How much does camping cost at Purgatoire Campground?

Camping fees at Purgatoire Campground range from $25/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Purgatoire Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Purgatoire Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Purgatoire Campground before I book?

Yes! Purgatoire Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Purgatoire Campground?

Purgatoire Campground is open May 08 to September 25. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Purgatoire Campground?

Purgatoire Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Purgatoire Campground have?

Purgatoire Campground has 34 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Purgatoire Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Purgatoire Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Purgatoire Campground?

Purgatoire Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Purgatoire Campground?

Popular activities at Purgatoire Campground include Hiking, Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Purgatoire Campground

4.50

152 reviews

SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, CANON CITY, CO 81212, USA

Featured in:Camping Near Great Sand Dunes National Park Primitive Camping Colorado

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

9,800 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open May 16 to Septe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on San Carlos Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

9,800 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open May 16 to Septe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on San Carlos Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Purgatoire Campground

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

EQUESTRIAN NONELECTRIC: $25.00; RV NONELECTRIC: $25.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $25.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL (877) 444-6777, FOR OTHER NON REAL TIME INFORMATION CALL THE SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT AT (719) 269-8500.lstewart@goexplorus.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, CANON CITY, CO 81212, USA

Purgatoire Campground

SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, CANON CITY, CO 81212, USA

Nearby places

Stonewall (approx. 30 mins), Cuchara (approx. 30 mins)

Weather at Purgatoire Campground

Best Time to Camp at Purgatoire Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the most comfortable mountain weather — expect sunny days in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and cool nights that drop into the upper 20s to low 40s°F at 9,800 ft. Trails, river fishing, horseback rides, and mountain biking are all at their peak, with wildflowers and full river flow early in the season and excellent wildlife viewing throughout. Be prepared for afternoon monsoon storms in July–August and higher weekend use; make reservations for May 16–Sept 20, Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season May 16–Sep 20; pleasant temps and trail access, though afternoon monsoons occur.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 08 to September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 16 to September 20 (reservable), September 21 to September 27 (first-come, first-served).

About Purgatoire Campground

Purgatoire Campground sits at 9,800 feet in the San Isabel National Forest, managed by the San Carlos Ranger District. The high-elevation alpine setting offers tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Campers hike forest trails, fish nearby streams, and watch for wildlife in a quiet, remote environment.

Purgatoire Campground offers primitive and equestrian camping options. Campsites are available for tents, RVs, and trailers in a serene forested or meadow environment.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the most comfortable mountain weather — expect sunny days in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and cool nights that drop into the upper 20s to low 40s°F at 9,800 ft. Trails, river fishing, horseback rides, and mountain biking are all at their peak, with wildflowers and full river flow early in the season and excellent wildlife viewing throughout. Be prepared for afternoon monsoon storms in July–August and higher weekend use; make reservations for May 16–Sept 20, Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation9800 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Purgatoire River flows through camp as a small, audible creek. Aspen and conifers provide shade in the wooded loop, while the upper loop opens to mountain views across meadow sites. The Culebra Range rises sharply from the valley floor. Campers on the lower loop hear the creek constantly; those on the upper loop get broader sightlines toward the peaks. At this elevation, the landscape shifts quickly from sun-exposed grass to cool forest pockets.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no hotel-style lodging available at the campground; the accommodations are strictly campsites.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no cultural or educational programs specifically offered at Purgatoire Campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 guests per campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or via phone.

AccessibilityLimited information about accessibility features. Vault toilets and hand pumps for water may be challenging for some individuals with mobility issues.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, small RVs, and horse trailers. Some sites are spacious enough for large travel trailers, while others are more suited for small setups.

PrivacyCampground sites offer varying levels of privacy. Some loops provide open meadow sites, while others offer more secluded spots surrounded by trees. "The upper loop gets good views," while "the lower loop gets the sound of the babbling North Fork.

Total Campsites34 campsites

Recommended SitesEquestrian sites located in grassy meadow loop; ideal for horse trailers. Sites near the river provide best ambiance, while upper loop offers expansive meadow views.

