Teal Lake Group Campsite
4.5011 reviewsPARKS RANGER DISTRICT
Teal Lake Group Campsite
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fees for Teal Lake Group Campsite range from $20 per night for standard non-electric sites to $40 per night for group tent areas accommodating up to 30 individuals. Group rates are tiered based on the number of people: 1-10 people ($20), 11-20 people ($30), 21-30 people ($40).
About this campground
Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies at 9,000 feet, Teal Lake Group Campsite offers an escape into pristine mountain wilderness within Routt National Forest. This breathtaking destination centers around a sparkling 50-acre alpine lake renowned for its excellent trout fishing opportunities. Whether you're planning an intimate getaway at one of 17 individual campsites or organizing a memorable gathering at the spacious group site that welcomes up to 30 people, Teal Lake provides the perfect backdrop for your mountain adventure.
Teal Lake Group Campground primarily accommodates group and individual tent camping. RVs are mentioned but without hookups or specific facilities.
Weather and SeasonsFrom June through September, Teal Lake transforms into an accessible mountain paradise, though its high-altitude location keeps visitors on their toes. Summer days can bring warm sunshine perfect for lakeside relaxation, but mountain weather has a mind of its own—temperatures can plunge below freezing even in July, and surprise snowstorms occasionally dust the peaks with fresh powder. Winds can whip across the lake without warning, adding to the wild, untamed character of this alpine setting. Pack layers and come prepared for nature's full repertoire.
ElevationPerched at 9,000 feet above sea level, Teal Lake offers visitors a true high-altitude experience with panoramic vistas that stretch across the Continental Divide. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and the promise of adventure, though visitors ascending from lower elevations should plan for a gradual adjustment to the altitude. The reward for the climb? Crystal-clear skies, brilliant stars, and views that remind you why Colorado's high country is legendary.
Natural Features and SceneryTeal Lake captivates visitors with its dramatic Rocky Mountain setting, where dense stands of pine and fir trees frame the shimmering waters. The forest tells its own story—natural pest cycles have created sun-dappled clearings that offer spectacular lake views and wildflower meadows. Along the rocky shoreline, you might spot black bears foraging for berries, majestic elk grazing at dawn, moose wading through marshy inlets, or hear coyotes calling under starlit skies. As one awestruck visitor proclaimed, the scenery is 'absolutely stunning'—a testament to the raw beauty that makes Teal Lake unforgettable.
Geological RegionTeal Lake sits like a jewel in north central Colorado's Rocky Mountains, cradled within the vast expanse of Routt National Forest. This 50-acre alpine lake reflects the surrounding peaks and forests, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and timber. The landscape bears witness to the dynamic forces of mountain ecology—where pine and fir forests adapt and evolve, creating a mosaic of dense groves and open meadows shaped by natural pest cycles. This ever-changing tapestry makes each visit unique, as the forest continues its ancient dance of growth, change, and renewal.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not described in the provided information.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'ample' and 'large,' accommodating up to 30 people for the group site.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites provide privacy but vary in shade due to pest-related tree thinning.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites near Teal Lake may experience intense mosquito activity during warmer months. Visitors should prepare with repellents and protective clothing. Sites with partial shade are recommended for comfort.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites allow up to 30 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 30 people and features four picnic tables and two campfire rings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout17 individual campsites and one group site with picnic tables and campfire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 1 through September 15 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are first-come, first-served. Parking is limited to seven vehicles.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (from midnight 1 calendar day before arrival) forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering trout fishing, non-motorized boating, and access to off-road vehicle trails. Hiking opportunities exist nearby in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, though trailheads require driving. Wildlife viewing is another highlight.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible in the nearby Mount Zirkel Wilderness, requiring a drive to reach the trailheads.Fishing
Fishing in Teal Lake is a key attraction, with visitors describing it as 'great' and noting good conditions for trout fishing.Boating
The lake supports boating activities, limited to non-motorized and electric boats only.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as black bear, bobcat, elk, and moose are commonly seen in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described, but the area generally remains accessible from Memorial Day to Labor Day.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized boating are supported by the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated rings. Visitors are encouraged to obtain firewood near the campground to reduce the risk of spreading invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito populations can be severe during dusk and dawn. "THOUSANDS... flooded my car," one user said. Wildlife such as black bears require caution with food storage.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services are likely available in Walden, Colorado, which is the nearest town.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 to September 15.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are provided about trash or recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresTeal Lake is the central feature of the campground, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are a recurring issue, as noted in multiple reviews. Other complaints include GPS navigation errors and limited tree shade due to beetle kill.
Campground Map
PARKS RANGER DISTRICT
Driving directionsFrom Walden: Take Highway 14 west for approximately 11 miles to Hebron. Turn right on County Road 24 driving west. After approximately 10 miles the road becomes Forest Road 60 and passes the Grizzly Creek Guard Station. Turn right on Forest Road 615. Drive approximately 3 miles and turn right into the Teal Lake Campground.
Access to the campground requires navigating several rural roads including County Road 24 and Forest Roads 60 and 615. Some user reviews caution against relying on GPS as it may lead to incorrect routes, including closed roads or gated private properties. "DO NOT try to drive Buffalo Pass from Steamboat to get to the campground - it's for serious 4WD vehicles only," one reviewer emphasized.Nearby places
Walden (approx. 24 miles, 30-40 minute drive based on road conditions).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Walden, Colorado.
Camper Reviews
4.5
11 reviews
Teal Lake Group Campsite is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its picturesque setting, privacy, and recreational opportunities. However, challenges such as aggressive mosquitoes and poor GPS navigation are frequent complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Exemplary features include 'quiet and peaceful' surroundings, clean facilities, and ample fishing and recreational opportunities. Black bears and other wildlife add to the allure.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Mosquitoes, especially during dusk and dawn, were a 'vampire situation,' as one user described. Navigation issues with GPS systems and limited shade due to beetle kill were also concerns.
Based on 11 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring high-DEET mosquito repellent and prepare for aggressive mosquito activity. Do not rely on GPS; follow official directions. Avoid Buffalo Pass unless equipped for 4WD.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is popular for fishing and boating, but mosquito activity peaks at this time. Shade is limited due to tree thinning, making early mornings and evenings more comfortable.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Absolutely beautiful! The campground is clean and quiet. Sites are well-spaced and provide breathtaking views.'
2. 'Mosquitoes flooded my car... it stayed like that for another 2-3 hours during...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 001 received mixed reviews, with some praising its beauty and others lamenting mosquito prevalence and maintenance issues.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet-related experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025