Camping

Rio-Grande-River-4The Rio Grande National Forest offers a multitude of camping opportunities. Whether you decide to stay in a portable camper trailer, tent, or rough it under the stars, you are sure to find the perfect location. Almost 2 million acres of national forest surrounds the South Fork area, and approximately 17 campgrounds have been developed along highways 149 and 160. Most accommodate both camper trailers and tents.

Forest Service campgrounds usually offer the following items: Tables, Toilets, Fire Grates, Garbage Cans, Parking Spurs and Drinking Water. Fire rings must be used. Visitors are allowed to stay up to 14 days, unless otherwise posted, reservations can be made for some campgrounds, although most are on a first come first serve basis.

Learn more at: Colorado Parks & Wildlife

The Rio Grande National Forest also has many undeveloped camp sites and wilderness areas. There are private properties throughout the forest, so please beware and do not cross the boundaries.

Enjoy your forest and natural resources.

 CAMPGROUNDS Sites Fee Water
Big Meadows  •  Access to several lakes and hiking trails  42 $18  
Cathedral  •  Access to fly fishing on Embargo Creek 22 FREE  
Cross Creek  •  Located at Beaver Creek Reservoir, at hiking trail head 8 $18  
Highway Springs  •  On the banks of the South Fork 13 $18  
Lower Beaver Creek  •  Access to Beaver Creek & Beaver Creek Reservoir 18 $18    •
Palisade  •  Along the Rio Grande River, between South Fork and Creede 12 $18    •
Park Creek  •  Access to the historic Summitville Mine 13 $18    •
Tucker Ponds  •  Access to Tucker Ponds and Pass Creek 15 $18    •
Upper Beaver Creek  •  Access to Beaver Creek & Beaver Creek Reservoir 14 $18    •

Continental Divide Trail Stop

South Fork is a Continental Divide Trail Gateway Community

Outdoor Recreation Map

south fork colorado recreation map