiking opportunities, and wildlife sightings such as moose."
Fees & Passes at Pawnee
$29 - $58/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made prior to the date of arrival with a $10 fee, plus forfeiture of any reserv...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official American Land & Leisure website.
Best Time to Camp at Pawnee
Summer transforms this alpine wonderland into a hiker's dream, with pleasantly warm days perfect for exploration and crisp, star-filled nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag. Don't be surprised when afternoon clouds roll in with dramatic flair, bringing refreshing thunderstorms that paint the mountains in ever-changing light. As autumn approaches, golden aspens create a stunning contrast against evergreen forests. Winter, however, claims this high country for itself, blanketing the area in deep snow and making the campground a memory until the following summer's thaw.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June 27th through September 13th, annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open June 27th through September 13th, closures occur outside this window.
About Pawnee
Nestled in the breathtaking Brainard Lake Recreation Area, Pawnee Campground beckons adventurers to Colorado's high country paradise. Here, pristine alpine lakes mirror snow-capped peaks while dense spruce and fir forests provide a natural sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the serene lake surface, or challenging yourself on nearby rock faces, this mountain retreat offers endless opportunities for adventure. Miles of hiking trails wind through wildflower meadows and lead to panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless—though at this elevation, that might happen anyway.
Pawnee Campground offers various camping options, including standard nonelectric, tent-only nonelectric, and walk-in sites. The campground caters to tent campers, RV users, and those seeking a more secluded experience.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this alpine wonderland into a hiker's dream, with pleasantly warm days perfect for exploration and crisp, star-filled nights that demand a cozy sleeping bag. Don't be surprised when afternoon clouds roll in with dramatic flair, bringing refreshing thunderstorms that paint the mountains in ever-changing light. As autumn approaches, golden aspens create a stunning contrast against evergreen forests. Winter, however, claims this high country for itself, blanketing the area in deep snow and making the campground a memory until the following summer's thaw.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 10,350 feet above sea level, Pawnee Campground offers a true high-altitude experience. The thin mountain air here requires visitors to pace themselves as their bodies adjust to the elevation—consider arriving a day early to acclimatize. Nights at this altitude can surprise even summer campers with near-freezing temperatures, so pack those extra layers. The reward? Crisp, clean air and some of the clearest night skies you'll ever experience, where the Milky Way stretches across the darkness in all its glory.
Natural Features and SceneryStanding at the dramatic edge of the Continental Divide, Pawnee Campground offers front-row seats to nature's grandest theater. The shimmering expanse of Brainard Lake stretches before you, its pristine waters reflecting jagged peaks that pierce the Colorado sky. Ancient spruce and fir trees stand sentinel, their evergreen boughs providing shelter for an incredible array of wildlife. Keep your camera ready—majestic moose frequently wander through the campground, while pikas chirp from rocky outcrops and mountain goats traverse distant ridges. Every sunrise here paints the peaks in alpenglow, creating moments that will forever change how you define beauty.
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground sits at the very backbone of North America—the Continental Divide—where waters flow either east to the Atlantic or west to the Pacific. At 10,350 feet, you're camping in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, surrounded by towering spruce and fir forests that have adapted to thrive in this harsh but beautiful environment. Brainard Lake, a glacial gem cradled in this rocky embrace, serves as the centerpiece of this geological wonderland where granite peaks tell stories millions of years in the making.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible amenities, though specific details about ADA-compliant features are not provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with walk-in sites providing more seclusion and room for multiple tents. One reviewer noted, "The site was large and could comfortably fit a few 4-person tents or one large tent."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by location within the campground. Walk-in sites and Moose Loop sites are described as private, while some Elk Loop sites are noted for being more open. One user stated, "Walk-in sites have lots of privacy and space between neighbors," while another mentioned, "The regular sites are a little close to one another depending on which loop you're in."
