Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)

Star4.65
317 reviews
13308 WEST HWY 160, DEL NORTE, CO, 81132, USA
Scenic ViewsFishingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

9,500 ft

Price

$29 - $99/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

60 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens PMC Parks Management site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)
$29.00 - $99.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $29 for Standard Nonelectric Sites to $99 for Group Tent Only Sites, with additional charges of $2 per night for weekends and...
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Standard Site Fee$29.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$99.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
435-245-6521customerservice@pmcparks.com
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What Campers Say

4.65

Top-Rated

Based on 317 reviews

82 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouslocationhiking

"Big Meadows Reservoir Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, scenic views, spacious sites, and attentive camp hosts. The absence of utility hookups and occasional generator noise were minor critiques."

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Campground Map

13308 WEST HWY 160, DEL NORTE, CO, 81132, USA

Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)

13308 WEST HWY 160, DEL NORTE, CO, 81132, USA

Driving directionsFrom South Fork, Colorado, take Highway 160 for 13 miles west, turn onto Forest Road 410 SW, and go 1.8 miles to Big Meadows Campground.
The road to the campground is paved for a few hundred feet and the dirt part is about a mile long but very flat. Some reviews mention semi-bumpy dirt roads, but campers with trailers up to 25ft have reported no major issues.
Nearby places
South Fork (13 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Creede (approximately 30 miles, 45 minutes), Pagosa Springs (approximately 48 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, gas stations, restaurants, and a dump station, are in South Fork, 13 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)

Summer days at Big Meadows unfold with brilliant sunshine and comfortable temperatures in the low 80s, perfect for outdoor adventures. As afternoon clouds gather over the peaks, brief rain showers often sweep through, bringing the fresh scent of pine and wildflowers. When darkness falls, temperatures can plummet into the 40s, creating ideal conditions for campfire gatherings and stargazing under crystal-clear mountain skies. Pack layers and prepare for nature's daily mountain symphony of sunshine, showers, and spectacular sunsets.

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

Peak season May 23–Aug 31; warm, sunny days and core activities (fishing/hiking) are available.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
Not recommended

Campground closes Aug 31; fall season not supported by official open dates.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Official season opens May 23; spring is largely outside operating dates.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed outside summer months; winter access/operations not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season begins May 23, 2025, and closes August 31, 2025. Reservations can be made starting 6 months in advance.

About Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)

Nestled high in the sub-alpine wonderland of the San Juan Mountains, Big Meadows Reservoir Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This enchanting retreat combines the serenity of wildflower-dotted meadows with world-class fishing waters and miles of scenic hiking trails. Here, where the air is crisp and the views stretch endlessly, you'll discover why generations of campers have made this their favorite high-country escape.
Big Meadows Reservoir Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. There is also a group tent area for larger parties.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
PMC & Recreation.gov policy states campers allowed to check-in until end of reservation window.
Check-out
Check-out time is the day after the scheduled arrival date.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

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

Activities you can enjoy

Big Meadows Reservoir Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating. The Archuleta Trail accesses the Weminuche Wilderness and provides a 6-mile route for hikers and horseback riders. The reservoir supports fishing for rainbow, brown, and brook trout, and features an accessible pier. Boating is allowed with restrictions on motorized boats.
HikingThe Archuleta Trail is a 6-mile path leading into the Weminuche Wilderness. Another shorter trail around the reservoir is approximately 2 miles long and features scenic views. Campers frequently highlight the Cascade Falls hike as a must-do activity.
FishingFishing is a standout activity, with rainbow, brook, and brown trout available in the reservoir. An accessible fishing pier and boat ramp enhance the experience. Catch limits and other regulations should be confirmed on-site.
BoatingBoating is allowed on the reservoir, but motorized boat use is restricted to trolling motors. Canoes, kayaks, and rafts are welcomed.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is popular, with visitors mentioning deer, bald eagles, and hummingbirds. "Deers and hummingbirds everywhere, a beautiful campground."
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe campground is in bear country; campers are advised to follow proper food storage protocols. Bark beetle damage has affected the tree population, leading to fewer shade opportunities.

Weather at Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)

Reviews

4.7
317 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Big Meadows Reservoir Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, scenic views, spacious sites, and attentive camp hosts. The absence of utility hookups and occasional generator noise were minor critiques.
Review Summaries
Based on 317 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praised the cleanliness of the vault toilets, spacious campsites, and friendly camp hosts. The natural beauty of the location and abundant recreational opportunities, such as...
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Based on 317 reviews

Common Concerns

Critiques include noise from generators, the absence of utility hookups, the distance to the nearest dump station, and occasional issues with water spigots. Some also noted the impact of bark beetle...
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Based on 317 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra water and be prepared for dry camping. Consider visiting nearby attractions such as the Cascade Falls and Weminuche Wilderness. Early reservations are recommended due to high demand.
Based on 317 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is popular during the summer months, with many activities centered around the reservoir. The vault toilets remain a standout feature year-round. Fall visitors appreciate the cooler...
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Based on 317 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms were immaculate. The hosts were excellent." "Caught a limit of trout, hiked to cascade falls, and just relaxed in our very secluded camp sight." "Camp hosts were warm and friendly;...
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Based on 317 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 37 is noted for its seclusion. Site A23 was praised for its scenic views despite being away from the lake. Site 38 was described as cozy and private, while site 46 offers a remote experience.
Based on 317 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews highlighted the accessible fishing pier but lacked specific details about campsite accessibility features.
Based on 317 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews about pet experiences were provided.
Based on 317 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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