Mount Princeton
4.6481 reviewsMount Princeton Campground, Salida Ranger District Office, 5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO, 81201
Quick Facts
8,600 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open May 23–Septembe...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
8,600 ftPrice
$25/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
19 campsites
Season
Open May 23–Septembe...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsMount Princeton
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees are $25 per night for all site types, including tent-only, RV nonelectric, and standard nonelectric sites during peak season (May 23–Sept 20)....
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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
Provider1-877-444-6777
What Campers Say
4.64
Top-Rated
Based on 81 reviews
53 Google reviews
Most mentioned
clean
Some mention
reservation
"User experiences at Mount Princeton Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment of 4.55 across reviews. Many campers praise the stunning views, proximity to Chalk Creek, and well-maintained facilities. Concerns mostly center on site layouts, lack of cell service, and occasional management issues."
Fees & Passes at Mount Princeton
$25/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations up to 2 days before the reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the fi...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official U.S. Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Mount Princeton
Spring arrives gently at Mount Princeton, with crisp mornings averaging 25°F giving way to comfortable 53°F afternoons—perfect for hiking without the summer crowds. As summer unfolds, the campground becomes a coveted escape from valley heat, though visitors should embrace the digital detox that comes with no cell service. Mountain weather can shift like a mood, so pack layers and prepare for nature's spontaneous performances, from sudden afternoon showers to spectacular evening light shows.
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–September 20.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 23–September 20, with reservations available starting June 24. First-come, first-served operation runs June 20–24.
About Mount Princeton
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.
Mount Princeton Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, such as tent camping and RV camping. Several sites are also wheelchair accessible. Specific group camping or luxury "glamping" options are not noted.
Historical SignificanceJust 15 minutes down a winding mountain road lies the captivating ghost town of St. Elmo, where time stands still among weathered wooden buildings and whispered tales of Colorado's mining boom. Once home to nearly 2,000 souls seeking fortune in gold and silver, this remarkably preserved relic offers a haunting glimpse into the dreams and determination that built the American West. Wander its dusty streets and imagine the clatter of ore wagons and the laughter spilling from long-silent saloons.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives gently at Mount Princeton, with crisp mornings averaging 25°F giving way to comfortable 53°F afternoons—perfect for hiking without the summer crowds. As summer unfolds, the campground becomes a coveted escape from valley heat, though visitors should embrace the digital detox that comes with no cell service. Mountain weather can shift like a mood, so pack layers and prepare for nature's spontaneous performances, from sudden afternoon showers to spectacular evening light shows.
ElevationPerched at 8,600 feet above sea level, Mount Princeton Campground offers a true high-country experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels like a gift. This elevation brings refreshingly cool temperatures even on summer's warmest days, while offering breathtaking vistas that stretch across valleys and peaks, reminding visitors why Colorado's mountains have captured hearts for generations.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic white kaolinite cliffs rise like ancient castle walls around the campground, their chalk-like surfaces glowing ethereally in morning and evening light. These geological wonders frame a landscape where stately ponderosa pines and Douglas firs create natural cathedral spaces, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Chalk Creek tumbles past with its soothing symphony, while a short mile's journey west reveals the serene waters of Chalk Lake. When darkness falls, the absence of light pollution transforms the sky into a celestial theater where the Milky Way stretches in all its glory across the canyon.
Geological RegionMount Princeton Campground sits within the spectacular Chalk Creek Canyon, a geological wonderland where ancient hot springs have painted the canyon walls with distinctive white kaolinite deposits. These chalk-like formations tell a story millions of years in the making, created by mineral-rich thermal waters percolating through the rock. As part of the majestic Collegiate Peaks region, the area showcases Colorado's dramatic geological heritage, where tectonic forces and volcanic activity have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty and scientific fascination.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySeveral campsites are wheelchair accessible, and the vault toilets are also accessible. However, some user reviews note challenges with the road conditions, such as ruts and potholes, which may affect overall accessibility.
Sites SizeThe campsite sizes vary, with some sites accommodating RVs up to 42'. Site #4 is noted as being tight for RVs despite being advertised as a 37’ pull-through. "Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with grill."
Sites PrivacyThe privacy levels vary by site. While some sites are described as spacious with good separation, others, especially those near the creek, may lack privacy. "Each campsite was far enough from the others that no one felt crowded." However, some reviewers highlight that tents in adjacent sites can overlook each other.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sites like #3–5 for scenic soundscapes or sites farther from restrooms for privacy.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in: 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out: 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites allow two vehicles or one RV, with an additional $10 fee for a third vehicle.
