Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd

4.47

91 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

9,300 ft

Price

$6 - $24/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

June 15 through Octo...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,300 ft

Price

$6 - $24/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

June 15 through Octo...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd

$6.00 - $24.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single campsite fee is $24 per night, with an additional charge of $6 for day-use parking and picnic access. Each additional vehicle beyond two is $6...

Standard Site Fee$24.00

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

4.47

Recommended

Based on 91 reviews

73 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

Some mention

dusty

"Lost Lake Campground receives mixed reviews. Many visitors praise the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. However, the first-come, first-served policy has led to frustrations, especially during peak times when the campground fills up quickly. The lack of a reservation system is a common complaint."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd

38.8693, -107.2093

Driving directionsFrom Paonia: Travel northeast on Highway 133 for approximately 15 miles to County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road. Turn right onto CR 12 and continue east for approximately 16 miles to the intersection with Forest Service Road #706, Lost Lake Road. Turn right onto FSR #706 and go another 2 miles to the end at the Lost Lake Campground and Lost Lake Slough. Note: The last 9.2 miles of County Rd. 12 are dirt and gravel, and Forest Rt. 706 is dirt, narrow, and may be rough in places.

Access involves paved roads transitioning into dirt and gravel for the last 9.2 miles along County Road 12. Forest Road 706 is described as dirt, narrow, and potentially rough, which may present challenges for some vehicles.

Nearby places

Paonia (approx. 31.7 miles, about 45 minutes)

Crested Butte (approx. 18 miles, about 35 minutes)

Nearby supplies

The nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, or fuel are likely in Paonia or Crested Butte, CO.

Best Time to Camp at Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd

From mid-June through October's golden days, Lost Lake Campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome visitors into its alpine wonderland. Mountain weather here dances between warm sunshine and sudden afternoon thunderstorms, keeping adventurers on their toes. July explodes in a riot of color as wildflowers carpet the meadows in nature's finest display, while autumn brings crisp mornings and the gradual retreat of Lost Lake Slough's waters as they flow to nourish the valleys below. Each season paints this high-altitude canvas with its own unique palette, though Mother Nature always reserves the right to surprise with an early snowfall or unseasonably warm spell.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Open mid‑June–Oct; mid‑July–early Aug peak for wildflowers and best scenic conditions.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

September popular for golden foliage and vistas, though campground is busy then.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Campground typically closed until ~June 15; spring access limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Seasonal closure; winter access/conditions limit camping and winter sports.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Mid-July to early August for wildflowers; weather-dependent.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: June 15 through October 1, weather-dependent.
Current Alerts: Limited services are available; no potable water at the site.

About Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Gunnison National Forest's Paonia Ranger District, Lost Lake Campground beckons adventurers to discover its hidden alpine paradise. Here, beneath the towering peaks of the Ruby Mountain Range, families gather around crackling campfires while days are spent exploring winding trails and casting lines into the crystal-clear waters of three pristine lakes—Lost Lake Slough, Dollar Lake, and Lost Lake itself. This first-come, first-served gem offers an authentic backcountry experience where modern amenities take a backseat to raw natural beauty. Pack your water bottles and embrace the simplicity of camping as it was meant to be, with no potable water on-site but endless opportunities for adventure.

Lost Lake Campground caters to a variety of campers, including tent and equestrian campers. RV camping is limited due to rugged access roads and narrow parking aprons.

Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-June through October's golden days, Lost Lake Campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome visitors into its alpine wonderland. Mountain weather here dances between warm sunshine and sudden afternoon thunderstorms, keeping adventurers on their toes. July explodes in a riot of color as wildflowers carpet the meadows in nature's finest display, while autumn brings crisp mornings and the gradual retreat of Lost Lake Slough's waters as they flow to nourish the valleys below. Each season paints this high-altitude canvas with its own unique palette, though Mother Nature always reserves the right to surprise with an early snowfall or unseasonably warm spell.

ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,300 feet where the air grows thin and the views grow endless, Lost Lake Campground offers visitors a true high-altitude experience. This lofty elevation means spectacular vistas come standard, though newcomers to the mountains should pace themselves as their bodies adjust to the thinner air. Take it slow on your first day, drink plenty of water, and let the altitude work its magic as it brings you closer to the clouds.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle whisper of wind through ancient spruce trees, their evergreen branches framing postcard-perfect views of the Ruby Mountain Range. Lost Lake Campground sits in nature's amphitheater, where jagged peaks rise like sentinels above meadows that burst into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers each summer. The dramatic silhouette of Beckwith Pass dominates the horizon, while closer to camp, delicate columbines, vibrant Indian paintbrush, and cheerful alpine sunflowers create a living tapestry that reaches its crescendo in mid-July. This is Colorado's high country at its finest—raw, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.

