May Queen
4.4095 reviews810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA
May Queen
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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
Facility rates for peak season (May 27, 2025 - September 27, 2025) are $29 per night for both standard nonelectric and tent-only nonelectric sites. Extra vehicle fee: $10.
About this campground
Nestled at the western edge of the pristine Turquoise Lake, May Queen Campground beckons with 22 intimate sites tucked beneath a canopy of towering pines. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to endless lake adventures and mountain trails, where each morning brings the promise of paddling across mirror-like waters or discovering secluded hiking paths that wind through Colorado's stunning high country.
May Queen Campground is designed primarily for individual and family camping, with a mix of tent and RV sites. Six first-come, first-served sites are available, offering flexibility for last-minute visitors.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through these mountains, where the abandoned Colorado Midland Railroad bed from the 1890s tells tales of fortune-seekers and pioneers who carved their dreams into these rugged peaks. Just down the mountain, the legendary mining town of Leadville stands as a living museum, its Victorian storefronts and weathered headframes preserving the wild spirit of Colorado's silver boom days when millionaires were made overnight and saloons never closed.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, Mother Nature paints with dramatic brushstrokes. Summer days unfold with brilliant sunshine before afternoon thunderstorms roll across the peaks, bringing refreshing rain and spectacular lightning displays. Even in July, temperatures can plummet to a crisp 30°F after sunset, turning your campfire into a cherished gathering spot. Spring lingers here, occasionally dusting the landscape with surprise snowfall well into May, creating a magical alpine atmosphere that reminds you just how close you are to the sky.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 9,900 feet above sea level, May Queen Campground offers a true high-altitude experience where the air is crisp, the stars seem close enough to touch, and every breath reminds you of the thin mountain atmosphere. While the elevation creates spectacular vistas and refreshing temperatures, visitors should take time to acclimate, staying hydrated and moving at a relaxed pace as their bodies adjust to life nearly two miles above the sea.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of lodgepole pines creates a natural sanctuary where a babbling creek tumbles toward Turquoise Lake's sapphire waters. From your campsite, glimpse the majestic peaks of Holy Cross and Mount Massive Wildernesses piercing the Colorado sky. This vibrant ecosystem pulses with life as curious chipmunks dart between campsites, industrious beavers engineer the waterways, and nocturnal porcupines waddle through the moonlit forest, creating an authentic Rocky Mountain wildlife experience right outside your tent.
Geological RegionDeep within the heart of the Colorado Rockies, May Queen Campground occupies a spectacular perch in a pristine lodgepole pine forest at Turquoise Lake's remote western shore. At 9,900 feet, you're camping in the shadow of the mighty Mount Massive Wilderness, where ancient geological forces sculpted dramatic peaks and carved out the stunning alpine lake that serves as your backyard. This is quintessential Rocky Mountain terrain, where glacial history meets forest ecology in one of Colorado's most breathtaking high-country settings.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites at May Queen accommodate both tents and RVs, but some sites may have limited space for larger setups. For example, Site 001 was described as small and unsuitable for larger RVs, while others have spacious areas.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies; hilltop tent sites inland from the lake offer more seclusion, while lakeside sites are more exposed. Some reviewers noted, 'Sites in the center or closer to the water are more exposed,' while others on the hillside praised the privacy.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent sites on the hillside offer more privacy. Sites near the creek have better soundscapes but less shade.
Best CampsitesSites 17, 19, and 22 are highlighted for their views and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutMost sites are on a level, open field near the creek. Six sites are first-come, first-served and located on a wooded hillside.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 27 - September 27, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySix first-come, first-served sites are located on the wooded hillside above the creek. Availability is not guaranteed, and these sites are often in demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 cancellation fee. Day-before or day-of cancellations forfeit the first night's fee plus a $10 service fee. No-shows are assessed a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The May Queen Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, with easy access to hiking, fishing, and boating. The adjacent Turquoise Lake Trail provides a scenic 6.4-mile hike along the lake, while Timberline Lake Trail and the Colorado Trail offer additional options for avid hikers. Boating and fishing are popular activities, with anglers targeting mackinaw and rainbow trout. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot chipmunks, beavers, porcupines, and even bald eagles.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible from the campground. The Turquoise Lake Trail, a 6.4-mile path, is described as offering moderate difficulty, spectacular views, and remnants of old mines. Timberline Lake Trail, located 0.5 miles from the campground, leads to a high alpine lake and offers stunning views after a 2-mile hike.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight at Turquoise Lake, with anglers pursuing mackinaw and rainbow trout. One reviewer noted, 'Great fishing near the inlet and good fly fishing opportunities.'Boating
The lake allows for various boating activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. While easy access is provided for hand-carried boats, trailered boats need to use the Matchless Boat Ramp on the lake's east side.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are common, with chipmunks, beavers, porcupines, and bald eagles frequently observed. One reviewer referred to the 'resident bald eagle' as a memorable highlight.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings only. Firewood available for purchase at host site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters (bears, chipmunks). High-altitude hazards include thin air and sudden weather changes. Reports of mosquitoes being an issue in summer.
Active alertsWater will not be available in 2024 due to infrastructure issues.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 are in Leadville, approximately 9 miles away. This includes a local hospital and police station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 27, 2025 - September 27, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, ensuring that campers can manage waste effectively during their stay.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Turquoise Lake and a creek. Easy lake access for hand-carried watercraft and fishing.
Common complaintsFrequent concerns include the lack of running water, proximity of sites (lack of privacy), and occasional noise from day-use traffic.
HostDan, the camp host, is frequently praised in reviews for friendliness and helpfulness. Hosts are available to assist campers and sell firewood for $10 per bundle.
Campground Map
810 FRONT STREET, LEADVILLE, CO 80461, USA
Driving directionsFrom Leadville, Colorado, head west on County Road 4. Continue on the paved road about 9 miles to May Queen Campground on the right.
Roads leading to the campground are paved, but user reviews suggest occasional navigation difficulties due to unclear signage ('The 'May Queen' sign for the turn to the campground was covered by tree branches'). Rough conditions have been noted for some vehicles towing campers.Nearby places
Leadville (approx. 9 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Leadville (approx. 9 miles) offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
95 reviews
May Queen is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide a mixed but generally positive picture of May Queen Campground. Visitors praise its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and variety of recreational activities, though some raise concerns about site size, privacy, and the lack of potable water. Common themes include the friendly and attentive camp hosts, stunning lake views, and excellent fishing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 95 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users highlight the campground's scenic location by Turquoise Lake, clean facilities, and friendly camp hosts. For example, one reviewer stated, 'Dan the Camp Host is the nicest guy ever, and...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback often revolves around the lack of potable water, site size limitations, and occasional noise from other campers. One visitor remarked, 'The site was tiny with barely any room for a...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as none is available on-site. Pack bug repellent for the high mosquito population, particularly at dusk. Opt for more secluded hillside sites for privacy. Early booking is...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors report that nights can be very cold even during summer due to the high elevation. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and should be planned for. Some reviews note that late September offers...
Based on 95 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is probably the best campground in Colorado. Not very big, no traffic noise, sky full of stars and just the roar of the river to fill your ears.'
2. 'The camp hosts were super friendly....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site reviews reveal a mix of experiences. Site 1 was called tiny and poorly suited for RVs, while Site 7 was recommended for its seclusion and proximity to trees. Site 19 is noted for its shade and...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at May Queen, but some reviews express frustration over unleashed dogs causing disturbances. One reviewer wrote, 'Dogs were allowed to roam free despite rules, creating issues with...
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Last updated August 10, 2025