Ohaver Lake
4.58162 reviews5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA
Ohaver Lake
$28.00 - $56.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$56.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates are $28 for standard nonelectric sites and tent-only sites, and $56 for double sites. First-come, first-served season also charges $28 per night for standard nonelectric sites and tent-only sites.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Colorado wilderness at 9,200 feet, O'Haver Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 31 pristine campsites scattered beneath towering ponderosa pines and shimmering aspens. This mountain sanctuary draws anglers eager to cast their lines into the crystal-clear lake waters, while paddlers glide across its glassy surface and bird watchers delight in spotting mountain species. During peak summer months, these coveted first-come, first-served sites often claim their weekend visitors by Thursday noon, testament to this alpine retreat's enduring appeal.
The campground offers a mix of camping experiences, including standard nonelectric, tent-only, and double campsites. Sites are either reservable or available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceHistory echoes through these mountains along the abandoned Denver and Rio Grande railroad grade, where steam engines once chugged through the wilderness in the 1880s, carrying fortune-seekers and pioneers to new frontiers. Today, this historic corridor has transformed into an exhilarating mountain biking trail that winds from Monarch Pass to Marshall Pass, allowing modern adventurers to trace the iron rails' path through spectacular high-country terrain.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances between extremes, offering crisp, invigorating mornings that give way to warm, sun-drenched afternoons perfect for lakeside adventures. Early season campers during Memorial Day weekend should pack warm layers as nighttime temperatures often flirt with freezing. Summer brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the peaks, filling the air with the electric energy of mountain storms and the sweet scent of rain-washed pine.
ElevationPerched at 9,200 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers a refreshing escape where the air is crisp and thin, demanding a slower pace that perfectly matches the tranquil mountain setting. Here, summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even as valley floors swelter, and the rarified atmosphere creates impossibly blue skies that seem to stretch forever above the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryO'Haver Lake serves as the campground's sparkling centerpiece, its pristine waters reflecting the surrounding forest of stately ponderosa pines and graceful aspens. Come autumn, the mountainsides explode in a symphony of gold as aspen leaves transform into nature's most spectacular light show. Sweeping mountain vistas unfold in every direction, offering breathtaking panoramas that shift with the changing light from dawn's first blush to sunset's final glow.
Geological RegionCradled within the majestic Pike and San Isabel National Forests at the base of the Rocky Mountains, this alpine wonderland showcases the raw beauty of Colorado's high country. The landscape tells an ancient geological story through its rugged peaks and gentle valleys, where ponderosa pines sink their roots into mountain soil and aspens dance in mountain breezes. O'Haver Lake itself nestles like a jewel in this mountainous terrain, a testament to the glacial forces that sculpted these highlands into their present magnificence.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible fishing docks, picnic areas, and vault toilets. Trails and paths around the lake allow for ease of navigation, and some sites provide easy access to the water.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, accommodating tents, RVs, and trailers. Double sites like #12 are available, providing additional space for larger groups.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are close together, reducing privacy. Others, such as site #12, offer greater seclusion due to their remote location.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #12 recommended for privacy and lakeside views; Site #20 offers majestic Mount Ouray views.
Best CampsitesSite #12 described as remote and peaceful on the western end. Sites #18-20 are lakeside and great for groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at noon.
Check-out
Check-out is by noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 persons per site.
Groups
Group sites like #11 are available and can accommodate larger parties. These sites are suitable for activities such as scouting trips.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features standard nonelectric, tent-only, and double sites. Sites are laid out near the lake with accessible vault toilets and potable water taps.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to September 21 (reservable). Closed October 11 to June 05.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites #1-5, 7, 13, 21, 23, and 24 are first-come, first-served. Site #6 becomes available as walk-up after mid-September. Walk-ups are typically full by Thursday noon during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (day before or day of arrival) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
O'Haver Lake Campground caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, offering fishing, hiking, non-motorized boating, and wildlife viewing as its primary activities. The serene lake setting is ideal for fishing and paddleboarding, while nearby trails provide opportunities for hiking and exploring the area's natural and historical features.
