West Lake
4.64135 reviewsnull
Quick Facts
8,200 ftPrice
$28 - $81/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
31 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectric
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
8,200 ftPrice
$28 - $81/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
31 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyElectric
Get DirectionsWest Lake
$28.00 - $81.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $28 for Walk-to sites to $81 for Standard Electric sites during the peak season. Additional charges may apply for extra vehicles ($8...
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Standard Site Fee$41.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$28.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$69.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider970-295-6700null
What Campers Say
4.64
Top-Rated
Based on 135 reviews
10 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanfriendly
Some mention
dusty
"User reviews highlight the cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and helpful hosts as standout features. Many visitors praise the camp's serene atmosphere and access to recreational activities."
Fees & Passes at West Lake
$28 - $81/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Cancellation: Changes to reservations are allowed with a $10 change fee. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus f...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at West Lake
Mountain weather here tells its own dramatic story. Spring and summer afternoons often announce themselves with spectacular thunderstorms that roll across the peaks, bringing refreshing rain and nature's light show. When winter arrives, it transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge to create that crisp, invigorating mountain air punctuated by gentle snowfall and whispering winds through the pines.
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: May 16 to September 20.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season begins May 16 and closes September 20 for reservable dates.
- Current Alerts: Water faucets may occasionally be unavailable due to testing. Fire restrictions can be imposed during dry seasons.
About West Lake
Nestled among towering ponderosa pines, West Lake Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 31 thoughtfully designed single- and double-family campsites, plus five secluded tent-only spots for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience, featuring electric hookups for RVs, well-maintained vault toilets, and fresh drinking water throughout the grounds. Friendly campground hosts ensure your stay is comfortable, maintaining pristine facilities and offering local insights to enhance your mountain adventure.
West Lake Campground offers primarily traditional camping options, with accommodations for RVs, tents, and small groups.
Historical SignificanceWest Lake holds a special place in the hearts of generations of Colorado adventurers. Families return decade after decade, sharing stories of childhood summers spent along these shores. Some visitors still recall their first camping trips here in the 1960s, when the world moved a little slower and the stars seemed a little brighter. These multi-generational connections have woven West Lake into the fabric of Colorado's outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here tells its own dramatic story. Spring and summer afternoons often announce themselves with spectacular thunderstorms that roll across the peaks, bringing refreshing rain and nature's light show. When winter arrives, it transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge to create that crisp, invigorating mountain air punctuated by gentle snowfall and whispering winds through the pines.
ElevationPerched at 8,200 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. The thin mountain air brings cooler temperatures that make for perfect sleeping weather in your tent, while the elevation creates those stunning alpine conditions that paint sunrises and sunsets in brilliant hues across the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryYour basecamp awaits in a majestic ponderosa pine forest, where the sweet vanilla scent of bark mingles with mountain breezes. The crown jewel is West Lake itself—25 acres of pristine, mirror-like water where motorboats are prohibited, preserving the tranquil atmosphere perfect for paddling a canoe at dawn or casting a line as the sun sets. While recent forest management has opened up some areas, creating sunny spots perfect for solar charging and stargazing, the remaining giants still provide cooling shade and that authentic Colorado mountain ambiance.
Geological RegionDiscover your own slice of Rocky Mountain paradise in north-central Colorado, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of pine-covered ridges and crystal-clear alpine lakes. At 8,200 feet, West Lake Campground sits in the heart of ponderosa pine country, where these stately conifers have adapted to thrive in the well-drained soils and dramatic temperature swings that define Colorado's high country. The lake itself, cradled by forested shores, serves as a natural gathering place where the mountains meet the water.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible with 31 sites designed for easy access.
Sites SizeCampsites can accommodate a range of setups, including large trailers up to 35-80 feet in length. Some double sites are also available for larger groups.
Sites PrivacyMany sites offer good privacy with natural spacing provided by trees. Specific reviews highlight the privacy of certain sites like #15.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 is favored as a 'favorite place to camp.' Site #32 accommodates larger trailers (25-foot) well. Site #28 is near the day-use area and grocery store.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The maximum number of guests varies by site type. Standard sites allow up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged in loops, with some offering pull-through access and others closer to the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 16 and closes September 20 for reservable dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling the contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnoccupied sites are made available on a first-come-first-serve basis, as noted by hosts.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations are allowed with a $10 change fee. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee. No changes can be made on the check-in date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
West Lake Campground provides a variety of activities for campers. Canoeing, paddleboarding, and fishing are popular on the 25-acre no-wake lake, with anglers targeting rainbow and lake trout. The area also features hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, including the 1.5-mile West Lake Trail and 4-mile Mount Margaret Trail. Wildlife viewing is common, and the nearby Redfeather Visitor Center offers additional activities.
Hiking
Trails in the area include the West Lake Trail (1.5 miles) and Mount Margaret Trail (4 miles). Off-road vehicle trails are located within five miles.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with rainbow and lake trout as the primary catches. Some reviews report excellent fishing conditions, though others mention issues with trout health.Biking
The surrounding area includes biking trails suitable for various skill levels.Boating
Boating is limited to small watercraft operated by hand, wind, or electric motors due to the lake's no-wake status.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with mentions of bald eagles and other local fauna.Winter Activities
No winter activities are described for this location.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are popular.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may be implemented during dry weather conditions. Campfires are allowed unless restricted.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, requiring food storage precautions. Thunderstorms and high winds are common hazards.
Active alertsWater faucets may occasionally be unavailable due to testing. Fire restrictions can be imposed during dry seasons.
Weather at West Lake
19
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Red Feather Lakes village, including general stores and public facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but detailed schedules or locations are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the shores of West Lake, visitors can fish and paddleboard. Nearby Dowdy Lake offers additional recreational options.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include dusty roads, proximity to noisy highways, and occasional maintenance issues with bathrooms and campsites.
HostHosts are frequently described as friendly, attentive, and helpful, often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Fort Collins, take Highway 287 north approximately 24 miles to Livermore. Turn west on County Road 74 and continue 24 miles to the campground.
The roads leading to the campground are primarily paved, but the campground road can be dusty and narrow, especially during rainy seasons.Nearby places
Fort Collins (48 miles), Livermore (24 miles), Red Feather Lakes (approximately 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
The nearest grocery store, cafes, and general supplies are in Red Feather Lakes village, within a 5-mile radius.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
135 reviews
West Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and helpful hosts as standout features. Many visitors praise the camp's serene atmosphere and access to recreational activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 135 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, great fishing, and beautiful views. Hosts repeatedly receive high praise for their helpfulness and maintaining a clean environment.
Based on 135 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some complaints include dusty roads, occasional highway noise, and issues with water availability during certain periods. The no-swimming policy is also a noted drawback, especially for families with...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Book early due to high demand. Prepare for sudden weather changes at the elevation of 8,200 feet. Bring a mallet for staking tents due to hard ground. Visit nearby Red Feather Lakes Village for...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highlighted as the best season, with consistent praise for fishing and camping conditions. Spring and early fall see fewer visitors but also reviews noting weather-related challenges like...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The camp hosts are the best we have ever come across!" - Kim W. "Fishing for stocked rainbows was good. The weather was fine with little to none of the wind that Red Feathers is famous for." - Scott...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #15 is praised for its privacy and level setup for trailers. Site #23 is described as spacious and close to restrooms. Site #28 is noted for being near the day-use area and grocery store, which...
Based on 135 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground is generally accessible, with vault toilets and electric hookups available at some sites.
Based on 135 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, though one review describes an issue with a belligerent neighbor's barking dogs that the camp host quickly resolved.
Based on 135 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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