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWalk-in sites provide great privacy and shade, with nearby creek access. Moose Loop sites offer larger spaces and scenic views. Elk Loop sites are more exposed but still well-maintained.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
No specific group camping details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features multiple loops, including Moose, Elk, and Walk-In areas. Sites are spacious, with varying levels of privacy and shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 27th through September 13th, closures occur outside this window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; reservations are highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to the date of arrival with a $10 fee, plus forfeiture of any reservation fees paid. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pawnee Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Brainard Lake and nearby trails provide ample recreation opportunities.
Hiking
Several trails near the campground provide access to the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Popular hikes include those to Long Lake and Lake Isabelle. Reviews frequently highlight the hiking opportunities, with one user noting, "Great location for viewing some of the best mountain settings in the Rocky Mountains," and another mentioning, "The day hiking options are awesome!"Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is permitted at Brainard Lake and nearby Long Lake. Anglers can catch rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Fishing opportunities are described as "fun," though one review noted, "It is fishing, not catching."Biking
Mountain biking is allowed outside the wilderness area. Specific trails and difficulty levels are not detailed.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking at Brainard Lake are popular activities. No motorized boating is mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife, including moose, is commonly seen around the campground and Brainard Lake. Multiple reviews mention moose sightings, with one user stating, "We were greeted by two moose that walked directly behind our site."Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available, weather permitting.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular at Brainard Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans may be imposed during dry conditions. Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings when permitted.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is reported, especially at night. Afternoon thunderstorms and high winds are frequent. Note unpredictable snow drifting up until mid-July.
Weather at Pawnee
8
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Nederland offers the nearest emergency services, including a clinic, police station, and fire department.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 27th through September 13th, annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though specific details about locations and schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Brainard Lake, with nearby Long Lake, Red Rock Lake, and Left Hand Reservoir.
Common complaintsSome reviewers noted overcrowding in day-use areas and challenging parking logistics. Elk Loop lacks shade due to beetle damage. Excessive fines for late arrivals and limited host availability at times were also mentioned.
HostCampground hosts are reported to be friendly, diligent, and helpful. They maintain clean bathrooms and are available to address visitor concerns.
Campground Map
ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT
Driving directionsFrom Denver, travel north on Interstate 25 to U.S. Highway 36 West to Boulder. Continue on Colorado Highway 119 (Canyon Boulevard) for 22 miles to Nederland, then go north on Colorado Highway 72 to Ward. Turn left at the sign and travel 5 miles to Brainard Lake Recreation Area.
The access roads are paved but can experience congestion during peak times. Seasonal closures due to snow are possible, and unpredictable drifting can cause changes in campsite assignments.Nearby places
Nederland (14 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Estes Park (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nederland (14 miles south) provides grocery stores, hardware stores, restaurants, gas stations, a bank, and a post office.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
185 reviews
Pawnee is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Pawnee Campground is highly praised for its clean facilities, natural beauty, and proximity to recreational activities. Common themes in reviews include the cleanliness of vault toilets, excellent hiking opportunities, and wildlife sightings such as moose.
Review Summaries
Based on 185 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, beautiful natural setting, friendly and helpful camp hosts, availability of potable water and firewood, and proximity to hiking trails.
Based on 185 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users noted issues with campsite spacing in certain loops, limited shade in Elk Loop, and the need for additional permits for trailhead parking. A few reviews mentioned noise from other campers...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring layers for cold nights, as temperatures can drop significantly. Pack bug spray for mosquitos, especially in July. Reserve trailhead parking permits in advance to avoid walking long distances to...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to warm days and cool nights. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer. Winter activities like snowshoeing and skiing are mentioned but are...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground was well maintained and my campsite was one of the cleanest and most manicured of any campsites." "The vault toilets are the cleanest I have seen in my entire life." "We were greeted...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Walk-in sites are highly recommended for their privacy. Moose Loop sites offer more shade and seclusion compared to Elk Loop sites, which are more open. Site W7 is described as "quiet,...
Based on 185 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 185 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one user appreciated that dogs could join hikes, unlike in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Based on 185 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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