Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd
4.5325 reviewsLost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd
$6.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Single campsite fee is $24 per night, with an additional charge of $6 for day-use parking and picnic access. Each additional vehicle beyond two is $6 per vehicle. Firewood bundles are available for $10. Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on camping fees.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Gunnison National Forest's Paonia Ranger District, Lost Lake Campground beckons adventurers to discover its hidden alpine paradise. Here, beneath the towering peaks of the Ruby Mountain Range, families gather around crackling campfires while days are spent exploring winding trails and casting lines into the crystal-clear waters of three pristine lakes—Lost Lake Slough, Dollar Lake, and Lost Lake itself. This first-come, first-served gem offers an authentic backcountry experience where modern amenities take a backseat to raw natural beauty. Pack your water bottles and embrace the simplicity of camping as it was meant to be, with no potable water on-site but endless opportunities for adventure.
Lost Lake Campground caters to a variety of campers, including tent and equestrian campers. RV camping is limited due to rugged access roads and narrow parking aprons.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-June through October's golden days, Lost Lake Campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome visitors into its alpine wonderland. Mountain weather here dances between warm sunshine and sudden afternoon thunderstorms, keeping adventurers on their toes. July explodes in a riot of color as wildflowers carpet the meadows in nature's finest display, while autumn brings crisp mornings and the gradual retreat of Lost Lake Slough's waters as they flow to nourish the valleys below. Each season paints this high-altitude canvas with its own unique palette, though Mother Nature always reserves the right to surprise with an early snowfall or unseasonably warm spell.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,300 feet where the air grows thin and the views grow endless, Lost Lake Campground offers visitors a true high-altitude experience. This lofty elevation means spectacular vistas come standard, though newcomers to the mountains should pace themselves as their bodies adjust to the thinner air. Take it slow on your first day, drink plenty of water, and let the altitude work its magic as it brings you closer to the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle whisper of wind through ancient spruce trees, their evergreen branches framing postcard-perfect views of the Ruby Mountain Range. Lost Lake Campground sits in nature's amphitheater, where jagged peaks rise like sentinels above meadows that burst into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers each summer. The dramatic silhouette of Beckwith Pass dominates the horizon, while closer to camp, delicate columbines, vibrant Indian paintbrush, and cheerful alpine sunflowers create a living tapestry that reaches its crescendo in mid-July. This is Colorado's high country at its finest—raw, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
Geological RegionThe Ruby Mountain Range stands as a testament to millions of years of geological drama, its peaks and valleys carved by ancient glaciers and volcanic forces. Within this corner of Gunnison National Forest, Lost Lake Campground occupies a special niche where high alpine ecosystems thrive among granite spires and volcanic remnants. Three jewel-like lakes dot the landscape, their waters reflecting the surrounding peaks like mirrors to the sky. Dense spruce forests provide shelter for wildlife and shade for weary hikers, while open meadows showcase the resilience of alpine flora that blooms brilliantly despite the short growing season. This is mountain country that tells the story of Colorado's wild heart with every weathered rock face and pristine alpine lake.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and a cement fishing deck designed for accessibility.
Sites SizeThe parking aprons are gravel and vary in size. The equestrian camping sites have an average length of 60 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are located amidst spruce trees, offering some privacy. However, user reviews note that the campground can feel crowded during peak times.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure a campsite, preferably by 7:30 AM, as advised by the campground host. Campers looking for equestrian-friendly facilities should opt for the smaller section designated for such activities.
Best CampsitesSite #5 was specifically praised for its quality.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Not specified in official data
- campground host implies early arrival is necessary.
Check-out
Not specified in official data.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
There is no specific mention of group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in two sections, one of which doubles as a picnic and equestrian camping area.
Open and Closed SeasonJune 15 through October 1, weather-dependent.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis. Campground host advises showing up early (by 7:30 AM) to secure a site.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lost Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The surrounding natural beauty, including alpine lakes and the Ruby Mountain Range, makes it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Moose sightings and birdwatching are popular among visitors.
