Buffalo Springs
4.1577 reviewsP.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827
Buffalo Springs
$24.00 - $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
$24 per night for Peak Season (May 16 - October 12, 2025). Displayed fees exclude taxes, discounts, or incremental charges. Additional fees include $11 for day use or a third vehicle, and firewood for $10 per bundle.
About this campground
Perched high in the San Isabel National Forest at a breathtaking 9,000 feet, Buffalo Springs Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Rocky Mountain escape. Here, where aspen leaves whisper secrets to towering spruce trees, you'll discover secluded campsites that feel worlds away from civilization. Whether you're drawn to challenging rock faces, scenic mountain bike trails, or peaceful horseback rides through alpine meadows, this tranquil haven serves as your perfect basecamp for Colorado mountain adventures.
Buffalo Springs Campground accommodates tent camping and offers facilities for RVs, though without hookups. Group camping sites are not described as available.
Historical SignificanceYour mountain retreat sits at the crossroads of Colorado's colorful past. Just beyond the forest boundaries lies the legendary South Park valley and the remarkably preserved town of Fairplay, where the spirit of the 1859 gold rush still echoes through wooden boardwalks and authentic frontier buildings. Step into their captivating open-air museum to walk the same streets as prospectors and pioneers who shaped the American West.
Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, Mother Nature paints each season with dramatic brushstrokes. Summer brings crystalline blue skies and pleasantly cool days that make outdoor exploration a joy, while autumn transforms the aspen groves into a golden spectacle accompanied by crisp mountain air. Winter and fall visitors should pack layers for chilly temperatures, as snow flurries and mountain winds can sweep through without warning, adding an element of wild beauty to your camping experience.
ElevationAt 9,000 feet above sea level, Buffalo Springs offers a true high-country experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and panoramic vistas stretch endlessly before you. This lofty perch rewards visitors with naturally cooler temperatures and spectacular views, though the thin mountain air may leave newcomers breathless—both literally and figuratively. Take time to acclimate and stay hydrated as you adjust to this alpine wonderland.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle rustling of aspen leaves and the distant bugle of elk echoing across the mountainside. Buffalo Springs rests gracefully on rolling hillsides where ancient spruce sentinels stand guard over intimate camping spots. This living landscape hosts an enchanting cast of wildlife—from majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to playful chipmunks darting between campsites. Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer grazing at dawn and listen for the haunting call of coyotes under starlit skies. Every direction reveals postcard-perfect views of rugged peaks and endless forests that embody the untamed spirit of Colorado.
Geological RegionBuffalo Springs occupies a remarkable corner of the San Isabel National Forest, where gentle rolling hillsides meet dramatic mountain peaks in perfect harmony. This unique geological tapestry, carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by centuries of wind and weather, creates diverse ecosystems where aspen groves dance alongside steadfast spruce forests. At 9,000 feet, you're camping in a transition zone where montane and subalpine worlds merge, offering an extraordinary glimpse into Colorado's varied mountain landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in authoritative sources or reviews.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious. "Huge campsites all well spread out in a stand of mature trees," said one reviewer.
Sites PrivacyBuffalo Springs Campground offers private and secluded campsites due to the stand of aspen, spruce, and mixed conifers.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 18 is large, secluded, but prone to flooding during rain. Site 17 offers flat ground for trailers and is close to clean vault toilets. Site 7 features the sole pull-through configuration but requires improvements for leveling.