Hiking
The area features trails such as the historic Denver and Rio Grande railroad grade and nearby options like Silver Creek and Rainbow Trail. These are popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, with routes offering varying difficulty levels.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at O'Haver Lake. The lake is stocked with rainbow and brook trout, and an accessible fishing pier is provided. One user noted, 'Nice little lake to get some nice pan-size trout.' Fishing is best during early mornings and late evenings.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the lake, which is uncommon for many Colorado lakes. This activity is often enjoyed alongside other water-based recreation.Biking
The nearby Denver and Rio Grande railroad grade is a well-known biking route. Cyclists also explore the Crest Trail and routes to Marshall Pass. Some user reviews note ATV activity on these trails, which may affect the biking experience.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed. Many visitors use paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks to enjoy the calm waters. The lake's tranquil setting makes it a favorite for such activities.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in bird species and other wildlife. One reviewer mentioned hearing owls in the evenings, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.Winter Activities
The campground is not open in winter, but nearby areas such as Shirley Site offer snowmobiling and other winter recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking are popular. The calm lake environment is ideal for these activities, and many visitors bring their own equipment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity reported; food storage guidelines must be followed. "Be bear aware; keep all food and other attractants out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle when not in use."
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.2 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
Salida Ranger District Office for information (719-539-3591), hospital and police services available in nearby Salida.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 21.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Some reviews noted occasional issues, such as overflowing dumpsters during busy periods.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on O'Haver Lake, suitable for fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Accessible fishing pier on-site.
Common complaintsOvercrowding during peak season, noisy generators running all day, and campground hosts selectively enforcing rules.
HostHosts Ron and Renee are praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. "Camp hosts, Renee and Ron, were awesome."
Campground Map
5575 CLEORA RD, SALIDA, CO 81201, USA
Driving directionsFrom Salida, Colorado: Travel west on Highway 50 to Poncha Springs. Turn south on Hwy 285 and travel for 5 miles. Turn right onto County Road 200 and continue for 2.3 miles. Turn west on County Road 202 and proceed 2.5 miles.
Access road has sharp curves and is steep. Road conditions include washboards and dips that can be challenging for trailers and larger vehicles. "The road to the campground is rough and has several tight corners. It can be tricky when pulling a trailer."Nearby places
Poncha Springs (approx. 7 miles, 15 minutes), Salida (approx. 12 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and other supplies available in Salida (approx. 25 minutes away). Firewood sold on-site for $10 per bundle.
Camper Reviews
4.6
162 reviews
Ohaver Lake is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
O'Haver Lake Campground receives high praise for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and range of activities. However, issues such as noise, crowded conditions, and inconsistent host behavior have been noted in some reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 162 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently commend the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and the tranquility of the lake. Activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, and hiking are highlighted as major...
Based on 162 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users report issues such as noise from generators, overcrowding during peak times, and inconsistencies in rule enforcement. A few reviews also mention maintenance lapses, such as overflowing...
Based on 162 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early for first-come, first-served sites, as they fill up quickly, often by Thursday for weekends. Bring cash for firewood purchases. Be cautious of the steep and rough access road, especially...
Based on 162 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with weekends being particularly crowded. Fishing and paddleboarding are favorite summer activities. Fall offers quieter conditions and scenic foliage.
Based on 162 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'This small lake is perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing without the loud sounds of big boat motors.'
- 'We camped at site 12 at the western end and they routinely checked up on us to...
Based on 162 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12 is often praised for its seclusion and proximity to the lake. Site #20 is noted for its excellent views and accessibility, especially for families with children. Site #29 is recommended for...
Based on 162 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible fishing docks and picnic areas are appreciated by visitors. However, the steep access road may pose a challenge for some.
Based on 162 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Reviews emphasize the importance of adhering to leash rules, as non-compliance sometimes causes issues between campers.
Based on 162 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025