Ponderosa Group - Lake Isabel
04 reviewsSAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, CANON CITY, CO 81212, USA
Ponderosa Group - Lake Isabel
$150.00 - $150.00 / 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$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Standard Nonelectric rate of $150 per night during peak season. This fee applies from May 16 to September 19 annually. Additional charges, taxes, and discounts may apply.
About this campground
Nestled among towering pines and whispering aspens, Ponderosa Group Campground beckons to families, reunions, and adventure groups seeking the perfect basecamp in Colorado's high country. This thoughtfully designed group retreat features a spacious picnic shelter for communal gatherings, recreational facilities for endless entertainment, and easy access to the sparkling waters of Lake Isabel. From your shaded campsite, drink in panoramic views of the majestic Wet Mountains while enjoying the cool mountain air that makes summer camping here a refreshing escape.
Ponderosa Group Campground is designed primarily for group camping, accommodating up to 60 guests. It includes group-standard non-electric sites and caters to tent and trailer camping. There are no provisions for cabins, glamping, or primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Lake Isabel, a testament to American ingenuity and the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Built entirely for recreation in the 1930s by the hands of young men during the Great Depression, this pristine mountain lake continues to bring joy to visitors nearly a century later. Your camping adventure connects you to this rich history, while the nearby Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway invites exploration of Colorado's storied past, from Native American heritage to pioneer settlements.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 8,600 feet where the air is crisp and clean, Ponderosa offers a delightful reprieve from scorching summer heat. While valley dwellers swelter below, you'll enjoy pleasantly cool days averaging around 62°F and refreshing nights dipping to a comfortable 40°F – perfect sleeping weather under a canopy of stars. Pack layers for those magical mountain evenings when the temperature drops and campfire stories come alive.
ElevationAt 8,600 feet above sea level, Ponderosa Group Campground places you firmly in Colorado's alpine wonderland. This lofty perch rewards visitors with crisp, clean air, refreshingly cool summer temperatures, and breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch across forested valleys to distant mountain peaks. Here, the sky seems closer, the stars shine brighter, and every sunrise paints the landscape in spectacular alpine light.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where stately ponderosa pines mingle with quaking aspens, creating a natural cathedral of dappled sunlight and gentle shade. The campground's prime location offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater – sweeping mountain vistas unfold in every direction, while the jewel-like waters of 40-acre Lake Isabel glimmer just a short walk away. This carefully preserved slice of Colorado wilderness combines the comforts of developed camping with the raw beauty of the Wet Mountains, where cool breezes carry the scent of pine and the promise of adventure.
Geological RegionDiscover the hidden gem of Colorado's Wet Mountains, a stunning geological wonderland within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests that rises dramatically from the surrounding plains. At 8,600 feet, Ponderosa Group Campground occupies a privileged position in this unique ecosystem where ancient granite peaks meet verdant forests of pine and aspen. The proximity to Lake Isabel adds another dimension to this remarkable landscape, where geological forces and human vision combined to create an outdoor paradise perfect for exploration and relaxation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and is located near handicap-accessible picnic areas.
Sites SizeThe group campsite accommodates up to 60 guests and includes eight single-site campfire rings.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of open and secluded spaces with shady pine and aspen trees scattered throughout. Users commended the privacy, stating, 'Our group was able to spread out without bothering others or being bothered.'
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor larger groups, sites near creek areas are preferred for privacy and scenic settings. Campers with trailers should prepare for asphalt setups.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight campsite 001 with positive feedback for seclusion, proximity to the creek, and clean grooming.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 60 guests for group camping reservations.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 60 guests and includes eight single-site campfire rings and a picnic shelter.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes eight single-site campfire rings, group picnic shelters, and recreational areas surrounding Lake Isabel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from May 16 to September 19 for reservations. Out-of-season bookings are not available from September 20 to May 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or by calling (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available outside reservations. Specific capacity information is not provided.
