Dispersed camping enthusiasts will find extensive opportunities along the access road to Lost Park Campground, with multiple pulloffs and clearings available for tent and vehicle camping. The campground sits within Pike National Forest in Jefferson, Colorado, operating from May through October at rates ranging from free to $24 per night.
The road presents a significant challenge, requiring high-clearance vehicles to navigate the long, bumpy route with switchback sections. As one reviewer noted, "It is quite a bumpy drive though so it's like switchback camping so make sure you have a vehicle that can make it." Many campers find suitable spots along the 11-12 mile access road without reaching the formal campground area. The dispersed nature means ample space between camping areas.
The Forest Service provides drinking water at the established campground, and firewood is available for purchase. Alcohol is permitted throughout the area. However, pets are not allowed at this location, which differs from many surrounding campsites near Pike National Forest. The elevation creates cooler temperatures and wind exposure year-round.
Campers seeking additional established options can explore Spruce Grove- Pike National Forest or Tarryall Reservoir State Wildlife Campground in the surrounding area. The remote setting rewards those prepared for the challenging drive with secluded camping spots.
Description
Overview
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
Facilities
Lost Park Campground is located 21 miles southeast of Jefferson off US 285 and CR 56. It has 12 campsites with a maximum trailer length of 22 feet. The elevation is 10,000 feet. Facilities include toilets, tables, water, and fire rings. There is no trash service at this campground. Dates are weather dependent. All services may not be available early or late in the season.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.
Reservation Info
Max RV length 22'; there are no reservations at this campground, it is first come, first served. There are no hook-ups at this campground. No refunds for bad weather. There is no trash service at this campground; please pack it in and pack it out.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
PIKE-SAN ISABEL NATIONAL FORESTS & CIMARRON AND COMANCHE NATIONAL GRASSLANDS** STAGE 1 FIRE PROHIBITIONS **** PROHIBITIONS**Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551 and 36 C.F.R. 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) in the Leadville, Salida, San Carlos, Pikes Peak, South Park and South Platte Ranger Districts of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, described below and shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A, hereinafter referred to as the Described Area:
- Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes), except if it is in
- A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas);
- A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device; or
- A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.36 CFR 261.52(a).
- Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(b)
- Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 36 CFR 261.52(d)
- Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except if in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of Class 2A) is kept with the operator. 36 CFR 261.52(h) EXEMPTIONS Pursuantto36 C.F.R.261.50(e), thefollowingpersons areexemptfrom thisOrder:
- Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer that a permit is not required under 36 C.F.R. 251.50(e)(1) or (2).
- Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting service in the performance of an official duty. DESCRIBEDAREA All National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the exterior boundaries of the Pikes Peak, South Platte, South Park, Leadville, Salida and San Carlos Ranger Districts of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, as depicted on the map attached as Exhibit A of this Order. PURPOSE Thepurposeof this Order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety. IMPLEMENTATION
- This Order shall be in effect from August 21, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. through August November 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., unless rescinded.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsLost Park Campground is located in Colorado near Bailey
Coordinates
39.284721 N
105.5077 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Firewood Available
- Drinking Water
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 1 hr 59 min from Denver, CO
- 2 hrs 8 min from Boulder, CO
- 2 hrs 10 min from Colorado Springs, CO
- 2 hrs 31 min from Pueblo, CO







