Lodegepole (Jefferson Lake Near Fairplay, Colorado)
4.29152 reviewsP.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827, USA
Lodegepole (Jefferson Lake Near Fairplay, Colorado)
$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
Peak season nightly rates for standard non-electric and tent-only sites are $24. Add-on fees include $11 for a third vehicle and $9 daily fee for vehicle entry to Jefferson Lake Recreation Area. Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior and Access Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled in a serene single-loop design, Lodgepole Campground beckons adventurers to its tranquil groves of shimmering aspens and towering mixed conifers. Perched at a breathtaking 9,900 feet, this mountain sanctuary serves as your gateway to the pristine waters of Jefferson Lake and the legendary Colorado Trail. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with wilderness charm, offering vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, crystal-clear drinking water from nostalgic hand pumps, and inviting fire rings where stories unfold under starlit skies.
Lodgepole Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, offering sites for tents, RVs, and group camping. It is primarily designed for rustic and nature-focused experiences.
Historical SignificanceJust down the mountain, the legendary town of Fairplay whispers tales of Colorado's gold rush glory. Once a bustling frontier settlement, this remarkable ghost town has been lovingly preserved as the South Park City Museum, where 34 authentic buildings stand frozen in time. Wander through history as you explore over 60,000 artifacts that bring the Wild West to life, each telling stories of prospectors, pioneers, and the dreamers who shaped the American frontier.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather, where summer days warm your adventures while crisp nights remind you of the alpine elevation. As seasons shift, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland with temperatures that demand cozy sleeping bags and warm hearts. Spring and summer rains awaken the forest floor, painting the meadows with wildflowers and filling Jefferson Lake to its brim, creating a verdant paradise that photographers and nature lovers dream about.
ElevationAt 9,900 feet, where the air is crisp and pure, Lodgepole Campground offers an authentic high-altitude experience. Majestic 12,000-foot peaks stand sentinel around you, their snow-capped summits touching the clouds. Take time to let your body adjust to this thin-air paradise – the elevation adds an exhilarating edge to every breath and makes each sunset more spectacular than the last.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of Jefferson Creek as it winds through your valley campground, with imposing Jefferson Hill rising like a natural cathedral before you. Ancient lodgepole pines stand tall alongside quaking aspens that shimmer gold in autumn's embrace. The deep, mysterious waters of Jefferson Lake reflect the surrounding peaks like a mirror, while industrious beavers have crafted their own architectural marvels along the creek, creating peaceful ponds that attract wildlife and wonder in equal measure.
Geological RegionDeep within the protected embrace of Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Lodgepole Campground rests in a picturesque valley carved by Jefferson Creek over millennia. At 9,900 feet, this alpine haven showcases nature's artistry through dense groves of lodgepole pine, dancing aspen colonies, and diverse mixed conifer forests that have weathered centuries. The surrounding geological tapestry tells an ancient story of mountain building, glacial sculpting, and the patient work of water and wind.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is limited. Some campsites are noted as easier for parking or having better access to facilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with room for tents, hammocks, and even RVs up to 30 feet long. Some sites have large areas to pitch tents away from the road.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies between sites. Outer loop sites tend to offer more seclusion, while inner loop sites are closer together.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter-loop sites, especially on the west side, provide more shade and privacy. Stay away from sites near vault toilets if odor is a concern.
Best CampsitesCampsites 26, 27, and 14 are highly rated for privacy, seclusion, and shade. Site 28 offers a flatter surface for larger family tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles or one RV per site included in camping fee. $11/night for a third vehicle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with campsites spaced for semi-privacy. Inner loop sites closer together and outer loop sites offer more shade and seclusion.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 12. Reservable start dates from June 24 through October 12.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWeekend reservations require booking both Friday and Saturday nights together. Walk-up availability may be limited due to frequent full bookings.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations and no-shows incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's use fee. Refunds are processed through Recreation.gov within 7 days of the end date of a reservation.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lodgepole Campground provides a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is near Jefferson Lake, which allows fishing and non-motorized boating, and offers access to the Colorado Trail for hiking and biking.
