Riverside (Co)
4.3997 reviewsP.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827
Riverside (Co)
$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
The nightly fee for Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites during peak season is $24.00. Additional fees include a one-time $11.00 entrance fee to Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area and $10.00 per bundle for firewood (sold at host site).
About this campground
Nestled within the dramatic walls of Eleven Mile Canyon, Riverside Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to a mountain sanctuary where the South Platte River provides the soundtrack to your adventure. Here, anglers cast lines into pristine waters while rock climbers scale towering granite walls overhead. Open campsites offer front-row seats to nature's theater, where hiking trails wind through wildflower meadows and wildlife sightings are part of the daily routine. This popular destination seamlessly blends accessibility with the raw beauty of Colorado's high country.
Riverside Campground offers primitive walk-in tent camping and reservable RV sites, with no hookups available.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the canyon walls lies a window into Colorado's prehistoric past at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Here, massive petrified redwood stumps stand as silent sentinels from an ancient world, while remarkably preserved fossils reveal delicate butterflies and prehistoric plants frozen in time. These 34-million-year-old treasures tell the story of when Colorado's landscape resembled a lush, warm forest rather than today's rugged mountains—a fascinating contrast to the granite canyon you'll call home during your stay.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 8,000 feet where the air is crisp and clean, Riverside Campground enjoys the best of Colorado's mountain climate. Summer days bring comfortable highs around 76°F—perfect for outdoor adventures without the sweltering heat found at lower elevations. Mountain breezes dance through the canyon, occasionally bringing refreshing afternoon showers that enhance the scent of pine and wildflowers. The elevation ensures cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
ElevationAt 8,000 feet above sea level, Riverside Campground occupies that sweet spot of Colorado elevation where the air is noticeably thinner but still comfortable for most visitors. This mountain perch delivers naturally air-conditioned summers and spectacular views, though it comes with the occasional reminder of its lofty position through gusty canyon winds. The elevation creates an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife and wildflowers while keeping temperatures refreshingly cool even on summer's warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering walls of polished gray granite rise like natural cathedrals on either side of the South Platte River, creating an intimate canyon environment that feels worlds away from civilization. The river itself threads through the campground like a silver ribbon, its gentle murmur punctuated by the splash of rising trout. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters—majestic elk grazing in meadows, mule deer picking their way along hillsides, curious chipmunks investigating campsites, and the occasional porcupine ambling through. When wildflowers bloom, the canyon transforms into a natural garden, while sweeping vistas reveal the broader tapestry of Colorado's Front Range.
Geological RegionEleven Mile Canyon stands as a testament to the patient artistry of water over millennia, where the South Platte River has carved a spectacular gorge through solid granite bedrock. The canyon's polished gray walls tell a geological story written in stone, their smooth surfaces catching morning light and evening alpenglow. Just downstream, the river opens into the expansive Eleven Mile Reservoir, a 3,405-acre aquatic playground that serves as both a recreational destination and a dramatic backdrop. This unique geological setting creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems within a compact area, making every turn of the canyon a new discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible walk-in sites are available. However, the steep gradients at some sites were noted by users like Sirena Boardman.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with reviews noting walk-in tent sites are generally smaller and some RV sites accommodating vehicles up to 30 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some reviews highlight noise from neighboring campers and road traffic.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #19 is recommended for its views and shade. Sites #3 and #4 offer good privacy but involve a longer walk from parking areas.
Best CampsitesSites #1, #6, and #19 are frequently praised for views, access to the river, and overall condition.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
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 are included in the camping fee. $11.00 fee applies for a third vehicle.
Groups
No specific group camping sites are described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 20 reservable sites, including walk-in tent sites and Standard Nonelectric sites. Parking aprons are grass and gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 16 to October 12 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not reserved 5 days before the stay become available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-up options may vary depending on availability.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual Campsites: $10.00 cancellation fee applies up to 2 days before reservation start date. Late cancellations incur an additional fee equal to the first night's use fee. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit first night's rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can engage in fishing, hiking, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, and swimming. The Hard Rock Interpretive Trail provides a 1-mile self-guided hike with scenic canyon overlooks. The South Platte River offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and tubing.
