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Best Campgrounds near Sargents, CO

1,364 Reviews

Camping near Sargents, Colorado encompasses a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites within the San Isabel National Forest and surrounding public lands. The area sits along US Highway 50 in central Colorado, with Tomichi Creek Trading Post offering year-round camping with full RV hookups right in Sargents. Nearby, Monarch Park Campground operates from June to September at higher elevation, while Ohaver Lake Campground provides lakeside camping with excellent fishing opportunities from May to September. The region features several dispersed camping areas along forest roads, including sites near Mount Shavano and along Marshall Pass Road that connects to Poncha Pass.

Most campgrounds in the Sargents area operate seasonally due to the high elevation and winter conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to 70°F during the day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly for accessing remote dispersed sites. Fire restrictions are frequently implemented during dry periods, so visitors should check current regulations with the Salida Ranger District before planning campfires. Cell service is limited in canyon areas and at higher elevations, though some coverage exists near major highways.

The camping experience varies significantly between developed and primitive sites. According to reviews, O'Haver Lake Campground is particularly popular for fishing, with "incredible trout fishing" and campsites surrounding the lake. Dispersed camping areas along Marshall Pass Road provide access to extensive OHV trail networks, with one visitor noting "miles of trails to explore" and connections to Poncha Creek that "can be taken all the way to Sargents." Most established campgrounds have vault toilets and drinking water, while dispersed sites require visitors to pack in water and pack out waste. Wildlife encounters, including bears, are possible throughout the region, so proper food storage is essential.

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Best Camping Sites Near Sargents, Colorado (295)

    1. Monarch Park

    7 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $24 / night

    "Sites were sheltered slightly by bushes it looked like and I noticed at the kiosk that there were several trails that ran through or near the site."

    "We stayed in site 34 next to a bubbling creek. Very quiet, only a few other campers. The vegetation is beautiful, the air smells refreshing, and the water is extremely clean."

    2. Ohaver Lake Campground

    11 Reviews
    Poncha Springs, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $28 - $56 / night

    "This is one of my favorites from this summer trip to Colorado. O’Haver Campground is a high altitude lakeside campground outside of Salida Colorado."

    "Sweet campsites on a nice small lake up at around 9000 feet surrounded by mountains. Weekend summer use is heavy so plan to reserve in advance if possible. can be chilly at night."

    3. Road 240 - Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 539-3591

    "This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade."

    "And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around and no spots."

    4. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    16 Reviews
    Poncha Springs, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    "If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different."

    "It was easy to find and close to the highway.

    The road was pretty good but got a bit bumpy as we got closer but still not a problem with our trailer."

    5. Buffalo Pass Campground

    10 Reviews
    Sargents, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 655-2547

    "Great place to camp in Colorado to avoid weekend crowds. Wide open, off the beaten path as far as Colorado goes."

    "Close to the highway peek-a-boo views of the surrounding mountains nice campsites no water. If you walk down to the cattle great you can get a Wi-Fi signal"

    6. Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 530-0341

    $40 - $60 / night

    "Stayed here while thru hiking the colorado trail, what a wonderful time! Salida is a quick drive away and the trail is only a mile up the road. Staff was incredible and store well stocked."

    "It’s near a highway but we never found the road noise a problem. Didn’t even notice except an occasional truck using Jake brakes. It all but stopped at night.

    Owners are super nice and helpful."

    7. Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Poncha Springs, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Wide variety of campsites here close to the Colorado trail and two 14ers. Where we camped was a cow field and they came and went so would be careful with dogs."

    "I’ve camped next to the creek and further out away from the water. Honestly, it’s hard to find a bad campsite here!

    If you want a site close to the creek, you have to get there early."

    8. Angel Of Shavano Group — Psicc

    10 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    16 miles
    +1 (719) 539-3591

    $145 / night

    "The Colorado trail runs right next to campground and offered amazing hiking. Tons of Aspen trees!"

