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Camper submitted image from Rio Grande National Forest Penitente Canyon Campground

Rio Grande National Forest Penitente Canyon Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Sitting at the edge of Penitente Canyon in south-central Colorado, this small loop campground in Rio Grande National Forest has a mix of open tent sites with views toward the rock formations and sites tucked against canyon walls. The road is manageable for most vehicles on the lower section, though conditions deteriorate toward the upper sites, where four-wheel drive helps. Cactus grows throughout the area, worth noting for campers with kids or dogs. Vault toilets, picnic tables, and firewood are available on-site, and a camp host is typically present. Cell service runs to about one bar of 4G. The campground is first-come, first-served with a fee. Nearby, Penitente Canyon Campground sits roughly a mile north for an alternative base in the same canyon system.

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Map & DirectionsRio Grande National Forest Penitente Canyon Campground is located in Colorado near Center

Public Campground

Directions

From Highway 285 turn west on County Road G, travel about 6 miles to La Garita follow County Road 38A until you see the Penitente Canyon turn off on your right, less than a mile. From Del Norte travel northwest on Highway 112 to road 38A turn north, stay on 38 A until you see signs for Penitente Canyon, about 8 miles.

Coordinates

37.82791338 N
106.27635582 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile
No Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

2 hrs 46 min from Pueblo, CO
3 hrs 9 min from Santa Fe, NM
3 hrs 13 min from Colorado Springs, CO
4 hrs 14 min from Farmington, NM

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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Rio Grande National Forest Penitente Canyon Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Lucy L.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2021

Rocks. Views. Cactus.

This is a few sites on a loop with other sites scattered here and there. There were great views from my tent site (see pics), but other sites were available tucked up next to rock walls and in dips. There are lots of trees that could provide shade. But the Cactus are growing everywhere, so be aware before you venture too far off a path or from the tent sites, especiallywith young kids. I had read that the road was difficult but the route I took was very manageable by almost any car. Some rocky bumps and an incline, but not extreme. I had 1 bar of 4G at my site and cell service is spotty if you're looking for that. It was quiet at night other than wildlife (night birds, coyotes). The tent sites were mostly well spaced and other pull-thru locations seemed to have decent privacy. There are a few vault toilets. I had some flies to keep me company, but no mosquitos (which is unheard of in this valley!). Camp host was friendly and chatty. I was here on a weeknight in June and there were a few sites to chose from when I got there at 6PM. This is a first come/first serve campground with a fee. The BLM website doesn't have much info for this area, but it's helpful.

Month of VisitJune

(5) View All

Hunt

Traveler

Reviewed Sep. 15, 2020

Nothing mind blowing

Continue up the first road to find a few campsites. The road starts off in good shape and deteriorates as it continues. 4x4 not needed for the first few sites but definitely for the last few.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Penitente Canyon Campground?

Penitente Canyon Campground offers basic amenities in a natural setting. The campground features scattered tent sites arranged in a loop configuration. While the site is primitive in nature, there are trees throughout the area providing shade for many campsites. Be aware that cacti grow abundantly throughout the campground, so careful site selection and movement around your campsite is important. The campground primarily caters to tent campers and those seeking a more rustic experience in the Rio Grande National Forest.

How do I get to Penitente Canyon Campground and what are the road conditions?

To reach Penitente Canyon Campground, continue up the first road to find the campsites. The road condition is mixed - it starts in good shape but deteriorates as you progress further in. The first few campsites are accessible without four-wheel drive, but accessing the last few sites definitely requires 4x4 capability. Plan your vehicle choice accordingly based on which sites you hope to use and current weather conditions.

What climbing and hiking opportunities are available near Penitente Canyon Campground?

Penitente Canyon is well-known for its excellent rock climbing opportunities with numerous routes on the distinctive canyon walls. The area offers climbing options suitable for various skill levels. For hikers, there are trails that wind through and around the canyon, providing stunning views of the unique rock formations. The surrounding terrain offers additional recreational opportunities to explore the natural beauty of this section of Rio Grande National Forest. Both climbers and hikers will find plenty to enjoy in this scenic area.

What does Penitente Canyon Campground look like?

Penitente Canyon Campground features a scenic setting with diverse campsite options. Some sites offer spectacular views across the landscape, while others are nestled up against dramatic rock walls or tucked into natural dips in the terrain. The campground has numerous trees providing welcome shade throughout the area. The landscape includes distinctive rock formations and canyon walls that create a visually striking backdrop. Cacti grow throughout the grounds, adding to the desert-like character but requiring careful navigation. The overall setting combines natural beauty with the rugged charm of the Rio Grande National Forest.

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