Best CampsitesSite 18 is noted for its seclusion and scenic meadow views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles or one RV per site included, with $11 fee for a third vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are widely spaced among aspen and spruce trees; parking aprons are dirt and rocky, maximum trailer length is 30 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16, 2025 - October 12, 2025; reservable starting June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not reserved five days prior to arrival become available for walk-up and are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual campsite cancellations incur a $10 fee if made up to two days before the reservation start date. Late cancellations (after midnight one calendar day before check-in) forfeit the first night's fee and tax. No-show visitors are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's rate and tax. Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days of the reservation end date.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Buffalo Springs Campground is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. Wildlife watching is also a popular activity, with sightings of mule deer, bald eagles, and chipmunks reported. Volleyball courts and horseshoe pits are available but may have been affected by a nearby burn scar.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible nearby, though some reviewers caution about burn scar areas that may affect trail visibility and safety. "This is a burn scar area, so I would only recommend hiking if you are experienced," one user stated.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at the nearby Antero Reservoir, known for trophy-class fish such as rainbow, brook, and cutthroat trout.Biking
The campground features miles of dirt roads that are behind a closed gate most of the year, typically open July through September. "Great for biking without worrying about vehicle traffic," one reviewer noted.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with reviewers mentioning mule deer, bald eagles, chipmunks, and other species. "I felt like I had stepped into a North American Safari," said a reviewer.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources, and reviews do not provide sufficient detail.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated rings; firewood available for $10 per bundle. Fire bans may apply seasonally.
- Quiet hours strictly enforced; no loud parties, shooting, or ATV usage allowed.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation can affect visitors unaccustomed to altitude. Wildlife presence, including bears and coyotes, requires precautions. Vault toilets can emit strong odors. Area directly outside campground includes burn scar from a major forest fire.
Active alertsSeasonal highway closures and detours have been reported. Water pump functionality issues persist, with brown water encountered intermittently.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Nearest emergency services information not provided in source.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 12 (2025).
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides trash dumpsters, but some reviewers noted instances when dumpsters were overflowing or closed. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAntero Reservoir, approximately 12.5 miles away, provides fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsVault toilets emit strong odors despite being clean, construction and detours on Highway 285 complicate access, occasional host behavior issues reported.
HostCamp host widely praised for friendliness and helpful area-specific tips in some reviews; however, negative interactions reported in others. Presence of host dogs noted.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827
Driving directionsFrom Fairplay, take Highway 285 south for about 12.5 miles, just 3 miles past County Road 22 turnoff. Turn right onto Forest Road 431 and continue one mile to campground.
The campground is located approximately one mile off the paved Highway 285 and accessed via Forest Road 431, which is a dirt road. Seasonal closures of nearby highways can make access challenging. Highway 285 has experienced closures during bridge repairs, requiring detours up to 30 miles.Nearby places
Fairplay, Colorado - approximately 12.5 miles, Buena Vista, Colorado - distance null
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Fairplay, Colorado. Options include grocery stores, camping supply shops, and facilities such as Western Inn offering potable water ($5), showers ($5), and waste dumping services ($10, cash only).
Camper Reviews
4.2
77 reviews
Buffalo Springs is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's quiet atmosphere, spacious campsites, and proximity to nature. However, complaints about vault toilet odors, water pump issues, and the behavior of some campground hosts are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 77 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious and secluded campsites, clean facilities, friendly hosts (in some cases), and opportunities for wildlife viewing. "Huge campsites all well spread out in a stand of...
Based on 77 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include vault toilet odors, issues with the water pump, road noise from nearby Highway 285, and inconsistent behavior from campground hosts. "The gases from waste fermentation are...
Based on 77 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as the pump may not work or the water may appear brown. Check road conditions before traveling, as closures can cause long detours. Use hummingbird feeders for bird-watching and...
Based on 77 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is highly praised for its beautiful aspens but might be colder. Summer experiences vary, with some visitors enjoying clear skies while others report issues like road closures or heavy vault...
Based on 77 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Quiet hours were observed, the grounds were kept neat, and the scenery was just divine!" "Vault toilets were smelly. My partner said they were the worst he had seen." "Beautiful sites." "No...
Based on 77 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 18 is described as the largest and most secluded but prone to flooding during rain and far from amenities like dumpsters and restrooms. Site 7 is noted as uneven and the worst in the campground....
Based on 77 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly discussed in reviews.
Based on 77 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviewers note that strict leash rules are enforced. "Camp host approached my camp in an aggressive manner about the dog leash rule," said one reviewer.
Based on 77 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025