Geological RegionThe Ruby Mountain Range stands as a testament to millions of years of geological drama, its peaks and valleys carved by ancient glaciers and volcanic forces. Within this corner of Gunnison National Forest, Lost Lake Campground occupies a special niche where high alpine ecosystems thrive among granite spires and volcanic remnants. Three jewel-like lakes dot the landscape, their waters reflecting the surrounding peaks like mirrors to the sky. Dense spruce forests provide shelter for wildlife and shade for weary hikers, while open meadows showcase the resilience of alpine flora that blooms brilliantly despite the short growing season. This is mountain country that tells the story of Colorado's wild heart with every weathered rock face and pristine alpine lake.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not specified in official data
campground host implies early arrival is necessary.

Check-out

Not specified in official data.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit of 16 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not specified.

Groups

There is no specific mention of group camping sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is arranged in two sections, one of which doubles as a picnic and equestrian camping area.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis. Campground host advises showing up early (by 7:30 AM) to secure a site.

Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

AccessibilityThe campground offers wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and a cement fishing deck designed for accessibility.

Site SizeThe parking aprons are gravel and vary in size. The equestrian camping sites have an average length of 60 feet.

PrivacyThe campsites are located amidst spruce trees, offering some privacy. However, user reviews note that the campground can feel crowded during peak times.

Total Campsites18 campsites

Recommended SitesArrive early to secure a campsite, preferably by 7:30 AM, as advised by the campground host. Campers looking for equestrian-friendly facilities should opt for the smaller section designated for such activities.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Lost Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The surrounding natural beauty, including alpine lakes and the Ruby Mountain Range, makes it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Moose sightings and birdwatching are popular among visitors.

HikingTwo main trails are accessible from the campground: the Three Lakes Trail (#843), a 3-mile foot-loop that offers scenic views and access to Lost Lake, Dollar Lake, and a waterfall, and the Beckwith Pass Trail (#842), another 3-mile trail suitable for both foot and horse travel that leads into the West Elk Wilderness.

FishingFishing is permitted in Lost Lake and Dollar Lake, with rainbow and brown trout commonly caught. The lakes provide a serene setting for anglers.

BoatingNon-motorized boating is allowed on Lost Lake Slough. Campers can use small boats such as kayaks or canoes, but there is no boat ramp available.

Wildlife viewingVisitors often spot moose and other wildlife. Mornings and evenings are particularly magical for wildlife viewing, as noted in reviews.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo potable water is available onsite, and the last 9.2 miles of the road leading to the campground are gravel and dirt, which may be challenging for some vehicles. Wildlife such as moose has been reported in the area.

Active AlertsLimited services are available; no potable water at the site.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted, but firewood must be purchased onsite for $10 per bundle.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely available in Paonia or Crested Butte, though detailed specifics about the nearest hospital or ranger station are not provided.

Trash & RecyclingThere is no specific information regarding trash and recycling facilities at this campground.

Water FeaturesCampsites are situated around Lost Lake Slough, and the campground is close to Dollar Lake and Lost Lake. Lost Lake Slough covers 10 acres but experiences a drop in water levels toward fall.

Camp HostMixed reviews about the campground host. Some praised the host for enforcing rules, while others found the host to be unhelpful or overly controlling.

Weather at Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd

Reviews

4.5

91 reviews

Recommended

Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Lost Lake Campground receives mixed reviews. Many visitors praise the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. However, the first-come, first-served policy has led to frustrations, especially during peak times when the campground fills up quickly. The lack of a reservation system is a common complaint.

Review Summaries

Based on 91 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors emphasize the 'breathtaking vistas,' 'phenomenal wildflowers,' and 'peaceful surroundings.' Several reviewers mention the campground host enforcing rules, which ensures the campsite remains...

Based on 91 reviews

Common Concerns

The campground's popularity leads to overcrowding during peak seasons, and the first-come, first-served policy causes difficulties for those traveling long distances. Dust from passing vehicles and...

Based on 91 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early in the morning (by 7:30 AM) to secure a campsite, especially during weekends or holidays. Bring your own drinking water and firewood if you want to avoid purchasing it on-site.

Based on 91 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mid-July to early August is highlighted as the best time for wildflowers and scenic beauty. Fall (September) is popular for leaf-peeping, but the campground is crowded. Winter conditions may make...

Based on 91 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This is a great campground, and the host Amy is terrific!' - Dee I. 2. 'The campground stretches around half of Lost Lake Slough among spruce trees and wildflowers.' - General Comments. 3. 'Saw...

Based on 91 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #5 is highlighted as a 'great site' by one reviewer.

Based on 91 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets and an accessible fishing deck are available, but no reviews specifically address the overall accessibility experience.

Based on 91 reviews