La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

4.32

280 reviews

SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, Canon City, CO, USA

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

8,600 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

8,600 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

$30.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Rates vary by site type during both peak and off-peak seasons. Standard Electric and RV Electric sites are $35 per night. Tent Only Non-Electric...

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$35.00

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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Provider

(719) 269-8500

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What Campers Say

4.32

Recommended

Based on 280 reviews

92 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlakewell-maintained

Some mention

crowded

"User reviews frequently praise the campground for its scenic beauty, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to Lake Isabel. Common highlights include the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the variety of recreational activities, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. However, some campers noted issues with rowdy neighbors, lack of water hookups for RVs, and limited privacy at certain sites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, Canon City, CO, USA

La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, Canon City, CO, USA

Driving directionsFrom Pueblo, go 25 miles south on Interstate 25 to exit 74. Drive west 18 miles on State Highway 165. Turn into the main entrance at Lake Isabel Recreation Area, then turn right into the first campground on the right (about 1.25 miles).

Access is via a paved road, State Highway 165, which is well-maintained. The campground entrance is easily accessible near Lake Isabel Recreation Area.

Nearby places

Pueblo (25 miles south), Canon City (approximately 45 miles northwest), Rye (close proximity to Lake Isabel).

Nearby supplies

A nearby lodge provides paddle and rowboat rentals, groceries, and a restaurant. Fuel and other supplies can be obtained in Rye, not far from Lake Isabel.

Best Time to Camp at La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

Summer at La Vista feels like nature's air conditioning—while valley temperatures soar, this high-altitude haven remains refreshingly cool, with daytime highs rarely exceeding the mid-70s. Morning mist often dances across Lake Isabel, burning off to reveal brilliant blue skies perfect for outdoor adventures. The 8,600-foot elevation means mountain weather can surprise you with afternoon thunderstorms that roll through dramatically before clearing to spectacular sunsets. Evenings invite cozy campfires as temperatures dip into fleece-weather territory. First-time high-altitude visitors should take it easy their first day, drinking plenty of water as their bodies adjust to the thinner air—the payoff is worth it when you experience the pure, pine-scented atmosphere that makes every breath feel cleansing.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Peak season: cool days (~mid-70s), abundant activities and scenic beauty draw many visitors.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CO

Aspen groves 'shimmer gold' in autumn—excellent fall color viewing and cooler, crisp conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Late-spring opening (May 16) brings cool temps and wildflowers, but season starts mid-spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed for reservations outside May 16–Sept 20; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 16, 2025 - September 20, 2025 for Peak Season pricing.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season begins May 16 and ends September 20 for reservations. First-come, first-served availability starts June 20.
Current Alerts: No current alerts noted. Seasonal closures and elevation-related advisories are applicable.

About La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

Perched in a wildflower-dotted meadow with sweeping views of Lake Isabel's western shores, La Vista Campground lives up to its name—'the view' in Spanish. This mountain retreat beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water and wilderness activities. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear lake, paddling silently across its glassy surface, or spotting mountain bluebirds among the pines, La Vista offers an authentic Colorado mountain experience. Towering ponderosa pines and quaking aspens provide natural shade throughout the campground, creating cool microclimates even on warm summer days. At 8,600 feet, the crisp mountain air and star-filled nights remind you just how far you've climbed from the everyday world below.

