Trinidad Lake State Park offers camping opportunities at elevations around 6,300 feet with notable temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. The area features juniper and piñon pine woodland habitat, creating natural shade at many camping locations. Seasonal closures affect campground availability from October through April at most locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Trinidad Lake State Park, the lake remains a prime fishing destination with less pressure than metropolitan areas. "The lake is fished nearly as much as Denver. Fish are bigger and easier to catch," notes Kayla M., who also mentions the "full bathrooms and showers" available to campers after a day on the water.
Night sky viewing: Trinidad area campgrounds provide exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. "At night there is zero light pollution and you can see so many stars," reports one camper at Trinidad Lake. For wildlife enthusiasts, the region offers bird watching opportunities throughout the camping season.
Hiking trail access: Multiple trail options surround the camping areas. Bear Lake Campground provides direct trail access just yards from campsites. Marcela R. confirms, "There's a trail a few yards from the site with a great view!" Bear Lake sits at higher elevation (11,000 feet) compared to Trinidad Lake, offering different ecological zones for exploration.
What campers like
Spacious campsite configurations: While some campgrounds feature closely arranged sites, others prioritize space. At NRA Whittington Center Campground, campers appreciate the generous site dimensions. "The spaces are huge! We are on an end and I think ours is about a quarter acre in size!" reports Melody M., adding that "There are lots of trees around and natural grass growing."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations regularly seen by campers. At Stonewall Lodge & RV Park, visitors often spot deer moving through the campground at dusk, with Amanda B. noting they even received "a dusk field trip to see the wildlife."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. According to Steve M. at Trinidad Lake State Park, sites include "trash, vault toilets, covered picnic tables, fire pits and BBQ grills, included 24 hr showers, laundry, garbage" with lake views from all sites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Bear Lake Campground, Jose M. cautions it's "a busy (small), very pretty campground" that requires advance planning. Barbara P. notes at Trinidad Lake that "reservations required but can make them by phone or internet upon arriving. Phone number is posted."
Site spacing variations: Campsite proximity differs significantly between locations. "Campsites are pretty close together," notes Sophie S. about Trinidad Lake State Park, while other reviewers at different campgrounds mention privacy between sites depending on tree coverage and layout.
Seasonal access considerations: Most glamping near Trinidad, Colorado operates between May and October. The Bear Lake Campground season runs "May to October" with specific opening and closing dates varying based on weather conditions and elevation.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Capulin RV Park provides amenities specifically designed for family enjoyment including "common fire ring with seating and view of volcano, swing with view of volcano" according to David B. Trinidad Lake State Park offers family-oriented recreation with Ali C. sharing, "Beautiful view and fun stuff for the kids to do! Hiking, playground, geocaching. We will definitely be back!"
Site selection strategy: For families seeking more privacy, choose end sites when available. Teresa T. recommends arriving around "5:00 pm" when "they had 2 vacancies" at Bear Lake Campground, noting the "friendly neighbors" enhanced their experience.
Weather preparation: Mountain elevation causes significant temperature drops after sunset. Pack warm clothes even for summer glamping near Trinidad as nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s even in July and August.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Raton KOA offers varied hookup options for different needs and budgets. Jason F. explains, "Most sites have 20/30 amp service, water, and septic hookups, although less expensive sites with fewer amenities are also available." The campground also features "a fenced in dog park where the pups can run off leash."
Utility locations: RV sites at most campgrounds place hookups midway along the site length. At Capulin RV Park, David B. notes utilities include "20/30/50A electric in middle of site. Water in middle of site, good pressure. Sewer in middle of site with 4-in screw-on fitting."
Site surface considerations: Most RV sites use gravel or crushed stone surfaces. Louise S. describes Capulin RV Park as "a crushed rock lot with pull through sites," while at Raton KOA, sites are "a mix of mostly live gravel and dirt" according to Jason F.