Hiking
The campground has direct access to the Colorado Trail, a 471-mile trail running from Denver to Durango. The West Jefferson Loop Trail, an 11-mile path reaching the Continental Divide, is also nearby.Fishing
Fishing is available in Jefferson Creek and Jefferson Lake. Anglers can catch rainbow, brook, mackinaw, and brown trout. Jefferson Lake is a no-wake lake with a boat ramp for fishing by boat.Biking
The Colorado Trail, accessible from the campground, offers opportunities for mountain biking. Trails vary in difficulty and connect to surrounding areas.Boating
Boating is allowed on Jefferson Lake, which includes a boat ramp. It is a no-wake lake suitable for fishing and non-motorized activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, deer, and beavers are commonly sighted. Beaver ponds and marshes near the creek provide excellent observation spots.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to snowfall. Roads to the Jefferson Lake Recreation Area are not maintained during winter, making access difficult.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating such as kayaking and paddleboarding on Jefferson Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated pits. Hosts sell firewood for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include yellow jacket infestations, slippery inclines at certain campsites, and bear activity due to food left unsecured.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Fairplay, Colorado, provides access to emergency medical services, including a hospital. The nearest ranger station is within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 12 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available onsite but may overflow during busy weekends. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Jefferson Creek and 3 miles south of Jefferson Lake. Beaver ponds are a notable feature.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about the hosts running generators during quiet hours, overcrowded campsites, poor communication about reservations, and occasional infestations of yellow jackets.
HostMixed reviews about hosts—some praised for cleanliness and helpfulness, others criticized for running generators and poor communication.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827, USA
Driving directionsFrom US Highway 285 at Jefferson, take County Road 35 north to County Road 37 and turn right. Pay the user fee at Jefferson Lake Recreation Area entrance station and continue on the road to the campground.
The road to the campground is unpaved and can be quite bumpy, especially the County Road leading up to Jefferson Lake Recreation Area. Seasonal access may be difficult in winter as roads are not maintained for snow.Nearby places
Fairplay (approx. 18 miles), Breckenridge (approx. 40 miles), Lake George (approx. 48 miles), Denver (approx. 100 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be obtained in Fairplay, Colorado, about 18 miles away. Firewood is available for purchase on-site for $10 per bundle.
Camper Reviews
4.3
152 reviews
Lodegepole (Jefferson Lake Near Fairplay, Colorado) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting the campground's natural beauty, clean facilities, and proximity to outdoor activities. However, negative feedback focuses heavily on the camp hosts' behavior, generator noise, and occasional management issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 152 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, spacious campsites, beautiful scenery, access to hiking trails, and abundant wildlife sightings were frequently praised. Jefferson Lake is a notable highlight for fishing and...
Based on 152 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several users complained about camp hosts running noisy generators during prohibited hours and being unhelpful. Some reported overcrowding, yellow jacket infestations, and issues with site...
Based on 152 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cash for the $9 vehicle entry fee and firewood. Outer loop sites offer more privacy. Prepare for high elevation and ensure food is stored securely due to bear activity.
Based on 152 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are favored for mild weather and wildlife activity. Late summer sees increased yellow jackets, and fall offers stunning aspen foliage. Winter access is nearly impossible due...
Based on 152 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms were super clean with no odor." - Josh Wade; "The views absolutely beautiful." - Passion H; "Vault toilets were very clean and didn't smell." - Jennifer Riegel; "The camp hosts were...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14: "Up and away from the road, offering privacy." - Lisa R; Site 27: "Large and secluded, but on an incline." - Danielle H; Site 33: "Flooded during rainstorms; avoid if weather is bad." -...
Based on 152 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility information is sparse. Some reviews note uneven terrain at specific sites, making them less accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 152 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviewers appreciated the pet-friendly policy, while others noted barking dogs as a nuisance.
Based on 152 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025