    "Quiet, fairly secluded, has its own fishing pond and nearby beaver ponds, N. Fk. S. Arkansas flows past, and it is right on the Colorado Trail."

    9. Tomichi Creek Trading Post

    1 Review
    Sargents, CO
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 641-0674

    10. Snowblind

    2 Reviews
    Monarch, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    "Snowblind is a great campsite for tent camping and also rvs and pull behinds. The road up to the campsite is 8 miles off the highway so no traffic to be heard, but is an easy drive."

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Recent Camping Photos near Sargents, CO

529 Photos of 295 Sargents Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Sargents, CO

1364 Reviews of 295 Sargents Campgrounds

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful

    Arrived late as usual amd the road was definitely a bumpy one. Didn't think we were going to find a spot. Found a pull in for the night, then sped out the area the next morning, and thank goodness we found a different spot. It was very spacious and had a pretty view. Took a hike up to Browns Creek falls and it was well worth the 7 mile round trip hike. Would go again.

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Winfield Camping Area

    Beautiful

    Thanks to Dyrt we found this beautiful place. Every weekend we try to disperse camp in a new location and this one was amazing. Got in on a Friday afternoon and found an amazing large spot. Had 2 fire pits but nobody camped beside us so we had it all to ourselves. Drive up to the trail head for Lake Ann. Friday need some clearance and 4x4. Hikes Lake Ann and wow that last 1.5 miles is a doozy but well worth it!! Will be back for sure to hike Mt. Huron

  • Nathaniel F.
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Crestone Needle Trail

    Good Sandy Camp Spot

    This place was a nice spot for dispersed camping! Lots of spots, and super easy to find just off the road. A bit sandy, but the soil underneath worked for stakes. The temp was cool, but not cold—great for early September!

  • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Buffalo Springs Dispersed

    Everything but a view

    There are plenty of spots and plenty of distance between them. The only complaint is that there is no view and nothing to see. Would definitely stay again, though.

  • Alonso O.
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Amazing views and many spots

    What a wonderful experience, I have to thank The Dyrt for this find. When we got to location, we were surprised with the amount of spots we could camp in. Although they have closed down camping near the shore, we were able to get a spot right above the hill. Every other camper was friendly.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Browns Creek

    Not bad

    Pros:

    1. Easy access (we drove an Elantra here)
    2. Beautiful views of the mountains.
    3. Cows grazing around our campsite in the morning (it was adorable).
    4. Good places to hang up a hammock.
    5. Sites were spaced out really well.

    Cons:

    1. Noisy neighbors (a gamble when camping anywhere near RVs).
    2. Dirty campground. The previous people left trash in the fire pit and TONS of unburied toilet paper in the woods very close to the campsite (which my friend and I cleaned up. You’re welcome).
  • G
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Creede, CO Overlook

    Get your camera out, this is picture perfect

    The farther you go, the steeper some of the hills get. I saw a large 5th wheel and a class A near the beginning. The last spot occupied was a capable Toyota 4Runner. Our 2-wheel drive made it to the top of the bald. 2bar for Verizon. I can see a cell tower across the valley, which must be T-Mobile, or I would have a stronger signal. Very short drive into town. Depending on your fitness level, an hour hike into town and back up. We had OHV vehicles drive by. The older the driver, the more they slowed down;) To avoid kicking up dust.

  • Morgan L.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    Great for a quick camp session

    I absolutely loved everything. It was easy to locate, it was a beautiful set up, the views were amazing, spaces were plentiful. The only thing I personally wasn’t too found of was the amount of dogs barking all night. But that’s the campers fault, not the sites.

  • Jeremy S.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Pleasant Valley RV Park

    August 2025

    Absolutely beautiful campground. Quiet and peaceful. Great views of the continental divide and relaxing sound of the river. Clean and cozy.

