Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd
4.3537 reviewsAlta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees required for this site. Camping is free.
About this campground
Perched high in the Colorado Rockies, Alta Lakes Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic alpine escape. This pristine dispersed camping area features 20 undeveloped sites scattered around crystalline mountain lakes, where anglers cast lines into mirror-like waters and campers wake to breathtaking sunrise reflections. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, this hidden gem rewards early arrivals with prime lakeside spots and the freedom to camp beneath a canopy of stars.
Alta Lakes Campground features primitive camping with 20 designated sites. The lack of any developed utilities or infrastructure makes it a site for self-sufficient campers. RVs and trailers are not recommended due to the rough access road.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the wind at Alta Lakes, where remnants of Colorado's mining boom dot the landscape like breadcrumbs from the past. The nearby Alta ghost town stands as a haunting reminder of dreams both realized and abandoned, while rusted mine carts and weathered cables create an open-air museum perfect for photographers and history buffs. These artifacts tell the story of hardy prospectors who once called these harsh mountains home, chasing fortunes in gold and silver.
Weather and SeasonsAt 11,000 feet, Alta Lakes serves up mountain weather in all its dramatic glory. Summer days bring pleasant temperatures perfect for hiking and fishing, but seasoned campers know to pack layers—afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly, and yes, June snowflakes aren't unheard of at this elevation. When winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the area becomes a playground for snowmobilers who navigate the nearby trail system through powder-filled meadows and frozen forests.
ElevationCamping at 11,000 feet puts you literally on top of the world, where the air is crisp, thin, and intoxicating. While the altitude demands respect—visitors should acclimate slowly and stay hydrated—it rewards campers with some of Colorado's most spectacular stargazing. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky in brilliant detail, unobscured by light pollution or atmospheric haze that plagues lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryAlta Lakes sits like a jewel in nature's crown, surrounded by towering peaks that reflect perfectly in the calm morning waters. This alpine paradise hosts a charming cast of mountain residents—cheeky chipmunks dart between rocks, bold Canada jays (locally known as camp robbers) eye your breakfast, and rotund groundhogs whistle warnings from their rocky perches. The landscape shifts from emerald meadows dotted with wildflowers to stark granite faces, creating a photographer's dream at every turn.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains at elevations approaching 12,000 feet, Alta Lakes occupies a dramatic alpine basin carved by ancient glaciers. The surrounding peaks showcase the raw power of geological forces, with exposed rock faces revealing millions of years of Earth's history. This high-altitude sanctuary sits above treeline in places, offering expansive views across the rugged Colorado backcountry where jagged ridgelines meet endless sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is described as challenging to access due to narrow, rough roads, which may limit accessibility for individuals with disabilities or low-clearance vehicles.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some noted as 'huge' by users. Others mentioned the sites are uneven or have mud holes.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy; some sites are described as being well apart from others, while others are close together. User reviews highlight a lack of solitude due to day-use traffic and crowded conditions.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake have better views but may be more crowded due to day-use traffic.
Best Campsites"Recommend the sites further in; there's more room and less commotion."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No group-specific sites or details were mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are numbered (1-20) and dispersed throughout the area. Some are along the lake, while others are on higher ground.
Open and Closed SeasonJune - Late Fall
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityThe site is first-come, first-serve, with no reservation system in place. Camping is allowed only at numbered sites (1-20).
Cancellation Policynull
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. Snowmobiling is accessible nearby during the winter season. The alpine setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation, and the night sky is described as spectacular by multiple users.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, with one foot trail leading to the Alta ghost town. The difficulty levels and lengths of the trails are not specified, but the area is described as scenic by multiple reviewers.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at the lakes, with one user mentioning catching 10-inch trout.Biking
Mountain biking is mentioned in the general vicinity, but no detailed descriptions of trails or terrain are provided.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted. Users mentioned activities such as paddleboarding on the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as chipmunks, Canada jays, and a groundhog were observed by users. The alpine environment is conducive to spotting diverse fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling on nearby trails.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding are popular at the lake, as noted by users.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire wood is scarce due to overuse; campers are advised to pack in firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsAltitude sickness is a significant concern at elevations around 11,000-12,000 ft. The narrow, rocky roads pose challenges for vehicles, and mosquitoes can be abundant during warmer months.
Active alertsSome reviews mention snow drifts, downed trees, and knocked-over porta-potties as obstacles during certain seasons.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo trash and recycling facilities are available. Campers must follow a 'pack it in, pack it out' practice.
Proximity to water featuresAlta Lakes is the main attraction with opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, and boating (non-motorized).
Common complaintsCrowding during weekends and peak seasons. Campsites are close together, leading to reduced privacy in some areas. Issues with trash and overused firewood. Accessibility challenges due to rough roads.
HostReviews mention a "great ranger" who makes rounds at night, though specific details are limited.
Campground Map
Driving directionsTravel approximately 5 miles south of Telluride, CO on State Highway 145. Turn east on Forest Road #632 (Alta Road) and climb about 4.3 miles, passing the Alta townsite. Camping is allowed only in designated campsites.
The access road is narrow, rough, and requires a high-clearance vehicle. The last mile is described as particularly challenging due to potholes, ruts, rocks, and twists. Trailers and RVs are not recommended.Nearby places
Telluride, CO (5 miles south, approximately 9 miles total with Forest Road #632 and 30-45 minute travel time)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
37 reviews
Alta Lakes Campground (Designated) - Norwood Rd is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Alta Lakes Campground is praised for its breathtaking alpine views, clear night skies, and free camping options. However, the road to the campground is consistently described as rough and requiring a high-clearance vehicle, with some reviewers managing in small cars but reporting challenges. Crowding, especially during peak times, is another common concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlighted the clear night skies ('bursting with stars'), scenic views, and opportunities for fishing and hiking. The presence of a ghost town nearby adds historical interest.
Based on 37 reviewsCommon Concerns
Crowding, uneven and muddy campsites, and day-use traffic were frequent issues. Many reviewers mentioned the rough access road and the need for high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Others noted limited...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a campsite, especially during weekends or holidays. Pack in all necessary supplies, including firewood and drinking water. Consider visiting during weekdays for a potentially...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The site is busiest in summer and early fall, with snow potentially persisting into June. Winter access is limited by snow, and spring may see muddy conditions due to melting snow.
Based on 37 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The lake is beautiful and when it’s dark the sky is bursting with stars!' - Marlene Zimmerman.
2. 'This campground is amazing but if you're coming here be prepared for a 30-45 min drive up the...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight varied conditions: some sites are praised for their size and views, while others are criticized for being uneven or too close to neighboring sites.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is difficult to access due to the rough road conditions, making it challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some users found the area unsuitable for pets due to safety concerns, including reports of aggressive interactions with other campers.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025