Camping in the Hartsel area of central Colorado encompasses both established facilities and dispersed sites across Pike National Forest and adjacent Bureau of Land Management lands. The region includes several noteworthy campgrounds, including the popular Eleven Mile State Park with Rocky Ridge and Stoll Mountain campgrounds along the reservoir, and Happy Meadows which offers streamside camping along the South Platte River. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varied amenities ranging from primitive sites with vault toilets to more developed campgrounds offering electric hookups and potable water.
Seasonal operation affects many campgrounds near Hartsel, with most operating from May through September or early October due to winter conditions at higher elevations. "Large, non-electric sites with picnic table and fire pit. Most sites are tucked in the trees and well shaded. If shade is important, check the campground map before booking," noted one visitor about Buffalo Springs Campground near Fairplay. Road quality varies considerably, with several campgrounds accessible via maintained dirt roads that may become rutted after rain. Water availability is inconsistent across locations - some campgrounds like Happy Meadows offer only hand pump water sources while others provide hookups. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for developed sites, particularly during summer weekends and holidays.
Campers frequently mention the quiet atmosphere and scenic mountain views as highlights of the Hartsel region's camping experience. Buffalo Springs receives praise for its well-spaced sites offering privacy among pine trees, while Happy Meadows attracts visitors seeking riverside camping and fishing access. One camper described Happy Meadows as having "spaces a fair distance apart from each other, making for a quiet atmosphere." The elevation (generally 8,000-10,000 feet) provides cool evening temperatures even during summer months, with excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant throughout the area, with campers commonly reporting deer, elk, and various bird species. Cell service remains limited or nonexistent at most campgrounds, providing a genuine disconnect from urban life.
$28 / night
"The campsites here are really cool, mixed in between really rugged rocks and lake shore."
"Another great Colorado State Park, it sits above Eleven Mile Reservoir. The sites offer everything from tent sites to full hook up. There is limited shade, but most sites are exposed."
$28 - $36 / night
"Eleven mile is a large reservoir by Colorado standards and has tons of campsites, all around the lake from great walk-in tent sites, lake shore and small to large loops. "
"Plenty of drive up tent sites and a few walk in campsites that feel a little more remote."
$20 - $40 / night
"This place is so easy to get to and is very close to the city of Buena Vista. Any type of car can make it to the campsites and there are bathroom facilities available."
"Over 50 sites available, some grouped together, others you can just drive in and have plenty of privacy. There are even public vault toilets available."
$24 - $29 / night
"This was a quaint little campground that had good access to the river through one of the sites, and was a good location for tubers; within walking distance of good enter and exit spots."
"Restroom, water and wood for sale Just off tarryall road in lake george. Easy access. No pull through locations for big rigs"
$24 / night
"Located a short drive off of 285, this campground has well dispersed sites with trees and privacy. Sites are large and offer views of nearby mountain ranges."
"Most sites are tucked in the trees and well shaded. If shade is important, check the campground map before booking. We went for a nice walk down the forest road towards Weston Pass. Beautiful views."
$24 / night
"Spruce Grove Campground is a beautiful location approximately 2 hours Southwest of Denver."
"This is a very popular spot for families with easy access to the South Platte for tubing and swimming, but not ideal for fisherman as many people playing in the river."
$40 - $180 / night
"The kitchen is fully functional, plus a BBQ and picnic table on the outside. The grounds were quiet and we had plenty of space away from neighboring visitors."
"Location is great and is close by to Mt Princeton Hot Springs, rafting on the Arkansas River, hiking, and the town of Buena Vista."
$28 / night
"Here are the positives: Great access to the Arkansas River (fishing, put-in/ - take/out access)
- Very well-maintained spaces and clean bathrooms
- Minutes from rafting outfitters (we always go through"
"Ruby Mountain is located a few miles south of Buena Vista Colorado along the Arkansas River. The site can be accessed from the main highway down a dirt and gravel road."
$24 / night
"This is a wonderful campground at the end of the road near the dam and right next to the Platte. This is a wonderful spot for fly fishing, and can get busy sharing the river with day visitors."
"There is a trail above the camp that will take you up to some beautiful views through a meadow. Right in the camp are over 5 established bouldering routes and even more in the hill above camp."