Hiking
The Hard Rock Interpretive Trail offers a 1-mile hike with an impressive canyon overlook and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors like Ryan Smith and Kathy B praised the nearby hiking trails.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available in the South Platte River with species like rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout. Anglers have mixed experiences, with some citing good conditions and others noting limited success. Fly fishing is particularly recommended.Swimming
Swimming and tubing opportunities are available in the South Platte River. Reviews from Kelly T and Deborah B highlight their enjoyment of water activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk, mule deer, chipmunks, and porcupines are commonly sighted. Apostle Glenn and Haley McKenzie appreciated the abundant wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Hard Rock Interpretive Trail provides educational insights into the region's diverse life.Winter Activities
Seasonal winter activities are not discussed.Water Sports
Tubing and swimming are common water activities in the nearby South Platte River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings. Firewood is sold at $10.00 per bundle, subject to fire ban restrictions.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears and raccoons may pose risks; campers are advised to store food securely. Steep gradients at some campsites and proximity to roads may be challenging.
Active alertsNo active alerts are currently listed for the campground.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services include Lake George Fire Protection District (approximately 1 mile, 3 minutes) and hospitals in Woodland Park (approximately 23 miles, 33 minutes).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to October 12 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but reviews mention occasional issues like raccoons accessing trash bins. Recycling options are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe South Platte River flows alongside the campground, offering easy river access for fishing and swimming.
Common complaintsSome campers reported dusty conditions, noisy neighbors violating quiet hours, and limited shade at campsites. Bathrooms occasionally had cleanliness concerns.
HostHosts are noted to be friendly and helpful, maintaining clean facilities. Hosts like Paul and Cliff receive praise for their service.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO, 80827
Driving directionsFrom Lake George, turn off Highway 24 onto County Road 96. Follow the road for about one mile. Turn right at Eleven Mile Canyon entrance. Riverside Campground is located on the left side, not far from Eleven Mile Canyon entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with grass and gravel parking aprons. No RV hookups are available, and tent sites are walk-in only. The driving route includes Eleven Mile Canyon entrance, which has a one-time fee of $11.00.Nearby places
Lake George (approximately 1 mile, 3 minutes), Woodland Park (approximately 23 miles, 33 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Lake George, including basic camping supplies and a corner store.
Camper Reviews
4.4
97 reviews
Riverside (Co) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Riverside Campground as a beautiful location with clean facilities and good access to recreational activities like fishing, hiking, and swimming. The camp hosts receive frequent praise for their efforts, but some concerns include noise levels, lack of privacy, and occasional issues with bathroom cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 97 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the scenic views of the South Platte River and Eleven Mile Canyon, the clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and abundant wildlife. Activities like...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include occasional noise disturbances from neighboring campers and traffic, limited shade at campsites, concerns over bathroom cleanliness, and lack of enforcement on rules like quiet...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and be prepared for walk-in tent sites. Consider bringing a canopy or hammocks for shade. Use wagons for transporting gear to walk-in sites. Visitors suggest choosing...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer sees heavy visitation with mixed experiences regarding noise and crowded conditions. Spring and fall are recommended for quieter camping experiences.
Based on 97 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Campground Host here is exceptionally friendly and keeps the facility immaculate." - Benjamin
"Nice place, small campground which is nice (12 sites or so). Camp host is pleasant, keeps the...
Based on 97 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is praised for its convenience (Garland Style), Site #19 offers good views but has a steep incline (Sylvia Sun), and Site #6 is noted for quiet but far from parking (Joanna B).
Based on 97 reviewsAccessibility Features
Walk-in sites are noted for accessibility, but some gradients are steep, making them less suitable for individuals with physical disabilities. Users like Sirena Boardman describe challenges.
Based on 97 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some complaints about off-leash dogs causing disturbances are noted, such as from Savannah S.
Based on 97 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025