How much does camping cost at Buffalo Pass Campground?

Camping fees at Buffalo Pass Campground range from $5-$10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Can I see photos of campsites at Buffalo Pass Campground before I book?

Yes! Buffalo Pass Campground has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Buffalo Pass Campground?

Buffalo Pass Campground is open Peak season is mid-May to mid-November.. 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 Buffalo Pass Campground?

Buffalo Pass Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Buffalo Pass Campground have?

Buffalo Pass Campground has 19 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Buffalo Pass Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Buffalo Pass Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Buffalo Pass Campground?

Buffalo Pass Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Buffalo Pass Campground?

Popular activities at Buffalo Pass Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Buffalo Pass Campground

Q: Is Buffalo Pass Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Buffalo Pass Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. First come, first served availability. "First come, first serve - we showed up around 6 on a Saturday and there were plenty of spots available."

Q: Can I have a campfire at Buffalo Pass Campground?

Fire policies at Buffalo Pass Campground: Fires allowed only in designated fire rings. Ensure they are dead out and cold to the touch before departing.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.24

25 reviews

46525 State Highway 114 Saguache, CO 81149

Peace & QuietStargazing

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Colorado

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Campground will open...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$5 - $10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

19 campsites

Season

Campground will open...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Buffalo Pass Campground

$5.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Day Use: $10 per vehicle per day Overnight Use: Single and Double Site: $10 per night

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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USFS

Provider

719-655-2547

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

46525 State Highway 114 Saguache, CO 81149

Buffalo Pass Campground

46525 State Highway 114 Saguache, CO 81149

Nearby places

Saguache (26.7 miles, approximately 30 minutes travel time)

Nearby supplies

Saguache is the closest town with availability for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, located 26.7 miles away.

Weather at Buffalo Pass Campground

Best Time to Camp at Buffalo Pass Campground

Summer delivers the most reliable conditions: daytime highs in the low 70s, mornings around 45–50°F. Late June through August brings peak wildflowers and accessible trails, though afternoon thunderstorms build on warm days. Winter temperatures drop to around 10°F, blanketing the meadow in snow. Spring and fall see occasional dustings that can surprise unprepared campers. The high-altitude air stays dry year-round, which means sun protection matters and campfires burn clean.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Summer temps in low 70s, wildflowers late June-August and most reliable conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season is mid-May to mid-November.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Campground will open for the 2026 season from May 19th to November 18th. Please contact the Saguache Ranger District at 719-655-2547 for current conditions and updates.

About Buffalo Pass Campground

Buffalo Pass Campground spreads 19 sites across a meadow ringed by Ponderosa pines at 9,000 feet in Rio Grande National Forest, near Saguache. Sites cost $5–$10 per night and offer generous spacing. Campers consistently mention the privacy and quiet. Four pull-through sites accommodate RVs, though there's no water or trash service, so pack accordingly.

Buffalo Pass Campground offers options for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping, with some sites designed for pull-through RVs.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the most reliable conditions: daytime highs in the low 70s, mornings around 45–50°F. Late June through August brings peak wildflowers and accessible trails, though afternoon thunderstorms build on warm days. Winter temperatures drop to around 10°F, blanketing the meadow in snow. Spring and fall see occasional dustings that can surprise unprepared campers. The high-altitude air stays dry year-round, which means sun protection matters and campfires burn clean.

ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet above sea level, Buffalo Pass Campground places you firmly in the thin-air territory where the sky feels closer and the stars shine brighter. This lofty elevation delivers natural air conditioning even on summer's warmest days, though first-time high-altitude visitors should pace themselves while their bodies adjust to the mountain air. The reward? Crisp, pine-scented breezes and temperatures that make afternoon naps in your tent absolutely irresistible.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits where open meadow meets pine forest, creating a microhabitat that shifts with the seasons. Ponderosa pines frame sun-drenched clearings that fill with wildflowers in late June through August. Lupine, sunflowers, and paintbrush among them. The elevation means crisp air and strong light, with views that open into the surrounding high country. Mornings here are quiet enough to hear wind through the pines and not much else.

Geological RegionBuffalo Pass Campground claims its spectacular spot within the vast Rio Grande National Forest, where ancient geological forces sculpted a perfect pocket of paradise. Here, in this protected grove of stately Ponderosa Pines, the forest opens to reveal sun-drenched meadows that showcase the region's botanical diversity. This unique ecosystem, where mountain meadow meets pine forest, creates a microhabitat that supports an ever-changing tapestry of wildflowers and wildlife, making every visit a new discovery in this corner of Colorado's magnificent high country.

Scenic ViewsBeautiful views of the meadow and pine forest. Some user reviews highlight the peaceful and scenic environment: "Very peaceful and beautiful," "Wonderful spot!"

Lodging & AccommodationsThe Upper Crossing Guard Station cabin is available nearby for $75.00 per night. Reservations can be made through www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay allowed is 14 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum two vehicles per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutA single large loop with well-spaced sites. The dead-end spur branches off to hold sites 16, 17, and 18. Four pull-throughs scattered around the loop make RV positioning easier, though the vault toilets and lack of water mean this stays a simple, pack-it-in-pack-it-out setup.