Guide to Sargents

Camping near Sargents, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, perfect for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, "There are plenty of places to hike and explore and close to BV as well," highlighting the accessibility of great hiking spots from Turtle Rock Campground.
  • Fishing: The Arkansas River is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. A review from Hecla Junction Campground noted, "It's a sweet place to camp right on the Arkansas River, just a bit north of Salida, CO."
  • Mountain Biking: Many campgrounds are close to trails that cater to mountain biking. One visitor at Ruby Mountain Campground said, "It has cell service and is wonderful for mountain biking."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Cottonwood Lake Campground stated, "A beautiful campground nestled in an aspen grove and evergreens."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. One camper at Chalk Creek Campground said, "Campground was very clean. Showers and laundry require quarters."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive high praise. A visitor at Colorado Cascade Campground mentioned, "The campground host was friendly but not intrusive."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Browns Creek, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A review noted, "No trash, no water hookups," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A camper at Cottonwood Lake Campground mentioned, "The lake is VERY popular, so during the day, especially, it is very busy."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be aware of wildlife in the area. One camper at Salida North BLM shared, "Very quiet stay with few visitors except for the mountain goats who were just as curious of us as we were of them."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. A review for BV Overlook noted, "Each site has a picnic table and fire pit with a grill top."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Hecla Junction Campground mentioned, "The nearby hike to rapid Seidel's Suckhole is pleasant, scenic, and relatively easy."
  • Pack Extra Supplies: Bring along extra snacks and games for downtime. A visitor at Turtle Rock Campground suggested, "I would bring your own toilet paper," indicating the need for extra supplies.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Ruby Mountain Campground mentioned, "Most importantly, the address is incorrect while trying to find your way here; use the coordinates."
  • Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some campgrounds have bumpy access roads. A camper at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area noted, "Roads spread throughout, pretty rough in some areas."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A review for Hecla Junction Campground advised, "Some of the RV/trailer sites are uneven, so bring extra leveling blocks!"

Camping near Sargents, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots in Sargents, Colorado?

The Sargents area offers excellent camping options for those seeking less crowded mountain experiences. Poncha Pass Dispersed provides miles of trails to explore, with easy access to O'Haver Lake for fishing and connects to roads leading directly to Sargents. For RV enthusiasts, Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins is considered one of the most beautiful RV parks in the region. Other noteworthy spots include Road 240 Dispersed camping, which offers wooded sites along a river, and Tomichi Creek Trading Post for those wanting more amenities. The Sargents area is particularly appealing because it's off the beaten path enough to minimize traffic while remaining close to excellent four-wheeling and off-roading areas.

When is the best season for camping in Sargents, Colorado?

Summer and early fall (June through September) offer the most reliable weather for camping near Sargents. Ohaver Lake Campground outside of Salida is particularly enjoyable in summer when the high-altitude lakeside setting provides great trout fishing. Early October can also be spectacular, as visitors to Oh Be Joyful Campground have experienced amazing views and pleasant weather. The area's higher elevation means summer temperatures remain comfortable, while spring access can be limited by snowmelt and muddy conditions. Late fall brings colorful foliage but increasingly cold nights. Winter camping is possible for experienced cold-weather campers, but many access roads become impassable and facilities close for the season.

What amenities are available at camping sites in Sargents, Colorado?

Camping amenities vary widely around Sargents. Riverside RV Park offers developed sites alongside the Arkansas River with hookups for RVs. For public campgrounds, Buffalo Pass Campground provides basic facilities while offering a more secluded experience away from crowds. Dispersed camping areas like 228A Dispersed Campsite typically offer no facilities beyond fire rings. Many campgrounds in the region feature vault toilets, while some developed sites include water access. For RV campers, Tomichi Creek Trading Post provides necessary hookups and toilet facilities. For those seeking more amenities, sites closer to Salida offer showers, electrical hookups, and dump stations. Most dispersed camping in national forest land follows pack-in, pack-out principles with no provided amenities.

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