Lake Fork(Rio Grande Natl Fore
RIO GRANDE-SAN JUAN NF
Lake Fork(Rio Grande Natl Fore
$29.00 - $29.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric campsites cost $29 per night during peak season. Additional charges apply: $2 for weekends and $2 for holidays.
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$29.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider719-852-5941null
About this campground
Escape to Lake Fork Campground, where the pristine wilderness of Rio Grande National Forest unfolds at 9,500 feet above sea level. This remote mountain sanctuary offers an authentic high-country camping experience, where crystal-clear river waters meet ancient forests and wildflower meadows. Visitors consistently praise the campground's immaculate maintenance and breathtaking natural beauty, though the occasional buzz of flies during wet periods and sounds of fellow adventurers remind you that you're sharing this slice of paradise with nature and neighbors alike.
Lake Fork Campground offers a mix of camping options suited for tents and RVs, with no electric hookups available. Campsites are primarily gravel and are described as both small and spacious, depending on location.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Lake Fork Campground may be modest, the land itself tells ancient stories through its towering trees and weathered peaks, inviting modern adventurers to create their own legacy in this timeless landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Lake Fork, where elevation crafts its own climate story. Summer transforms this high-altitude haven into a cool refuge from valley heat, with daytime temperatures perfect for hiking and evenings that call for campfire gatherings and warm sleeping bags. While winter brings a crystalline wonderland of snow and frigid temperatures, the camping season truly shines from late spring through early fall. Pack layers and rain gear—afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with mountain drama, bringing both refreshing showers and the occasional uptick in insect activity.
ElevationPerched at 9,500 feet in Colorado's rarified air, Lake Fork Campground offers a true alpine experience that will literally take your breath away. The thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to every activity—morning hikes become more challenging yet rewarding, and the crisp, clean atmosphere delivers some of the clearest night skies you'll ever witness. Remember to pace yourself as your body adjusts to the altitude, and embrace the natural air conditioning that keeps summer days refreshingly cool.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle melody of the Conejos River as it winds through a living tapestry of towering spruce and shimmering aspen groves. Stately cottonwoods and delicate willows frame the riverbanks, creating natural galleries where wildflowers paint the meadows in seasonal palettes of purple lupine, golden arnica, and scarlet paintbrush. This vibrant ecosystem supports an enchanting cast of wildlife—from curious marmots whistling from rocky outcrops to black bears foraging in distant meadows, while deer step gracefully through morning mist and countless birds fill the canopy with song. Even the campground's spotless vault toilets earn visitor praise, proving that wilderness beauty and thoughtful amenities can coexist in perfect harmony.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of south-central Colorado, Lake Fork Campground rests along the banks of the pristine Conejos River, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape at 9,500 feet elevation. This alpine wonderland showcases nature's architectural mastery through dense forests of spruce and aspen that give way to meadows carpeted with wildflowers. The diverse ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife, from the smallest mountain birds to majestic black bears, all thriving in this carefully balanced environment where cottonwoods and willows soften the rugged mountain terrain with their graceful presence.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets. However, details specific to other accessibility features such as paths or campsite designs were not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size. Some reviews highlight that certain sites are smaller and less level, such as site 4, which was described as "smaller [and] not flat," making it difficult for campers with certain setups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of privacy levels. Some campsites are close to the river and offer scenic views, while others are described as less desirable, particularly the upper sites through number 4.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid upper sites like Site 4 as they are less flat and often soggy after rain. Lower sites offer better conditions.
Best CampsitesSites near the river are highly recommended. "Reserve early if you want a site near the river."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in details are not explicit in authoritative sources.