$5 - $15 / night
"This was a pretty cool campground in a good location, but there are only 5 official spots; the rest are dispersed camping along Highway 8, but there are several available."
"Did see a Porsche, but they did not drive all the way to the end. People drive up to camp and to park to hike the Quad."
ScoutOne other car with the tent, braved the cold and wind, but otherwise pretty peaceful open spot.
We drove in with a 25 foot sprinter RV. No problem getting around, but there are big rolling bumps in the road so we just crawled super slowly and had no problems.
ScoutVery accessible, pet friendly and the kids love it! Lots of room and a fire pit with a built in grill!
TravelerSome highway noise great views.
ScoutDispersed camping outside of Leadville near Turquoise Lake. Saw only one other truck camper near the entrance but I drove back about a quarter mile. Some tree harvesting, but so what? The view of Mount Massive is awesome.
TravelerStayed a few times, never had an issue finding a spot! Pretty quiet too.
ScoutStayed at site 34- which I believe was the last of this run. Went further up the road to Wellington lake after we set up. There was maybe 3/4 other sites during that drive.
Super cool area. Can walk around each site to explore and up to Wellington lake(very low water level). Welling ton lake also has camping but it is paid. There is also a fee just for day use as it is a private owned lake $14(adults 18+). Catch and release fishing. Unfortunately the hiking trail to the waterfall was closed due to May trees down :(
Rangers, sheriffs, and nps were up and down the road strongly enforcing the fire ban. I get it. When you camp you want a fire but unfortunately Colorado's winter sucked leading to it being dry as heck. Bring extra propane as camp grills are okay.
GuideWe drove in at night so it was hard to tell how many sites were available. We found a good one in a large clearing that easily fit our camper… it would have been a perfect site for multiple campers because there were multiple fire pits. It was also across the road from the creek! Overall easy to access, not crowded (in late March) and pretty landscape. Only drawback was a lot of casings and some trash leftover from previous campers.
Unless you want to off-road, recommend taking the route (if starting near COS) through Woodland Park & Divide.
TravelerThe road in can be a little rough pulling a camper but it is worth it. Gorgeous all seasons.
ScoutHad no problems at all finding a spot with so much space. Great views. Definitely heard some OHV vehicles but not to bad at all. Definitely would recommend!
Dispersed camping near Hartsel, Colorado offers unique opportunities in the South Park basin, with most sites situated at elevations between 8,500-10,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-75°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. The area's camping options include both established campgrounds and primitive sites on public lands, with limited cell service throughout the region.
Fishing access: Happy Meadows Campground provides direct river access for anglers. "This is a very small campground between a county road and on the bend of Adamans creek, only 7-8 spots with a camp host. Fishing can be done within the CG, but plenty of hiking is available at nearby Spruce Grove," notes Neil B.
Mountain biking trails: BV Overlook offers trail access directly from campsites. "We visited Buena Vista mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," explains Becky M., who adds "This place is a fantastic basecamp for all of the adventures that BV has."
High-altitude hiking: From Kite Lake Campground, hikers can access multiple 14,000-foot peaks on maintained trails. "Most reasons to head out to the kite lake area are to try and summit 4 fourteeners in one day. Mt. Democrat, Mt. Lincoln, Mt Cameron, and Mt. Bross," writes Anthony P., who recommends bringing extra water since "there is no drinking water out here."
Rock climbing: The granite formations throughout the region provide opportunities for climbers of various skill levels. "Right in the camp are over 5 established bouldering routes and even more in the hill above camp. You are right next to the host, but nestled in a corner, so it is a nice, private area," shares Christina G. about Spillway Campground.
River proximity: Campers consistently praise sites with water access. At Ruby Mountain Campground, "The main attraction here is the river. The boat ramp provides access to private users and the backup for commercial users when the river is low," according to Steve & Ashley G.
Secluded campsites: Spruce Grove Campground receives high marks for its layout and separation between sites. "We personally are fans of the short hike in sites but even the drive in sites have quick, easy access to the creek and have a great view of the surrounding rocks and mountains," writes Manuel M.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution around Hartsel creates ideal stargazing conditions. "Milky Way visible at night. Camp host is always friendly and keeps each site and restrooms clean for each and every guest," reports Courtney M. about her annual trips to Happy Meadows.
