How much does camping cost at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)?

Camping fees at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) range from $20/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) first-come first-served or reservation?

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)?

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) is open June 05 to September 18. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)?

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Are dogs allowed at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)?

Pets are not allowed at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co). This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)?

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

3.69

29 reviews

FishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping

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Quick Facts

11,467 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Opening date is tent...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

11,467 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Opening date is tent...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book Online Official Website

Get Directions

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

ScanPay 1: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

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Campground Map

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

38.6118, -106.3203

Weather at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

Current alerts(5)

Opening date is tentative depending on road and snow conditions
The road from Angel of Shavano campground is extremely rocky and rough. High clearance vehicles are recommend.
This campground is not universally accessible.
This is a Pack it In - Pack It Out facility. No Trash services at this campground.

Best Time to Camp at North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access, longest days, and the warmest, bug- and snow-free conditions at this high-elevation site — expect daytime highs around 55–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F. Trails, alpine lakes and boat ramps are generally open, making hiking, fishing, boating and wildlife viewing at their peak; wildflowers bloom in late June–July on lower slopes. Weekdays are relatively quiet, but expect busy weekends in July and August and plan for afternoon thunderstorms and the Z Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Summer is the reliable access season and most popular for fishing/paddling.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 05 to September 18. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Opening date is tentative depending on road and snow conditions

About North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

North Fork Campground sits in the high-elevation alpine terrain of Colorado's PSICC recreation area near Salida, offering tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets. Operated seasonally during peak months, the campground serves anglers and paddlers drawn to the reservoir and nearby creeks. Reviewers consistently highlight phenomenal fishing, beautiful scenery, and the remote alpine environment.

The North Fork Campground offers primitive camping options and is suitable for tents, RVs, and dispersed camping in the surrounding area.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access, longest days, and the warmest, bug- and snow-free conditions at this high-elevation site — expect daytime highs around 55–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s°F. Trails, alpine lakes and boat ramps are generally open, making hiking, fishing, boating and wildlife viewing at their peak; wildflowers bloom in late June–July on lower slopes. Weekdays are relatively quiet, but expect busy weekends in July and August and plan for afternoon thunderstorms and the Z Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation11467 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies high alpine terrain where dramatic rock formations reveal ancient seabeds lifted skyward by millions of years of geological activity. Quartz and mica sparkle in mineral-rich outcroppings, and glacial valleys hold massive boulders deposited centuries ago. North Fork Reservoir and nearby creeks provide fishing and paddling opportunities. The elevation creates stunning views across open alpine slopes, with wildflowers blooming on lower elevations in late June and July. Smooth granite slabs offer natural sunbathing spots.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodging accommodations, such as hotel-style lodges, are available.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

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No group-specific sites or accommodations are explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

AccessibilityThis campground is not universally accessible. The rough terrain and high elevation make it challenging for individuals with mobility impairments.

Site SizeSites are reported as standard, with enough space for two vehicles or one RV per site.

PrivacyPrivacy varies, as some sites are clustered closely while others are more secluded. User reviews recommend utilizing dispersed sites along the road for better privacy.

Need help booking North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)?

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Amenities available

The North Fork Campground is located at an elevation of 11,000 feet on the Salida Ranger District, near the North Fork Reservoir. It is a primitive campground with limited amenities and is situated in a high alpine environment. The road to the campground is extremely rough and rocky, requiring high-clearance vehicles for access. There is no trash service available, and visitors are expected to follow 'Pack it In, Pack it Out' principles. The campground features pit toilets and does not have universally accessible facilities.

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The North Fork Campground offers recreational activities centered around its alpine setting and proximity to the North Fork Reservoir. The primary activities include fishing, hiking, and enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Wildlife viewing and photography are also popular here.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Only pit toilets are provided.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

3.7

29 reviews

Mixed Reviews

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's remote location, stunning views, and excellent fishing opportunities. However, the rough access road and limited amenities are frequently mentioned as challenges.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Top positive aspects include 'phenomenal fishing,' 'beautiful scenery,' and 'remote alpine environment.' Many reviewers also praised the reservoir and nearby creeks for angling and paddling.

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues revolve around the rough and rocky road to the campground, lack of trash services, and limited amenities such as pit toilets and poor signage.

Based on 29 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Some reviews recommend dispersed sites along the road for better privacy. Specific site numbers are not mentioned.

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users include preparing adequately for the rugged access road, bringing high-clearance vehicles, and paying fees at Angel of Shavano Campground before arrival. A review states: 'Make sure...

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular during the summer months when fishing and paddling conditions are ideal. Winter accessibility is challenging due to snow and rough roads. 'Opening date is tentative...

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The trek to get there is well worth the experience when you make it up there!' - Nicole Donatto 2. 'The road from Angel of Shavano campground is extremely rocky and rough. High-clearance vehicles...

Based on 29 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited due to the rugged terrain and lack of universal facilities. One user stated, 'The campground is not universally accessible.'

Based on 29 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not provide specific insights regarding pet policies or pet-related features.

Based on 29 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want high-elevation fishing and paddling in a remote alpine setting with basic facilities.

Skip if

You need electric hookups, flush toilets, or guaranteed shoulder-season access at altitude.

Nearby Campgrounds

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North Fork Campground

PSICC

North Fork Campground sits at high elevation near Salida, offering primitive tent sites with views of the Continental Divide and fishing access to North Fork Reservoir. Managed as part of the PSICC recreation area, this very small campground attracts visitors seeking remote alpine solitude. Summer brings the most reliable access and active trout fishing, though the road in can be rough and signage sparse.

