Meadow Ridge
4.3772 reviewsPikes Peak Ranger District, 601 S. Weber St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903, USA
Quick Facts
9,200 ftPrice
$28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Reservable from May ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,200 ftPrice
$28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Reservable from May ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsMeadow Ridge
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric site fee is $28 during peak and first-come, first-served seasons. Additional fees include $10 cancellation fee, $20 no-show fee,...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
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$28.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider719-636-1602
What Campers Say
4.37
Recommended
Based on 72 reviews
68 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsclean
"Reviews for Meadow Ridge Campground highlight its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to Rampart Reservoir. While most visitors appreciate the quiet and well-maintained facilities, some have noted issues such as steep trails, limited site privacy, and occasional unpleasant interactions with staff."
Fees & Passes at Meadow Ridge
$28/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of up to 14 nights total within a rolling 60-day period.
Cancellation: Individual cancellations incur a $10 fee up to 2 days before the arrival date. Late cancellations fo...
Prices verified November 27, 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 Meadow Ridge
Summer days at Meadow Ridge bring crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures, with afternoon highs reaching a pleasant 70°F before cooling to a refreshing 47°F under star-filled nights. The high country's dramatic afternoon thunderstorms roll through with nature's own light show—a spectacular sight from the safety of your campsite, though outdoor adventurers should plan morning activities to avoid lightning risks. When winter's snow blankets the peaks, the campground enters its quiet season, with access roads closing to preserve this pristine wilderness until spring's return.
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)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 23 - August 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Reservable from May 23 to August 31 (peak season). September 1 to September 20 is first-come-first-served. Closed from September 21 to June 4.
About Meadow Ridge
Perched high above the shimmering waters of Rampart Reservoir, Meadow Ridge Campground offers an intimate mountain escape with just 19 sites tucked beneath towering ponderosa pines. Here, adventure beckons at every turn—cast a line into the reservoir's pristine waters, explore winding mountain bike trails, or set out on foot to discover hidden alpine treasures. As evening falls, settle into your forest sanctuary and watch as the legendary silhouette of Pikes Peak catches the last rays of sunset, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and purple.
Meadow Ridge Campground provides standard nonelectric campsites. These include space for tent camping and RVs/trailers up to 36 feet in length. The campground is ideal for those seeking a serene setting amidst a ponderosa pine forest.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure places you in the shadow of Colorado's most storied summit—Pikes Peak, the majestic 14,115-foot giant that has captivated explorers since Edwin James first reached its windswept summit in 1820. This 'America's Mountain' served as inspiration for 'America the Beautiful' and continues to draw adventurers from around the world, making your campsite a basecamp steeped in the pioneering spirit of the American West.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Meadow Ridge bring crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures, with afternoon highs reaching a pleasant 70°F before cooling to a refreshing 47°F under star-filled nights. The high country's dramatic afternoon thunderstorms roll through with nature's own light show—a spectacular sight from the safety of your campsite, though outdoor adventurers should plan morning activities to avoid lightning risks. When winter's snow blankets the peaks, the campground enters its quiet season, with access roads closing to preserve this pristine wilderness until spring's return.
ElevationAt 9,200 feet above sea level, Meadow Ridge Campground invites you into Colorado's authentic high country experience. This lofty perch offers cooler temperatures and clearer skies, though the thin mountain air demands respect—take your first day easy, drink plenty of water, and let your body adjust to the altitude. Soon you'll be breathing deeply of the pine-scented air and feeling the exhilaration that comes with camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry surrounds you at Meadow Ridge, where ancient ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark glowing amber in the morning light. The forest opens into sun-dappled meadows where wildflowers dance in the breeze, while stands of quaking aspen, Douglas fir, and spruce create a rich tapestry of greens. From select campsites, glimpse the sapphire expanse of Rampart Reservoir through the trees, with the commanding presence of Pikes Peak standing sentinel over this pristine mountain landscape.
Geological RegionNestled within Colorado's iconic Front Range, Meadow Ridge Campground showcases the Rocky Mountains' diverse ecosystems at their finest. This 9,200-foot haven sits in the heart of a mature ponderosa pine forest, where the landscape transitions beautifully between open grass meadows dotted with wildflowers and dense groves of spruce, Douglas fir, and shimmering aspen. It's a living classroom of mountain ecology, where each elevation zone tells its own story of adaptation and survival in the high country.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible campsites and two accessible vault toilets. However, accessibility may be limited for individuals with mobility issues due to the sloping terrain at some sites.
