Trinidad Lake State Park offers camping options with easy access to the Rocky Mountains at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. Temperatures range from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows below freezing, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for many visitors. The area features pinon pine forests interspersed with open grasslands, creating a transition zone between mountain and plains ecosystems.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: Carpios Ridge Campground has well-marked trails with scenic vistas. "Nice hiking trails, which I always appreciate. Outer loop sites seemed best, but if you have young kids, consider that some outer loop sites with water views have a very steep drop off," notes Allison B. about Carpios Ridge Campground.
Stargazing at higher elevations: The lack of light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing. "At night there is zero light pollution and you can see so many stars," shares Kayla M. about South Shore Campground.
Geocaching with kids: Several parks offer this modern treasure hunting activity. "Beautiful view and fun stuff for the kids to do! Hiking, playground, geocaching. We will definitely be back!" says Ali C.
Historical exploration: Visit the remnants of coal mining towns within the state parks. "Hiking trails from the Ranger Headquarters offer a history lesson with the remnants of the 1920's coal mining town that prospered in this canyon," according to visitor reviews.
What campers like
Panoramic vistas: The views from higher campsites offer spectacular scenery. "We stopped here on our way in to Estes park and really enjoyed our stay. I wasn't expecting much but the campground is beautiful, we were right on the lake and a walking trail," shares Hannah F. about Carpios Ridge Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-kept amenities. "This State Park has a great camping area. It has places from tents to full hook ups. The restrooms were clean and had showers, but you had to pay for time with quarters, and there's a change machine so you can get quarters," notes Dave L.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes are less pressured than those near larger cities. "The lake is fished nearly as much as Denver. Fish are bigger and easier to catch," reports Kayla M.
Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to see native animals in their habitat. "You can see plenty of wildlife walking around the campground and trail," shares Nick U.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Prepare for sudden temperature changes and strong winds at higher elevations. "Very nice Pinon Pines and other small trees for cover. Up on the top of a hill next to the lake, so not much access to the water. Nice place to stay, but gets VERY HOT. And can also have some unpredictable weather roll through with high winds," warns Thomas B.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Reservations required but can make them by phone or internet upon arriving. Phone number is posted," explains Barbara P.
Limited water access: At some sites, reaching the lake requires effort. "Up on the top of a hill next to the lake, so not much access to the water. One year, when the water was low, it took about 15 min both ways up/down pretty rough and rugged trails," notes Thomas B.
Gate closing times: Some parks restrict after-hours access. "Gates close at dark so if you are arriving after dark you will not be able to get in," cautions Kassi S. about Raton Pass Camp & Cafe.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some sites offer dedicated play areas. "Really nice camp ground, cool play ground for the kids, fire place, picnic table and shed with great views," Jason S. shares about his experience.
Bear safety practices: Teach children proper food storage. "Bear boxes provided, deer walked through campground often. I did see bear tracks while hiking but host said they've never been a human issue," reports Callie C. about Lake Alice Campground.
Educational ranger programs: Check for special events during your stay. "The ranger came by one night and showed a group of kids a mountain lion pelt and a bear pelt," notes Matt B. about Soda Pocket Campground.
Covered picnic areas: Protection from sun and rain improves the experience. "Every site had a covered picnic table and was relatively level," shares a visitor at Soda Pocket Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment due to terrain. "We paid $45 for one night which was a steep price for the condition of the Park. On the plus side they had availability and full hookups with no prior reservation," notes Jamie F.
Fill water tanks first: Not all sites with electric have water hookups. "No water at the sight, you need to fill your holding tank before you park. Electric only and dump site provided," advises Charyle C.
Hookup orientation: Check the layout before reserving. "The utility hookups for Site 06 are on the Wrong (i.e. the passenger) side of the rig, given the orientation of the driveway for backing in," warns Jeff T.
Cell service availability: Coverage varies significantly by location. "Verizon 6.5 down / 1.6 up. Know that you'll lose some reception on the way up (coming from Colorado) so make sure your navigation is preset," suggests C.W.
