Cascade (Colorado)

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Fore

Perched at an impressive 8,830 feet in the Colorado high country, Needle Creek Reservoir Camping Area beckons anglers and nature enthusiasts to its pristine waters. This hidden gem, born from irrigation needs in 1962, has evolved into a beloved destination where rainbow and brook trout dance beneath the surface and camping under star-filled skies becomes an unforgettable experience. Easy access roads lead you to this alpine sanctuary, where the thin mountain air carries the promise of adventure and the gentle lap of reservoir waters provides the perfect soundtrack for your outdoor escape.

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Nestled high in the Colorado wilderness at 9,200 feet, O'Haver Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 31 pristine campsites scattered beneath towering ponderosa pines and shimmering aspens. This mountain sanctuary draws anglers eager to cast their lines into the crystal-clear lake waters, while paddlers glide across its glassy surface and bird watchers delight in spotting mountain species. During peak summer months, these coveted first-come, first-served sites often claim their weekend visitors by Thursday noon, testament to this alpine retreat's enduring appeal.

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Nestled at the foot of majestic Monarch Ridge, Monarch Park Campground beckons families and adventurers to experience Colorado's high country at its finest. Here, where the South Fork Arkansas River whispers through pine-scented meadows and pristine mountain ponds reflect endless skies, you'll discover a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Cast a line into crystal-clear waters, explore winding trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, or simply sit quietly as elk and deer emerge from the forest shadows at dawn.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Escape to this hidden gem where spontaneity meets adventure! Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, this campground rewards early birds and those seeking authentic outdoor experiences. Simply arrive, choose your perfect spot among the towering pines, and claim your piece of wilderness. Modern convenience meets rustic charm with our QR code payment system - just scan with the Recreation.gov mobile app using the Scan and Pay feature, and you're ready to start making memories under the stars.

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, Colorado, 81201, United States

Stretching along 152 miles of the legendary Arkansas River, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area beckons adventurers to experience Colorado's most dynamic waterway. From heart-pounding whitewater rapids that challenge expert rafters to gentle stretches perfect for family float trips, this linear wonderland offers eight distinct campgrounds as basepoints for unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you're casting for trophy trout, spotting bighorn sheep on riverside cliffs, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of the Arkansas Valley, each campground serves as your gateway to adventure.

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201 USA

Tucked away in Colorado's high country, Angel of Shavano Group Campground rewards those who discover its secluded alpine paradise. This exclusive group camping destination serves as your basecamp for mountain adventures, where the legendary Colorado Trail beckons hikers and bikers, crystal-clear streams invite anglers to cast their lines, and the raw beauty of the Rockies surrounds you at every turn. Far from the crowds yet rich with outdoor possibilities, this hidden sanctuary offers groups an intimate connection with Colorado's untamed wilderness.

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Nestled in the shadow of majestic Mt. Shavano, Angel of Shavano Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Rocky Mountain escape. This beloved destination has earned its reputation among seasoned campers who return year after year for the perfect blend of pristine wilderness and thoughtfully maintained amenities. Here, where the mountain air carries the whisper of pine and the promise of adventure, you'll discover why this hidden gem consistently ranks among Colorado's most cherished camping experiences.

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Perched at a breathtaking 11,000 feet, North Fork Campground stands as the crown jewel of high-altitude camping in the Salida Ranger District. This remote wilderness escape hugs the pristine north shore of North Fork Reservoir, where adventure truly begins where the pavement ends. The journey here demands a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the rugged mountain roads, but as seasoned visitors will tell you, 'The trek to get there is well worth the experience.' This primitive campground offers a genuine backcountry experience with no trash services, inviting only those seeking authentic mountain solitude.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Adventure awaits at Pitkin Campground, where the spirit of spontaneity reigns—sites are available exclusively on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is your ticket to securing your spot. While you'll need to be present to claim your campsite, modern convenience meets wilderness through Recreation.gov's QR code payment system (download the app before you leave civilization, as cell service can be spotty in these beautiful remote reaches).

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Adventure awaits at this charming campground where spontaneity meets the great outdoors. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, this hidden gem rewards early birds and spontaneous travelers alike. Simply arrive at the campground entrance, where friendly staff will help you select and secure your perfect spot among nature's splendor. No advance reservations needed – just pack your gear, hit the road, and let the journey unfold.

