South Meadows - Pike San Isabel Nf (Co)
4.43146 reviewsPIKES PEAK RANGER DISTRICT, 601 S. WEBER ST., COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903, USA
South Meadows - Pike San Isabel Nf (Co)
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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
Fees are $28 per night for all campsite types including standard nonelectric, tent-only nonelectric, and RV nonelectric. Day-use fee is $11 for first-come, first-serve sites, and firewood is sold for $10 per bundle.
About this campground
Escape to South Meadows Campground, where the crisp mountain air of Woodland Park, Colorado welcomes you to an unforgettable alpine adventure. Tucked away among towering ponderosa pines and wildflower-dotted meadows, this mountain retreat serves as your gateway to Colorado's most iconic destinations. Whether you're conquering the legendary Pikes Peak at sunrise or marveling at the ancient red rock formations of Garden of the Gods, South Meadows puts you at the heart of it all. Adventure seekers flock here to explore miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness, while families cherish the peaceful evenings spent under star-filled skies.
South Meadows Campground offers a mix of camping options, including sites suitable for tents, RVs, and trailers. Sites are non-electric, and there are no water or sewer hookups.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of Colorado summers at South Meadows, where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool mountain nights perfect for campfire stories. The afternoon sky often puts on a dramatic show as thunderclouds roll across the peaks, bringing brief but spectacular rainstorms that leave the forest smelling of pine and petrichor. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a golden wonderland before winter's snow blankets the landscape, closing the grounds until spring's return awakens the meadows once more.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,000 feet above sea level, South Meadows offers the authentic high-country experience that defines Colorado camping. This lofty elevation brings you closer to the clouds but requires some adjustment for those arriving from lower altitudes. Take it easy your first day, drink plenty of water, and let your body acclimate to the thin mountain air. Soon you'll be breathing deeply and feeling the invigorating effects of life at altitude, where the views stretch farther and the stars shine brighter.
Natural Features and ScenerySouth Meadows unveils nature's masterpiece at every turn, where ancient ponderosa pines stretch skyward from the 8,000-foot perch, their vanilla-scented bark telling stories of centuries past. Just a short walk from your campsite, a pristine 5-acre lake mirrors the Colorado sky, inviting quiet contemplation or an afternoon of exploration. The surrounding alpine meadows burst with wildflowers in summer, creating a patchwork quilt of colors that attracts playful chipmunks and graceful deer. Keep your camera ready and your food secured – the occasional black bear has been known to investigate the enticing aromas of campground life, adding a touch of wilderness excitement to your stay.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Rocky Mountains, South Meadows Campground showcases the dramatic landscape that has captivated visitors for generations. Here at 8,000 feet, you'll witness the fascinating transition zone where dense stands of aromatic ponderosa pines give way to sweeping alpine meadows. This unique ecological crossroads creates a diverse playground for outdoor enthusiasts, where the ancient granite peaks of the Rockies provide a stunning backdrop to your mountain escape. The interplay of forest and meadow habitats makes this region a living classroom of Colorado's natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes paved roads and some accessible facilities, such as the nearby Centennial Trail, which is a paved trail suitable for a variety of users. However, specific details about ADA-compliant campsites or features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with room for multiple tents and vehicles. 'The sites were clean and spacious,' noted one reviewer, while another highlighted that 'the campsites are roomy and nestled in the lodge pole pine trees.'
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site. While some reviewers appreciated the space between sites, others noted that 'there is zero privacy and no significant space between.'
Total Campsites63 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from the road for a quieter experience. Consider looking at campground layouts before arriving to avoid confusion.
Best CampsitesSites like 30 and 33 are often mentioned positively for their spaciousness and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights during a single visit, and 14 nights total within a rolling 60-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with a mix of pull-through and back-in sites. Roads are paved, and some sites face the road due to one-way traffic.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from May 23 to September 21 (peak season) and available first-come, first-served from September 22 to October 18. Closed for the remainder of the year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during the first-come, first-served period (September 22 to October 18). Limited availability during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night’s fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night’s fee. Refund requests must be made through Recreation.gov within 7 days of the reservation end.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
South Meadows Campground offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The 4.2-mile Centennial Trail connects the campground to the Manitou Lake Picnic Area and Colorado Campground, making it popular with hikers, bikers, and inline skaters. Fishing opportunities are available at nearby Manitou Lake and Trout Creek. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with reviews mentioning encounters with deer and chipmunks. Off-road vehicle enthusiasts can explore the nearby Rainbow Falls OHV and North Divide OHV Trail Systems.
