Lake Pueblo State Park sits on the eastern plains of Colorado at an elevation of 4,900 feet, offering glamping options in a high desert climate that typically stays warm and dry through most of the camping season. The reservoir's 60 miles of shoreline creates numerous protected coves and inlets that shield campers from the region's frequent winds, which can gust up to 30 mph during spring and early summer months.
What to do
Mountain biking at Arkansas Point Campground: Trail access near this campground offers varying difficulty levels with lake views. "Nice spots with fishing, biking, and boating. The camp host John and his wife are incredibly friendly and helpful! Clean facilities and park," writes Rachel P. at Arkansas Point Campground.
Wildlife watching at Cheyenne Mountain: The trails at this state park offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw deer multiple nights, rabbits and a skunk 😅. We had 3 people, a dog, tiny camper and a tent and had a great time," notes Kari M. at The Meadows Campground.
Fishing from shore: Lake Pueblo offers accessible fishing spots within walking distance of many campsites. "We came to go mountain biking and fishing, did both," explains Patrick L., describing the multi-activity opportunities at Arkansas Point Campground.
Sunsets and stargazing: The open views at Lake Pueblo make for spectacular evening skies. "Sunsets were beautiful and the nighttime show of stars spectacular! The picnic shelters, at every site, are a nice protection from the winds and sun," shares Kristin K. about her experience at Arkansas Point.
What campers like
Private outdoor spaces: Many glamping sites provide separate outdoor areas with fire rings. "The spots are well spaced out and had fire pits and picnic tables. Beautiful views of the lake nearby and the mountains off in the distance," explains Erin S. at Northern Plains Campground.
Clean individual bathroom facilities: Campers appreciate the private bathroom setups at some locations. "The bathroom/shower rooms are individual and tidy! This is rare and was much appreciated during Covid," notes a reviewer at Arkansas Point Campground.
Level, well-maintained sites: Glamping locations near Pueblo offer carefully prepared camping surfaces. "All level spots here, full hook-up. Not much privacy or shade, but would still highly recommend," writes Lynn A. about The Meadows Campground.
Shade structures: Most sites at Lake Pueblo include built-in shade for the picnic areas. "The picnic table had a nice metal shade. Fire pit. Spot well groomed and clean," reports Ryan J. about his stay at Northern Plains Campground.
What you should know
Wind considerations: The high plains location means consistent wind exposure. "It can be extraordinarily windy at times. Tent camping as others have mentioned might be unexpectedly very challenging. Campfires can also be a challenge, depending on the wind," warns a camper at Swift Puma Heights Campground.
Limited shade: Most glamping sites have minimal natural shade. "Nicely spaced and sized level sites. Good views of the lake and sunrise/sunset. Super clean and warm bathrooms with no smell. Very little trees so no shade. They do provide a shade screen at every site," explains Jamie from Arkansas Point.
Seasonal water availability: Some facilities turn off water during colder months. "Hot in summer, but nice cool nights and mornings. Signage coming in was lacking. Web site and phone calls said 'sold out' but there must have been 25 spots open that we could see. Electric, but no water," shares Charles M. about Arkansas Point.
Booking reality: Reservations are essential, especially for summer weekends. "We stayed for one night in early October, at site 159. Level parking, and although we were somewhat close to our nearest neighbor to the east, it seemed like most sites offered privacy," notes Allison B. about Juniper Breaks.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several glamping areas include family facilities. "This facility is well cared for and fairly easy to get in and out of," writes Jay P. about Colorado Springs KOA, which offers numerous family amenities.
Junior Ranger programs: Take advantage of educational opportunities. "We took our kids (2, 5, & 7) to the junior ranger class they host at the visitor center almost every Saturday. They learned about boat safety and got free sunglasses and emergency whistles. My 7 year old niece finished her ranger booklet and got a junior ranger badge, which she loved," shares Marissa B. about Juniper Breaks Campground.
Swimming alternatives: Lake Pueblo has specific swimming areas that may be seasonal. "There is also a swim beach nearby...it was too cold when we were there to justify swimming," notes Marissa B. from her Juniper Breaks experience.
Animal sightings: Wildlife viewing opportunities excite children. "Mule deer wondering around, humming birds whizing by truly enchanting," reports Wendy S. about her stay at Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site orientation considerations: Check site layout before booking. "The majority of sites at Juniper Breaks have the picnic table and fire ring on the drivers side of your vehicle (if you back in). We have young kids so wanted to be able to see the door of our camper if the kids came out after bedtime while the parents were still up," advises Marissa B.
Bathroom access planning: Facilities may have restricted hours. "The bathrooms are not far from any spot. Tons of trails to the water lots of places to explore," notes Alyse P. about Juniper Breaks Campground.
Water hookup preparation: Water connection points can be shared between sites. "We had electric hookups only," explains Shannon O. at Arkansas Point, highlighting the need to check utility specifics before arrival.
Electricity reliability: Power issues can occur. "We RV camp. you MUST make reservations well in advance. Power went out and fried our surge protector," warns Deni B. about camping at Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA, suggesting RVers bring protection for their electrical systems.
