Native Lake Primitive Camping

Hagerman Pass dispersed camping is located in the Colorado Rocky Mountains between Leadville and the Fryingpan Valley. The pass traverses the Continental Divide in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness area and sits at a high elevation in alpine terrain. The area provides access to various hiking trails and natural features including Native Lake. Due to its high elevation, the area is typically accessible only during summer and early fall months when the pass road is clear of snow.

Dispersed camping at Hagerman Pass follows standard U.S. Forest Service regulations. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Campfires may be restricted during dry periods, so portable stoves are recommended. Stays are typically limited to 14 days within a 30-day period. The high alpine environment requires extra care to minimize impact on fragile ecosystems. Always check with the local Forest Service office before your trip for current regulations and fire restrictions.

Native Lake is accessible via a hiking trail from the Hagerman Pass area. The lake offers multiple dispersed campsites along its shoreline, marked for campers to use. The alpine setting means temperatures rarely exceed 40°F at night even in summer, so cold-weather camping gear is essential. Some areas around the lake can be swampy, but drier camping spots can be found, though not directly on the lakeshore. The lake area makes an excellent overnight destination for those hiking from the Hagerman Pass region.