Wildlife opportunities: The diverse habitats support various animal species. "We saw some big horn sheep!!! Lots of wild life in this area, be aware always," mentions Mackenzie B. about her experience at Ruby Mountain Campground.
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. For Buffalo Springs Campground, "The pull in from 285 is a bit rough, so be prepared and use GPS so you have a warning of where to turn. The road is closed January to June," advises Amanda M.
Water availability: Water sources vary significantly between sites. At Spruce Grove Campground, "There is trash and water available, although water is only from a hand-pump," notes Neil B.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. "This campground seldom has sites available without reservation. I recommend making reservations several months in advance on www.recreation.gov," suggests Jennie R. about Spruce Grove.
Weather preparedness: Rapid weather changes occur frequently at higher elevations. "We stayed at site 3, large but not in the river. No shade," reports Brittyn about Happy Meadows, while at Kite Lake, "The temps got way down into the low teens that night so it was a chilly one," writes Anthony P.
River recreation: Turtle Rock Campground offers safe water access. "Lots of hiking, rock climbing, and the Arkansas river is hiking distance away which was helpful for cooling off when it's scorching outside," says Ashley W.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some sites specifically cater to families with children. "This is a wonderful campground for families with easy access to the South Platte for tubing and swimming," recommends Patrick R. about Spruce Grove.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide nature learning experiences. At Turtle Rock, "There is a rock climbing trail and beautiful views of the peaks near by for some daytime entertainment," describes Megan V.
Space considerations: Campsite sizes vary considerably. At Spillway Campground, "We had site 2, 4 and 6 - tent-only sites. Warning for parties that are larger than 2 people Site 2 was a bit small for a larger tent," cautions Mindy R.
Site limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on RV size. At Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area, "This would be a challenge for large campers to get to, and archways through the rock on the road in make for a cool drive but limits what will make it down the road," advises Amanda M.
Leveling challenges: The terrain at some sites requires preparation. At Buffalo Springs, "Sites are not very level and we had a heck of a time getting our 26' Travel Trailer level here - so bring lots of blocks/boards," warns Jennifer L.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. At BV Overlook, "Large pull through spots available for RVs" make setup easier according to canyongirl100.
Road clearance concerns: Access roads often present challenges for larger vehicles. "The road to get here from Salida is 12 miles of dirt road that is VERY washboard," notes Daniel H. about Eleven Mile Canyon, recommending careful driving and preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season for camping in Hartsel, Colorado?
The prime camping season near Hartsel runs from late May through early October. Given its high elevation (around 8,900 feet), this area experiences a shorter camping season than lower-elevation regions. Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground is particularly popular during summer months when you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and beach activities. At Horn Fork Basin Dispersed Camping in the Collegiate Peak Wilderness, summer offers ideal conditions for backpacking and summit attempts. July and August provide the most reliable weather, while September offers beautiful fall colors with fewer crowds. Early season camping (May-June) may encounter snowmelt and muddy conditions. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and early snow possible by late September.
Where can I find camping sites near Hartsel, Colorado?
Hartsel's central Colorado location provides access to several excellent camping options. Eleven Mile State Park offers multiple campgrounds near Lake George, just a short drive from Hartsel. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Road 240 - Dispersed provides numerous wooded spots along a river, considered one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for dispersed camping. Other nearby options include Buffalo Springs near Fairplay and Spruce Grove Campground near Lake George. The South Park area surrounding Hartsel features abundant public lands with dispersed camping opportunities on National Forest land, particularly in the Pike National Forest, where you can find established sites with fire rings and primitive facilities.
What amenities are available at Hartsel camping areas?
Camping areas near Hartsel offer varying levels of amenities. At O'Haver Lake Campground outside Salida, you'll find lakeside sites with access to excellent trout fishing. The campground has basic facilities including fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. For more developed options, Mueller State Park Campground provides level gravel tent pads, large tables, fire pits, and access to trails and a visitor center. Dispersed camping areas typically offer minimal to no amenities, with some designated spots featuring established fire rings. Many campgrounds in the region have vault toilets, while developed sites may include potable water during peak season. Some areas offer RV-friendly sites with level parking pads, though hookups are limited in this rural region.
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