La Vista Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including standard electric sites, tent-only non-electric sites, and RV sites with electric hookups. Walk-in tent sites provide a more primitive experience, and some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Historical SignificanceLake Isabel stands as a testament to American ingenuity during the Great Depression, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this mountain valley into a recreational paradise. Unlike many reservoirs built for irrigation or flood control, Lake Isabel was crafted purely for joy—a place where families could escape, fish, and reconnect with nature. The campground sits along the legendary Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway, a route that echoes with stories of Native American trading paths, Spanish explorers, and frontier settlers who traversed these mountains. Today's campers follow in the footsteps of generations who've sought solace and adventure in these storied peaks, continuing a legacy of outdoor recreation that the CCC workers could only have dreamed of when they first carved this jewel from the wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsSummer at La Vista feels like nature's air conditioning—while valley temperatures soar, this high-altitude haven remains refreshingly cool, with daytime highs rarely exceeding the mid-70s. Morning mist often dances across Lake Isabel, burning off to reveal brilliant blue skies perfect for outdoor adventures. The 8,600-foot elevation means mountain weather can surprise you with afternoon thunderstorms that roll through dramatically before clearing to spectacular sunsets. Evenings invite cozy campfires as temperatures dip into fleece-weather territory. First-time high-altitude visitors should take it easy their first day, drinking plenty of water as their bodies adjust to the thinner air—the payoff is worth it when you experience the pure, pine-scented atmosphere that makes every breath feel cleansing.

ElevationAt 8,600 feet above sea level, La Vista Campground offers a true high-country experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and summer temperatures provide natural relief from the heat below. This elevation places you in the sweet spot of Colorado's mountain ecosystem—high enough to escape summer's swelter and enjoy cool nights perfect for sleeping, yet below treeline where majestic pines and aspens still thrive. The thin air at this altitude makes stars appear closer and more brilliant, while the elevated perspective offers stunning vistas across the Wet Mountains. Mountain peaks frame the horizon in every direction, reminding visitors they've entered Colorado's spectacular vertical world where eagles soar at eye level and afternoon clouds build into dramatic thunderheads.

Natural Features and SceneryLa Vista's landscape reads like a Colorado postcard come to life—golden meadows give way to dense forests of ponderosa pine and aspen groves that shimmer gold in autumn breezes. The campground's proximity to both St. Charles Creek and Lake Isabel creates a water-rich environment where wildflowers bloom in profusion and wildlife thrives. Morning campers often wake to elk bugling across the lake or deer grazing in nearby meadows. The 40-acre Lake Isabel serves as the area's centerpiece, its mirror-like surface reflecting surrounding peaks and providing a serene backdrop for non-motorized boats gliding silently across the water. Towering pines filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor, while aspens whisper secrets in the wind, their leaves creating nature's own symphony.

Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Wet Mountains, La Vista Campground occupies a unique geological position where ancient granite peaks meet volcanic formations, creating the diverse landscape that defines this corner of the Pike and San Isabel National Forest. The Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway winds through this geological wonderland, revealing how millions of years of uplift, erosion, and volcanic activity sculpted these mountains into their current majestic form. The man-made Lake Isabel, though only decades old, fits seamlessly into this ancient landscape, filling a natural basin that seems designed by nature herself. Surrounding forests tell their own geological story—ponderosa pines cling to well-drained southern slopes while aspens colonize areas of past disturbance, creating a patchwork of ecosystems. From camp, keen observers can spot evidence of the area's geological past in weathered granite outcrops and volcanic dikes that speak to the powerful forces that built these mountains.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in allowed starting at 11:00 AM.

Check-out

Check-out time is 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site allows up to 8 people with either two tents and two vehicles or one RV.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features both walk-in tent sites and RV sites. Tent sites are 15-50 yards from parking spurs. RV sites include electric hookups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by phone at 877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available starting June 20, 2025. Walk-up patterns vary and reservations are strongly recommended.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiting one night's rate plus a $10 fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate.

AccessibilityThe campground is at an elevation of 8,600 feet, and campers should be prepared for high-altitude conditions. Some sites are walk-in and require carrying camping gear from the parking area. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities may vary by site.

Site SizeCampsites are of varying sizes, with some large enough to accommodate a 10-person tent. Specific sites were noted to be spacious and offered privacy, such as site #28.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary between campsites. Some sites are relatively secluded (e.g., sites #1-4), while others are closely spaced, offering less privacy.