Cancellation PolicyFor group reservations, cancellations made less than 14 days prior incur a $10 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee. Late cancellations or no-shows also result in penalties.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ponderosa Group Campground offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for large groups and families. Popular activities include volleyball, horseshoes, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and bird watching. The nearby Lake Isabel provides opportunities for non-motorized water sports and fishing, with brown and brook trout commonly stocked. Trails such as the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail cater to hikers, bikers, and ATV riders. Users highlighted the enjoyable trails and lake activities but noted some drawbacks, such as smokers around the lake and the distance from the trails to the lake.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound with trails like the Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail. The 15-mile Cisneros Trail also accommodates ATV riders, leading through forests and wildflower-speckled valleys to St. Charles Peak. Users described the trails as 'nice' and appreciated the variety they offer.Fishing
Fishing is available at Lake Isabel and St. Charles Creek, with brown and brook trout stocked in the lake. User reviews noted that the lake offers 'stock fishing and opportunities for non-motorized water sports.'Biking
Biking is permitted on trails like Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail, which cater to various skill levels.Boating
Lake Isabel supports kayaking and canoeing, with non-motorized water sports being popular among visitors. Rentals are available at a nearby lodge.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching is mentioned as an activity near Lake Isabel. Specific species are not detailed.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are highlighted for this campground.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized water sports are popular activities at Lake Isabel.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are provided, but firewood must be obtained locally to prevent tree infestations.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned but are likely enforced given general national forest policies.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high elevation-related concerns for travelers from lower levels, wildlife encounters (bears), and limited water availability.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 95%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 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 closest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Canon City, approximately 30 miles away. Additionally, contact numbers are provided for emergencies: General inquiries can be directed to (719) 269-8500.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 19 annually.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available for trash disposal; however, reviews indicate inconsistent maintenance, with one user reporting, 'Our dumpster was partially full when we showed up and didn't get emptied our entire stay.' Recycling facilities were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLake Isabel is within walking distance for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. St. Charles Creek flows nearby, offering additional fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsUser reviews often cite poor restroom conditions, inconsistent trash disposal, and lack of drinking water. Complaints about smokers and crowded areas near the lake are also noted.
HostCampground hosts are described as helpful and knowledgeable by users. They provide assistance while maintaining limited contact.
Campground Map
SAN CARLOS RANGER DISTRICT, 3028 EAST MAIN STREET, CANON CITY, CO 81212, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pueblo, go 25 miles south on I-25 to exit 74. Go west 18 miles on state Highway 165. Turn into the south entrance at Lake Isabel and drive 1 mile. Look for Ponderosa Group campground signs.
Roads to the campground include major highways and paved state roads. From Highway 165, one mile of additional driving is required to reach the campground entrance. The driving directions indicate straightforward access; no seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Pueblo (25 miles, approximately 25-minute drive), Colorado City (15 miles, approximately 15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, paddle boat rentals, and a restaurant are available at a nearby lodge. Additional amenities like fuel and camping supplies are likely found in nearby towns like Colorado City and Canon City.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Ponderosa Group - Lake Isabel has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ponderosa Group Campground are mixed, with praise for the location, privacy, and recreational activities but criticism of restroom facilities and trash management. The average sentiment for campground-specific reviews is 3.5.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users loved the privacy and group-friendly setup, with one reviewing, 'Our group was able to spread out without bothering others or being bothered.' The site cleanliness also received praise: 'Sites...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback focused on restroom conditions ('Bathrooms are horrible--setbtonbe demo'd') and trash management ('Our dumpster was partially full when we showed up and didn't get emptied our...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own lighting for the pavilion and be prepared for setup challenges if using trailers ('Know if you are bringing a trailer, anything besides tents, you will set up in the parking lot, on...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews mention cool relief from plains heat and enjoyable lake activities but note overcrowding and smokers around the lake. Winter trends are not detailed.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms are horrible--setbtonbe demo'd (for 2 yrs now).' - Debbie Van Caster
2. 'Loved the pavilion, but glad we brought our own lights since there were none.' - LAREDA K
3. 'Beautiful spot,...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for campsite 001 in the Lake Isabel loop mention proximity to trails and critiques of restroom and trash conditions.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes accessible vault toilets and nearby handicap-accessible picnic areas. However, no specific reviews from users with disabilities were provided.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025