Father Dyer
4.53100 reviewsLEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$29/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
26 campsites
Season
Open season: May 23 ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$29/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
26 campsites
Season
Open season: May 23 ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsFather Dyer
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The standard nonelectric campsite fee is $29 during peak season. Extra vehicle fee is $10.00. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the...
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Standard Site Fee$29.00
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$29.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider719-486-0749
What Campers Say
4.53
Top-Rated
Based on 100 reviews
34 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanhikinglake
Some mention
noise
"Father Dyer Campground receives predominantly positive reviews for its cleanliness, peaceful setting, and attentive camp host. However, some users criticize the campground's strict rules and lack of water facilities."
Fees & Passes at Father Dyer
$29/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights within a rolling 60-day period, specifically during the operational season of May 23 - August 31.
Cancellation: Reservations can be modified or canceled with varying fees: $10 for changes, $10 for cancellations m...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official LEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT website.
Best Time to Camp at Father Dyer
Summer nights at Father Dyer bring a refreshing mountain chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more memorable, while sun-drenched days warm the pine-scented air to perfect hiking temperatures. Mountain breezes occasionally sweep across the lake, creating ripples that catch the light like scattered diamonds. Pack layers for your adventure – the high country's weather can shift from brilliant sunshine to dramatic afternoon cloudscapes in the span of an hour.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 - August 31 (Peak Season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season: May 23 - August 31. Reservations start from June 24, and the facility closes for reservations after August 31.
- Current Alerts: Water will not be available in 2025. RV dump stations at White Star and Printer Boy will remain closed for the season.
About Father Dyer
Nestled along the pristine eastern shores of Turquoise Lake, Father Dyer Campground invites families to experience the magic of Colorado's high country. Here, towering lodgepole pines and fragrant subalpine firs create a natural cathedral where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line into crystal-clear waters, or setting off on mountain trails, this beloved campground offers endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Named for the legendary 'Snowshoe Itinerant' Father John Lewis Dyer, who once traversed these peaks spreading hope to frontier mining communities, the campground carries forward his spirit of exploration and connection with nature.
Father Dyer Campground provides options for both tent and RV camping, with a focus on single-family sites.
Historical SignificanceThis campground honors the remarkable Father John Lewis Dyer, the 'Snowshoe Itinerant' whose dedication to Colorado's mining communities became the stuff of legend. In the 1860s, this Methodist minister strapped on handmade skis and braved blizzards across treacherous Mosquito Pass, carrying mail and spiritual comfort to isolated camps. His courage and compassion echo through these mountains, inspiring modern adventurers to embrace their own journeys with similar determination.
Weather and SeasonsSummer nights at Father Dyer bring a refreshing mountain chill that makes campfire gatherings all the more memorable, while sun-drenched days warm the pine-scented air to perfect hiking temperatures. Mountain breezes occasionally sweep across the lake, creating ripples that catch the light like scattered diamonds. Pack layers for your adventure – the high country's weather can shift from brilliant sunshine to dramatic afternoon cloudscapes in the span of an hour.
ElevationPerched in Colorado's magnificent high country, Father Dyer Campground offers the exhilarating experience of mountain camping at significant elevation. Visitors ascending from sea level should allow time to acclimate to the thinner air – take it slow your first day, drink plenty of water, and let your body adjust to this alpine wonderland. The reward for your patience? Crisp, pure air and views that seem to stretch forever.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where lodgepole pines stretch skyward and subalpine firs perfume the mountain air with their distinctive fragrance. The campground's prime location on Turquoise Lake's shoreline serves up panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains that will leave you reaching for your camera at every turn. Just beyond lies the spectacular Mount Massive Wilderness Area, where hardy alpine wildflowers paint meadows in summer color and ancient snowfields glisten year-round on the highest peaks.