Hiking
Two main trails are accessible from the campground: the Three Lakes Trail (#843), a 3-mile foot-loop that offers scenic views and access to Lost Lake, Dollar Lake, and a waterfall, and the Beckwith Pass Trail (#842), another 3-mile trail suitable for both foot and horse travel that leads into the West Elk Wilderness.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Lost Lake and Dollar Lake, with rainbow and brown trout commonly caught. The lakes provide a serene setting for anglers.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed on Lost Lake Slough. Campers can use small boats such as kayaks or canoes, but there is no boat ramp available.Wildlife viewing
Visitors often spot moose and other wildlife. Mornings and evenings are particularly magical for wildlife viewing, as noted in reviews.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the elevation and surrounding areas may be suitable for snowshoeing or other winter sports.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities such as kayaking and canoeing are popular at Lost Lake Slough.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted, but firewood must be purchased onsite for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available onsite, and the last 9.2 miles of the road leading to the campground are gravel and dirt, which may be challenging for some vehicles. Wildlife such as moose has been reported in the area.
Active alertsLimited services are available; no potable water at the site.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
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
Emergency services are likely available in Paonia or Crested Butte, though detailed specifics about the nearest hospital or ranger station are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-July to early August for wildflowers; weather-dependent.
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information regarding trash and recycling facilities at this campground.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are situated around Lost Lake Slough, and the campground is close to Dollar Lake and Lost Lake. Lost Lake Slough covers 10 acres but experiences a drop in water levels toward fall.
Common complaintsCommon complaints center on the campground's popularity, making it difficult to secure a site. Some users have criticized the campground's host for being overly controlling, and others have noted the dusty conditions due to vehicle traffic.
HostMixed reviews about the campground host. Some praised the host for enforcing rules, while others found the host to be unhelpful or overly controlling.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Paonia: Travel northeast on Highway 133 for approximately 15 miles to County Road 12, Kebler Pass Road. Turn right onto CR 12 and continue east for approximately 16 miles to the intersection with Forest Service Road #706, Lost Lake Road. Turn right onto FSR #706 and go another 2 miles to the end at the Lost Lake Campground and Lost Lake Slough. Note: The last 9.2 miles of County Rd. 12 are dirt and gravel, and Forest Rt. 706 is dirt, narrow, and may be rough in places.
Access involves paved roads transitioning into dirt and gravel for the last 9.2 miles along County Road 12. Forest Road 706 is described as dirt, narrow, and potentially rough, which may present challenges for some vehicles.Nearby places
Paonia (approx. 31.7 miles, about 45 minutes)
Crested Butte (approx. 18 miles, about 35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, or fuel are likely in Paonia or Crested Butte, CO.
Camper Reviews
4.5
25 reviews
Lost Lake Campground-Paonia Rd is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lost Lake Campground receives mixed reviews. Many visitors praise the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. However, the first-come, first-served policy has led to frustrations, especially during peak times when the campground fills up quickly. The lack of a reservation system is a common complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors emphasize the 'breathtaking vistas,' 'phenomenal wildflowers,' and 'peaceful surroundings.' Several reviewers mention the campground host enforcing rules, which ensures the campsite remains...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The campground's popularity leads to overcrowding during peak seasons, and the first-come, first-served policy causes difficulties for those traveling long distances. Dust from passing vehicles and...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early in the morning (by 7:30 AM) to secure a campsite, especially during weekends or holidays. Bring your own drinking water and firewood if you want to avoid purchasing it on-site.
Based on 25 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mid-July to early August is highlighted as the best time for wildflowers and scenic beauty. Fall (September) is popular for leaf-peeping, but the campground is crowded. Winter conditions may make...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is a great campground, and the host Amy is terrific!' - Dee I. 2. 'The campground stretches around half of Lost Lake Slough among spruce trees and wildflowers.' - General Comments. 3. 'Saw...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is highlighted as a 'great site' by one reviewer.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets and an accessible fishing deck are available, but no reviews specifically address the overall accessibility experience.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but dogs must be on a leash. No specific pet-related issues or praises are noted.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025