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned within the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features gravel parking spurs, with sites laid out to provide partial shade and privacy from natural vegetation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23–September 20, with reservations available starting June 24. First-come, first-served operation runs June 20–24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites #1, 14–17 are first-come, first-served, with peak times filling on Thursdays or Fridays. Site #2 becomes available as first-come, first-served after Labor Day.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before the reservation incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee and a $10 service charge. No-shows are charged $20 and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mount Princeton Campground offers diverse recreational activities both within and near the campground. Campers can enjoy fishing in Chalk Creek and nearby Chalk Lake, hiking in the surrounding trails, or exploring the nearby ghost town of St. Elmo. ATV/UTV and 4X4 rides are also popular activities in the area, with routes like Mount Antero and Tincup Pass. "Nearby Chalk Lake is heralded as a great family fishing lake with rainbow, brook, and brown trout."
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant around the campground, including trails that lead to waterfalls, ghost towns, and scenic viewpoints. Specific trails mentioned include those leading to Cascade Falls and the old railroad track. "Great hikes near by too. Recommend the old railroad track hike that follows the southern wall of the valley."Fishing
Fishing is a major highlight, particularly in Chalk Creek and Chalk Lake. "Stream fishing is best above Cascade Falls, about 2 miles west of the campground." Popular catches include rainbow, brook, and brown trout, making it an ideal spot for families.Biking
The area surrounding the campground is suitable for mountain biking, with trails leading to nearby landmarks like St. Elmo and Tincup Pass. Specific trail details are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is an enriching activity here, with multiple bird species such as Western Tanager and Green-tailed Towhee commonly spotted. One camper even reported a bear sighting.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is sold on-site.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors should be bear-aware and secure food in vehicles or approved containers. The elevation may pose challenges for those unacclimated.
Weather at Mount Princeton
36
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 20.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely centered in Salida or Buena Vista, with hospitals, police, and fire stations accessible within a short drive.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23–September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available on-site, with trash containers conveniently placed in the campground. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresChalk Creek flows along the campground, and Chalk Lake is about a mile west. Fishing opportunities abound in both locations.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with campsite layouts near restrooms and limited site size information on the reservation system.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, with recent hosts providing local activity recommendations and maintaining cleanliness.
Campground Map
Mount Princeton Campground, Salida Ranger District Office, 5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO, 81201
Driving directionsFrom Buena Vista, Colorado, take Highway 285 south to Nathrop. Turn west on County Road 162 and travel 7 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via County Road 162, which is paved. There are no indications of seasonal closures or significantly challenging terrain.Nearby places
Buena Vista (15 minutes), Salida (short drive)
Nearby supplies
The Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort, 4 miles from the campground, has a small convenience store. Buena Vista and Salida offer additional shopping options for groceries and supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
81 reviews
Mount Princeton is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User experiences at Mount Princeton Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with an average sentiment of 4.55 across reviews. Many campers praise the stunning views, proximity to Chalk Creek, and well-maintained facilities. Concerns mostly center on site layouts, lack of cell service, and occasional management issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 81 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the cleanliness of the vault toilets, helpfulness of the camp hosts, and the serene environment provided by Chalk Creek. "The rushing sound of Chalk Creek drowns out any road...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some complaints include inaccurate site descriptions on the reservation system, proximity to vault toilets causing odor issues at certain sites, and management issues in specific years.
Based on 81 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving creekside sites, such as sites #3, #4, and #5, for the best experience. Bringing cash for firewood purchases is also advised. "I would try and make a reservation ahead of...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in summer, with weekends filling up by Friday. Campers commend the off-season for its tranquility. However, summer reviews note issues like odors from vault toilets and...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Our site #3 was beautiful and spotless." "The vault toilets were extremely clean—they clean them 3 times a day." "Be aware, there is no Internet or cell reception in the valley, so prepare to be...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #3, #4, and #5 are particularly praised for their proximity to Chalk Creek. Site #4 is noted as tight for larger RVs. Sites #9-11 are flagged for odor issues due to their proximity to vault...
Based on 81 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Sites and vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but road conditions may pose challenges. "Several campsites are wheelchair accessible, and the vault toilets are also accessible."
Based on 81 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs on leashes are welcome, and the campground's natural setting is ideal for pet owners. "Tent and RV friendly. Dogs on leashes welcome."
Based on 81 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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