North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc

Fishing enthusiasts will find several accessible lakes near this Forest Service campground, located along a rough 4WD road that challenges smaller vehicles. North Fork Campground sits in San Isabel National Forest at elevation, where campers report spotting deer frequently around the spread-out sites. The rocky access road requires high clearance, though UTVs and 4-wheelers navigate it successfully.

Sites include fire pits and offer varying wind exposure depending on elevation and tree cover. The single restroom facility stays relatively clean due to light use. Mosquitoes are common during summer months, and the no-pets policy helps maintain the wildlife-viewing opportunities that draw visitors to this places to camp near San Isabel National Forest location.

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Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

PIKE-SAN ISABEL NATIONAL FORESTS & CIMARRON AND COMANCHE NATIONAL GRASSLANDS** STAGE 1 FIRE PROHIBITIONS **** PROHIBITIONS**Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551 and 36 C.F.R. 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) in the Leadville, Salida, San Carlos, Pikes Peak, South Park and South Platte Ranger Districts of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, described below and shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A, hereinafter referred to as the Described Area:

  • Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes), except if it is in
    • A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas);
    • A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device; or
    • A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least five feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor with a screen opening of a inch or less used in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.36 CFR 261.52(a).
  • Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. 261.52(b)
  • Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. 36 CFR 261.52(d)
  • Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except if in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher (with a minimum 8 oz. capacity and rating of Class 2A) is kept with the operator. 36 CFR 261.52(h) EXEMPTIONS Pursuantto36 C.F.R.261.50(e), thefollowingpersons areexemptfrom thisOrder:
  • Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer that a permit is not required under 36 C.F.R. 251.50(e)(1) or (2).
  • Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting service in the performance of an official duty. DESCRIBEDAREA All National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the exterior boundaries of the Pikes Peak, South Platte, South Park, Leadville, Salida and San Carlos Ranger Districts of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, as depicted on the map attached as Exhibit A of this Order. PURPOSE Thepurposeof this Order is to protect natural resources and public health and safety. IMPLEMENTATION
  • This Order shall be in effect from August 21, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. through August November 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., unless rescinded.

RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsNorth Fork Campground (Salida, Co) is located in Colorado near Monarch

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

38.611808 N
106.320261 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
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  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - North Fork Campground (Salida, Co)

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3 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned the private dispersed sites, helpful hosts, and well-maintained facilities near quality fishing areas. Access requires 4WD vehicle due to rough, rocky road conditions.

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2023

Beautiful find!

We found this place by accident. We have a big camper and the hosts were the best, helped us into our site, and checked on us for the two nights we were there.

Site28
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Cherish & Kellen S., June 12, 2023
Reviewed Jul. 30, 2021

High Clarence vehicle needed

I agree with all of Travis T review... I think there is also another “North Fork Colorado” camp site listing which may confuse folks ... or maybe just me. Lol This is up near Billings lake which is a further drive down the heavily rocky path. Campsites were spread out, dear spotted often on my grounds, fire pits were good to go... high on the mountain was a windy campsite, deeper down toward the river and nestled in the trees was not bad wind wise. Private since camps spread out, lots of mosquito, gorgeous views, accessible small lakes for easy fishing, 1 or 2 other people there when I went. Someone had some UTVs and another rode in on a 4whlr but it was not like rampart range. Bathroom was not over used. Great all the way around. Bumpy rough ride up tho,,, would be hard on a front wheel or small car that is not 4wheel. Went mid July 2021

Sitenot sure
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Roxi Franki L., July 30, 2021
  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Roxi Franki L., July 30, 2021
  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Roxi Franki L., July 30, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed May. 2, 2019

One of my favorites

Great 4x4 trail with a ton of dispersed sites along the way with the bigger north fork at the end. Lots of great fishing lakes in the area. North fork is beautiful.

  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Travis T., May 2, 2019
  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Travis T., May 2, 2019
  • Review photo of North Fork Campground (Salida, Co) — Psicc by Travis T., May 2, 2019
  • (9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Is North Fork Campground on North Fork Reservoir and what water activities are possible?

North Fork Campground is situated near multiple fishing lakes in the area, including Billings Lake, rather than directly on North Fork Reservoir. Fishing is the primary water activity available, with the nearby lakes offering excellent opportunities for anglers. The beautiful mountain setting provides access to various fishing spots. Visitors should bring appropriate fishing gear and check local fishing regulations before their trip. The natural water features contribute to the scenic appeal of this campground.

What do visitor photos and reviews reveal about North Fork Campground?

North Fork Campground is characterized by its beautiful natural setting and well-spaced campsites that offer privacy. The area features stunning mountain scenery and is known for wildlife sightings, particularly deer that are frequently spotted. The campground is accessible via a rocky 4x4 trail, adding to its remote charm but requiring appropriate vehicles. Helpful and attentive camp hosts enhance the experience by assisting campers, especially those with larger RVs. The surrounding area offers excellent fishing opportunities at multiple lakes, including Billings Lake, making it a paradise for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Where is North Fork Campground located near Salida, Colorado?

North Fork Campground is located in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests (PSICC) area near Salida, Colorado. The campground sits along a scenic 4x4 trail that leads to Billings Lake. Situated in a beautiful mountain setting, this destination requires traveling down a rocky path to reach the campground. It's positioned in an area with multiple fishing lakes nearby, making it a perfect basecamp for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring this region of Colorado.

What amenities and facilities are available at North Fork Campground?

North Fork Campground offers spacious, well-spread-out campsites that provide privacy for campers. The campground has helpful hosts who assist visitors with finding and setting up at their sites. While it's accessible to large campers, the approach requires navigating a heavily rocky path. The campground is situated in a scenic area where wildlife, including deer, can frequently be spotted. For specific information about restrooms, water sources, and other facilities, it's advisable to contact the Pike and San Isabel National Forests management before your trip.