Established Camping
Pawnee Campground
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
EXTRA VEHICLE FEES: One vehicle is included in your reservation. Any additional vehicles will be charged $8.00 per vehicle, per night and will be collected by the camp host.
Fire restrictions are currently in effect that prohibit charcoal fires, wood-burning camp stoves, and charcoal grills. Only gas or propane stoves are permitted. For more information, please read the following fire restrictions order https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSEDOCUMENTS/fseprd1198103.pdf
Campers are Saying
Pawnee Campground, near Ward, Colorado, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Rockies. Set against the backdrop of the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests, this campground offers a mix of wooded sites and stunning views, especially from the Elk loop.
The campground is known for its clean facilities and well-maintained sites, making it a comfortable choice for both tent and RV campers. Many visitors rave about the nearby hiking trails and the breathtaking scenery, with one camper noting, “The views from the lake and the hikes are so amazing!” You’ll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including moose, which adds to the charm of the area.
Pawnee Campground is open from June to September, so plan ahead, as spots fill up quickly. While reservations are required, some campers have found that checking back frequently can lead to available sites. With picnic tables and fire rings at each site, it’s perfect for gathering around the fire after a day of exploring. Whether you’re fishing in nearby lakes or just soaking in the mountain air, this campground is a solid choice for your next outdoor adventure.
General Overview
National Forest
Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG
Overview
Pawnee Campground is located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, 35 miles south of Estes Park and the main entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Visitors enjoy the area for its fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities.
Recreation
Brainard Lake is a popular destination for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Anglers cast for rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Long Lake, Red Rock Lake and Left Hand Reservoir are nearby. Several trails in the area provide access to the adjacent Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Hiking is allowed on all trails; mountain biking is allowed outside the wilderness area. Rock climbing, snowshoeing and cross country skiing are often available, weather permitting.
Facilities
Brainard Lake is a popular destination for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Anglers cast for rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Long Lake, Red Rock Lake and Left Hand Reservoir are nearby. Several trails in the area provide access to the adjacent Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Hiking is allowed on all trails; mountain biking is allowed outside the wilderness area. Rock climbing, snowshoeing and cross country skiing are often available, weather permitting.
Natural Features
The campground lies at the foot of the Continental Divide, next to 25-acre Brainard Lake and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area at an elevation of 10,350 feet. A scenic forest of spruce and fir trees covers the area. Summertime temperatures are warm in the day and cool at night. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Nearby Attractions
The town of Nederland is 14 miles south of the campground, offering grocery and hardware stores, restaurants, gas, a bank and a post office. Rocky Mountain National Park's main entrance is 35 miles north in Estes Park. With lush valleys and craggy peaks reaching elevations higher than 14,000 feet, visitors are provided opportunities for countless breathtaking experiences and adventures. Scenic driving, hiking, backpacking, fishing, horseback riding and wildlife viewing are popular activities in the park. Estes Park is a full-service community. Dining, shopping, rafting, fly-fishing, horseback riding and golfing opportunities are available there. Lake Estes offers boating, sailboarding and fishing.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (530) 529-0578.
Reservation Info
Reservations can be made from up to 180 to a minimum of four days in advance of your arrival to the campground.
Location
Pawnee Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
From Denver, travel north on Interstate 25 to U.S. Highway 36 West to Boulder. Continue on Colorado Highway 119 (Canyon Boulevard) for 22 miles to Nederland, then go north on Colorado Highway 72 to Ward. Turn left at the sign and travel 5 miles to Brainard Lake Recreation Area.
Coordinates
40.1314556 N
105.5670611 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly