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Facilities

Free Camping Collection

Established Camping

Lake Henry

Review Campground Win Gear

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Lake Henry, near La Junta, Colorado, is a free camping area that offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of space to spread out. Visitors have enjoyed the scenic views of the lake, which is particularly beautiful at sunset, making it a great backdrop for stargazing and unwinding after a day of adventure.

This location is perfect for those who appreciate a more rustic experience, as it lacks amenities like drinking water, toilets, and showers. Campers have mentioned that while there are some bugs, the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see wildlife, like free-range bulls, make it worthwhile. One camper noted, “The lake is really pretty - it makes the bugs worth it.”

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Lake Henry provides a quiet retreat with ample room for tents and RVs. The drive-in access makes it easy to find your spot, and many have found it to be a great place to relax without the hassle of reservations or permits. Just be prepared for a bit of dirt and some friendly flies!

Description

County

The smaller of the two sisters, Lake Henry offers campers an opportunity to play and camp at a site where the stars are actually visible to the naked eye. Normally calm waters, a stocked lake, easy access the water, and fee free camping are perfect for individuals and families who feel that vacation is more about communing with nature, visiting with friends and family, and great fun in the sun, rather than a hustled and hurried routine.

Less than three miles west of Lake Henry, in the Town of Ordway, one will find two gas stations, a handful of restaurants, a grocery store, a drug store, medical services, a water spray park and quiet and fully shaded parks. Behind the Junior High School you will find tennis courts and a baseball stadium which you are welcome to use. In addition, JR's Country Store offers garbage and sewage dumping services, free Wi-Fi, fishing and hunting licenses, along with laundry facilities.

Camping is free and based on a first come basis. Campfires are permitted in designated areas. PLEASE call the local Sheriff's department to get CURRENT FIREBAN information. 719-267-5235

Lake Henry is located between Ordway and Sugar City, just two miles north of Highway 96 on Lane 20 (see map below). This large lake is a great place to fish for catfish and bass, and has plenty of room for swimming, power boating, sailing, water-skiing and jet skis. The lake is a favorite among bird watchers, who include this lake in local birding tours. The lake offers primitive campsites, vault toilets and a boat ramp...all available for free.

Camping: Free first come first served basis. No trash service, please take home what you bring. Campfires are permitted in designated areas. Facilities: No Toilet, shower, water service or electricity. All supplies and facilities located within 3 miles. Activities: No ATV's. Boating and water vehicles welcome. Swimming, fishing, horseback.

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Location

Lake Henry is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

38.2508222438112 N
103.70784141572969 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Available
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

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 Lake Henry needs a permit.


Reviews

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8 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 29, 2024

Great

Stopped in for overnight heading West from KC October 1. Beautiful.

SiteDispersed
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Kiet D., September 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Kiet D., September 29, 2024
Reviewed Jun. 6, 2024

Great Stay

I stayed here with my pups for three days. The lake is really pretty - it makes the bugs worth it. There were several other campers, but enough room to spread out for total privacy. You simply drive in and find a spot by the lake. It looked like there were some more single spots right as you drive into the lake area - I might try those next time.

Site38.253023, -103.704049
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Kelda C., June 6, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Kelda C., June 6, 2024
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Kelda C., June 6, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 30, 2023

Great spot to boondock

There are flies, atvs and trucks that drive around the lake, and cows. If you can deal with those things then this is a great spot! I was left alone, few other campers here and there but we all had plenty of space. I stayed 14 days and would stay again. Some towns nearby too. Gas is really close. The Loves in La Junta is tiny.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Sierra Y., October 30, 2023
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Sierra Y., October 30, 2023
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Sierra Y., October 30, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 23, 2023

Beautiful, lots of room

There is a lot of space for camping on shore. The lake was filled back up to the bank. Bugs were very light.

SiteShore
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Justin R., June 23, 2023
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Justin R., June 23, 2023
Reviewed Nov. 13, 2022

Henry Lake

No amenities. Says there is a vault toilet, but it’s been taken down. Lake is mostly dry. Free range Bulls! They’re nice though.

Siteno assigned sites. park wherever
Month of VisitNovember
Reviewed Oct. 11, 2022

Stargazing and Sunsets!

There’s not much here… just some dirt, a bit of water, and big sky. The sunset was AMAZING! And you can see mountains in the distance. Plus + it’s free! Only downside is the bugs. Lots of them.

Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2022

pretty lovely spot!

it’s a pretty lovely spot, quiet and peaceful. there are a lot of bugs however so be ready for that! otherwise really loved it!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Ildiko F., August 31, 2022
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Ildiko F., August 31, 2022
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by Ildiko F., August 31, 2022
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2022

Easy place off the high way

I was planning to go to limon but ended up finding this place. Made it in time for sunset. Don’t let the bad smell on the way in scare you away. I didn’t smell it when I go here.

Pros nice views, free, easy dort road the last .5 miles little highway noise and T mobile/viaero service. 1-2 bars.

Cons no facilities, lots of bugs

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by peter , August 9, 2022
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by peter , August 9, 2022
  • Review photo of Lake Henry by peter , August 9, 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are fires allowed at Lake Henry?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Lake Henry, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Lake Henry have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Lake Henry does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Lake Henry?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is available, and T-Mobile is good.