Meridian Campground

Within Pike National Forest, Meridian Campground operates under US Forest Service management from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The campground provides well-spaced sites with fire pits, picnic tables, and substantial tree cover for shade. Standard forest amenities include drinking water, toilets, trash service, and firewood availability, with cell service accessible throughout the area.

Access requires driving in, though boat-in options exist for watercraft users. The facility maintains notably clean pit toilets and hosts are present during operating season. Fire restrictions vary by conditions, so campers should check current regulations. Note that pets are not permitted at this location, making it distinct from many campgrounds near Pike National Forest.

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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 & DirectionsMeridian Campground is located in Colorado near Shawnee

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

39.511054 N
105.535061 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 10/19/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 10/19/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets

Drive Time


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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Meridian Campground

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5 Stars

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1 Star

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 10, 2026

Great campground near Denver

This is a clean campground with beautiful views of the Front Range Rockies. Pit toilets. Trash bins. No hookups. Firewood available from the gregarious host or the Loaf & Jug at the 285 turnoff to head to the campground. Senior pass is honored, so sites are half price if you have the pass. Unfortunately the camp closes 9/20. I will stay here again in the Spring!

Site6
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2026

Forest for days

Great time! $26/night for a car; CASH ONLY! Great pit toilets. Trash is available. First come first serve. Plot 6 is the best for larger groups/multiple tents.

The entire road is paved up until the turn into the campsite area. Well maintained dirt road easy for a 2wd car. 1 cattle guard at the entrance.

Site15
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Meridian Campground by Marceleno D., July 13, 2026
Reviewed Jul. 28, 2021

Great quick getaway

We took a quick one night stay at Meridian. We had our two young nephews (4 & 6) with us so we wanted a campground with at least a pit toilet. Meridian was well spaced out, had nice fire pits at each site, and had great shade. Cleanest pit toilets I’ve ever seen and the picnic tables at each site were very nice. We had a great time, plus we were able to have a fire! No restrictions when we visited. Camp host was present and nice.

Site16
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Meridian Campground by Michael D., July 28, 2021
  • Review photo of Meridian Campground by Michael D., July 28, 2021
  • Review photo of Meridian Campground by Michael D., July 28, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the features and amenities at Meridian Campground in Bailey, Colorado?

Meridian Campground offers well-spaced campsites with excellent shade coverage, making it comfortable even on warmer days. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a nice fire pit for cooking and evening gatherings. The campground maintains exceptionally clean pit toilets - a significant advantage for families with children or campers who prefer having basic facilities available. The natural setting provides a peaceful atmosphere while still offering essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience. The layout of the campground allows for privacy between sites while maintaining accessibility to the common facilities.

Are there photos available of Meridian Campground to view before visiting?

Yes, photos of Meridian Campground are available online. Prospective visitors can find images showcasing the shaded campsites, fire pits, picnic tables, and the surrounding natural environment. These photos help campers get a visual sense of the campground layout and amenities before planning their trip. Check the official forest service website or popular camping platforms for the most current collection of images.

What are the best camping options near Bailey, Colorado including Meridian Campground?

Bailey, Colorado offers several quality camping options, with Meridian Campground standing out for its clean facilities and well-spaced sites. The area also features Kenosha Pass Campground, known for beautiful aspen groves and hiking access. Pike National Forest provides numerous dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking more solitude. Deer Creek Campground offers fishing access, while Tomahawk Wildlife Area provides alternative camping with different amenities. For campers prioritizing cleanliness and shade with basic facilities, Meridian Campground is particularly well-suited for families with young children.

Is Meridian Campground suitable for RVs and what hookups are available?

Meridian Campground can accommodate some RVs, but it's best suited for smaller to medium-sized rigs due to the forested setting. The campground does not offer hookups for electricity, water, or sewer, making it a dry camping (boondocking) experience. Each site does include a fire pit and picnic table. The access roads and site spacing allow for reasonable maneuverability, but larger RVs might find some limitations. Be prepared for self-contained camping and bring all necessary water and power supplies. Consider tank capacities when planning your stay length.