Angel of Shavano sits at 9,206 feet in Colorado's San Isabel National Forest, offering small-scale alpine camping near the Colorado Trail and Mt. Shavano trailheads. The Forest Service operates this seasonal campground with tent, RV, and primitive sites alongside the North Fork of the South Arkansas River. Campers hike fourteeners, fish mountain streams, mountain bike forest roads, and watch for wildlife in a quiet high-country setting.

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Angel Of Shavano Group

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201 USA

Angel Of Shavano Group sits in high-elevation alpine terrain near Salida, operated by the Salida Ranger District Office. This primitive group site offers access to the Colorado Trail and nearby singletrack, with a creekside setting that draws wildlife. The campground provides vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, but no potable water on-site.

$145.00 - $145.00 / night

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Monarch Park

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Monarch Park sits at 10,500 feet in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests near Salida, managed by the Salida Ranger District. This high-elevation alpine campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers use it as a base for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding high country, with alpine lake fishing and wildflower meadows accessible during the summer season.

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Iron City sits at 9,940 feet in Colorado's PSICC recreation area, offering budget-friendly tent, RV, and primitive camping along Chalk Creek. Operated seasonally during peak months with a friendly camp host, this small alpine campground serves as a launch point for ATV trails and day hikes to the ghost town of St. Elmo. The site features vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, plus access to the historic Iron City Cemetery.

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Cascade sits at 9,000 feet along Chalk Creek west of Salida, operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation with seasonal access during peak months. The small alpine campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites beneath the towering peaks of Mt. Antero and Mt. Princeton. Campers fish Chalk Creek, hike nearby trails, and enjoy vault toilets, potable water, and attentive camp hosts who maintain the facilities.

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Snowblind

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Snowblind sits at 9,300 feet in the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest, offering a small, first-come campground with creek access and high-country solitude. The Forest Service maintains this primitive site with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Summer brings wildflowers, clear trails, and mild days ideal for hiking and mountain biking, though nights dip into the 30s and 40s.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest

Quartz is a high-elevation alpine campground in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest, Colorado. Operated by the Forest Service, it sits among wildflower meadows and geological features that draw hikers and photographers during the summer season. Reviewers highlight the scenic surroundings and the adventurous access to the camping area.

5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO 81201, USA

Chalk Lake sits high in the Collegiate Peaks near Salida, Colorado, where chalk-white cliffs frame a small U.S. Forest Service campground along Chalk Creek. The Salida Ranger District operates this seasonal alpine spot with vault toilets, potable water, and creekside tent and RV sites. Campers fish the creek, hike nearby trails, and watch aspens turn gold against the canyon walls in fall.

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Mount Princeton Campground, Salida Ranger District Office, 5575 Cleora Rd, Salida, CO, 81201

Mount Princeton sits at 8,600 feet along Chalk Creek in the Collegiate Peaks, managed by the U.S. Forest Service and open during peak summer months. The small campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings in a high-elevation alpine setting where the creek's rush drowns out road noise. Campers hike nearby trails, fish Chalk Creek, and swim in natural pools while camp hosts keep facilities clean and help visitors navigate the terrain.

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Pitkin Campground sits at 9,390 feet in Colorado's mountains near the small town of Pitkin. Sites are first-come, first-served, so arrive early in the day during summer to avoid getting shut out. Cell service is limited or nonexistent, and you'll need the Recreation.gov app downloaded in advance to use the QR code payment system.

15.899 km

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Cottonwood Lake - Psicc (Co)

null

Cottonwood Lake sits in Colorado's high-elevation alpine zone within the PSICC recreation area, offering tent camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Camp hosts maintain clean facilities at this small, seasonal campground where visitors fish, kayak, and hike near the lake. Fall brings brilliant aspen color and cooler fishing conditions, though mice can be a nuisance and gravel surfacing covers many sites.

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Campgrounds

North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

About PSICC

Context for the broader area surrounding North Fork Campground (Salida, Co), sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Peaks to Prairies - Tracks to Trails Pike and San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (<a class="offsiteicon" href="http://www.fs.fed.us/locatormap/index.php?lat=37.59&long=-104.77&zoom=7" target="_blank">forest locator map</a>) cover nearly 3 million acres, between the prairies of western Kansas and some of Colorado's highest mountain peaks along the Continental Divide. These sprawling forests and grasslands are an eight hour drive from boundary to boundary. This landscape offers a variety of ecosystems rich in history, geology, scenery, wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities. The rolling prairies to the east are home to prairie chickens, wildflowers, paleontological resources and historical areas. The snow-capped Rockies to the west are a scenic backdrop to millions of residents and a draw to forest visitors. The forests are home to nearly half of <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r2/recreation/?cid=stelprd3798321">Colorado's fourteeners</a> with numerous alpine lakes, reservoirs and key rivers. Over 385,000 acres of <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/psicc/recreation/recarea/?recid=37201">Wilderness</a>, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Colorado Trail, and Santa Fe National Historic Trail are special areas worth exploring. People who live near these areas maintain a strong relationship to the lands. The commitment and volunteerism that these community members have for these public lands is the foundation for our ability to maintain a quality, sustainable recreation program in the face of intense, and growing, urban demand. Critical Information about the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or “drones” are increasing in popularity and can provide wonderful opportunities to explore the forest. Please be aware that these drones are regulated and must follow certain laws to be safe and legal. <ul> <li><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3846515.pdf">Recreational Drone Tips</a> (.pdf)</li> <li><a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/science-technology/fire/unmanned-aircraft-systems">Forest Service Unmanned Aircraft Systems policy</a> (fs.fed.us)</li> </ul>