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Nestled in the heart of pristine wilderness, this campground offers an unforgettable escape where modern conveniences meet untamed nature. Wake up to the gentle rustle of leaves and birdsong, spend your days exploring scenic trails, and end each evening gathered around a crackling campfire under a canopy of stars. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, our thoughtfully designed sites provide the perfect basecamp for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Discover your perfect basecamp where adventure meets tranquility. This hidden gem offers an authentic outdoor experience with modern amenities, creating the ideal balance for both seasoned campers and families seeking their first taste of wilderness. Wake up to crisp morning air and fall asleep under a canopy of stars, all while enjoying easy access to hiking trails, scenic vistas, and natural wonders that define this remarkable landscape.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Fore

Tucked away in Colorado's pristine backcountry, Gold Creek Campground offers adventurers a true wilderness escape without the crowds. This free dispersed camping gem sits at the doorstep of the Fossil Ridge Wilderness Area, where towering spruce and fir trees mingle with shimmering aspens to create a natural cathedral. Whether you're casting a line in crystal-clear mountain streams, navigating rugged four-wheel drive trails, or setting off on foot or horseback into the surrounding wilderness, Gold Creek delivers the authentic Rocky Mountain experience. As one enchanted visitor put it, this spot is "very secluded and gorgeous" – and with vault toilets but no fees, it's a rare find that even seasoned campers celebrate for remaining blissfully uncrowded during peak summer holidays.

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Tucked away in the heart of Colorado's rugged backcountry, Iron City Campground offers an intimate escape with just 15 sites, where the whispers of mining history blend with the rumble of modern-day ATV adventures. This hidden gem near the ghost town of St. Elmo provides the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both thrilling trail rides and serene mountain solitude in the stunning Chalk Creek Canyon.

5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO 81201, USA

Nestled in the heart of Colorado's stunning Chalk Creek Canyon, this intimate mountain retreat beckons adventurers with its crystalline namesake lake and towering chalk-white cliffs that seem to glow in the alpine sunlight. Whether you're casting a line into the pristine waters, exploring rugged backcountry trails, or gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars, Chalk Lake Campground offers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience where families create lasting memories and outdoor enthusiasts find their perfect basecamp for canyon exploration.

Mount Princeton Campground, Salida Ranger District Office, 5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO, 81201

Nestled in the heart of Chalk Creek Canyon, Mount Princeton Campground invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. This intimate retreat features 19 thoughtfully spaced single-family sites, each offering a perfect balance of mountain sunshine and cooling shade beneath towering ponderosa pines and Douglas firs. The gentle murmur of nearby Chalk Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your outdoor adventure, while the surrounding wilderness beckons with endless possibilities for exploration and relaxation.

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Embrace the spirit of spontaneous adventure at this first-come, first-served campground, where the thrill of discovery awaits those who arrive ready to explore. Simply drive up, choose your perfect spot, and settle into nature's embrace. For added convenience, tech-savvy campers can utilize the Recreation.gov mobile app's innovative Scan and Pay feature – just scan the on-site QR code to handle your payment digitally. Pro tip: Download the free Recreation.gov app before you venture out, as cellular service can be spotty in these pristine wilderness areas. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, this flexible camping option puts you in control of your outdoor experience.

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO, 81201, USA

Step back in time at Bassam Guard Station, a historic 1911 cabin nestled deep in Colorado's untamed backcountry. This secluded mountain retreat invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Salida Ranger District. Whether you're seeking solitude, outdoor recreation, or a glimpse into the Forest Service's storied past, this rustic hideaway serves as your gateway to endless mountain adventures and breathtaking scenic vistas.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Fore

GUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO

Tucked away in the heart of Taylor River Canyon, Lodgepole Campground offers an intimate escape where towering pines whisper secrets and the river's gentle melody sets the rhythm for your days. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for anglers casting lines into pristine waters and hikers eager to explore winding mountain trails. Here, beneath a canopy of dense lodgepole pines that filter sunlight into dancing patterns, each campsite becomes a private sanctuary where the only sounds are birdsong and the rustling of wind through needles.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Cold Spring Campground welcomes adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis through an innovative QR code system. To secure your spot in this wilderness retreat, you'll need to be physically present at the campground to complete your reservation through the app. Be prepared for limited cellular connectivity in some areas of the campground—a reminder that you're truly escaping into nature's embrace. This digital-meets-wilderness approach ensures fair access while preserving the spontaneous spirit of outdoor exploration.

Cty Rd. 742, Taylor River Canyon, Gunnison, CO, 81231, USA

High in the Taylor River Canyon, where the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests converge, Lottis Creek Campground awaits at a breathtaking 8,600 feet. Here, adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into crystal-clear mountain streams, navigate thrilling four-wheel drive trails, or explore endless hiking paths that wind through pristine wilderness. This mountain sanctuary perfectly balances accessibility with the raw beauty of Colorado's high country.

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Nestled on a gentle hillside and embraced by whispering aspen groves, Cottonwood Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. Just a short stroll from the pristine waters of Cottonwood Lake, this beloved retreat invites you to cast your fishing line at dawn, paddle across mirror-like waters, or explore winding trails that reveal nature's secrets. Here, immaculate facilities meet untamed beauty, creating an unforgettable basecamp for your mountain adventures.

SALIDA RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, 5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Nestled at 9,800 feet where Middle Cottonwood Creek whispers through stands of shimmering aspen and towering conifers, this high-country haven serves as your gateway to Colorado's spectacular Sawatch Range. Wake to the sound of rushing water and spend your days exploring legendary hiking trails, casting lines into pristine mountain streams, or simply breathing in the crisp alpine air beneath the shadow of Cottonwood Pass.

TAYLOR PARK RES, GRAND MESA, ALMONT, CO 81210, USA

Perched above the sparkling waters of Taylor Park Reservoir, Lakeview Gunnison Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of mountain serenity and outdoor excitement. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, launching your boat for an afternoon cruise, or returning from dusty off-road trails, this well-appointed campground serves as your basecamp for Colorado high-country exploration. Choose from electric sites for modern convenience or embrace a more rustic experience at non-electric spots, all while enjoying essential amenities that make your stay comfortable without compromising the wilderness experience.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Welcome to a hidden gem where adventure begins the moment you arrive. This pristine campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, offering the authentic camping experience of discovering your perfect spot upon arrival. Simply drive in, explore the available sites, and claim your home away from home for the night. Modern convenience meets wilderness tradition with our innovative QR code payment system - just scan with the Recreation.gov mobile app to secure your site. Pro tip: Download the free Recreation.gov app before you venture out, as cellular service can be spotty in these beautifully remote locations. Once you're here, let nature's symphony replace your playlist and the star-studded sky become your entertainment.

GUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO

Where the Taylor River whispers through the Upper Taylor Park valley, Dinner Station Campground beckons adventurers to a place where history meets high-country recreation. This cherished mountain retreat draws mountain bikers and off-road enthusiasts to its shaded havens beneath towering pines, while the nearby Taylor Reservoir sparkles like a sapphire jewel in the Colorado wilderness. Here, dusty trails give way to peaceful evenings under star-filled skies, creating the perfect basecamp for those seeking both adrenaline and tranquility.

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Nestled at the breathtaking upper reaches of Taylor Park, Dorchester Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's high country wilderness. This hidden gem, managed by the Gunnison Ranger District, beckons adventure seekers with its perfect blend of rugged accessibility and pristine natural beauty. Ten thoughtfully spaced campsites accommodate both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, each furnished with sturdy picnic tables and grills for memorable outdoor meals. At 9,800 feet, this mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to endless adventures—whether you're carving through backcountry trails on your OHV, casting a line into the crystal-clear Taylor River, or exploring the area's legendary mountain biking terrain.

LEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO, 80461, USA

Step back in time at Crescent Mining Camp, where weathered cabins from the 1890s gold rush era stand as silent witnesses to Colorado's mining heritage. Nestled alongside a babbling creek with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop, these historic structures offer adventurers a unique blend of rustic charm and outdoor excitement. The camp has become a haven for off-road vehicle enthusiasts, with nearby OHV trails bringing the rumble of engines to this mountain retreat—perfect for thrill-seekers, though those seeking solitude may want to explore during quieter weekday periods.

810 FRONT ST, Leadville, CO, USA, 80461

Escape to Dawson Cabin, where rustic mountain charm meets breathtaking wilderness at the foot of majestic Ervin Peak. This secluded retreat in Clear Creek Canyon invites you to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in Colorado's raw beauty. Wake to panoramic mountain vistas, explore winding trails that lead to forgotten mining relics, and end your days under a canopy of stars in this authentic backcountry sanctuary.

P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827

Perched high in the San Isabel National Forest at a breathtaking 9,000 feet, Buffalo Springs Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Rocky Mountain escape. Here, where aspen leaves whisper secrets to towering spruce trees, you'll discover secluded campsites that feel worlds away from civilization. Whether you're drawn to challenging rock faces, scenic mountain bike trails, or peaceful horseback rides through alpine meadows, this tranquil haven serves as your perfect basecamp for Colorado mountain adventures.

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Nestled beneath towering lodgepole pines and quaking aspens, Parry Peak Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Colorado's high country. This intimate first-come, first-served haven sits alongside the rushing waters of Lake Creek, where the melodic sounds of whitewater create nature's soundtrack. Anglers cast their lines in the crystal-clear waters while hikers set off to explore the nearby Continental Divide Trail, all under the watchful gaze of majestic Parry Peak. Whether you're seeking solitude among the aspens or planning your next alpine adventure, this mountain retreat offers an authentic backcountry experience. Firewood is available for purchase to keep your evening campfires glowing.

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Nestled within a cool canopy of whispering Aspen and towering Lodgepole Pine, Parry Peak Campground offers an intimate mountain escape where the melodic rush of Lake Creek's whitewater serves as nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem draws fly-fishing enthusiasts casting for native trout and adventurous souls preparing to tackle the legendary Continental Divide Trail. With its first-come, first-served sites, this peaceful retreat rewards those who arrive early with prime spots beneath the dancing shade of Colorado's iconic trees.

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Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies at 9,600 feet, Twin Peaks Campground offers adventurers a true mountain escape among whispering aspens and towering lodgepole pines. This first-come, first-served gem sits just moments from the pristine Twin Lakes Reservoir, where the rushing waters of Lake Creek provide a natural soundtrack to your stay. Wake up to breathtaking views of the majestic Sawatch Range, with convenient access to legendary trails leading to the Continental Divide and Mount Elbert, Colorado's highest peak. Your friendly campground host keeps firewood stocked and ready, ensuring cozy evenings under the star-filled mountain sky.

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Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem nestled in nature's embrace. Whether you're seeking adventure-filled days or peaceful nights under starlit skies, this campground offers an authentic wilderness experience that reconnects you with the great outdoors. Wake to birdsong and fresh mountain air, spend your days exploring scenic trails, and gather around crackling campfires as darkness falls. From solo travelers seeking solitude to families creating lasting memories, this natural sanctuary welcomes all who yearn for the simple pleasures of camping life.

SALIDA RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, 5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Mount Princeton Campground, Salida Ranger District Office, 5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO, 81201

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5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201 USA

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO 81201, USA

TAYLOR PARK RES, GRAND MESA, ALMONT, CO 81210, USA

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

GUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO

307 W Sackett Ave, Salida, Colorado, 81201, United States

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Cty Rd. 742, Taylor River Canyon, Gunnison, CO, 81231, USA

GUNNISON, GRAND MESA, AND UNCO

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810 FRONT ST, Leadville, CO, USA, 80461

LEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO, 80461, USA

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5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO, 81201, USA

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

806 W. Hallam

Tucked away in the shadow of Colorado's most photographed peaks, Silver Bar Campground offers an intimate escape into the wilderness with just four secluded tent sites. This hidden gem invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Rockies. Each walk-in site comes thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for mountain-side meals, bear-proof lockers to safely store your provisions, and stone fire rings where stories come alive under starlit skies. The gentle murmur of Maroon Creek provides nature's soundtrack, while vault toilets ensure basic comfort without compromising the pristine environment.

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Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, Pines Campground offers an authentic high-country camping experience at 9,200 feet. This intimate campground features just 11 sites along the babbling South Fork of the Michigan River, where the sound of rushing water provides nature's soundtrack to your mountain retreat. While beetle kill has opened up the forest canopy, creating sun-drenched sites perfect for stargazing, visitors appreciate the campground's easy accessibility and rustic charm. As one camper noted, it's a 'great little campground' that delivers simplicity and natural beauty in equal measure.

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Perched in the heart of the Trappers Lake Recreation Area, Trapline Campground offers 11 thoughtfully arranged sites along a single loop, where the landscape opens up to endless Colorado skies. Unlike the dense forest campgrounds below, Trapline embraces its high-altitude setting with sun-drenched sites that bask in natural light from dawn to dusk. Here, the commanding presence of the Flat Tops Wilderness stretches across the horizon, creating a backdrop that transforms with each passing hour as shadows dance across ancient peaks and valleys.

46525 State Hwy 114, Saguache, CO 81149

Step back in time at Duncan Cabin, where the whispers of 1880s prospectors still echo through weathered log walls. Perched at 8,120 feet in the majestic Rio Grande National Forest, this authentic one-room sanctuary offers adventurers a rare blend of rustic charm and mountain solitude. Inside, cozy bunk beds and a crackling wood stove promise warmth after days spent exploring, while outdoor vault toilets maintain the frontier spirit. Whether you arrive on horseback to graze in nearby meadows, seek pristine dark skies for celestial photography, or use this historic haven as your basecamp for discovering the otherworldly Great Sand Dunes National Park, Duncan Cabin delivers an unforgettable high-country experience.

WHITE RIVER

Nestled in a tranquil Rocky Mountain valley, Camp Hale Memorial Campground offers 15 intimate campsites where history and wilderness converge. This hidden gem welcomes tents, trailers, and RVs alike, providing a peaceful retreat enhanced by attentive campground hosts who ensure every visitor feels at home. Adventure seekers will appreciate the direct access to the legendary Colorado Trail, making this modest campground a perfect basecamp for mountain exploration.

FS 520, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Rio Grande River, River Hill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado wilderness experience. This beloved riverside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits—cast a line into crystal-clear waters teeming with trout, explore winding trails that disappear into the backcountry, or launch your kayak for a peaceful paddle. Just steps from your campsite, trailheads lead directly into the magnificent Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest designated wilderness area.

San Juan NF, Colorado, USA

Perched at 7,643 feet in the Colorado high country, Target Tree Campground serves as your gateway to the Southwest's most treasured destinations. Just a scenic drive from the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park and the vibrant mountain towns of Mancos and Durango, this historic campground takes its name from a fascinating chapter in Ute Indian history. Here, centuries-old Ponderosa pines still bear the distinctive scars from when Ute hunters honed their marksmanship skills, while these same majestic trees provided life-sustaining sap and bark that supplemented their traditional diet.

REDFEATHER LAKES, BELLEVUE, CO, 80512, USA

Nestled along the pristine shores of Dowdy Lake, this mountain retreat offers 70 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern convenience with natural beauty. Choose from 60 spacious sites equipped with electric hookups for RVs and trailers, or embrace a more traditional camping experience at one of 10 dedicated tent-only sites. Each campsite serves as your personal basecamp, complete with a sturdy picnic table for lakeside meals, a dedicated tent pad, and a campfire ring with grill where evening stories and s'mores come to life. Modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water stations, and regular trash collection ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.

46525 ST HWY 114, Saguache, CO 81149, USA

Nestled deep within the Rio Grande National Forest at 9,500 feet, Stone Cellar Guard Station beckons adventurers seeking true mountain solitude. This remote cabin sanctuary, perched at the edge of the La Garita Wilderness, serves as your gateway to pristine fishing streams, untamed hiking trails, premier hunting grounds, and exhilarating winter sports terrain. Here, where the modern world fades away, you'll discover the Colorado high country as it was meant to be experienced.

Embargo Creek Rd, Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado

Discover the serenity of Cathedral Campground, where 22 thoughtfully designed sites await your arrival on a first-come, first-served basis. Since its 2010 remodel, this mountain retreat has welcomed adventurers to its mix of 17 cozy dead-end spurs and 5 convenient pull-through sites, each stretching 35 to 45 feet to accommodate various camping setups. Whether you choose a site beside the sweeping meadow or tucked within the whispering Aspen and Blue Spruce forest, you'll understand why visitors often say 'the tranquil beauty of the place lifted spirits.' This is more than just a campground—it's a sanctuary where nature's cathedral doors are always open.