Best Campgrounds near La Veta, CO
The Spanish Peaks region surrounding La Veta, Colorado features diverse camping options ranging from high-altitude forest sites to developed state parks. Cordova Pass Campground sits directly in La Veta at 10,000+ feet elevation, while Bear Lake and Blue Lake campgrounds offer fishing-focused experiences about 45 minutes from town along scenic Highway 12. For RV travelers, Circle the Wagons RV Park provides full hookups within La Veta's town limits. Within an hour's drive, campers can access Lathrop State Park's Piñon and Yucca campgrounds near Walsenburg, which offer year-round camping with electric hookups, showers, and lake access.
Many mountain campgrounds require navigating steep dirt roads with multiple switchbacks, limiting access for larger RVs and trailers. As one camper noted, "The road leading to Blue Lake is about 5 miles of steep gravel and dirt with switchbacks, wide enough for vans and smaller campers but not larger 5th wheels." High-elevation sites typically operate May through October, while lower-elevation areas remain open year-round. Cell service is notably absent at mountain campgrounds, with one visitor commenting, "No phone reception and a bit off beaten path, close to La Veta and Cuchara." Colorado State Parks require entrance fees ($9-10 daily) in addition to camping fees, and reservations are essential during summer months at popular locations.
Fishing opportunities consistently receive high ratings from visitors to the area, particularly at Bear and Blue Lakes where trout fishing is exceptional. According to one review, "The lake is pristine and clear and you can see every trout in the lake. The fishing was fantastic." The region is known for spectacular night skies and stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Wildlife viewing is common, with bears frequently spotted near mountain campgrounds. Campers mention the dramatic temperature variations, with cool nights even during summer months at higher elevations. State park campgrounds offer more amenities but tend to be more expensive, while forest service campgrounds provide more rustic experiences with vault toilets and limited services but greater privacy and natural settings.
