Happy Meadows
4.6246 reviewsP.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827
Happy Meadows
$24.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Nightly rates range from $24-$29 during the peak season (May 16 to October 12). Rates do not include applicable taxes, reservation fees, or additional charges for extra vehicles or firewood.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the pristine South Platte River, Happy Meadows Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's wilderness with just seven carefully spaced sites. Each spot comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, creating the perfect basecamp for evenings under starlit skies. While the campground maintains a rustic charm with vault toilets and a fresh water pump, it's the lack of RV hookups that preserves its peaceful, back-to-nature atmosphere. Adventure beckons just minutes away at the renowned Eleven Mile Reservoir, where anglers chase trophy trout, hikers explore winding trails, and summer visitors float lazily down crystal-clear waters.
Happy Meadows Campground supports various camping setups, primarily focusing on RV and tent camping. Group camping or luxury accommodations like glamping are not supported.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by millennia of geological forces at Happy Meadows, where the nearby Eleven Mile Canyon tells an ancient story written in stone. Once called Granite Canyon by early settlers who marveled at its 500-foot walls soaring above the rushing river, this dramatic gorge has captivated visitors for generations. Just a short drive away, the world-famous Florissant Fossil Beds invite curious minds to explore 34-million-year-old petrified redwood stumps and delicate fossil insects, offering a window into Colorado's prehistoric past when this mountainous terrain was a lush, lake-dotted valley.
Weather and SeasonsHappy Meadows transforms with each season, offering campers a different experience throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for river activities, though mountain evenings remind you to pack that extra layer. Spring and fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors, but these shoulder seasons can surprise visitors with sudden snow flurries that dust the surrounding peaks. The high-altitude location creates a delightfully dry climate, where afternoon thunderstorms provide dramatic sky shows before giving way to crisp, star-filled nights that seem close enough to touch.
ElevationPerched high in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, Happy Meadows sits at an elevation that puts you closer to the clouds than the plains below. This lofty position means your body needs time to adjust – visitors ascending from sea level often find themselves catching their breath more easily after a day or two. The thin mountain air makes staying hydrated essential, so keep that water bottle filled as you explore. But the rewards of high-altitude camping are unmistakable: cooler temperatures on hot summer days, incredibly clear night skies, and that invigorating mountain air that makes every breath feel fresh and clean.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of the South Platte River and the morning songs of mountain birds at Happy Meadows, where Pike National Forest wraps around you like a green embrace. Mule deer often browse through camp at dawn and dusk, while overhead, golden eagles ride the thermals between towering ponderosa pines. The landscape here is a photographer's dream – from the intimate details of wildflowers dotting riverside meadows to the grand drama of granite cliffs catching alpenglow at sunset. Well-worn trails lead adventurers along the river's edge and up into the forest, each turn revealing new vistas of this remarkable Colorado wilderness.
Geological RegionHappy Meadows occupies a spectacular position within Pike National Forest, where the South Platte River has carved its way through ancient granite for countless millennia. The campground serves as your gateway to Eleven Mile Canyon's geological wonderland, where massive granite walls tell the story of volcanic activity and erosion that shaped this landscape over millions of years. This unique ecosystem, where mountain meets river, creates diverse habitats supporting everything from tiny brook trout darting in shallow pools to black bears foraging in distant meadows. The Platte River system here represents one of Colorado's most important watersheds, its clear waters beginning their long journey from these mountains to eventually join the Missouri River far to the east.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampsites include basic accessibility features such as picnic tables and fire pits. There is no specific mention of ADA-compliant facilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are designed for RVs and are generally described as spacious and accommodating. One reviewer noted, 'The sites were super clean and spacious.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground features wide, moderately private sites. One user commented, 'Beautiful, small campground with wide, private sites and excellent river access.'
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite recommendations include #5 for hammocking trees and #7 for proximity to the river and shade.
