Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd

Star4.36
108 reviews
StargazingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

11,000 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

20 campsites

Season

June - Late Fall

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Get Directions
Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees required for this site. Camping is free.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 108 reviews

96 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewshiking

"Alta Lakes Campground is praised for its breathtaking alpine views, clear night skies, and free camping options. However, the road to the campground is consistently described as rough and requiring a high-clearance vehicle, with some reviewers managing in small cars but reporting challenges. Crowding, especially during peak times, is another common concern."

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Campground Map

Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd

37.8859, -107.8535

Driving directionsTravel approximately 5 miles south of Telluride, CO on State Highway 145. Turn east on Forest Road #632 (Alta Road) and climb about 4.3 miles, passing the Alta townsite. Camping is allowed only in designated campsites.
The access road is narrow, rough, and requires a high-clearance vehicle. The last mile is described as particularly challenging due to potholes, ruts, rocks, and twists. Trailers and RVs are not recommended.
Nearby places
Telluride, CO (5 miles south, approximately 9 miles total with Forest Road #632 and 30-45 minute travel time)
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd

At 11,000 feet, Alta Lakes serves up mountain weather in all its dramatic glory. Summer days bring pleasant temperatures perfect for hiking and fishing, but seasoned campers know to pack layers—afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly, and yes, June snowflakes aren't unheard of at this elevation. When winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the area becomes a playground for snowmobilers who navigate the nearby trail system through powder-filled meadows and frozen forests.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and busiest in summer; pleasant temps, hiking, fishing, and boating available.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into late fall with great scenery; can be busy and weather can turn quickly at 11,000 ft.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Snow may persist into June and melting causes muddy, difficult conditions in spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed/limited access in winter due to persistent snow; not a winter camping destination.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: June - Late Fall
  • Current Alerts: Some reviews mention snow drifts, downed trees, and knocked-over porta-potties as obstacles during certain seasons.

About Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd

Perched high in the Colorado Rockies, Alta Lakes Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic alpine escape. This pristine dispersed camping area features 20 undeveloped sites scattered around crystalline mountain lakes, where anglers cast lines into mirror-like waters and campers wake to breathtaking sunrise reflections. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, this hidden gem rewards early arrivals with prime lakeside spots and the freedom to camp beneath a canopy of stars.
Alta Lakes Campground features primitive camping with 20 designated sites. The lack of any developed utilities or infrastructure makes it a site for self-sufficient campers. RVs and trailers are not recommended due to the rough access road.
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Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. Snowmobiling is accessible nearby during the winter season. The alpine setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation, and the night sky is described as spectacular by multiple users.
HikingHiking trails are available nearby, with one foot trail leading to the Alta ghost town. The difficulty levels and lengths of the trails are not specified, but the area is described as scenic by multiple reviewers.
FishingFishing opportunities are available at the lakes, with one user mentioning catching 10-inch trout.
BikingMountain biking is mentioned in the general vicinity, but no detailed descriptions of trails or terrain are provided.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is permitted. Users mentioned activities such as paddleboarding on the lake.
Wildlife viewingWildlife such as chipmunks, Canada jays, and a groundhog were observed by users. The alpine environment is conducive to spotting diverse fauna.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAltitude sickness is a significant concern at elevations around 11,000-12,000 ft. The narrow, rocky roads pose challenges for vehicles, and mosquitoes can be abundant during warmer months.
Active AlertsSome reviews mention snow drifts, downed trees, and knocked-over porta-potties as obstacles during certain seasons.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd

Reviews

4.4
108 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Alta Lakes Campground is praised for its breathtaking alpine views, clear night skies, and free camping options. However, the road to the campground is consistently described as rough and requiring a high-clearance vehicle, with some reviewers managing in small cars but reporting challenges. Crowding, especially during peak times, is another common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 108 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlighted the clear night skies ('bursting with stars'), scenic views, and opportunities for fishing and hiking. The presence of a ghost town nearby adds historical interest.
Based on 108 reviews

Common Concerns

Crowding, uneven and muddy campsites, and day-use traffic were frequent issues. Many reviewers mentioned the rough access road and the need for high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Others noted limited...
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Based on 108 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a campsite, especially during weekends or holidays. Pack in all necessary supplies, including firewood and drinking water. Consider visiting during weekdays for a potentially...
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Based on 108 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The site is busiest in summer and early fall, with snow potentially persisting into June. Winter access is limited by snow, and spring may see muddy conditions due to melting snow.
Based on 108 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The lake is beautiful and when it’s dark the sky is bursting with stars!' - Marlene Zimmerman. 2. 'This campground is amazing but if you're coming here be prepared for a 30-45 min drive up the...
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Based on 108 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight varied conditions: some sites are praised for their size and views, while others are criticized for being uneven or too close to neighboring sites.
Based on 108 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground is difficult to access due to the rough road conditions, making it challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 108 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Some users found the area unsuitable for pets due to safety concerns, including reports of aggressive interactions with other campers.
Based on 108 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd