Cascade (Colorado)
4.7593 reviews5575 CLEORA RD
Quick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
21 campsites
Season
Open season from May...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,000 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
21 campsites
Season
Open season from May...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCascade (Colorado)
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The standard campsite fee during peak season is $25 per night. Additional fees include $10 for a third vehicle and $10 for firewood bundles.
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider719-539-3591
What Campers Say
4.75
Top-Rated
Based on 93 reviews
72 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanlocation
Some mention
noisesmall
"Cascade Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. Reviewers appreciate the quiet atmosphere, well-maintained sites, and proximity to recreational activities."
Fees & Passes at Cascade (Colorado)
$25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Cancellation: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (da...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Rocky Mountain Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Cascade (Colorado)
Experience the crisp, invigorating air of high-altitude camping where dry mountain conditions create perfect outdoor weather. Summer days warm to a comfortable 62°F, ideal for hiking and exploration, while evenings cool to a refreshing 39°F – perfect for gathering around the campfire. Though occasional mountain showers may pass through, bringing the fresh scent of rain-washed pine, the generally moderate precipitation ensures plenty of blue-sky days for your outdoor adventures.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 - October 11 (Peak Season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season from May 23 to October 11.
About Cascade (Colorado)
Tucked away in the breathtaking Chalk Creek Canyon at 9,000 feet, Cascade Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This beloved retreat features 21 thoughtfully spaced campsites, ranging from spontaneous walk-up spots to reservable havens, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and inviting campfire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Whether you're casting a line into pristine mountain waters, discovering hidden hiking trails, or venturing onto rugged off-road paths, Cascade serves as your perfect basecamp for mountain adventures and peaceful escapes alike.
Cascade Campground caters to tent campers and small RVs. It offers reservable and first-come, first-served sites, with a few walk-in tent spots.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive from your campsite lies the hauntingly beautiful ghost town of St. Elmo, where time stands still among weathered wooden buildings that whisper tales of Colorado's gold rush glory days. Walk the same dusty streets where prospectors once celebrated their fortunes, peek through the windows of the preserved saloon where miners gathered after long days underground, and stand before the old courthouse that once brought order to this wild frontier town. This remarkably intact piece of living history offers a captivating glimpse into the dreams and determination that built the American West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp, invigorating air of high-altitude camping where dry mountain conditions create perfect outdoor weather. Summer days warm to a comfortable 62°F, ideal for hiking and exploration, while evenings cool to a refreshing 39°F – perfect for gathering around the campfire. Though occasional mountain showers may pass through, bringing the fresh scent of rain-washed pine, the generally moderate precipitation ensures plenty of blue-sky days for your outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,000 feet above sea level, Cascade Campground offers the rare opportunity to camp among the clouds in Colorado's high country. This significant elevation means thinner air and cooler temperatures – a refreshing escape from summer heat but requiring mindful acclimatization for those arriving from lower altitudes. Take it easy on your first day, drink plenty of water, and let your body adjust to this magnificent mountain environment where eagles soar at eye level.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape painted by nature's finest brush, where towering Douglas firs create a protective canopy overhead and shimmering aspens dance in the mountain breeze. The melodic sounds of Chalk Creek provide a constant natural soundtrack as it tumbles over smooth stones just steps from your tent. A scenic mile to the east, pristine Chalk Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks and offers exceptional trout fishing. The campground's most dramatic feature rises all around – stunning white kaolinite canyon walls that glow ethereally in morning and evening light, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionCascade Campground sits within the geological wonder of Chalk Creek Canyon, where millions of years of natural forces have carved a masterpiece in stone. The canyon's signature white walls aren't actually chalk but kaolinite – a soft, bright mineral formed by ancient hot springs that once bubbled through these mountains. This unique geological heritage has created a striking contrast against the deep greens of Douglas fir and the golden trembling of aspen groves. The result is a rare camping environment where lush mountain forests meet dramatic mineral formations, offering visitors a front-row seat to the powerful forces that shaped Colorado's spectacular landscape.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySite 15 is identified as accessible and is also the most private site in the campground. Accessibility is limited to walk-in tent sites and vault toilets.
