How much does camping cost at Pinewood Reservoir?

Camping fees at Pinewood Reservoir range from $25-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Pinewood Reservoir first-come first-served or reservation?

Pinewood Reservoir 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 Pinewood Reservoir before I book?

Yes! Pinewood Reservoir has 3 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 Pinewood Reservoir?

Pinewood Reservoir is open Not explicitly mentioned, but reviews suggest warmer months (Spring-Summer) are peak times.. 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 Pinewood Reservoir?

Yes, Pinewood Reservoir has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Pinewood Reservoir?

Fire policies at Pinewood Reservoir: Campfire policies are not explicitly detailed, but seasonal restrictions may apply.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Pinewood Reservoir have?

Pinewood Reservoir has 27 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Pinewood Reservoir?

Yes, pets are allowed at Pinewood Reservoir. 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 Pinewood Reservoir?

Pinewood Reservoir offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Pinewood Reservoir?

Popular activities at Pinewood Reservoir include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Pinewood Reservoir

4.53

112 reviews

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Top 12% in COSpring

Summer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Rocky Mountain National Park Boating Camping Colorado

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,580 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

27 campsites

Season

Check 'Season Dates'...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Larimer County Natural Resources Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,580 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

27 campsites

Season

Check 'Season Dates'...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Larimer County Natural Resources Official Website

Get Directions

Pinewood Reservoir

$25.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees vary depending on the type of site. Standard electric sites are priced between $25 and $35.

Standard Site Fee$30.00

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Reserve America

Provider

9706194570

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Pinewood Reservoir

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Nearby places

Berthoud (9.5 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Loveland (approximately 15-20 miles, 25-30 minutes by road). Rocky Mountain National Park is about 1 hour away.

Nearby supplies

General stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available within 10 miles. The nearest grocery stores and bait shops are also within this range.

Driving directionsTake I-25 to Berthoud Exit (Exit 250). Turn left (West) onto Highway 56 and continue for 9.5 miles, passing through town of Berthoud. At the foothills, the road will turn sharply to the right (north). Turn Left (west) onto County Road 8E and continue for 3 miles to the entrance station where you can purchase permits. Follow County Road 8E west to the intersection with County Road 31 and continue around the lake for 5.5 miles to the intersection and County Road 18E. Turn left (west) and continue about 4.5 miles to the lake.

The road is described as being in good condition even during snow, but there is a steep grade to access the site. Suitable for towing as per user: 'It is a STEEP grade to get there, but the road is good, and had no issues towing up in the snow!'

Weather at Pinewood Reservoir

Current alert: Water access is seasonally closed. No other active alerts reported.

Best Time to Camp at Pinewood Reservoir

Summer is the best time to visit. Daytime highs reach 75-85°F, with nights cooling to the mid-40s to mid-50s. Mornings are excellent for trout fishing and wildlife viewing. Boating, biking, and campfires peak during summer months, though weekends and holidays fill the campground quickly. Winter temperatures drop to 13-15°F, transforming the area into a quiet, snow-covered landscape for those who don't mind the cold.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Summer is best: 75–85°F, water activities, peak season and excellent fishing mornings.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly mentioned, but reviews suggest warmer months (Spring-Summer) are peak times.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Check 'Season Dates' for annual updates. Users have remarked that water is closed during colder months.

About Pinewood Reservoir

Pinewood Reservoir sits at 6,580 feet in the foothills west of Carter Lake, part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project. The campground has 27 sites total: 15 drive-in sites with electric hookups (up to 40 feet) and 12 walk-in tent sites. Fees run $25-35 per night. The reservoir covers 327 acres of public land and offers fishing, boating, hiking, and biking, though campers should know sites are small and tightly packed.

Pinewood Reservoir Campground offers standard drive-in sites with electricity and walk-in tent sites for more primitive camping. Both setups provide close access to the reservoir and trails.

Historical Significance

Pinewood Reservoir was built as part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, a water management system that channels water across the Continental Divide for irrigation, municipal use, and hydropower. The reservoir represents decades of engineering work to supply water to communities and farms across the region.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the best time to visit. Daytime highs reach 75-85°F, with nights cooling to the mid-40s to mid-50s. Mornings are excellent for trout fishing and wildlife viewing. Boating, biking, and campfires peak during summer months, though weekends and holidays fill the campground quickly. Winter temperatures drop to 13-15°F, transforming the area into a quiet, snow-covered landscape for those who don't mind the cold.

ElevationPerched at 6,580 feet above sea level, Pinewood Reservoir Campground offers that perfect sweet spot of Colorado elevation. High enough to escape the summer heat of the plains below, yet accessible enough to avoid the extreme conditions of alpine camping. This elevation gifts visitors with crisp, clean air, spectacular panoramic views, and noticeably cooler temperatures that make for comfortable camping even in midsummer. The thin air here makes stars appear closer and sunsets more vibrant—a photographer's dream come true.

Natural Features and SceneryThe reservoir occupies a transition zone where plains meet mountains, surrounded by rolling hillsides and public land. An osprey pair nests above the water and hunts visibly throughout the day. The shoreline and surrounding trails provide views of the foothills, and aspen groves dot the higher ground. Wind is a signature feature here, keeping the air moving and the water choppy. Sunsets over the water and hills are consistently mentioned in reviews.

