Ohaver Lake

Star4.56
347 reviews
5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA
Scenic ViewsFishingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

9,200 ft

Price

$28 - $56/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

31 campsites

Season

Open May 23 to Septe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Salida Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

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January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Ohaver Lake
$28.00 - $56.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season nightly rates are $28 for standard nonelectric sites and tent-only sites, and $56 for double sites. First-come, first-served season also...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$56.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
(661) 702-1420
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What Campers Say

4.56

Top-Rated

Based on 347 reviews

178 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikinglakefriendly

"O'Haver Lake Campground receives high praise for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and range of activities. However, issues such as noise, crowded conditions, and inconsistent host behavior have been noted in some reviews."

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Campground Map

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Ohaver Lake

5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA

Driving directionsFrom Salida, Colorado: Travel west on Highway 50 to Poncha Springs. Turn south on Hwy 285 and travel for 5 miles. Turn right onto County Road 200 and continue for 2.3 miles. Turn west on County Road 202 and proceed 2.5 miles.
Access road has sharp curves and is steep. Road conditions include washboards and dips that can be challenging for trailers and larger vehicles. "The road to the campground is rough and has several tight corners. It can be tricky when pulling a trailer."
Nearby places
Poncha Springs (approx. 7 miles, 15 minutes), Salida (approx. 12 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and other supplies available in Salida (approx. 25 minutes away). Firewood sold on-site for $10 per bundle.

Best Time to Camp at Ohaver Lake

Mountain weather here dances between extremes, offering crisp, invigorating mornings that give way to warm, sun-drenched afternoons perfect for lakeside adventures. Early season campers during Memorial Day weekend should pack warm layers as nighttime temperatures often flirt with freezing. Summer brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the peaks, filling the air with the electric energy of mountain storms and the sweet scent of rain-washed pine.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
5.0 / 5
Top 6% in CO

Summer is peak season with fishing and paddleboarding as favorite activities; highly praised in reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Aspen foliage described as 'spectacular' and fall offers quieter conditions and great scenery.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Some positive early-season reports but opening window is limited and conditions variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed in much of the winter/off-season; no winter services noted.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 - September 21.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 23 to September 21 (reservable). Closed October 11 to June 05.

About Ohaver Lake

Nestled high in the Colorado wilderness at 9,200 feet, O'Haver Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 31 pristine campsites scattered beneath towering ponderosa pines and shimmering aspens. This mountain sanctuary draws anglers eager to cast their lines into the crystal-clear lake waters, while paddlers glide across its glassy surface and bird watchers delight in spotting mountain species. During peak summer months, these coveted first-come, first-served sites often claim their weekend visitors by Thursday noon, testament to this alpine retreat's enduring appeal.
The campground offers a mix of camping experiences, including standard nonelectric, tent-only, and double campsites. Sites are either reservable or available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in starts at noon.
Check-out
Check-out is by noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

O'Haver Lake Campground caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, offering fishing, hiking, non-motorized boating, and wildlife viewing as its primary activities. The serene lake setting is ideal for fishing and paddleboarding, while nearby trails provide opportunities for hiking and exploring the area's natural and historical features.
HikingThe area features trails such as the historic Denver and Rio Grande railroad grade and nearby options like Silver Creek and Rainbow Trail. These are popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, with routes offering varying difficulty levels.
FishingFishing is a major attraction at O'Haver Lake. The lake is stocked with rainbow and brook trout, and an accessible fishing pier is provided. One user noted, 'Nice little lake to get some nice pan-size trout.' Fishing is best during early mornings and late evenings.
SwimmingSwimming is permitted in the lake, which is uncommon for many Colorado lakes. This activity is often enjoyed alongside other water-based recreation.
BikingThe nearby Denver and Rio Grande railroad grade is a well-known biking route. Cyclists also explore the Crest Trail and routes to Marshall Pass. Some user reviews note ATV activity on these trails, which may affect the biking experience.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is allowed. Many visitors use paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks to enjoy the calm waters. The lake's tranquil setting makes it a favorite for such activities.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in bird species and other wildlife. One reviewer mentioned hearing owls in the evenings, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity reported; food storage guidelines must be followed. "Be bear aware; keep all food and other attractants out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle when not in use."
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Ohaver Lake

Reviews

4.6
347 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Ohaver Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
O'Haver Lake Campground receives high praise for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and range of activities. However, issues such as noise, crowded conditions, and inconsistent host behavior have been noted in some reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 347 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently commend the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and the tranquility of the lake. Activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, and hiking are highlighted as major...
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Based on 347 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users report issues such as noise from generators, overcrowding during peak times, and inconsistencies in rule enforcement. A few reviews also mention maintenance lapses, such as overflowing...
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Based on 347 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites, as they fill up quickly, often by Thursday for weekends. Bring cash for firewood purchases. Be cautious of the steep and rough access road, especially...
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Based on 347 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with weekends being particularly crowded. Fishing and paddleboarding are favorite summer activities. Fall offers quieter conditions and scenic foliage.
Based on 347 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'This small lake is perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing without the loud sounds of big boat motors.' - 'We camped at site 12 at the western end and they routinely checked up on us to...
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Based on 347 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #12 is often praised for its seclusion and proximity to the lake. Site #20 is noted for its excellent views and accessibility, especially for families with children. Site #29 is recommended for...
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Based on 347 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible fishing docks and picnic areas are appreciated by visitors. However, the steep access road may pose a challenge for some.
Based on 347 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Reviews emphasize the importance of adhering to leash rules, as non-compliance sometimes causes issues between campers.
Based on 347 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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