Dispersed camping sites near Saguache, Colorado sit at high elevations between 7,800-9,000 feet in the San Luis Valley. This region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer daytime highs in the 80s dropping to the 40s at night. Campsites in the area typically remain accessible from late spring through mid-autumn, though higher elevation locations may close earlier due to snowfall.
What to do
Fishing at Ohaver Lake: Located about 45 minutes east of Saguache near Salida, this 9,000-foot alpine lake offers excellent trout fishing opportunities. "Healthy fish population," notes one visitor to Ohaver Lake Campground, while another camper mentioned, "Great little lake to fish and camp. Atv's aren't allowed in the camp ground, but there's a parking lot right at the entrance for atv's."
Soak in hot springs: Several hot springs facilities provide relaxing options for visitors to the Saguache area. "The Sangre de Christo Mountains tower in the distance and on a moonlit night, they positively glow from the farthest pool. The water in these springs have trace amounts of lithium which makes them even more relaxing than others I've tried," wrote one visitor to Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
Rock climbing: The volcanic formations at Penitente Canyon Recreation Area offer technical climbing routes. "Penitente Canyon is known for world class rock climbing. Even if you're not a climber it is fun to go and watch sport," explains a camper at Penitente Canyon Campground.
What campers like
Quieter alternatives to popular parks: Many campers appreciate the relative solitude compared to other Colorado destinations. A visitor to Buffalo Pass Campground remarked, "I absolutely loved this campground, it was a little closer than the listed 27 miles out of Saguache. There were multiple relatively clean bathrooms. There was a water spigot."
Access to natural hot springs: The therapeutic mineral waters draw many to the area's hot springs destinations. "Joyful Journey is a lovely little hot springs in the middle of the San Luis Valley... The springs is popular and can be a bit crowded, so be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time," advises one camper at Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
Mountain views: Campers consistently mention the dramatic mountain scenery. "The views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and sand dunes are fabulous. This is a quiet campground very close to the mouth of the canyon. There are so many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and climbing," notes a visitor at Penitente Canyon Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is often minimal or nonexistent in camping areas around Saguache. "No AT&T cell service in the campground proper but the hill just beyond the cattleguard in the entrance gets full bars," reports one camper at Buffalo Pass Campground.
Weather variability: The high desert climate means significant temperature changes. At Ohaver Lake Campground, a visitor noted, "We enjoyed nice daytime temperatures in the mid 60's and nighttime temperatures right around 50. And NO humidity!"
Reservation requirements: Many established campgrounds require advance planning. "We missed the reservation window for this popular spot so spent the first night camped down the hill in a Forest Service road pull-off," shared a camper at Ohaver Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: When camping with children, access to restrooms and water can make the experience more manageable. At Sand Dunes Recreation, one visitor mentioned, "Everything was as described. They are open during the winter. The showers were hot and clean! Lovely views to wake up too!"
Bring insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain seasons. "July was mosquito madness. Honestly I am from the country and can deal with bugs, but being dived bombed by 30 mosquitos (not exaggerating) is intense," warned a camper at Pinon Flats Campground.
Look for water features: Campgrounds with lakes or streams provide built-in entertainment. "This 9000foot high lake is a gem for kayaking, fishing and overall zen-ing. The lake was busy with folks doing all of these things, it never felt too crowded or overused," shares a visitor to Ohaver Lake Campground.
Tips for RVers
Check road conditions: Many campground access roads are unpaved and can be challenging for larger rigs. A visitor to Penitente Canyon noted, "The road to get to it is unpaved and bumpy, so I would recommend all wheel drive/ high clearance, but it is absolutely worth it."
Be aware of hookup limitations: Full hookups are rare at campgrounds near Saguache. At Russell Lake Wildlife Refuge, one camper clarified, "And signage says you can camp here so long as you're 'self contained'. I take this to mean, in your vehicle or a rooftop tent. No fire pits or anything like that, but there are pit toilets!"
Consider water access: Hot springs facilities often have unique water considerations. "Since the campground as its just an extension of the parking lot there is room for large rigs. It features all the all the basics with a clean and close shower house, electrical hookups and grills," notes a visitor to Joyful Journey Hot Springs.
