Gold Lake Area
Gold Lake Area Dispersed, near Boulder, Colorado, is a fantastic location for those seeking a more rugged camping experience. This area offers a variety of sites tucked away in nature, perfect for pitching a tent or parking an RV, all while enjoying the great outdoors.
Visitors rave about the abundance of spots available, even on busy summer weekends. One camper noted, “Gold Lake Road is one of the best spots for dispersed camping in the area,” highlighting the convenient access to nearby attractions like Rocky Mountain National Park and Indian Peaks Wilderness.
The scenery is stunning, with plenty of trees and open spaces, making it a great place to unwind. Reviewers have mentioned the lack of bugs and the peaceful atmosphere, which is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Just remember, this area is pretty basic—there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, so come prepared with everything you need.
If you’re up for some adventure, the roads leading in can be a bit rough, so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended for some sites. As one camper put it, “You’re going to want 4WD for some of the sites, but there are others appropriate for smaller cars.”
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Gold Lake Area Dispersed offers a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the Colorado wilderness.
Description
USDA Forest Service
old Lake, situated in an open alpine forest, is a popular spot in both summer and winter. Although gas motors are not allowed on this small (100 acre, 25 feet deep) lake, electric motors (slow-no wake speed only), canoes, rafts and rowboats provide excellent fishing access. A primitive log shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the early 1940s provides a dry picnic area or overnight protection for cross country skiers in winter. Located very near the lake is Gold Lake Bog. This special area offers the visitor the opportunity to view deer, elk, and other smaller wildlife. In the late spring and summer this area abounds with wild flowers and huckleberries. This is a popular area to pick huckleberries in the late summer. This 21 site campground is situated near the Cascade crest with some sites adjacent to the picturesque Gold Lake. Visitors come for the alpine forest setting, quiet, autumn huckleberries, and wildlife viewing. The adjacent Gold Lake bog is ideal for viewing deer, elk, and beaver. Gas motors are prohibited on the small lake (100 acres in size and 25 feet deep), but electric motors are allowed at slow-no wake speed. Non-motorized craft are permitted, such as canoes and float tubes. The lake is fly-fishing only; please consult the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for the most up-to-date information. A historic "Willamette Winged" log shelter exists in the day use area, and provides an overnight place for cross-country skiers during the winter, and a day-use facility during summer. The shelter was designed by William Parke, the Willamette National Forest's first Recreation Planner, and constructed with Civilian Conservation Corps labor during the early 1940s. Parke was a 1932 graduate of the Oregon State College of Forestry, and was training as a Landscape Architect at the University of Oregon when hired by the Forest Service.
Location
Gold Lake Area is located in Colorado
Directions
28 miles east of Oakridge, Oregon From Oakridge, Oregon: From the intersection of Crestview Street and Oregon State Highway 58 (the only traffic light along Highway 58 in Oakridge), travel east on Highway 58 for 25.8 miles. Just below the summit of Willamette Pass ( the Gold Lake Sno Park will be on your right), turn left onto the Gold Lake Road and travel 2 miles to your destination at the end of the road.
Coordinates
40.08300038 N
105.457 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