Sites SizeMost campsites are spacious, with some able to accommodate a truck and camper combination. However, large trailers and RVs over 36 feet may have difficulty navigating the campground.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer limited privacy as they are closely spaced, with clusters being common. However, the outer loop sites tend to offer slightly more separation.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near vault toilets due to odor complaints (e.g., sites 002, 010, 011). Site 019 has more privacy and quieter surroundings.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 14 nights total within a rolling 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles or one RV/Trailer and tow vehicle per site is included. $11/night for a third vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne-way loop layout with 19 campsites, asphalt pads, and parking spurs. Many sites have limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable from May 23 to August 31 (peak season). September 1 to September 20 is first-come-first-served. Closed from September 21 to June 4.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from September 1 to September 20, first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual cancellations incur a $10 fee up to 2 days before the arrival date. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's site fee in addition to the $10 service fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Meadow Ridge Campground offers a variety of recreational activities within and nearby, including hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. Trails like Rampart Reservoir Trail and Nichols Reservoir Trail are popular among visitors. The proximity to Rampart Reservoir allows for fishing activities and scenic views.
Hiking
Hikers can explore trails such as the 14-mile Rampart Reservoir Trail, which is also open for mountain biking. The trail to the reservoir is noted as steep, which may present challenges for children and individuals with mobility concerns.Fishing
The nearby Rampart Reservoir is renowned for fishing, with rainbow and mackinaw trout being plentiful. Fishing is a highlighted activity for visitors.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on the Rampart Reservoir Trail, extending 14 miles. The terrain is suited for biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Campers can observe wildlife such as deer within the campground. According to one user: 'There seems to be a resident Doe in the campground.'Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood available onsite for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground's high elevation (9,200 feet) may lead to altitude sickness. Bears are present in the area, requiring careful food storage. Thunderstorms and steep terrain pose additional risks.
Weather at Meadow Ridge
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are null; Woodland Park is the nearest city and contains general services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - August 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but no specific details about recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresOverlooks Rampart Reservoir; trail access to the water is approximately 0.75 miles but includes steep sections.
Common complaintsIssues raised include rude camp hosts, poor road conditions, proximity of campsites to bathrooms causing odor, and unclean facilities. Positive reviews highlight clean restrooms, beautiful views, and well-maintained campgrounds.
HostHosts are described as friendly and accommodating, but some reviews mention rude interactions.
Campground Map
Pikes Peak Ranger District, 601 S. Weber St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903, USA
Driving directionsFrom Colorado Springs, drive west on Highway 24 for about 24 miles to Woodland Park. Turn right (north) on Baldwin St. (which becomes Rampart Range Road). Drive about 2 miles to Loy Creek Road, turn right, and then take another right on Forest Road 300 (Rampart Range Road). Follow signs. The entrance to Rampart Reservoir is about 4 miles further on the left.
The access road is gravel and dirt, featuring tight corners and large potholes. One review stated, 'The road leading to the site is not for the faint of heart. The potholes and washboards were enough to knock out a tooth-filling.' Another noted, 'Road up was rough, but manageable.' High-clearance vehicles are recommended.Nearby places
Woodland Park (10 miles, 15-35 minutes drive depending on road conditions), Green Mountain Falls (distance null), Colorado Springs (24 miles, approx. 30 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Woodland Park (10 miles away) provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
72 reviews
Meadow Ridge is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Meadow Ridge Campground highlight its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to Rampart Reservoir. While most visitors appreciate the quiet and well-maintained facilities, some have noted issues such as steep trails, limited site privacy, and occasional unpleasant interactions with staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 72 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its clean facilities, beautiful views of Pikes Peak, and convenient access to recreational activities. Many users enjoyed the serene environment and the proximity to the...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include steep access trails to the reservoir, crowded sites with limited privacy, and occasional issues with rude staff or noisy neighbors. Odor from nearby vault toilets was also...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing plenty of lights for nighttime navigation, especially if staying at sloped sites. Several users emphasized the steepness of trails leading to the reservoir and suggested...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are the most popular, with visitors appreciating the warm weather and accessibility to trails and fishing. However, the steep trails and occasional overcrowding are more noticeable...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The views are amazing and watching the sun come up and go down at a high elevation was second to none!' - Christina D. 2. 'The trail to the reservoir was very convenient, although a bit steep for...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 011 is near the restrooms and trail with a partial view of the reservoir but may experience odor issues. Site 010 requires navigating a slope to access the tent area. Site 014 offers close...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews suggest that the campground is partially accessible, with accessible vault toilets and some campsites. However, steep trails and sloping terrains may pose challenges for those with mobility...
Based on 72 reviewsShow more
Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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