Best CampsitesSites #2 and #3 sit close to the river with better privacy than most. The upper loop trades proximity to water for views. The lower loop keeps you near the creek's sound but may feel less open.

Need help booking Purgatoire Campground?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Purgatoire Campground offers a mix of primitive and equestrian camping with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. "Campsites come with campfire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets." Drinking water is available through a hand pump, and trash service is provided. Parking aprons are grass and gravel, and equestrian sites can accommodate large trailers. The campground's natural setting provides a scenic and serene experience, with surroundings of aspen and conifer forests at an elevation of 9,800 feet. "The nearby Purgatoire River adds a delightful touch to the environment, offering creek-sized fishing opportunities."

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Purgatoire Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities centered around its natural surroundings. "The North Fork Trail #1309, located on the north end of the campground, offers non-motorized access to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders." The Purgatoire River provides fishing opportunities, and nearby attractions include the charming towns of Stonewall and Cuchara.

Hiking

Fishing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsThe campground does not have flush toilets but provides well-maintained vault toilets. User reviews often praise their cleanliness, though some have noted occasional odor issues.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

152 reviews

Recommended

Purgatoire Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Purgatoire Campground receives largely positive reviews for its scenic beauty, remote location, and peaceful atmosphere. However, it has received criticism for lack of modern amenities (e.g., no showers, limited water access) and occasional issues with cleanliness of vault toilets during busy periods. The lack of cell service is seen as a drawback by some but appreciated by others for enhancing the rustic experience.

Review Summaries

Based on 152 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 152 reviews.

Site #3Loved
Site #3: "Next to the river and loved it." - Kristi Samaniego.
Site #22Loved
Site #22: "Great, out-of-the-way campground.
Site #12Loved
Site #12: "In the open field and was great for dogs." - Kelsey W.

What Campers Love

Campers praise the "beautiful and remote" location, excellent hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of the campground host and the...

Based on 152 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback centers on the "rough gravel road" leading to the campground, "stinky" vault toilets during peak times, and the lack of running water or convenient trash disposal options. Some...

Based on 152 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water, as the only source is a hand pump. Be prepared for bears by locking away food securely. Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid potential issues with vault toilet...

Based on 152 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that summer is the peak season for camping, with many visitors enjoying the pleasant weather and hiking trails. Fall brings quieter times but colder temperatures and occasional snow....

Based on 152 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campground is spacious and lovely, in a bowl between a few mountains covered in aspens." - Laura Bishop. "The river is magic. The campsites are only steps away from shady cool riverside...

Based on 152 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited accessibility information is available, though vault toilets and water hand pumps may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. User reviews do not specifically address...

Based on 152 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and the campground is noted as pet-friendly. However, leash rules are enforced by the host, and some users mentioned incidents where the host checked compliance.

Based on 152 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

You want high-elevation solitude with trail access and don't mind vault toilets or rough road conditions.

Skip if

You need modern restrooms, frequent trash service, or easy road access to your campsite.

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Campgrounds

PSICC

Purgatoire Campground

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 57% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 100 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. A means campers loved it, not that it beat other campgrounds. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A+.Scenery
Grade A.Things to do
Grade A-.Staff & hosts

Watch-outs

Grade D.Bugs & weather
Grade C-.Safety
Grade C.Rules & policies

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Grades are absolute - from what campers wrote, on a fixed scale. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

See how Colorado grades overall

About PSICC

Context for the broader area surrounding Purgatoire Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Peaks to Prairies - Tracks to Trails Pike and San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (<a class="offsiteicon" href="http://www.fs.fed.us/locatormap/index.php?lat=37.59&long=-104.77&zoom=7" target="_blank">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. 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">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">Wilderness</a>, 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. <ul> <li><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3846515.pdf">Recreational Drone Tips</a> (.pdf)</li> <li><a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/science-technology/fire/unmanned-aircraft-systems">Forest Service Unmanned Aircraft Systems policy</a> (fs.fed.us)</li> </ul>