Monarch Park
4.3317 reviews5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA
Monarch Park
$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
Rates are $24 per night for standard non-electric and tent-only non-electric sites during the peak season (July 4th - September 20th). Additional fees, such as $10 for a third vehicle or day use, may apply.
About this campground
Nestled at the foot of majestic Monarch Ridge, Monarch Park Campground beckons families and adventurers to experience Colorado's high country at its finest. Here, where the South Fork Arkansas River whispers through pine-scented meadows and pristine mountain ponds reflect endless skies, you'll discover a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Cast a line into crystal-clear waters, explore winding trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, or simply sit quietly as elk and deer emerge from the forest shadows at dawn.
Monarch Park Campground caters to a range of campers, with options for tent camping and small RVs. Sites vary in size and amenities, offering flexibility for visitors.
Historical SignificanceFor nearly a century, Monarch Park has welcomed generations of campers to its timeless embrace. Walking these grounds, you'll discover echoes of the past in weathered stone structures and historic outhouses that stand as monuments to the campground's enduring legacy. These rustic remnants tell the story of countless families who've made memories beneath these same towering pines.
Weather and SeasonsAt 10,500 feet, Monarch Park offers a refreshing escape from summer heat, with crisp mountain air that calls for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags even in July. Afternoon thunderstorms roll across the peaks with dramatic flair, painting the sky with nature's own light show—a reminder to plan your hiking adventures for morning hours and to always respect the mountain's moods.
ElevationPerched at 10,500 feet where the air is thin and the stars seem close enough to touch, Monarch Park offers a true high-altitude adventure. Take your first day easy as your body adjusts to this lofty realm—the slight breathlessness you feel is simply nature's way of reminding you that you've entered the roof of the Rockies, where every breath connects you more deeply to the mountain wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryThis high-elevation sanctuary showcases nature's raw beauty and resilience at 10,500 feet, where the South Fork Arkansas River dances through sun-dappled forests and serene ponds mirror the surrounding peaks. While beetle infestation has transformed parts of the forest, creating a patchwork of standing ghost trees, this natural cycle has opened new vistas and created habitat for woodpeckers and other wildlife, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the ever-changing tapestry of mountain ecosystems.
Geological RegionMonarch Park Campground sits in the heart of Colorado's legendary Sawatch Range, where ancient geological forces sculpted the dramatic landscape surrounding Monarch Pass. As part of the Continental Divide, this remarkable location marks the backbone of North America, where waters flow either east to the Atlantic or west to the Pacific. The surrounding high-elevation forests and alpine meadows showcase millions of years of geological history, from uplifted ancient seabeds to glacially carved valleys.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne vault toilet is wheelchair accessible.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some are near water bodies, while others are more open. Specific sites like 21, 23, and 25 have been recommended for better experiences.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from Highway 50 to minimize road noise. Sites near the river or ponds provide scenic views and tranquility.
Best CampsitesSites 21, 23, and 25 are highly recommended for their location and views. Site 2 offers views of Mt Aetna and lush meadows.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two vehicles or one RV per site
- third vehicle incurs $10 fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has a mix of back-in spots and uneven parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen July 4th - September 20th for peak season; closed the rest of the year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable only during the first-come, first-served season from July 4th to September 20th.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations incur $10 penalty plus the first night's fee. No-show penalties include $20 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Monarch Park supports a variety of outdoor activities. Campers can explore nearby hiking trails, enjoy fishing in the South Fork Arkansas River or beaver ponds, and observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Trails like the Colorado/Continental Divide Trail and the Monarch Crest Trail are popular hikes.
Hiking
Popular trails include Waterdog Lakes, Monarch Crest Trail, and Hunt and Boss Lakes. Wildflowers bloom in late summer, making the hikes scenic and memorable.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with brook trout being the primary catch. Families with children can fish in the nearby beaver ponds.Biking
The proximity to trails makes the campground appealing for mountain biking enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, chipmunks, and squirrels, as noted by a user review. "Saw deer, chipmunks, & squirrel. Quiet," said one camper.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Nighttime is generally quiet, even with proximity to the highway.
Hazards
General hazardsDead trees due to beetle infestation pose safety risks. Other hazards include lightning during thunderstorms and wildlife interactions.
Active alertsThe campground is closed for renovations for the 2024 season and will reopen in 2025.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.1 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
The nearest emergency services are located in Salida, CO, including hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 4th - September 20th.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, though no recycling was mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSouth Fork Arkansas River and ponds with brook trout fishing are accessible within the campground.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby Highway 50 is a recurring concern, along with poor maintenance of facilities, debris from dead trees, and untidy toilets.
HostSteve, the camp host, is described as friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. He sells firewood, maintains clean bathrooms, and provides maps and local information.
Campground Map
5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA
Driving directionsFrom Poncha Springs, travel west on Highway 50 for about 15 miles, then turn left on County Road 231 and drive south to the Monarch Park Campground.
The campground is accessible via County Road 231 off Highway 50, which is a paved road. However, the roads within the campground may have uneven spots, as noted by user reviews mentioning poor parking spot leveling.Nearby places
Salida (15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Salida, CO, approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
17 reviews
Monarch Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal a mixed experience. While many praise the campground's natural beauty and recreational opportunities, others criticize maintenance issues and road noise. The camp host, Steve, receives consistent praise for being welcoming and helpful.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
- "Camp host is great. Steve knows the area well and can help you find whatever it is you're looking for." - "Location, Location, Location! It's proximity to mountain biking, hiking, & alpine lake...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- "Noise from the highway is pretty bad...air braking from trucks is probably the worst of it." - "Lots of dead trees and debris." - "Messy campground with broken-down bridges and unkempt toilets."
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Sites 21, 23, and 25 are recommended for their quality and location. - AT&T has good cell service, but Verizon does not work. - Be prepared for cool nighttime temperatures because of the high...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with wildflowers blooming and trails accessible. However, some campers note that thunderstorms are common during this time.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Steve keeps the bathrooms clean as well." - "It was beyond beautiful and peaceful...we loved this place!" - "Very kind campsite host as we were struggling to find a spot." - "...too close to loud...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 21, 23, and 25 are praised as the best options in terms of location and quality. Site 2 offers views of Mt. Aetna and Taylor Mountain over green meadows and beaver ponds.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
One vault toilet is wheelchair accessible. No further details related to accessibility were provided.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025