Mueller State Park Campground sits at approximately 9,500 feet elevation in Colorado's Pike National Forest, offering 131 sites across multiple campground loops. The high elevation creates significant temperature shifts with nights dropping below freezing even in summer months. Campers at Mueller should prepare for afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months and expect limited cell service throughout most of the park.
What to do
Hiking exploration: Mueller State Park features over 55 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels across 5,000 acres of forest. Alexis B. mentions, "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring." Many trails offer connections to wildlife viewing areas.
Wildlife viewing: The park's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife year-round. "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" notes Brian F. from Mueller State Park Campground. Early morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Historic mining towns: Visit nearby Cripple Creek and Victor to explore Colorado mining history. Sarah F. from Cripple Creek KOA says, "Great hiking nearby and the towns of Cripple Creek and Victor are full of old mining history!" Both towns maintain many original structures and offer self-guided walking tours.
Water activities: During summer months, campers can visit nearby reservoirs for fishing and paddling. According to Joel C., Skagway Reservoir near Florence provides opportunities where families "spent our days hanging out at the reservoir, walking through the forest and magical acreage."
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the upkeep of campgrounds in the area. Kenneth F. states, "This is a beautiful state campground. 30 amp electrical hook ups. Along with fireplaces and picnic tables at each site." The attention to detail enhances camping comfort.
Private, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with good separation. "Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in," reports Sarah S. about Mueller State Park Campground.
Night sky viewing: The high elevation and limited light pollution create exceptional stargazing opportunities. Steve C. notes, "The camp sites are well maintained and have vaulted toilets and water pumps conveniently located throughout the campgrounds. Everybody was respectful of each other's space and quiet."
Morning wildlife encounters: Bruce K. reports, "Very nice quiet stay in the woods. All camp sites are very easy to get to and nicely groomed." Dawn hours often bring mule deer, turkeys, and various bird species near campsites.
What you should know
Cold overnight temperatures: The high elevation means significant temperature drops after sunset. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns Bruce K. Campers should pack warm sleeping bags rated for at least 20°F even during summer months.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely across campgrounds. Steve C. mentions, "I was surprised that I had 1 or 2 bars (Verizon) throughout most of the park, even 3 bars on parts of the Cheeseman Ranch Bike Loop." Many campgrounds offer no reliable service.
Afternoon weather patterns: Summer afternoons typically bring thunderstorms. Dave V. from The Meadows Campground advises, "Keep the elevation in mind when choosing activities. Being a 'flatlander,' it takes about 7-10 days for your body to adjust to high elevations, so allocate more time on the trails for recovery breaks and hydration."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. "Even on a Monday night in mid April, the park was filled so reservations would be advised," notes Dave V. Weekend dates during summer often fill 3-6 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. According to Tasha M., "There is a dog park area. Hummingbirds enjoyed the area as well. They had an outdoor kitchen with cast iron skillets for the campers to use as well as a stove and two big charcoal grills up at the main building."
Comfortable glamping options: For families new to camping, Lone Duck Campground provides multiple accommodation options. Amanda M. explains, "Lone duck had a small pond/lake to fish in, a jungle gym, a game room and a basketball court. We did not partake in any of those amenities, but they make Lone Duck a very family friendly campground where kids can stay entertained!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger-led programs. Kelly P. points out that her family "woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," creating natural learning experiences for children.
Weather preparation: Pack layers for children as temperatures fluctuate. Tessa S. recommends, "The staff was super friendly and helpful! The facilities were always very clean. They had breakfast for you in the morning if you wanted for $5."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many RV sites offer different hookup options. Kurt K. from Swift Puma Heights Campground shares, "Every site is huge and several pull through are on sides of the hill with sweeping view of Colorado Springs."
Utility management: Water conservation is important at some campgrounds. Jim W. appreciates that Mueller State Park is a "great well taken care of campground with electrical hook ups and gorgeous grounds. All sites looked well taken care of."
Road access notes: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. Judy F. from Cripple Creek KOA describes, "Convenient location to Cripple Creek CO. Mountain views. Situated on meadow hillside. Hiking trails, full hookups, fire rings with grills, picnic tables. Level sites with many pull thrus."
