High-elevation camping spots surround Alma, Colorado, offering access to alpine terrain at elevations typically above 10,000 feet. The camping season runs shorter than lower-elevation areas, with most sites accessible from late June through September. Temperature fluctuations create challenging camping conditions even during summer months.
What to do
Hike to alpine lakes: At Lower Crystal Lake, visitors can continue beyond the campground to explore higher terrain. "The lake is beautiful but can be very windy. Great place to stay if you have the right vehicle and gear but not many spots," according to Nick D.
Summit multiple 14ers: The Chaffee County Road 390 Dispersed area provides strategic base camps for tackling Colorado's highest peaks. "We attempted a hike up Mt Belford (a 14er) but only made it around 12k feet before turning back as it was too cold and windy. Pace yourself and drink A LOT of water if you're not accustomed to the altitude," warns Tommy S.
Fish mountain waters: Several camping areas provide fishing access, with Twin Lakes offering productive waters. Christina A. notes that near Kite Lake there's "good fishing along the river and great for doing the 14ers then coming back to camp."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping, campers appreciate the natural spacing. "Our site was far enough from the neighboring spots that we couldn't see or hear other campers, making it feel peaceful and secluded," writes Jenny B., who also mentions seeing signs of moose activity nearby.
Proximity to trails: Many campsites provide immediate trail access. Hayley K. notes that Kite Lake serves as "a great basecamp with a large group in order to hike the Decalibron loop early in the morning," adding that "there are many trails you can hike out from the camp."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive conditions at most sites, some established areas maintain excellent facilities. Clint P. describes Kite Lake as having "the absolute cleanest trailhead/campground bathroom ever" with "adequate parking" and a "good camping community."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. The road to Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping "is a bit rough in a couple of spots, but doable if you take your time, even with a small vehicle," according to Lydia N.
Seasonal closures: Snow impacts access well into summer at higher elevations. Multiple reviews for McCullough Gulch report closures, with one visitor in June 2024 simply stating: "Still closed for the season."
Parking limitations: Many sites have limited vehicle space. Rebecca B. notes about Boreas Pass: "We're in a van, and while some spots would have been great, not all would work for our van. Many beautiful views, so the drive to the top was worth it."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Some sites offer small swimming areas for kids. At Chaffee County Road 390, one camper found "an awesome little swimming hole, maybe 5 feet deep with a little make-shift diving board already in place," noting it was "awesome for kids!"
Wildlife viewing: Camping areas frequently provide wildlife encounters. Jenny B. reports from Spruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping that "the campsite overall" is "set back and surrounded by gorgeous trees," creating opportunities for nature observation.
Weather preparation: Families need extra layers and rain gear throughout summer. One camper at McCullough Gulch noted: "Temps were high 70s in the evenings and low 40s at night in mid July so prepare with layers."
Tips from RVers
Turn-around space: RVers should scout sites before committing. At Homestake Reservoir, Amy N. found "a great spot on the creek. Level and had a turn around for a larger rig. Many tent sites around. Road is in good shape."
Alternate parking options: When campgrounds fill, some allow alternative arrangements. Logan S. notes about Kite Lake: "One way to avoid paying 12 dollars for a traditional campsite is to sleep in your vehicle and only pay the 3 dollars per day."
Hookup availability: Most tent camping near Alma lacks RV amenities. Campgrounds like Lodgepole Campground offer more established facilities with amenities like drinking water and trash service but no electric hookups, making it suitable for self-contained units.