Reservation PlatformsNot reservable; cabin reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst come, first served availability. "First come, first serve - we showed up around 6 on a Saturday and there were plenty of spots available.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations; first come, first serve.

Site SizeLarge sites suitable for both tents and RVs, with 4 pull-through sites included.

PrivacyThe campsites are well-spaced, offering privacy among campers. Some sites, like #16, 17, and 18, are located on a dead-end spur with no turnaround, adding to their seclusion.

Total Campsites19 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #7 mentioned in a review for leftover firewood availability. Sites #16, #17, and #18 offer privacy as they are located on a dead-end spur.

Best CampsitesSites 16, 17, and 18 sit on a dead-end spur with no turnaround, which adds seclusion but requires backing out or confident maneuvering. Reviewers mention these spots for their extra privacy. Site 7 showed up in recent feedback for leftover firewood, though that's luck of the draw.

Amenities available

Buffalo Pass Campground offers a variety of amenities within its well-spaced sites. It is known for its scenic surroundings in a Ponderosa Pine grove and an open grass meadow dotted with wildflowers. Despite its rustic setting, it offers basic facilities such as restrooms and picnic tables.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Buffalo Pass Campground offers opportunities for day hikes, backpacking, fishing in nearby streams, viewing scenery, and picnicking. It also allows for horseback riding and hunting as additional outdoor activities.

Hiking

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is bear country, so proper food storage techniques are required to ensure safety. "Remain 'Bear Aware' and store food properly while camping."

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. Vault toilets are provided as an alternative.

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated fire rings. Ensure they are dead out and cold to the touch before departing.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are available through the Saguache Ranger District, located at 46525 State Highway 114, Saguache, CO 81149, contactable at 719-655-2547.

Trash & RecyclingThis is a pack it in, pack it out campground. There are no trash or recycling facilities available on-site.

Water FeaturesNo nearby water features.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

25 reviews

Satisfactory

Buffalo Pass Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight Buffalo Pass Campground as a peaceful, secluded, and clean camping site with affordable fees. The clean vault toilets and spacious sites are recurring positive themes, while the lack of water and pack-it-in pack-it-out policy are commonly mentioned drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the clean vault toilets, spacious and well-spaced campsites, affordable price of $5 per night, and the peaceful, secluded setting. Many find it ideal for an overnight stay or a quiet...

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water and trash facilities, as well as the absence of cell phone reception and some modern amenities like showers. Some users also note the cold...

Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific information includes the mention of sites #16, 17, and 18 being on a dead-end spur with no turnaround, offering additional privacy.

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water as there is no potable water on-site. Ensure you have adequate supplies due to the lack of a camp store. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during weekends or hunting...

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open from mid-May to mid-November. Reviews indicate warmer months are more popular, while November nights can be cold. Hunting season sees an increase in visitors.

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms are clean, and the price of $5 dollars is almost a gift, totally recommended." - Pedro Estevan-Hernandez. "Quite, secluded area. Very peaceful and beautiful." - K J. "We were there for...

Based on 25 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash not longer than six feet. User reviews do not elaborate on pet-specific experiences or facilities.

Based on 25 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Tent campers and backpackers who want solitude at a low price will do well here, especially in late June through August when the lupine and paintbrush are out. Sites 16, 17, and 18 on the dead-end spur are the picks for maximum privacy.

Skip if

No potable water on-site and no trash service means real hauling logistics. Nearest supplies are 27 miles back in Saguache, first-come-first-served means no safety net on busy weekends, and the cold nights above 9,000 feet catch light sleepers off guard.

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Luders Creek Campground sits at 10,000 feet in Rio Grande National Forest, a five-site retreat popular with hunters and anyone willing to trade amenities for altitude. Three pull-through sites accommodate trailers up to 25 feet, though parking is tight. Nightly fees run $10. No potable water. Summer nights drop into the 20s and 30s.

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Campgrounds

Rio Grande National Forest

Buffalo Pass Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Buffalo Pass Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>The campground is comprised of a single large loop, surrounded by a grass meadow in a Ponderosa Pine grove. There are 19 sites, 4 are pull-through. The sites are large and well-spaced with sites #16, 17 and 18 on a dead-end spur with no turn around. The open areas are dotted with wildflowers. The campground is conveniently situated to State Hwy 114 for an overnight stay.</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 9,000 ft. The campground, pack it in, pack it out, is comprised of a single large loop, surrounded by a grass meadow, in a Ponderosa pine grove. The sites are large and well spaced with sites #16, 17 and 18 on a dead-end spur with no turnaround. The open areas are dotted with wild flowers. It is convenient to State Rt. 114 for an overnight stay. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques.

Seasons & access

Open May 20 through November 24

Facilities

The water spigot is a hand pump.

RV information

The parking aprons are gravel.

Directions

In Saguache, CO, at intersection of State Rt. 114 and US Rt. 285, take Rt. 114 west 26.7 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign onto a single lane dirt road and go 0.6 miles to the campground.

National Forest: Grande National Forest
Ranger District: Saguache
Elevation: 9000
Rate: $5 per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: May – November