Geological RegionFather Dyer Campground claims one of the most coveted spots along Turquoise Lake's eastern shore, where ancient geological forces carved out this stunning alpine basin. The surrounding forest of lodgepole pines and subalpine firs thrives in the mineral-rich soils, creating a verdant buffer between campers and the raw wilderness beyond. The adjacent Mount Massive Wilderness Area showcases nature's extremes – from delicate alpine plant communities that bloom briefly in pocket meadows to permanent snowfields that have crowned these peaks for millennia, testament to the powerful forces that shaped this dramatic landscape.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information specific to campers with disabilities is not detailed in the source material.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate up to 8 people, with up to 3 tents or 1 RV and 2 tents.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described with mixed levels of privacy. Some reviews highlight spacious and well-separated sites, while others mention that sites are closer than preferred.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 23 is noted for its privacy and proximity to trails. Site 25 is highlighted as excellent for shade and space.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2pm
Check-out
12 pm
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 14 nights within a rolling 60-day period, specifically during the operational season of May 23 - August 31.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 people per site, with allowances for up to 3 tents or 1 RV and 2 tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as small and closely spaced, with gravel or dirt parking spurs, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 23 - August 31. Reservations start from June 24, and the facility closes for reservations after August 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability, suggesting all sites may require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified or canceled with varying fees: $10 for changes, $10 for cancellations made up to 2 days prior to check-in, and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations made one day prior or on the day of arrival. No-shows incur a $20 fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Father Dyer Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and cultural exploration. Its proximity to Turquoise Lake and the Mount Massive Wilderness enhances outdoor opportunities.
Hiking
The 1.2-mile Turquoise Lake Nature Trail, a gentle loop through the forest, connects to the longer 6.4-mile Turquoise Lake Trail. These trails are popular for their accessibility and scenic views. One review noted, "We hiked the trail around the lake, which was very nice."Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Turquoise Lake, with anglers targeting stocked cutthroat, rainbow, brown, and lake trout. Some reviews mention challenges fishing due to lake activities, with one camper suggesting designated areas for boats and canoes to avoid interference with fishing.Biking
The area around Turquoise Lake offers biking opportunities, with trails suitable for various skill levels. No detailed descriptions of the trails were provided in the sources.Boating
Boating activities on Turquoise Lake include sailing, canoeing, and recreational boating. The Matchless Boat Ramp, located approximately 2 miles south of the campground, provides convenient lake access.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area includes varied wildlife, though specific sightings are not detailed in the source material. The Mount Massive Wilderness nearby offers opportunities for nature observation.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are common water sports on Turquoise Lake. Campers are advised to be mindful of wind conditions on the water.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Firewood is available for $10 per bundle. Water for extinguishing is provided at certain spigots.
- Quiet hours are Generators must be turned off after 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsCampers are advised to be bear-aware and secure food properly.
Active alertsWater will not be available in 2025. RV dump stations at White Star and Printer Boy will remain closed for the season.
Weather at Father Dyer
7
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
No specific emergency services are mentioned, but the Leadville Ranger District is the closest administrative unit.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - August 31 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided on-site, with bear-proof dumpsters available. Certain spigots are equipped with gallon jugs of water to extinguish campfires.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Turquoise Lake with a short walk to the shoreline. Matchless Boat Ramp is 2 miles south.
Common complaintsSome complaints mention strict rules, close campsite spacing, generator noise, and management issues. Positive comments highlight cleanliness and well-maintained facilities.
HostSeveral reviews mention the camp host, Marsha, as very professional, friendly, and effective in enforcing rules and maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
LEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA
Driving directionsFrom Leadville, Colorado, drive west on County Road 4 about 3 miles, turn right on County Road 9C and follow to Father Dyer Campground on the left.
Access is via County Road 4 and County Road 9C, which are presumably paved and suitable for standard vehicles. However, no specific road type or seasonal closures are stated.Nearby places
Leadville is approximately 3 miles away.
Nearby supplies
No detailed information about nearby grocery stores, camping supplies, or fuel stations is provided.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
100 reviews
Father Dyer is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Father Dyer Campground receives predominantly positive reviews for its cleanliness, peaceful setting, and attentive camp host. However, some users criticize the campground's strict rules and lack of water facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 100 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's cleanliness, including the "cleanest vault toilets ever," and the helpfulness of camp host Marsha are among the most frequently praised aspects. The proximity to Turquoise Lake and...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mention dissatisfaction with the enforcement of rules—for instance, restrictions on rooftop tents and generator noise. The lack of water and limited privacy at some campsites are other...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sufficient water due to the lack of running water in 2025, and preparing for chilly nights. They also suggest selecting campsites further from the entry to avoid traffic...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season for camping, with activities like hiking and fishing drawing visitors. However, reviews warn of colder temperatures at night.
Based on 100 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cleanest vault toilets I've ever used in my life." "Camp host Marsha is very professional, courteous and kind." "Bathrooms were spotless, cleaned 3 to 4 times a day." "Campsites are spacious and...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 23 is highlighted multiple times as private and spacious: "We love #23. It’s so private and in the trees." Site 25 is also mentioned as excellent: "Site 25 is awesome."
Based on 100 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as somewhat dog-friendly. "Dogs must be leashed at all times."
Based on 100 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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