Total Campsites28 campsites

Recommended SitesSites #1-4 are shaded and secluded, suitable for privacy and hammocking. Sites near the lake provide better access to water activities. Avoid sites close to restrooms for quieter experiences.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

La Vista Campground offers a wide variety of recreational activities, making it a popular destination. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, cycling, motorcycling, and bird watching. Lake Isabel provides opportunities for non-motorized boating, and nearby trails like the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail cater to hikers and ATV riders.

HikingHiking trails such as the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail are accessible from the campground. The Cisneros Trail spans 15 miles and connects to the St. Charles Trail, offering a mix of forested paths and open meadows with wildflowers. Reviewers frequently praised the trails, describing them as 'well-maintained with beautiful views.'

FishingFishing is a popular activity at Lake Isabel and the nearby St. Charles Creek. The lake is stocked with brown and brook trout, and the creek headwaters are home to brook trout. One reviewer noted, 'The lake is stocked twice a year, and the locals turn out on the weekend to fish.'

BikingBicycling is allowed on trails like the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail. Some trails also accommodate motorcycling and ATV riding.

BoatingNon-motorized boating is permitted on Lake Isabel. Paddle and rowboat rentals are available at a nearby lodge.

Wildlife viewingThe area is teeming with wildlife, including deer and the occasional bear. One reviewer mentioned, 'We saw multiple deer and even a bear.' The campground is part of the Colorado Birding Trail, making it ideal for bird watchers.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife such as bears and deer are common. High elevation may pose challenges for visitors from lower areas. Muddy paths around the lake are noted in reviews.

Active AlertsNo current alerts noted. Seasonal closures and elevation-related advisories are applicable.

Fire PolicyCampfire rings are provided at each site. Firewood must be purchased directly from camp hosts.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced, though reviews mention some issues with noisy groups.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Pueblo, approximately 25 miles south via Interstate 25.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection facilities are available, but recycling options are not mentioned. Campers are advised to dispose of waste responsibly.

Water FeaturesLocated beside Lake Isabel, with access to St. Charles Creek for fishing. Paddle and rowboat rentals are available nearby.

Camp HostCamp hosts received mixed reviews; some are described as helpful and friendly, while others are noted to be less proactive. Hosts assist with firewood and regulations enforcement.

Weather at La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel

Reviews

4.3

280 reviews

Recommended

La Vista Campground - Lake Isabel is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews frequently praise the campground for its scenic beauty, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to Lake Isabel. Common highlights include the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the variety of recreational activities, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. However, some campers noted issues with rowdy neighbors, lack of water hookups for RVs, and limited privacy at certain sites.

Review Summaries

Based on 280 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the 'beautiful surroundings,' 'clean and well-maintained facilities,' and 'helpful camp hosts.' The trails, lake, and wildlife were consistently mentioned as highlights.

Based on 280 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints included 'poorly maintained vault toilets during peak times,' 'rowdy neighbors,' and the 'lack of water hookups for RVs.' Some users also noted issues with campsite spacing and privacy.

Based on 280 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing water buckets for RV tank filling, purchasing firewood early from the hosts, and reserving spots well in advance due to the campground's popularity. Sites #1-4 were...

Based on 280 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during summer, with positive reviews highlighting the cool weather and abundant recreational opportunities. During peak times, some users reported overcrowding and...

Based on 280 reviews

Camper Quotes

'La Vista Campground is one of my favorite places, so close to Lake Isabel, beautiful surroundings.' - Theresa E. 'The vault toilets were spotless and cleaned multiple times a day.' - David B. 'Site...

Based on 280 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #3 (VIST loop) was praised for privacy and proximity to the creek. Sites #1-4 (VIST loop) were described as shaded and secluded. Site #28 (LAKE loop) was noted for its spaciousness.

Based on 280 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews did not specifically address accessibility features, but the walk-in nature of certain sites may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.

Based on 280 reviews