Cove Campground
4.5123 reviewsP.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827
Cove Campground
$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
Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric Sites are available for $24 per night during peak season. An additional one-time $11 fee applies for entry into Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area.
About this campground
Tucked away in the dramatic Eleven Mile Canyon, Cove Campground offers an intimate escape where the rushing South Platte River provides nature's soundtrack. This hidden gem draws devoted anglers chasing trophy trout, rock climbers scaling ancient granite walls, and those seeking solitude in one of Colorado's most stunning river corridors. Its primitive charm and riverside setting create the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer their adventures unfiltered.
Cove Campground offers primitive camping options primarily suited for tents and small groups. "It's small and unattended..." - Steve Darnell.
Historical SignificanceThe Eleven Mile Canyon corridor stands as a testament to Colorado's rich natural heritage, where recreation meets preservation. Just a scenic drive away, the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument unveils prehistoric Colorado through massive petrified redwood stumps and remarkably preserved fossils. These ancient treasures tell the story of a dramatically different landscape that existed here 34 million years ago, adding depth to your modern-day canyon adventure.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather keeps you on your toes at Cove Campground, where June snowflakes might dust your tent and canyon winds tell stories through the pines. Summer days warm to a pleasant 87°F (30.8°C), perfect for riverside activities, while crisp nights dip to 39°F (4.1°C), ideal for campfire gatherings. Spring transforms the canyon into a wildlife theater, with majestic Bald Eagles soaring overhead and wildflowers painting the landscape in vibrant hues.
ElevationPerched in Colorado's high country, Cove Campground sits at an elevation where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath reminds you that you're camping in true mountain territory. This high-elevation setting creates the perfect conditions for cool summer escapes and dramatic weather patterns that define the Rocky Mountain experience.
Natural Features and SceneryThe South Platte River carves a liquid pathway through towering walls of polished granite, creating an outdoor cathedral where Cove Campground finds its home. These gleaming gray cliffs catch the changing light throughout the day, while the proximity to the expansive 3,405-acre Eleven Mile Reservoir opens up endless water recreation possibilities. Golden Eagles nest in the canyon's secret alcoves, and during spring migrations, Bald Eagles patrol the skies, making this a paradise for wildlife watchers and photographers alike.
Geological RegionEleven Mile Canyon showcases nature's patient artistry, where the persistent South Platte River has sculpted a masterpiece through solid granite over countless millennia. The campground sits surrounded by these polished gray granite sentinels, their smooth surfaces telling the geological story of ancient uplift and erosion. This remarkable canyon connects to Eleven Mile Reservoir, creating a diverse landscape where river canyon meets mountain reservoir in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were documented in the source materials.
Sites SizeStandard site sizes; users noted some sites closer to the river and others farther away.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Some sites are secluded, while others are closer to the parking area. "Nice location by the river and good privacy." - Lynn R.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 001 requires a longer walk-in compared to other sites but offers privacy and a creekside location. Sites 002 and 003 are closer to parking but may lack shade.
Best CampsitesSite 004 received high praise in multiple user reviews for its proximity to the river and well-maintained condition.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to 2 vehicles or one RV.
Groups
Group site information unavailable.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is small and primitive with only four sites, spread out for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally from May 16 to October 12 for reservations and closes outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are available up to 5 days prior to arrival; unreserved sites become first-come, first-serve starting 5 days before arrival.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (day before or day of arrival) forfeit the first night's fees in addition to the $10 fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, particularly fishing and hiking. Rock climbing and birding are also popular. "Fishing for rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout is one of the most popular activities for campers." - Authoritative source. "Caught the two biggest fish in my life near the Cove Campground" - Bob Mick.
Hiking
Hikers can explore the nearby Overlook Trail offering breathtaking views. "Walking distance to Overlook Trail & dam." - David E.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 abundant with access to the South Platte River. "My son and I spent a week fly-fishing and camping. This little campground was perfect." - Sean Uber.Wildlife viewing
Birding opportunities include sightings of Golden Eagles nesting in nearby cliffs, occasionally Bald Eagles in springtime, and other wildlife. "Springtime brings higher chances of seeing Bald Eagles." - Authoritative source.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not explicitly noted, but the campground is open during specific seasons.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding were not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated rings, subject to fire bans.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh winds are common in the area, as well as occasional June snowfalls. Wildlife like bears requires proper food storage. Mice have been an issue at campsites, as noted by reviews.
Active alertsNo current alerts for closures or advisories specified.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.3 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
The nearest emergency services including hospitals and police stations are located in Woodland Park, approximately 30 miles away. Rangers can be contacted at Eleven Mile Canyon entrance for assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 12 annually (dates vary slightly).
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available, though one reviewer noted trash issues: "There was trash and clear bathroom spots within our campsite." - Jessamyn S.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the South Platte River and near Eleven Mile Reservoir, providing opportunities for fishing and water access.
Common complaintsSome reviews cited issues with mice, unpleasant restroom odors, and trash at campsites. Overuse of the campground facilities was noted.
HostCampground host is attentive, as noted in reviews. Host Neil has been praised for helpfulness.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827
Driving directionsFrom Lake George turn off of Highway 24 onto County Road 96. Follow the road for about one mile and turn right into Eleven Mile Canyon. Cove Campground is located approximately 8 miles into the canyon on the right.
The road leading into Eleven Mile Canyon is accessible via County Road 96 and is unpaved. There may be washouts on campground roads, as mentioned in reviews, though the main canyon road was noted to be in excellent condition.Nearby places
Lake George (approximately 9 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive), Florissant (approximately 15 miles, approximately 25 minutes drive), Woodland Park (approximately 30 miles, approximately 45 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in nearby Lake George (approximately 9 miles away) or Woodland Park (approximately 30 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.5
23 reviews
Cove Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users appreciated the peace and quiet, scenic beauty, and proximity to fishing and hiking areas. Vault toilet cleanliness and overuse were common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful scenery, excellent fishing spots, peaceful environment. "Beautiful, peaceful place to camp, hike, fish or relax in the water." - Jess Sparkles.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with vault toilets, mice, and trash. "The outhouse smelled from about 50 yards away..." - Todd F.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring odor-neutralizing supplies for the vault toilets. Campers recommend site #004 for its seclusion and proximity to the river.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring offers birding with Bald Eagles. Summer is ideal for fishing and hikes. Winter months were not reviewed.
Based on 23 reviewsCamper Quotes
"My favorite campsite in Eleven Mile Canyon. Right on the river and not too many sites close to it." - Ben Stegeman. "We’ll be back." - Sean Uber.
Based on 23 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #004 praised for seclusion and proximity to the river. Site #001 noted for a longer walk-in and privacy. "Bathrooms were clean." - Darren B.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific user reviews were available.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs must be tethered and leashed. Reviewers did not comment on pet experiences specifically.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025