Lakeview Campground
4.49196 reviewsLEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA
Lakeview Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
The nightly fee for both standard non-electric and RV non-electric sites is $30. Additional fees include an extra vehicle fee ($10) and a late cancellation or no-show penalty ($20).
About this campground
Perched on the shores of the stunning Twin Lakes Reservoir, Lakeview Campground invites you to experience Colorado's high country at its finest. Wake up to mirror-like waters reflecting towering peaks, spend your days casting lines for trophy trout or exploring alpine trails, and end your evenings around a crackling campfire under star-filled skies. This thoughtfully maintained campground features traditional camping sites equipped with picnic tables and vault toilets, offering an authentic outdoor experience without sacrificing essential amenities.
Lakeview Campground offers a mix of camping experiences suitable for tents, RVs, and group camping. Sites are equipped with basic amenities but lack modern conveniences like hookups.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds in the shadow of Colorado's legendary mining heritage. Just down the mountain lies historic Leadville, once the silver capital of the world, where fortunes were made and lost in the 1800s gold rush. The campground sits along the spectacular Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, a route that traces the footsteps of prospectors, pioneers, and Native Americans who first called these mountains home.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the perfect blend of warm, sun-drenched days averaging 65°F and crisp mountain nights that dip to a refreshing 39°F—ideal for cozy sleeping bags and morning coffee by the fire. The high-altitude climate delivers predominantly clear skies with occasional afternoon rain showers that roll through the peaks, bringing the sweet scent of rain-washed pine. Gentle to moderate mountain breezes keep the air fresh and help moderate temperatures throughout your stay.
ElevationAt 9,500 feet above sea level, Lakeview Campground places you firmly in Colorado's alpine wonderland. This rarified air offers crystal-clear views that seem to stretch forever, though visitors should take time to acclimate to the altitude. The thin mountain air enhances the brilliance of sunrises and sunsets, painting the surrounding peaks in unforgettable hues of gold and crimson.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a fragrant forest of towering ponderosa pines mixed with aromatic sage, where the Twin Lakes Reservoir sparkles like twin sapphires between you and the majestic Mount Elbert Forebay. This extraordinary setting serves as your gateway to the Collegiate Peaks and Mount Massive Wilderness Areas, where alpine meadows bloom with wildflowers and ancient snowfields cling to north-facing slopes year-round. At 9,500 feet, you'll discover a remarkable ecosystem where hardy alpine plants thrive in the thin air, creating a tapestry of color against the rugged mountain backdrop.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the mighty Sawatch Range, Lakeview Campground offers front-row seats to Colorado's most impressive mountain theater. The campground's unique position among groves of ponderosa pine and sage-covered slopes provides intimate views of Colorado's two highest peaks—Mount Elbert soaring to 14,433 feet and Mount Massive reaching 14,421 feet. The centerpiece Twin Lakes Reservoir, spanning an impressive 2,805 acres, creates a stunning foreground to this alpine amphitheater, its waters carved from ancient glacial valleys that tell the geological story of the Rocky Mountains.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites vary; some sites accommodate large trailers but may have steep drops, while others are suited for smaller RVs and tent setups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites varies by loop. Some loops, like F, are noted for being quieter and more private, while others are more exposed, as one review states, "No privacy between sites."
Total Campsites80 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in loops F or B for the best lake and mountain views. Avoid sites near bathroom vents (e.g., sites A001–A003).
