Belle Of Colorado Campground
4.3727 reviewsBelle Of Colorado Campground
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
Fees for campsites vary depending on the location and reservation method. Walk-up campsites incur an $8 recreation use fee, while reservations made in-person may incur a $3 service fee.
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About this campground
Tucked away on the eastern shores of the stunning Turquoise Lake, Belle of Colorado Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience beneath a canopy of towering lodgepole pines. This peaceful retreat combines the tranquility of a shaded forest setting with direct access to one of Colorado's most beautiful alpine lakes. Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves at waterfront sites, or enjoy the dappled sunlight filtering through pine boughs at inland spots. Each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and pedestal grills, perfect for evening cookouts under the stars. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience. The friendly camp host keeps firewood stocked for those crisp mountain evenings when gathering around the campfire becomes the day's perfect ending.
This is a tent-only campground with no reservations allowed. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and offers primitive camping facilities.
Weather and SeasonsBelle of Colorado transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own mountain magic. Summer welcomes campers with warm, sunny days and refreshingly cool nights—ideal for swimming, hiking, and stargazing. Late spring brings wildflower blooms and rushing snowmelt, while early fall paints the surrounding peaks in golden aspen hues. The camping season typically runs from late May through mid-October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, making it a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, though the campground facilities close for the season. Mountain weather can change quickly, so layers and rain gear are always wise companions.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's spectacular mountain country near the historic mining town of Leadville, Belle of Colorado sits at an elevation that puts you closer to the clouds than most places in North America. This lofty setting in the heart of the Rockies means crisp, clean air and cooler temperatures that provide welcome relief from summer heat. The high-altitude location offers breathtaking views and serves as an ideal basecamp for acclimating before tackling nearby fourteeners.
Natural Features and SceneryBelle of Colorado showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The campground's lodgepole pine forest creates a natural cathedral, with straight, slender trunks reaching skyward and soft needle carpets underfoot. Turquoise Lake lives up to its name, displaying brilliant blue-green waters that mirror the surrounding peaks on calm mornings. From your campsite, catch glimpses of Colorado's highest mountains—the mighty Mount Massive and Mount Elbert stand as sentinels on the horizon, their snow-capped summits glowing pink at sunrise. Wildlife visitors include curious chipmunks, stellar jays, and the occasional deer wandering through camp at dusk. The shoreline invites exploration, with smooth granite boulders perfect for sunbathing and quiet coves ideal for launching kayaks.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic San Isabel National Forest, Belle of Colorado occupies a special corner of the Southern Rocky Mountains. This region tells an ancient geological story through its dramatic landscapes—massive granite peaks thrust skyward millions of years ago, while glaciers carved out the basin that now cradles Turquoise Lake. The surrounding lodgepole pine ecosystem thrives in the well-drained, mineral-rich soils typical of Colorado's high country. The lake itself fills a natural depression created by the same geological forces that built the Continental Divide, making this area a testament to the powerful forces that shaped the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information is provided about accessibility features. However, parking is available nearby as noted in reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious. For example, 'HUGE site overlooking the lake' and 'The sites are spacious and they have good distance from other sites.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies: 'Site 3 is right on the beach (though you give up privacy as people pass right through your site to access the beach).' Other reviews mention good distances between sites, suggesting moderate privacy in non-beachfront spots.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider site #3 for beach access, but note its exposure to wind. Site #4 offers more privacy and views. Site #15 is ideal for families due to lake proximity.
Best CampsitesUsers recommend site #3 (near the beach), site #4 (spacious with great views), and site #15 (close to the lake).
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
No guest limits explicitly stated.
Groups
No information about group camping is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are laid out in a semi-primitive format with picnic tables, fire pits, and space for tents. Sites are close to the lake, offering varying degrees of privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground may close for the season; users have reported closures during late fall.
Reservation PlatformsNo online reservation platforms since reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only, with availability dependent on demand. User reviews highlight Friday evenings as particularly difficult for finding a spot.
Cancellation PolicyThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No cancellation policies apply as reservations are not accepted.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach-related fun. Being situated along Turquoise Lake, it provides opportunities for water-based recreation. Wildlife viewing is likely due to its natural, secluded forested setting.
Hiking
Great trails are available nearby, such as the Winsor Lake and Timberline trails. 'There are trails in the immediate area, but several of the good ones are only a couple miles away from the site.'Fishing
Fishing is possible as part of the activities at Turquoise Lake. Though specific fish types are not mentioned, reviews suggest the lake is a hub for water activities.Biking
A nice bike trail loops around the lake, which is also used by trail runners. 'There is a nice bike around the lake that is also used by trail runners.'Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are noted by campers. 'Nearby Turquoise lake has easy access for some water sports like kayaking.'Beach activities
Beach-related activities are facilitated by proximity to Turquoise Lake. 'My daughter and I had the best time there. It is gorgeous!' 'Site 3 is right on the beach.'Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not mentioned; the campground is primarily geared toward summer and fair-weather use.Water Sports
Campers commonly engage in kayaking and paddleboarding. No motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within the provided fire rings.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned, though user reviews note noise concerns during summer weekends.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include windy conditions at certain sites like #3 (user review) and noisy campgrounds during peak times (user reports).
Active alertsUser reports mention seasonal closures, which can be abrupt and unexpected.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearest emergency facilities are in Leadville, including hospitals and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesInformation specific to peak season pricing is unavailable.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information on trash and recycling facilities is mentioned. User reviews do not comment on this aspect.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the eastern shore of Turquoise Lake with nearby trails and water activities like kayaking.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include noisy and inconsiderate campers, lack of refund clarity, and inconsistent host behavior.
HostHost reliability appears mixed based on user reviews. Some hosts were described as helpful, while others were reported rude. Specific hosts mentioned include Dorothy Blair and Alan, who were praised for cleanliness during one season.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Leadville, follow signs to Turquoise Lake Recreation Area.
Access to Belle of Colorado Campground is straightforward from Leadville via paved roads. However, being located in the Turquoise Lake Recreation Area, some minor roads may be uneven or narrower in some places.Nearby places
Leadville: 10 miles (~15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Leadville provides the closest grocery, camping supplies, and fuel options, approximately 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
27 reviews
Belle Of Colorado Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for the Belle of Colorado Campground are generally positive, emphasizing the beauty of Turquoise Lake, cleanliness, and the helpfulness of the campground hosts. However, some users noted issues with noise and poor host behavior, indicating variability in experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, spacious campsites, proximity to Turquoise Lake, and good access to trails and outdoor activities. 'Nice and clean campground,' 'bathrooms were also the best we've seen!' 'The host...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from other campers, occasional negative interactions with camp hosts, and the lack of online reservations leading to uncertainty about site availability. 'The campground was full of noisy and...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as all sites are first-come, first-served and fill up quickly. 'When we came back on Friday, around 5:00, all of the sites had been claimed.'
Based on 27 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during weekends and summer months. Some reviews mention closures in off-season, and others note that it can be quieter on weekdays. 'During weekdays, usage is moderate, but...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This campground is amazing with your own private beach that doesn't allow day use.' 2. 'Site 3 is right on the beach (though you give up privacy).' 3. 'Nearby Turquoise lake has easy access for...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3: 'Right on the beach but less private as people pass through.' Site 4: 'Great views, clean campsite, and large.' Site 7: 'HUGE site overlooking the lake.' Site 15: 'Less than 100 steps to the...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews or remarks were made regarding accessibility features.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One review mentions dogs positively, suggesting pets are allowed: 'We came up with the family, 12-year-old boys, 5 adults, and 2 dogs.'
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025