Springer Gulch
4.5958 reviewsP.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827
Springer Gulch
$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
Peak season rates for standard non-electric and tent-only sites are $24 per night. Additional fees include a one-time $11.00 entry fee to Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area and a $10 cancellation fee.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Eleven Mile Canyon, Springer Gulch Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's rugged beauty. This cozy, reservable retreat welcomes adventurers with thoughtfully appointed sites featuring sturdy picnic tables and campfire rings where stories come alive under starlit skies. Each dirt parking apron accommodates trailers up to 25 feet, while vault toilets and a hand-pumped well provide essential comforts without compromising the authentic outdoor experience.
Springer Gulch accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. "Tent only_site 8 was a little tight," mentioned David V., while Andrew P. appreciated the setup for his tent trailer.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the canyon walls lies a window into prehistoric Colorado at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Here, massive petrified redwood stumps stand as silent sentinels of an ancient world, while impossibly detailed fossils capture moments from 34 million years ago when this high country was a lush, warm lowland. These stone treasures tell the story of a Colorado few can imagine, making your camping adventure part of a much grander timeline.
Weather and SeasonsThe canyon's dramatic landscape creates its own weather theater, where temperatures dance between crisp mountain mornings and sun-warmed afternoons. Recent autumn conditions have showcased nature's range, with temperatures swinging from frosty 18°F dawns to pleasant 43°F afternoons, all under predominantly crystal-clear skies. While winter wraps the canyon in a quiet blanket of snow and summer brings warm, dry days perfect for exploration, savvy campers know that late spring and early autumn reveal the canyon at its most magnificent—when wildflowers bloom or aspens turn gold.
ElevationPerched at 8,300 feet above sea level, Springer Gulch places you firmly in Colorado's high country. This elevation brings cooler temperatures, brilliant night skies, and that distinctive mountain air that makes everything feel more alive. First-time high-altitude visitors should take it easy on arrival day, drinking plenty of water and allowing their bodies to adjust to the thinner air—a small price for accessing this elevated paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits like a natural amphitheater, surrounded by towering ponderosa pines, stately firs, and shimmering aspens that whisper secrets in the mountain breeze. Below, the South Platte River carves its ancient path through the canyon, its waters catching sunlight like scattered diamonds. This diverse habitat draws an impressive cast of wildlife—from majestic elk and graceful mule deer to elusive foxes and, occasionally, the awe-inspiring presence of bears and mountain lions moving through their ancestral territory.
Geological RegionEleven Mile Canyon tells a story written in stone, where the persistent South Platte River has carved through eons of granite to create this spectacular gorge. Polished gray cliffs rise like fortress walls on either side, their surfaces gleaming in the changing light. As you venture deeper into the gulch, the forest grows denser, with ponderosa pines giving way to cool stands of aspen and fir, creating distinct microclimates that harbor diverse ecosystems within this geological masterpiece.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly described, though reviews mention varied campsite layouts and proximity to amenities.
Sites SizeParking aprons fit trailers up to 25 feet in length.
Sites Privacy"Sites well separated for privacy," commented Shauna N., although some reviews suggest shared spaces like parking areas in Site #3.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid camping near restrooms to avoid unpleasant smells, as noted in user reviews. Sites closer to the river (e.g., 1-3) are recommended for accessibility and level ground.
Best CampsitesSite recommendations include Site 2 ('plenty of room to pitch a tent and spread out'), Site 5 ('south-facing slope with a level tent pad'), and Site 8 ('great for kids and close to hiking trails').
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights at the campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two vehicles or one RV per site included
- third vehicle incurs $11 additional fee.
Groups
Designated group camping sites were not explicitly discussed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features dirt parking aprons and a loop layout with smaller sites closer to the entrance and larger, more private sites located further back.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 through October 12 during the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites not reserved 5 days before arrival become available on a walk-up basis, first-come-first-serve.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to two days before the reservation start date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fees. No-shows incur a $20 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Springer Gulch include hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. "Fly fishing was amazing," Amanda H. emphasized. "Swimming in the river was so fun," added Kendra Schappaugh, highlighting water-based recreation.
Hiking
The Overlook Trail provides stunning views of Eleven Mile Canyon and Reservoir. "Some small hiking trails," described Sean G., and "Beautiful surrounding areas," noted Andrea R.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
Fly fishing in the South Platte River is a major draw. "Fishing was excellent," Ralph D. shared. "Great fishing in the river," Lisa M. remarked.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the South Platte River. "Swimming in the river was so fun!" exclaimed Kendra Schappaugh.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife like elk, mule deer, and bears may be spotted, according to authoritative content. "A single deer came near our spot," Andrea R. shared.Winter Activities
"Aside from the ravages of Mother Nature with wind and then snow," noted Shauna N., suggesting limited winter recreational opportunities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like rafting were mentioned by Amanda R.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings and are subject to local fire bans. Firewood is available for purchase at $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and mountain lions. Campers are advised to keep food stored in approved containers or locked in vehicles to avoid bear encounters.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 are located in Lake George, which is approximately 6 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 through October 12.
Trash and recyclingLarge trash containers are located at the campground entrance according to Andrew P.
Proximity to water featuresThe South Platte River is a short walk from the campground, providing opportunities for fishing and other recreational activities.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention that the vault toilets were frequently unclean and had issues with flies. Some reviewers also complained about noisy generators and narrow, bumpy access roads.
HostMixed reviews about host presence. Some report a friendly and attentive host, while others mention no host was seen during their stay.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 74, Lake George, CO 80827
Driving directionsFrom Lake George, turn south off Highway 24 onto County Road 96. Follow County Road 96 turn right to the Eleven Mile Canyon entrance. Springer Gulch Campground is on the right about 6 miles from the entrance.
The road leading to the campground is described as narrow and bumpy by some reviewers, with one noting it was 'the most washboarded road in America.' Another reviewer mentioned that the entrance road (FR 96) 'seemed to have been recently graded,' making it smoother than usual.Nearby places
Lake George (approximately 6 miles, about 15 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Some supplies, including firewood, are available at the campground host site for $10 per bundle. For other essentials, services are likely in Lake George, approximately 6 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
58 reviews
Springer Gulch is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a tranquil and scenic environment ideal for fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. Positive sentiments include "Clean sites, beautiful location," from Jeremy P., while some criticisms focus on restroom conditions and generator noise.
Review Summaries
Based on 58 reviews
What Campers Love
Key positives include proximity to the South Platte River, stunning scenery, and opportunities for fly fishing and hiking.
Based on 58 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include noisy generators, inconsistent restroom cleanliness, and narrow, bumpy roads.
Based on 58 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest selecting sites closer to the river for larger groups and bear-proofing food storage. "Double-check the pictures and reviews available if you have a larger tent," advised Megan S.
Based on 58 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest quieter experiences during weekdays and off-peak seasons, while weekends are busier. "We were there during the week after Labor Day and basically had the campground to ourselves,"...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Bathrooms were super clean," - Kendra Schappaugh. "Fishing was excellent," - Ralph D. "Sites well separated for privacy," - Shauna N. "Beautiful Colorado!!" - Nadia Falcon. "Pretty campsites that...
Based on 58 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes Site #2 being spacious and shaded (Amanda C.), Site #5 offering quick morning warmth (Andrew P.), and Site #15 being challenging for larger tents (Amanda H.).
Based on 58 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility was indirectly mentioned, with Andrea R. noting multi-level layouts of campsite amenities.
Based on 58 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly opportunities were highlighted. "A great place to bring your dog," said Nikita W.
Based on 58 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025