Check-out
Check-out details are not explicit in authoritative sources.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights, enforced strictly.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact numbers of guests per site are not specified.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned in the materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread out with some overlooking the river. "Pleasantly spaced out" and "river running nearby." All parking spurs are gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025, to August 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve sites are available, and reserved sites are held until check-out time the following day.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date, but a $10 cancellation fee and the first night's recreation use fee will be withheld for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Lake Fork Campground provides a diverse range of activities that leverage its scenic and remote location. "The Conejos River is a Gold Medal River," making it a top attraction for anglers, with rainbow and brown trout being common catches. Hiking opportunities abound, with trails like the Lake Fork to Big Lake, Conejos Peak to Blue Lake, and Bear Lake Trail offering scenic views. The natural surroundings also make this area ideal for wildlife spotting, photography, and relaxation.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity at Lake Fork Campground, with access to trails such as Lake Fork to Big Lake and Conejos Peak to Blue Lake. User reviews highlight the Bear Lake hike as particularly recommended: "Hiked up to Bear Lake which I highly recommend. The view of the lake is just amazing."Fishing
Fishing is a highlight due to the Conejos River being a Gold Medal River. "Rainbow and brown trout are the most common species," and one reviewer shared: "I fly fished above and below the campground for a day and caught 27 trout (granted 25 were under 12”)."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant draw at this campground. Visitors can expect to see black bears, deer, and marmots. "Wildflowers dot the region, creating colorful landscapes for photography enthusiasts."Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are highlighted. However, the remote location and elevation may influence accessibility during winter months.Water Sports
No specific water sports, such as kayaking or canoeing, are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed except during fire bans.
- Quiet hours are stated as 10 pm to 6 am (Forest Service) or 10 pm to 7 am (camp host).
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are present in the area, requiring cautious food storage. Flies can be overwhelming during wet conditions.
Active alertsNone mentioned in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
29
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Antonito, CO, approximately 40 miles away from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities were not specifically mentioned. Campers are likely expected to practice leave-no-trace principles to preserve the site's natural beauty.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Conejos River, offering excellent trout fishing opportunities.
Common complaints"The road was full of chatter and difficult when pulling a trailer." Flies and noisy neighbors are recurring issues in reviews.
HostHosts are off-site but visit daily. "Hosts live off-site, but do come by every day probably several times." Some reviews praise the hosts as "super friendly, very attentive, and helpful."
Campground Map
RIO GRANDE-SAN JUAN NF
Driving directionsFrom Antonito, travel west on Highway 17 approximately 24 miles to the junction of Highways 17 and 250. Turn on Highway 250 and travel 18 miles on a gravel road to Lake Fork Campground.
The campground is located 18 miles down a gravel road. "The last 18 miles are horrible. Washboarded completely which meant we could only go about 10 miles an hour or less for most of it." However, another user mentioned the road was "in fairly decent shape and they were grading it."Nearby places
Antonito, CO - 40 miles
Nearby supplies
Platoro, CO, has a couple of good stores and cafes, and is closer than Antonito. Firewood is available for purchase on-site at the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
24 reviews
Lake Fork(Rio Grande Natl Fore is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lake Fork Campground receives generally positive reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.38. Visitors praise the serene setting, proximity to the Conejos River, and the cleanliness of the facilities. However, there are criticisms regarding flies, noisy neighbors, and the long, rough road leading to the campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, scenic location by the Conejos River, opportunities for fishing and hiking, and friendly camp hosts.
Based on 24 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent issues with flies, noisy RV neighbors, lack of on-site camp hosts at times, and the challenging 18-mile gravel road to access the campground.
Based on 24 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellent and extra toilet paper. Arrive early to secure riverside sites, which are highly sought after. Be prepared for an 18-mile drive on a rough gravel road.
Based on 24 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with frequent praise for the area's beauty and fishing opportunities. However, fly infestations are noted as a consistent summer issue, especially after wet weather.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful location, clean, pleasantly spaced out." "It’s my favorite place on earth." "The flies, though, were not. Clouds of them." "Reserve early if you want a site near the river." "Bathrooms...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the river are highly recommended and frequently reserved early. Site 4 was criticized for being soggy and uneven. The upper sites through number 4 are described as less desirable. Site 15...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as vault toilets are noted as clean and functional, but no detailed reviews about accessibility for individuals with disabilities are available.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but one review advises: "If you bring an animal, keep it on a leash."
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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