Best CampsitesLoops F and B are noted for better views and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into multiple loops (e.g., A, B, F). Some loops offer better views and spacing.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025. Reservations start June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available; it is recommended to arrive around check-out time (12 PM) to secure a site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 1-day notice) forfeit the first night’s use fee and incur an additional $10 fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night’s use fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lakeview Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is a primary attraction, with easy access to the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. Water-based activities like fishing, kayaking, and swimming are popular at the nearby Twin Lakes. "Beautiful area with lots of hiking options!" wrote one user.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. Trails offer various levels of difficulty and scenic views, as stated in user reviews: "Great proximity to hiking Mt. Elbert and other trails."Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant at Twin Lakes, with common catches including rainbow trout and mackinaw trout. One reviewer noted, "Good fishing, campsites clean and well maintained."Swimming
Swimming is available at Twin Lakes. Campers often enjoy the beach areas along the lakeshore. A reviewer mentioned, "Kids enjoyed playing on the beach and 'getting wet.'"Biking
The nearby Continental Divide Trail allows for mountain biking from Halfmoon Road south to Twin Lakes, making it a popular choice for biking enthusiasts.Boating
Boating activities, including sailing and water skiing, are popular on Twin Lakes. However, no specific details about boat rentals or docking facilities were provided.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife viewing include observing local bird species and occasional hummingbirds, as described by one camper: "Bonus: Hummingbird nest in our tree."Beach activities
Beach areas at Twin Lakes provide opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and general relaxation.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed.Water Sports
Includes kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing, but no specific facilities or rental options are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are active in the area; food storage in a vehicle is recommended. The high elevation may cause altitude sickness. The campground lacks potable water.
Active alertsWater will not be available at the campground in 2025.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 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
St. Vincent Hospital in Leadville (approximately 15 miles away) for medical emergencies. The local ranger station in Leadville provides additional emergency assistance. Police services available through the Lake County Sheriff’s department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 – August 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided; however, reviewers noted that trash bins are not available in every loop, requiring campers to dispose of waste in specific locations.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Twin Lakes Reservoir and Mount Elbert Forebay. Activities include fishing, boating, and water skiing.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include the lack of water, noisy generators, and the close spacing of campsites in some loops.
HostHosts such as Dan and Brenda are frequently praised for their helpfulness and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
LEADVILLE RANGER DISTRICT, 810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA
Driving directionsFrom Leadville, Colorado, drive south 15 miles on Highway 24, turn right on Highway 82 and travel 4 miles to Lake County Road 24. Turn right on Lake County Road 24, and go 1 mile north to the Lakeview Campground on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but it requires navigating local roads, including Lake County Road 24, which is noted for being well-maintained. However, as it’s located at an elevation of 9,500 feet, travelers should use caution when coming from lower elevations.Nearby places
Leadville (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Buena Vista (30 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Aspen (via Independence Pass, approximately 1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
The nearest convenience store, The Pass Gas store, offers basic provisions including hiker resupply items. Comprehensive supplies such as groceries, fuel, and camping gear are available in Leadville, approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
196 reviews
Lakeview Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews for Lakeview Campground are highly positive, with an average rating of 4.4. Clean facilities, helpful camp hosts, and scenic views were frequently highlighted. However, lack of water and noise from generators were common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 196 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cleanliness of vault toilets, spacious campsites, and "amazing views of the Twin Lakes." Many highlighted the friendliness and helpfulness of camp hosts, with one review calling...
Based on 196 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most cited issues were the lack of potable water, noise from generators, and occasional overcrowding. Specific complaints included, "No water for three years," and "Highway noise filters loudly...
Based on 196 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as none is available on-site. Consider arriving early to secure first-come, first-served sites. Avoid sites near bathroom vents in Loop A, as odors can be unpleasant.
Based on 196 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention the campground's scenic beauty and access to nearby trails. Some complaints about noise and generator use were also seasonal. Winter activities are not mentioned.
Based on 196 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The vault toilets smelled better than any other vault toilets I have been in." 2. "Dan, the host, was very helpful!" 3. "No water is a hardship on the campers." 4. "The views were so great,...
Based on 196 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A002 and A003 have complaints about proximity to bathroom vents. Sites in Loop F are noted for privacy and views, particularly F1 and F2. Site E013 has been praised for its mountain and lake...
Based on 196 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Users with dogs highlighted the trails as pet-friendly.
Based on 196 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025