Meadows Group Campground
4.699 reviewsPIKE NATIONAL FOREST.
Meadows Group Campground
$195.00 - $195.00 / 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$195.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites are priced at $195 per night during the peak season. Prices do not include taxes, reservation fees, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in Colorado's breathtaking Front Range, Meadows Group Campground serves as the perfect basecamp for unforgettable group adventures. With two expansive sites that each welcome up to 150 guests, this mountain retreat transforms family reunions, scout troops, and outdoor clubs into memories that last a lifetime. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line for native trout in the crystal-clear waters of Buffalo Creek, explore miles of hiking trails that wind through towering pines, or saddle up for horseback adventures through meadows dotted with wildflowers. Mountain bikers will discover their paradise on challenging singletracks, while those seeking solitude can venture into the nearby Lost Creek Wilderness Area or connect with the legendary Colorado Trail for an epic backcountry experience.
Meadows Group Campground is designed specifically for group camping, with large campsites accommodating up to 150 people each. It caters to tent and RV campers.
Historical SignificanceWhile Meadows Group Campground itself stands as a relatively modern gateway to adventure, it opens doors to some of Colorado's most storied landscapes. The surrounding region tells tales of pioneering spirits and wilderness preservation, with the Lost Creek Wilderness Area protecting 120,000 acres of pristine backcountry that has captivated explorers for generations. The nearby Colorado Trail, stretching nearly 500 miles from Denver to Durango, represents one of the crown jewels of American long-distance hiking, carrying the footsteps of thousands of adventurers through the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives like a gentle friend in these mountains, bringing warm days perfect for outdoor adventures and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. The Front Range's famous blue skies dominate the peak season, with sunshine gracing most days and afternoon thunderstorms providing dramatic mountain theater. While winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, it also brings freezing temperatures and light dustings of snow that close access to many areas. Spring and fall offer their own magic – wildflower blooms and golden aspen displays – though visitors should pack layers for these transitional seasons when mountain weather can change in minutes.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet above sea level, Meadows Group Campground offers that perfect Rocky Mountain elevation – high enough to escape summer's heat but low enough to avoid the most extreme alpine conditions. This sweet spot in the Front Range means cooler temperatures, crisp mountain air, and stunning vistas, though visitors from lower elevations should take time to acclimate. The thin air at this altitude can surprise newcomers, so planning a relaxed first day, staying hydrated, and listening to your body ensures everyone in your group can fully enjoy the mountain experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the whisper of wind through towering ponderosa pines and the distant call of mountain birds – this is morning at Meadows Group Campground. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of green, where sunlight filters through the canopy to dance on the forest floor. On clear days, the iconic silhouette of Pikes Peak dominates the horizon, while closer explorations reveal hidden treasures like the sapphire waters of Wellington Lake. The landscape here tells the story of the Rocky Mountains themselves – ancient granite peaks, valleys carved by time, and ecosystems that change with every hundred feet of elevation gained.
Geological RegionThe Front Range of the Rocky Mountains cradles Meadows Group Campground in a landscape sculpted by millions of years of geological drama. This eastern rampart of the Rockies rises dramatically from the plains, creating a spectacular backdrop of granite peaks, deep valleys, and rushing mountain streams. Pine and spruce forests cloak the mountainsides, while meadows burst with wildflowers in summer. The interplay of elevation, exposure, and water has created diverse microclimates throughout the region, from sun-baked southern slopes to cool, shadowed ravines where streams tumble over ancient rocks, each telling its own chapter in the ongoing story of these magnificent mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible picnic tables and vault toilets, making it accommodating for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are large enough to accommodate up to 150 people per site, multiple tents, trailers, or RVs.
Sites PrivacySites are relatively secluded and spacious. A user review notes, 'Pretty secluded, had no traffic coming through in the evening, night or early morning.'
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 01 in Loop MEAD is another preferred choice for church and community groups due to proximity to hiking trails and Denver.
Best CampsitesSite 02 in Loop GRP2 is praised for its spaciousness and secluded atmosphere: "We love this group campsite... dogs can run, and you feel like you are away from everything and everyone."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM (noon)
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 150 guests per group site.
Groups
Each group site can accommodate up to 150 people and 25 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two group sites, each accommodating up to 150 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9, 2025, to September 20, 2025 (peak season); closed from September 20, 2025, to June 5, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies include a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee for cancellations made less than 14 days prior to arrival. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Meadows Group Campground is an excellent location for outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding. It provides access to multiple nearby trails and recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Several trailheads for hiking are within half a mile of the campground. The Colorado Trail provides access to the Buffalo Creek Mountain Bike Area and the Lost Creek Wilderness Area.Fishing
Buffalo Creek is a popular fishing area for brook trout and is located near the campground.Biking
The area features trails suitable for mountain biking, with direct access to the Buffalo Creek Mountain Bike Area from the campground.Winter Activities
No winter recreation opportunities are explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must adhere to local regulations, and firewood is available at Buffalo Campground.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include ticks in tall grass, wildlife encounters (bears), and high elevation conditions that may affect visitors from lower altitudes.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Nearest emergency services include medical facilities in Denver, CO, police at Jefferson County Sheriff, and ranger stations in Pike National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - September 20, 2025; June 5, 2026 - September 6, 2026.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresBuffalo Creek is nearby and popular for brook trout fishing. Wellington Lake is a short drive away.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include lack of water availability onsite and high nightly costs given minimal amenities. "The biggest problem was that there was no water available, and the steep price paid for the campground should have been reduced due to not having any water available."
HostCamp host Jeff is praised for exceptional service: "Jeff took care of us; made sure we had enough firewood, cleaned the bathrooms everyday, even had treats for our four-legged campers."
Campground Map
PIKE NATIONAL FOREST.
Driving directionsFrom Denver, Colorado, take Highway 285 southwest to Pine Junction, turn south on Jefferson County 126 and travel 15 miles to Buffalo Creek. Turn right on Forest Road 550 and drive 5 miles to the Meadows Group Campground.
Accessible via paved roads until Forest Road 550, which leads to the campground. Forest Road conditions can vary and may be muddy during the wet season.Nearby places
Denver, CO (45 miles southwest)
Buffalo Creek, CO (5 miles).
Nearby supplies
Firewood is available at Buffalo Campground, approximately 0.5 miles east on Forest Road 550. Visitors are advised to bring their own water as none is provided onsite.
Camper Reviews
4.7
9 reviews
Meadows Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mostly positive, highlighting the campground's spaciousness, cleanliness, and suitability for group gatherings. Some complaints included the lack of potable water and occasional issues with site assignments.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the spaciousness of the sites, the cleanliness of the vault toilets, and the campground's suitability for large groups. 'A great campground, especially for big gatherings, clean...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A common issue raised is the lack of potable water on-site, requiring visitors to bring their own. One user mentioned, 'Water pumps were both out. Bring your own water.' Another issue was occasional...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water and stay out of tall grass to avoid ticks. Arrive prepared for high elevation conditions.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open during warmer months, from May to September. Visitors have noted mild temperatures during their stays.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
1) 'Absolutely perfect for our group of 30! Plenty of space for multiple camp trailers, tents and RVs.' 2) 'Jeff took care of us; made sure we had enough firewood, cleaned the bathrooms every day,...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 01 in Loop MEAD and Group Site 02 in Loop GRP2 were particularly praised for their spaciousness and suitability for group gatherings. One review noted, 'We love this group campsite. We try to go...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The accessible picnic tables and clean vault toilets were noted, though no specific reviews from users with disabilities were found.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and at least one reviewer appreciated the pet-friendly environment, stating, 'Even had treats for our four-legged campers.'
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025