Forest Service Road 250 offers dispersed camping at high altitude between 9,000-10,000 feet near Guffey, Colorado. The area sits within Pike National Forest where temperatures routinely drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs to overnight lows regardless of season. Summer storms frequently bring afternoon lightning, while winter access requires preparation for significant snow accumulation.
What to do
Hiking the Overlook Trail: Spillway Campground provides access to a short but rewarding trail. "The Overlook trail is a short 0.5 mile hike up that has a great view. The camp hosts, Neal & Patty were very friendly and keep a nice campground," notes Stephen K. from Spillway Campground.
Fly fishing South Platte River: Eleven Mile Canyon offers excellent access points for anglers. "Located just below the spillway from Eleven Mile Reservoir, views of the river can be seen from the campground. The campground hosts are extremely helpful and sweet, and keep the campground clean and inviting!" shares Rea M. from Eleven Mile Canyon.
Mountain biking trail networks: Multiple trails surround Mueller State Park Campground with varying difficulty levels. "The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all," reports Steve C., who appreciated the outdoor activity options.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Forest Service Road 250 provides dispersed sites with privacy. "Dirt road appears not to be maintained. Closer to the main road is accessible by regular clearance vehicles and equipment. The further back you go the rougher the dirt road gets. Tent campers with 4WD vehicles can really procure secluded sites," explains James P.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Blue Mountain Campground offers chances to see local fauna. "We saw some deer and did hear that a bear visited our campground while we were there but didn't cause any trouble," mentions Cynthia W., who appreciated the natural setting.
Clean facilities at established campgrounds: Many campers note the well-maintained amenities. "Super nice facility and clean. Very busy park as a lot of sites are on the main road. If you can choose to stay off the main road areas you will enjoy more," says Brian F. about Mueller State Park.
What you should know
High altitude affects comfort and cooking: Elevations around Guffey mean thinner air and different cooking times. "The air is thin up here—real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it," explains Sarah F. from Cripple Creek KOA.
Washboard roads require caution: Access to many sites involves rough driving. "The road to get here from Salida is 12 miles of dirt road that is VERY washboard," warns Daniel H. about Eleven Mile Canyon.
Weather changes quickly: Be prepared for rapid shifts in conditions. "Morning temperatures often drop significantly in this high-altitude region" requiring campers to bring extra layers and warm sleeping gear.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated activities: Some sites offer more for children. "The kids loved the go-karting, mini-golf and giant slide. There is also a pool onsite which we did not use," shares Kelly P. about Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA.
Select sites away from main roads: Traffic can disturb family camping. "Super nice campsite, kind host, if you're planning on fishing there just get ready for the river to be super crowded," notes Charlotte J. about Spillway Campground.
Consider hike-in options for adventure: Some campgrounds offer walk-in sites for more privacy. "We stayed in a hike in site. The hike is amazing and beautiful but sucks with gear if you use the trail near the water. Teamwork, determination and a cart are mandatory if you take this route," advises Bruce K. about Eleven Mile Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability varies: Plan waste management accordingly. "Dump station with two sides so the line moves pretty quickly," notes a reviewer about Stoll Mountain Campground, which helps RVers plan departure timing.
Generator requirements: Many sites lack hookups, requiring alternative power. "There are no electrical hookups, so if you're bringing an RV or need power, make sure to bring a generator," advises Jessica S. about Eleven Mile State Park.
Site size and access limitations: Larger rigs have restricted options. "Not really for RV's. Even small ones like mine. Very narrow roads in with no real place to turn around. More for tent campers," warns Lynne W. about East Ridge Campground.
