Highway Springs Campground
05 reviews13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Highway Springs Campground
$12.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
Single Unit fees include $12.00 for day use and $23.00 for overnight use. Additional $2.00 fee applies on weekends and holidays. Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Nestled within two distinct camping loops, Highway Springs Campground offers a refreshing escape into nature's embrace. The lower loop invites tent campers to pitch beneath a canopy of shimmering Aspens and towering Ponderosa pines, where dappled sunlight filters through the branches. Adventure seekers choosing the upper loop are rewarded with sweeping mountain vistas and the cool shade of ancient Ponderosas. This back-to-basics retreat features 13 well-spaced campsites, including 3 convenient pull-through spots, each equipped with sturdy tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. Two vault toilets serve the campground, though visitors should come prepared with their own water and firewood for the authentic wilderness experience.
The campground provides options for tent camping and combined sites suitable for both tents and RVs. There are no RV hookups, group sites, cabins, or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThis pristine corner of the forest remains untouched by recorded history, offering visitors a chance to create their own stories and traditions in this timeless landscape.
Weather and SeasonsHighway Springs welcomes summer adventurers from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, when the high country truly comes alive. At this elevation, expect crisp mountain air and refreshingly cool evenings that make for perfect sleeping weather. While summer days are typically dry and pleasant, the campground's lofty perch means Mother Nature occasionally dusts the area with surprise snowflakes during unexpected cold snaps, adding a touch of alpine magic to your camping experience.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,400 feet above sea level, Highway Springs sits in that sweet spot where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath feels refreshingly pure. This high-altitude haven offers natural air conditioning during summer months, though wise campers pack an extra layer for those delightfully cool mountain evenings and the occasional surprise cold front that can dust the peaks with snow.
Natural Features and SceneryA living gallery of Colorado's finest flora awaits at Highway Springs, where graceful Aspens dance in the breeze alongside stately Ponderosa pines that have stood sentinel for generations. Just a short journey away, the South Fork of the Rio Grande beckons anglers and nature lovers alike with its crystal-clear waters and tranquil fishing holes. From the upper loop's commanding position, panoramic mountain views stretch to the horizon, painting an ever-changing canvas of peaks, valleys, and endless Colorado sky.
Geological RegionHighway Springs claims its place within the magnificent Rio Grande National Forest, a landscape sculpted by time and shaped by the legendary river that gives it its name. Here, mature Ponderosa pine forests create cathedral-like groves, while clusters of Aspens add splashes of green in summer and gold in fall. The nearby Rio Grande River system has carved this remarkable terrain over millennia, creating the dramatic topography and diverse ecosystems that make this region a true Rocky Mountain treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for individuals with disabilities are limited. There are no wheelchair-friendly toilets.
Sites SizeSites include tables and fireplaces and are suitable for tents and small RVs. Larger rigs may face challenges due to untrimmed vegetation along road loops, as noted in user reviews.
Sites PrivacySites offer good separation for privacy, according to user reviews. Certain sites, such as Site 1 and Site 12, are highlighted for their views and unique features.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is recommended for valley views but may be noisier due to proximity to the highway. Site 12 offers privacy and scenic views of the river below.
Best CampsitesSite 1 offers good valley views but is closer to highway noise. Site 12 is on a cliff and overlooks the river, providing excellent scenery.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM
Check-out
Before 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14-day maximum stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy not explicitly stated.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo loops—lower loop contains tent sites surrounded by Aspen and Ponderosa pines, upper loop offers pull-through sites and views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. User review mentions that sites fill up quickly during peak times.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy mentioned.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers recreational opportunities such as fishing along the south fork of the Rio Grande, hiking trails leading to the river, scenic drives, and picnicking. Wildlife viewing may also be possible, given the surrounding natural environment.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, leading to the south fork of the Rio Grande. User reviews mention the trails as a highlight for fishing and enjoying the views.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the south fork of the Rio Grande, located in the valley below the campground. User reviews describe it as an excellent location for fishing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is likely given the natural environment, but specific species or areas are not mentioned in the source materials.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable, as the campground is open only between Memorial Day and Labor Day.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fireplaces are available at campsites, but firewood is not provided.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsCampground is located in bear country. Visitors are advised to practice safe food storage techniques. Roads within the campground are described as rough, and vegetation may scratch RVs.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
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
Nearest emergency services are in South Fork, CO, approximately 4.1 miles away, including medical facilities, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingA dumpster for registered campers is available on-site for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSouth Fork of the Rio Grande River is within walking distance, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsVegetation encroaching on roads makes driving larger rigs challenging. No potable water available, and users must bring their own.
HostHost availability described as intermittent. One user review mentioned positive interactions with hosts Russ and Patty.
Campground Map
13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Driving directionsTake U.S. Highway 160 west from South Fork for 4.1 miles toward Pagosa Springs and Wolf Creek Pass. Look for a large brown and cream-colored campground sign and turn left into the campground directly off the highway.
Direct access from US Highway 160. Roads within the campground are gravel and described as rough in user reviews. RV access may be challenging due to vegetation encroachment.Nearby places
South Fork, CO (4.1 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available at the Rainbow Grocery at the intersection of US Highway 160 and State Route 149 in South Fork, CO, approximately 4.1 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Highway Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the clean bathrooms, scenic views, and friendly camp hosts. Some reviewers highlight issues such as road noise, untrimmed vegetation on roads, and the lack of running water.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights from user reviews include clean restrooms, scenic views, and the opportunity for fishing. Users also appreciate the privacy of the campsites and the friendliness of the camp hosts.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, rough road conditions, and untrimmed vegetation causing difficulties for larger RVs. Road noise is mentioned, particularly for sites closer to the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing your own drinking water, practicing bear-safe food storage, and choosing specific sites for the best experience. Site 1 and Site 12 are particularly recommended for their...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive reviews tend to emphasize summer activities such as fishing and hiking. However, the absence of potable water and other amenities like showers may affect users during hot weather.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The restrooms are always the cleanest in this little valley.' 2. 'My favorite sites are number 1 and number 12. Site 1 has a little more noise from the highway but the view out over the valley is...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 and Site 12 are particularly recommended. Site 1 offers valley views but has more highway noise, while Site 12 provides a cliff-side location overlooking the river.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited; there are no wheelchair-friendly toilets or other mentioned accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash not longer than six feet, as stated in official guidelines.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025