Best CampsitesCampsites 002 and 007 are highly rated for direct river access and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
Group camping sites are not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are evenly spaced and include areas with shade and open views of the river. The campground layout allows for privacy while maintaining access to communal facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 16 - October 12. Reservations available starting June 26, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through Recreation.gov, accessible online or via their app.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations can be made up to 5 days before arrival. Sites not reserved become available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 1 day) forfeit the first-night fee plus tax. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first-night rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Happy Meadows offers numerous recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy world-class trout fishing along the South Platte River, tubing, hiking, and scenic drives in Eleven Mile Canyon and the Tarryall Valley. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are also frequent activities, supported by the area's diverse natural environment.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound in and around the campground. Notable trails include the Platte River Trail, which is a short drive away and offers a 6.5-mile round trip hike. Reviewers appreciated these trails, with one stating, 'Platte River Trail is a short drive up the road, about a 6.5-mile round trip out-and-back hike.'Fishing
Happy Meadows is renowned for its fishing opportunities, particularly trout fishing along the South Platte River. Several reviewers highlighted this, with one commenting, 'As a fly fisherman, Happy Meadows is an excellent location. The Platte River flows behind the campsite #2.' However, some noted challenges with fishing conditions, such as muddy water caused by upstream work.Wildlife viewing
Happy Meadows offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing due to its proximity to the South Platte River and Pike Forest. Visitors often spot smaller animals and birds.Winter Activities
The campground is accessible during winter for activities such as snow viewing and peaceful retreats, though weather conditions may include snow.Water Sports
Tubing is a popular activity along the South Platte River, with several reviewers sharing positive experiences. One noted, 'The river was right next to our site,' adding to the ease of water activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood is sold on-site for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include local wildlife (e.g., bears), high elevation challenges, and occasional river rapids unsuitable for tubing beyond shallow exit points.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.7 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
The nearest emergency services are located in Lake George (3 miles away), including local facilities and general stores. The closest major hospital and police services are in Woodland Park, approximately 28 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is May 16 to October 12.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'PACK IN - PACK OUT' facility, so campers are expected to bring their trash bags and remove all waste after their stay.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly along the South Platte River, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include dirty vault toilets during peak times, absence of bear lockers, and noise from generators.
HostCamp host availability varies; some reviews mention absent hosts while others praise their support. Firewood is available for purchase on-site.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827
Driving directionsFrom Denver and Colorado Springs, take I-25 to Highway 24 west toward Woodland Park. At Lake George on US-24, turn north on County Road 77, also known as the Tarryall road. Travel about a mile and turn east on County Road 112. Continue on County Road 112 turning right at the dead end. The campground will be on the right after about a mile.
Accessible via paved roads until County Road 112, which includes unpaved sections and potential washboard terrain. Reviews mention that while accessible, larger RVs may experience minor challenges navigating tight spaces.Nearby places
Lake George (3 miles, approximately 10-minute drive), Woodland Park (approx. 28 miles), Colorado Springs (approx. 50 miles), Denver (approx. 97 miles).
Nearby supplies
Lake George provides the nearest convenience and supply options, including a general store, fishing tackle and bait shop, and cabin rentals. For larger supply needs, Woodland Park and Colorado Springs offer grocery stores, camping gear outlets, and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.6
46 reviews
Happy Meadows is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Happy Meadows Campground is generally well-received, with an average sentiment score of approximately 4.43 out of 5. Visitors frequently praise the campground's scenic beauty, quiet environment, and excellent fishing opportunities. However, some concerns about restroom cleanliness and camp host availability have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 46 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive user feedback emphasizes the campground's small size, peaceful atmosphere, proximity to the South Platte River, excellent fishing opportunities, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. Reviewers...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues raised by visitors include inconsistent cleanliness of vault toilets, occasional unavailability of the camp host, and challenges arising from neighboring campers' noise or behavior. For...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend booking well in advance due to the campground's small size and high demand. Campers also suggest bringing appropriate gear for tubing, as river conditions can vary. Proper food...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight the campground's appeal during summer months for fishing and tubing. However, the offseason offers quieter stays, with occasional snowfall adding to the scenic beauty. Complaints...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is a great campground on the shores of the Upper South Platte River. Great for fly-fishing!' - David P.
2. 'The hosts thought of everything.' - Brandylyn C.
3. 'Bathrooms need to be...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes comments such as: Site #2 is ideal for fly fishing due to its proximity to the river, while Site #1 is noted for limited space and shade. Sites near the river are...
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Accessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features, but general feedback indicates that the sites are spacious and the vault toilet is centrally located.
Based on 46 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Happy Meadows is pet-friendly, and visitors appreciate the opportunity to bring their dogs. However, pets must remain on a leash or tethered at all times, as noted in official guidelines.
Based on 46 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025