Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)
4.69155 reviews13308 WEST HWY 160, DEL NORTE, CO, 81132, USA
Quick Facts
9,500 ftPrice
$29 - $99/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
60 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
9,500 ftPrice
$29 - $99/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
60 campsites
Season
Open season begins M...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsBig 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
Total Campsite Fees$128.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider435-245-6521customerservice@pmcparks.com
What Campers Say
4.69
Top-Rated
Based on 155 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."
Fees & Passes at Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (South Central Co)
$29 - $99/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: A $10 cancellation fee applies, as well as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee for late ...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official PMC Parks Management website.
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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
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, 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.
Historical SignificanceThe lands surrounding Big Meadows whisper stories of centuries past. Journey to the nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park, where massive dunes rise like golden mountains against the Sangre de Cristo range. Explore ancient Native American ruins that speak of civilizations long vanished, or trace the footsteps of Spanish Conquistadors who once traversed these rugged passes. Venture into authentic gold rush ghost towns where weathered buildings stand as monuments to Colorado's Wild West heritage, each structure holding tales of fortune seekers and frontier dreams.
Weather and SeasonsSummer 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.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,500 feet, Big Meadows Reservoir Campground offers a true high-altitude adventure. This lofty elevation rewards visitors with refreshingly cool temperatures even on summer's warmest days and panoramic alpine vistas that seem to touch the sky. While the thin mountain air creates perfect conditions for outdoor recreation and photography, visitors should allow time to acclimate and stay well-hydrated. The elevation transforms ordinary camping into an extraordinary mountain experience where every breath of pine-scented air reminds you how far you've climbed above the everyday world.
Natural Features and SceneryBig Meadows Reservoir Campground unfolds like a natural amphitheater across the mountainside, with camping loops that wind through diverse landscapes of trembling aspens, towering spruce, and meadows painted with Colorado's famous wildflowers. Each campsite offers its own unique perspective of this sub-alpine paradise, whether tucked beneath protective evergreens or positioned for sweeping reservoir views. In summer, the meadows burst with Indian paintbrush, columbines, and mountain daisies, while autumn transforms the aspen groves into corridors of shimmering gold.
Geological RegionSituated within the majestic Rio Grande National Forest, Big Meadows occupies a special ecological niche in the San Juan Mountains' sub-alpine zone. This unique location, blessed with more abundant rainfall than the opposing reservoir shores, nurtures a lush tapestry of spruce forests, aspen groves, and wildflower meadows. The interplay of elevation, moisture, and mountain geology creates distinct microclimates throughout the campground, supporting diverse plant communities and wildlife habitats that make each visit a new discovery in this remarkable corner of Colorado's high country.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Archuleta Trail and accessible fishing pier provide some options for those with mobility challenges. Specific campsite accessibility details were not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and well-defined. Some sites are reportedly large enough for RVs and trailers, with specific mentions of accommodating campers up to 25 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are spaced out to provide privacy, with many sites surrounded by trees. However, some areas have lost tree cover due to bark beetle damage.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites on the lower loop tend to be quieter, while upper loop sites offer better views. Campsite #20 provides convenient access to the waterfall trail.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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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.
Guests Allowed Per Site
All single campsite reservation fees are valid for up to 6 people and 1 vehicle, with additional charges for extra guests or vehicles.
Groups
The group tent area is suitable for larger parties, with specified areas to accommodate multiple campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (Lower, Middle, Upper) with sites spaced to provide privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 23, 2025, and closes August 31, 2025. Reservations can be made starting 6 months in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by contacting 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis campground has first-come, first-served sites available but not guaranteed. Reviews suggest that some campers prefer these due to flexibility in stay duration.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, as well as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Cancellations must be made before the date of scheduled arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
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.
Hiking
The 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.Fishing
Fishing 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.Boating
Boating is allowed on the reservoir, but motorized boat use is restricted to trolling motors. Canoes, kayaks, and rafts are welcomed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, with visitors mentioning deer, bald eagles, and hummingbirds. "Deers and hummingbirds everywhere, a beautiful campground."Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including kayaking and canoeing, are popular on the reservoir.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Avoid transporting firewood to prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms.
- Quiet hours are enforced but exact times are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsThe 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)
18
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are in South Fork, approximately 13 miles away. The nearest hospital is in Del Norte.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be taken to dumpsters located within the campground. Some users noted signs indicating restrictions on some bear-proof trash receptacles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Big Meadows Reservoir, which offers fishing, boating, and scenic vistas. No motorized boats are allowed.
Common complaintsSome reviewers reported issues with generators running all day, lack of shade due to bark beetle damage, and difficulty accessing water.
HostHosts are highly praised for maintaining clean facilities, including vault toilets that are frequently described as "immaculate" and "smelling like cinnamon."
Campground Map
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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
155 reviews
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 155 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...
Based on 155 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 155 reviewsShow more
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 155 reviewsSeasonal 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...
Based on 155 reviewsShow more
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;...
Based on 155 reviewsShow more
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 155 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews highlighted the accessible fishing pier but lacked specific details about campsite accessibility features.
Based on 155 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet experiences were provided.
Based on 155 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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