Hiking
The 4.2-mile Centennial Trail is a paved, accessible trail connecting South Meadows Campground to Manitou Lake Picnic Area and Colorado Campground. It is popular among hikers for its mild difficulty and scenic views. 'The trails were fantastic,' noted one user.Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby Manitou Lake and Trout Creek. While specific species are not listed, the proximity to the lake provides excellent opportunities for anglers.Biking
The paved Centennial Trail is ideal for biking, offering an easy ride for most skill levels. 'There is a 5-mile dedicated paved bike trail into town,' one reviewer mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of deer and chipmunks. 'We were witness to two young male deer wandering the camp,' noted one reviewer.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the source material.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned, but proximity to Manitou Lake may allow for activities like kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits except during fire bans. Propane fire pits are permitted during bans.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned, but noise minimization is expected.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are active in the area; proper food storage in approved containers or locked vehicles is mandatory. Afternoon thunderstorms pose a lightning hazard during summer.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.6 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
Closest hospital: UCHealth Pikes Peak Regional Hospital, located in Woodland Park (5 miles away). The Woodland Park Police Department is also situated in the town.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 21.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Some user reviews report overflowing dumpsters during busy times, raising concerns about potential wildlife issues.
Proximity to water featuresNear the 5-acre Manitou Lake. Fishing is available at Manitou Lake and Trout Creek.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby roads, lack of cell coverage, and issues with the cleanliness or availability of vault toilets are common complaints. Some sites are reported to be uneven.
HostHosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, but there are occasional complaints about rudeness or neglect.
Campground Map
PIKES PEAK RANGER DISTRICT, 601 S. WEBER ST., COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80903, USA
Driving directionsFrom the I-25 and Hwy 24 intersection in Colorado Springs, Colorado, travel west on Highway 24 for approximately 18 miles to the Hwy 24 and Hwy 67 intersection in Woodland Park. Turn right (north) on Hwy 67 and travel approximately 5.5 miles to South Meadows Campground. The campground is on the left side of the road.
The campground is easily accessible from Highway 67 via a paved road. However, RVs over 36 feet may have difficulties maneuvering tight corners and trees within the campground.Nearby places
Woodland Park (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Colorado Springs (23 miles, approximately 35 minutes), Denver (approximately 70 miles, 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, gas, and dining, can be found in Woodland Park, located 5 miles south of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
146 reviews
South Meadows - Pike San Isabel Nf (Co) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, South Meadows Campground is highly rated, with an average sentiment of 4.36. Common themes include the spaciousness of campsites, the cleanliness of facilities, and the helpfulness of camp hosts. Negative feedback mostly concerns road noise, unclean bathrooms during peak times, and occasional issues with camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 146 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious sites; friendly and helpful camp hosts; proximity to hiking and biking trails; access to Manitou Lake; and scenic surroundings.
Based on 146 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road noise from the nearby highway; lack of showers; unclean vault toilets during busy periods; some sites being uneven for RVs; and occasional complaints about unfriendly camp hosts.
Based on 146 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a first-come, first-served site; bring your own toiletries as vault toilets lack hand sanitizer; avoid larger RVs or trailers due to tight turns; and purchase firewood on-site.
Based on 146 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer receives the most positive feedback for its mild temperatures and accessibility to trails. Off-season visits may encounter reduced facilities and water availability.
Based on 146 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground was spacious and quiet - far enough from the road to be quiet but close enough to be convenient.' 2. 'The wood we bought from the helpful host was actually dry and burned nicely.'...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #018: Not level. Site #033: Spacious and nestled in trees. Site #054: Quiet with plenty of trees. Site #064: Large and clean. Many sites are described as roomy with good layout but limited...
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Accessibility Features
Limited information is available on accessibility features. Paved roads and some accessible trails are noted.
Based on 146 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 146 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025