Mix Lake Campground
01 reviewMix Lake Campground, Antonito, CO 81120
Mix Lake Campground
$12.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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 Day Use: $12.00. Single Unit Overnight Use: $26.00. An additional $2.00 applies for weekends and holidays.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 10,000 feet elevation, Mix Lake Campground offers 21 pristine campsites where adventure meets tranquility. Wake up to panoramic views of shimmering Mix Lake, surrounded by towering spruce and whispering aspen groves. Each site comes equipped with sturdy tables and fireplaces for memorable evening gatherings, while modern vault toilets and fresh potable water ensure comfort in the wilderness. Whether you're casting a line in nearby fishing holes, exploring mountain trails, or making a day trip to the expansive Platoro Reservoir, this high-altitude haven serves as your perfect basecamp for Rocky Mountain adventures.
Mix Lake Campground provides a mix of tent and combined RV/tent sites. "The campground features several stands of large, mature spruce and aspen trees."
Historical SignificanceJust down the mountain road lies the storied town of Platoro, where echoes of Colorado's mining past still resonate through weathered buildings and local tales. This historic settlement invites curious visitors to step back in time, exploring remnants of the region's rich cultural heritage while enjoying modern-day hospitality. The area's deep roots in frontier history add an enriching dimension to your mountain escape.
Weather and SeasonsAt this elevation, Mother Nature writes her own rules. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and cool nights ideal for campfire stories, though wise campers pack layers as surprise snowflakes can dance through the air even in July. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland, with temperatures plunging to create conditions best suited for the heartiest of adventurers. The sweet spot for camping runs from late June through September, when wildflowers paint the meadows and the weather typically cooperates with outdoor plans.
ElevationAt 10,000 feet above sea level, Mix Lake Campground places you in the heart of Colorado's alpine wonderland. This lofty perch delivers naturally air-conditioned summers where afternoon temperatures rarely climb above the 70s, while nights dip into fleece-weather territory. The thin mountain air rewards visitors with crystal-clear skies perfect for stargazing and panoramic vistas that stretch for miles across the Rio Grande National Forest's rugged peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground cascades gracefully up a forested hillside, with each site thoughtfully positioned to capture glimpses of Mix Lake's mirror-like surface below. Mature spruce trees stand sentinel while aspen groves shimmer golden in autumn breezes, creating a natural amphitheater of color and texture. Nearby streams babble with snowmelt, hidden ponds reflect the sky, and well-marked trailheads beckon hikers to explore deeper into this pristine mountain ecosystem. The landscape offers an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow, from misty morning revelations to alpenglow sunsets.
Geological RegionNestled within the Conejos River drainage system of the Rio Grande National Forest, Mix Lake Campground occupies a geological wonderland carved by ancient glaciers and volcanic forces. The surrounding landscape tells a million-year story written in stone and sediment, where the Conejos River and its tributaries have sculpted dramatic valleys through the southern Colorado Rockies. Towering spruce and aspen forests cloak the mountainsides, thriving in the mineral-rich soils at 10,000 feet elevation, while Mix Lake itself fills a natural depression that serves as a jewel-like centerpiece to this remarkable high-country setting.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo wheelchair-friendly toilet facilities are present. No other accessibility features were specified.
Sites SizeParking aprons are gravel and measure 15' x 48'.
Sites PrivacyThe campground features several stands of large, mature spruce and aspen trees, providing shade and privacy for some sites, while others are open and overlook the lake.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites overlooking Mix Lake for the best views. Sites surrounded by spruce and aspen trees provide natural shade and privacy.
Best CampsitesSites overlooking Mix Lake are popular for their scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay permitted is 14 consecutive days.
Groups
No group sites mentioned in the source.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out on a hillside, with sites scattered around the area to provide varying degrees of open space and tree coverage.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are available; sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 21 sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of activities, including fishing, boating (non-motorized), viewing wildlife, picnicking, and scenic drives. "This is a good access point for the South San Juan Wilderness and Mix Lake Overlook is on-site." The nearby Platoro Reservoir offers a broader range of water sports opportunities.
Hiking
Numerous trailheads in the area, including Lake Fork Trail 716 and Sawmill Gulch Trail. "This is a good access point for the South San Juan Wilderness."Fishing
Fishing opportunities include Mix Lake, Platoro Reservoir, Conejos River, Lily Pond, and Kerr Lake. "Rainbow trout (stocked) are available."Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted. "Mix Lake is 25 acres. Nearby Platoro Reservoir offers full range of water sports opportunities."Wildlife viewing
Campers may enjoy opportunities for viewing wildlife in the scenic Rio Grande National Forest area.Winter Activities
The campground is not open for winter activities.Water Sports
Nearby Platoro Reservoir offers options for water skiing, kayaking, and other water sports, but Mix Lake is limited to non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated metal fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.
Hazards
General hazardsThis area is bear country; guests must practice safe food storage techniques. High altitude (10,000 feet) may pose challenges for unprepared visitors.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.6 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
Conejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T5, La Jara, CO 81140 (phone: 719-274-8971). Nearby Platoro offers basic services, including food and canoe rentals. No direct hospitals or police stations listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available with bear-proof trash cans. "Ensure doors on bear-proof trash cans are secure and use proper food storage techniques in the campground."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Mix Lake and close to Platoro Reservoir, Conejos River, Lily Pond, and Kerr Lake, making it ideal for fishing and non-motorized boating activities.
Common complaintsSome reviewers find the remote access challenging and note the lack of communication services such as Wi-Fi and cell coverage.
Campground Map
Mix Lake Campground, Antonito, CO 81120
Driving directionsFrom Antonito, CO, take US Rt. 285 south 0.3 miles to State Rt. 17. Continue straight on Rt. 17 and go 21.9 miles to Platoro sign (Forest Rt. 250). Turn right at sign onto Rt. 250 (dirt) and go 23.4 miles to Mix Lake sign. Turn left at sign and go 0.6 miles to campground.
Road access includes paved highways and dirt roads. Seasonal road closures may occur between March 15th and May 15th due to snow restrictions. Parking aprons are gravel, and RVs up to 40’ are accommodated. Motorized travel may be restricted during snow periods.Nearby places
Antonito (approximately 47 miles, 1-hour drive), Monte Vista (approximately 41 miles, 50-minute drive), Platoro (1 mile, 5-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available at the resort community of Platoro, which offers boat and canoe rentals, trail rides, and a small store.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Mix Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as "well off the beaten path" and a great destination for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. "If you want to get away this will satisfy."
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the scenic views, secluded location, and proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities. "Some of the most beautiful country I've been to."
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Users note the lack of modern amenities like cell service, Wi-Fi, and RV hookups. "No communications here unless you have satellite and that won't be reliable here."
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest being well-prepared for altitude and rough terrain. "It will take you some time to get here be prepared for the altitude 9900 ft. This is rough country make sure you have a jack and a...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Memorial Day to Labor Day is the optimal season for camping based on operational hours, favorable weather conditions, and access to activities.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is your roughing it dream vacation spot." "Some of the most beautiful country I've been to." "It will take you some time to get here be prepared for the altitude 9900 ft."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews or ratings provided.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressed accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. "Dogs must be on leash not longer than six feet in length."
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025