Sites SizeSites are described as varying from small to medium-sized, suitable for tents and small trailers. For example, Site 10 can accommodate a 25 ft trailer and truck.
Sites PrivacyThe campground layout provides good privacy in most areas. Several reviews highlight the well-spaced sites, with one camper noting, 'The sites are spacious and well spaced.'
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #7, #15, and #19 are recommended for privacy and accessibility. Sites on the west end are described as the best by reviewers.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 2 vehicles or one RV/Trailer and tow vehicle per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out with a loop design. Sites on the west end are described as the most desirable.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from May 23 to October 11.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites #2-7, #11, and #12 are walk-up first-come, first-served. Site #1 becomes walk-up after Labor Day.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (day before or day of arrival) forfeit the first night's fee plus applicable taxes.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding area offer numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, ATV riding, and ghost town exploration. The proximity to trails, Chalk Lake, and the historic St. Elmo ghost town makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Popular hiking trails include the Colorado Trail, Narrow Gauge Trail, and Cascade Loop Trail. These trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views of the surrounding area. One user highlighted the Agnes Vaille Falls hike as 'a good family hike.'Fishing
Fishing is available in Chalk Creek and nearby Chalk Lake. Chalk Lake is described as a great family fishing spot with species such as rainbow, brook, and brown trout.Biking
The campground offers trails suitable for biking. One camper noted, 'Bikes are fantastic if you have kids—a great loop plus a trail through the middle of the campground between campsites.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer is commonly seen. One camper shared, 'A deer walked right into the campsite, which was very nice.'Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are noted in the source materials.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Firewood must be purchased on-site at $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are enforced at night.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include active bear sightings and high elevation, which may affect those traveling from lower elevations.
Weather at Cascade (Colorado)
34
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 21.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Salida, approximately 15 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 11 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. No recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresChalk Creek runs near the campground, and Chalk Lake is just a mile away.
Common complaintsComplaints include small campsites, proximity to the road resulting in noise, and occasional issues with hosts. One review expressed dissatisfaction with the hosts' strict enforcement of rules.
HostHosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, sometimes going above and beyond by serenading campers with guitar music.
Campground Map
5575 CLEORA RD
Driving directionsFrom Buena Vista, Colorado, take Highway 285 south to Nathrop. Turn west on County Road 162 and travel 9 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is accessible from County Road 162, which is paved. However, caution should be taken when traveling from lower elevations, as the facility is situated at a high elevation of 9,000 feet.Nearby places
Salida (approximately 15 miles, 20 minutes drive), Buena Vista (approximately 25 miles, 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
The closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Salida, approximately 15 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
93 reviews
Cascade (Colorado) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Cascade Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. Reviewers appreciate the quiet atmosphere, well-maintained sites, and proximity to recreational activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 93 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the camp hosts for their friendliness and helpfulness. The clean vault toilets and scenic views of Mt. Antero and Mt. Princeton were also highlighted. One camper described the...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Occasional complaints include the lack of bear lockers, the popularity of the campground making reservations difficult, and the proximity of some sites to the road causing noise. One user mentioned,...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking early due to high demand and choosing sites away from the road for more privacy. Feeding chipmunks at St. Elmo and visiting the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs are also popular...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer, with weekends filling up quickly. Reviews suggest it is less crowded immediately after Labor Day. Some visitors noted seasonal hazards such as an active bear...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The sites are spacious and well spaced.'
- 'The hosts were amazingly friendly and knowledgeable about the area.'
- 'Vault toilets were spotless at all times.'
- 'No service, which is fine until...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 7: Spacious walk-up tent site with steps to access; described as fantastic.
Site 10: Suitable for a 25 ft trailer and truck; near bathroom facilities.
Site 15: The most private site; accessible...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Site 15 is highlighted as accessible and private. Vault toilets are available but no further accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 93 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but campers are reminded to keep pets on a leash. One review noted, 'It only takes one camper to not obey the leash law to ruin the experience for everyone.'
Based on 93 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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