Geological RegionTucked into the scenic foothills just west of Carter Lake, Pinewood Reservoir occupies a unique position in Larimer County's diverse landscape. This carefully crafted body of water, born from the ambitious Colorado-Big Thompson Project, has matured into a natural oasis that feels as timeless as the surrounding hills. The 327 acres of public land embracing the reservoir create a buffer between civilization and wilderness, offering visitors a chance to explore the transitional ecosystem where plains meet mountains—a geological sweet spot that showcases Colorado's remarkable diversity.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of the reservoir, surrounding hills, and sunsets are highlighted by campers. The peaceful ambiance and nearby trails provide additional visual appeal.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no indication of hotel-style lodging or cabins directly at Pinewood Reservoir. Campers are limited to tents and RV setups.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs are available within a 10-mile radius, including guided interpretive walks.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights

Guests Allowed Per Site

8guests per site.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are small and closely packed. Reviewers consistently note you can see and hear neighboring campers at all times. The 15 drive-in sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, while the 12 walk-in tent sites are compact. Privacy is minimal throughout the campground.

Reservation PlatformsLarimer County Natural Resources website and phone reservation system.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified, but given the popularity, advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Cancellation PolicyReservation cancellations are subject to Larimer County Natural Resources policies. Details for refunds or penalties are not explicitly stated.

AccessibilityAccessible features include campsites, parking, picnic areas, pit toilets, and walkways. Nearby facilities also offer accessible showers and fishing docks.

Site SizeDrive-in sites accommodate equipment up to 40 feet in length, while walk-in tent sites are smaller and suited for compact setups.

PrivacyCampsites have been described as 'crazy small and super packed together,' providing limited privacy. Some users noted that sites are clustered to the extent that you can hear neighboring campers.

Total Campsites27 campsites

Recommended SitesSome reviewers recommend reserving multiple adjacent sites for larger groups due to the small campsite size.

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Pinewood Reservoir offers a comprehensive suite of amenities catering to both casual and serious campers. On-site facilities include 15 standard drive-in electric sites and 12 walk-in tent sites. Specific amenities available within the facility include accessible campsites, drinking water (with hand pumps and seasonal spigots), campfire rings, grills, picnic areas, and various types of toilets (vault and pit). The campground is dog-friendly, supports activities such as birding and hiking, and offers lake access for non-motorized boating and fishing. Nearby facilities within a 10-mile radius provide additional conveniences such as flush toilets, showers, laundry facilities, firewood vendors, and RV supply stores.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Pinewood Reservoir offers a range of outdoor activities suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy trout fishing, hiking trails with minimal elevation gain, wildlife viewing, and non-motorized boating activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. There is also a playscape for children to explore.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong undercurrents in the reservoir make swimming prohibited. Windy conditions are frequently mentioned. Wildlife such as birds is present, but no dangerous animal encounters reported.

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

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.

Fire PolicyCampfire policies are not explicitly detailed, but seasonal restrictions may apply.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are within 10 miles, including a hospital, urgent care facilities, and ranger stations.

Water FeaturesAll campsites have walkable access to Pinewood Reservoir. The reservoir is ideal for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, but swimming is prohibited.

Camp HostCampground hosts are well-regarded. Users have described them as being helpful and friendly.

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

From Booking Sources

4.5

112 reviews

Top-Rated

Pinewood Reservoir is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Pinewood Reservoir is well-received for its scenic beauty, range of activities, and clean amenities. Common positive themes include excellent fishing, great hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. However, some users complain about the small and closely packed campsites, lack of privacy, and the steep, winding road to reach the campground.

Review Summaries

Based on 112 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 112 reviews.

P01Mentioned
Sites P01, P05, and P07 are most suitable for larger equipment, accommodating up to 55 feet.
P17Mentioned
Walk-in sites (e.g., P17, P18) are better for smaller groups and offer a more primitive experience.

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the beautiful reservoir views, clean vault toilets, and the variety of activities available, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Based on 112 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the small size and limited privacy of campsites, lack of cell service, and the steep grade to access the campground. Some users also reported challenges with broken glass on...

Based on 112 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own firewood and preparing for the steep road leading to the campground. The lack of cell service means you should download directions and necessary information...

Based on 112 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are popular due to warmer weather and water activities, while fall offers quieter experiences with stunning sunsets. Winter camping is less favored due to cold and snow.

Based on 112 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Pinewood is my new favorite campground! It was so pretty, and the rangers and service were fantastic!' - Sarah Griffin - 'The vault toilets are the cleanest I’ve ever seen.' - 2Scoops - 'This...

Based on 112 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground offers accessible features, but there are no specific user reviews detailing experiences from individuals with disabilities.

Based on 112 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-friendly policies are appreciated by users. The 3-mile loop trail is dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash.

Based on 112 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Anglers and kayakers who book early and ask for P17 or P18: the walk-in tent sites give you the most breathing room, and trout fishing on the reservoir draws consistently good reviews. Rocky Mountain National Park is an hour out if you want a day trip.

Skip if

Privacy matters even a little to you. Reviewers call the sites 'crazy small and super packed,' you can see everyone at all times, there's zero cell signal, and the steep winding access road is its own adventure before you've even unpacked.

Nearby Campgrounds

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Flatiron Reservoir sits on 47 acres of water and 200 acres of public land in northern Colorado's foothills, near Loveland. The campground has 52 sites including tent spots, RV hookups, tipis, and group areas. Electric sites cost $32-43 per night. It fills quickly on summer weekends, so book early.