Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
Cathedral Campground
Cathedral Campground, near South Fork, Colorado, is a fantastic spot for those seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. This free campground offers a beautiful setting with picnic tables, fire rings, and clean pit toilets, making it a comfortable choice for campers.
The drive to the campground is a bit of an adventure, with a long, bumpy road that rewards you with stunning views. Visitors rave about the nearby hiking trails, especially the trek up to Cathedral Rock, which is a must-do for anyone staying here. As one camper noted, “The road in is long, all gravel, extremely scenic,” so take your time and enjoy the ride.
While there’s no drinking water available, the nearby creek adds to the charm and provides a lovely backdrop for your camping experience. Campers have enjoyed the solitude, often finding themselves with plenty of space to spread out, even during busy weekends. One visitor mentioned, “It’s peaceful, not crowded,” which is a big draw for many.
Keep in mind that wildlife is part of the experience here, so be sure to secure your food properly. With its stunning scenery and serene atmosphere, Cathedral Campground is a great choice for anyone looking to unwind in the great outdoors.
Description
National Forest
.NO POTABLE WATER AVAILABLE Cathedral Campground is northwest of Del Norte and northeast of South Fork, on Embargo Creek. It was remodeled in 2010 and now has 22 sites. 17 are dead end spurs and 5 are pull throughs. Sites vary from 35 to 45 feet in length. This campground is located in a mature aspen and spruce grove with a beautiful view of Cathedral Rock to the north. Embargo Creek flows alongside the east side of the grounds. There is ample fishing in Embargo Creek and hiking/horseback riding/mountain biking on Cathedral Creek Trail #794, Embargo Trail # 792 and Fremont's Camp Trail #885. Motorcycles may use both Cathedral and Embargo Trails. ATV’s are not allowed on the trails.The campground is composed of two large loops along Cathedral Creek. The left hand loop features a large meadow and a few open sites. The right hand loop has a dense Aspen and spruce (including Blue) woods and a more rustic feel. Scroll down to Information Center for individual site details. John Charles Fremont's winter camp is nearby. He attempted an ill-fated expedition across the Rocky Mountains for a transcontinental railroad route in late 1848.
Fee Info
Free
Location
Cathedral Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
From Del Norte, Colorado: Travel 8.75 miles west on U.S. Highway 160to Embargo Creek Rd. and County Rd. 18 signs. Turn right onto Rd. 18 and >go 1.4 miles to a "T" intersection (County Rd. 15). Turn right onto Rd. 15 and go 0.3 miles to another "T" intersection (County Rd. 65) Turn left onto Rd. 65 and go 3.2 miles to "Y" intersection (Forest Rd. 640/650). Bear left onto Rd. 640 (dirt, single lane with no turnouts) 7.6 miles to campground sign. Right at sign into campground.. From South Fork, CO, take US 160 east 5.3 miles to Embargo Creek Rd. and County Rd. 18 signs. Turn left onto Rd. 18 and follow directions above from >
Coordinates
37.83699261 N
106.6050004 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiFair
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Cathedral Campground needs a permit.