Trujillo Meadows Campground
4.528 reviews15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO 81140
Trujillo Meadows Campground
$12.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees include $29 for overnight use of single sites, with additional charges of $2 on weekends and holidays. Day-use fee is $12. Reservation fee through recreation.gov is $8 per booking.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 10,000 feet, Trujillo Meadows Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Colorado's high country. This mountain sanctuary offers 50 thoughtfully positioned campsites where the scent of pine mingles with crisp alpine air. Wake to the gentle rustling of aspen leaves and spend your days exploring the adjacent meadow that gives this special place its name. The campground thoughtfully divides into Upper and Lower sections, each with its own character. For those seeking a front-row seat to nature's grandeur, sites 40 and 41 offer exclusive access to an observation platform overlooking a cascading waterfall. While sites 34-39 create an intimate inner loop perfect for tent campers, the remaining sites welcome RVs ready to tackle mountain roads. Modern amenities including restrooms, potable water, and barrier-free facilities ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Adventure awaits just beyond your campsite, with the Los Pinos Trail #736 promising spectacular ridge-line views and the legendary Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offering journeys through time.
Trujillo Meadows Campground offers tent camping and combined-use sites. There are no dedicated RV-only sites, but some areas can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length. Group camping sites are also available.
Historical SignificanceThe echoes of Colorado's rich mining heritage resonate throughout this region, where the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad still chugs through mountain passes once traversed by fortune seekers and pioneers. This remarkable narrow-gauge railroad, now a living museum, carries modern adventurers past ghost towns and abandoned mines that tell the story of the American West's boom-and-bust cycles. From your campsite, you're connected to centuries of history - from ancient Native American hunting grounds to the railroad era that opened these remote mountains to exploration and commerce.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Trujillo Meadows into an alpine paradise, with the campground welcoming visitors from Memorial Day through Labor Day when wildflowers paint the meadows in brilliant colors. At this elevation, summer days bring pleasantly cool temperatures that offer sweet relief from lower elevation heat, though afternoon thunderstorms may roll through with dramatic flair. Evenings require a warm layer as temperatures dip, creating perfect campfire weather. Outside the camping season, winter blankets the area in deep snow, turning this summer playground into a serene, frozen wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid winter explorers.
ElevationAt 10,000 feet above sea level, Trujillo Meadows exists in that magical realm where the air grows thin and the views stretch endlessly. This elevation places you in the subalpine zone, where hardy conifers reach skyward and wildflowers bloom in abbreviated but spectacular seasons. The altitude brings crisp, clean air that seems to sharpen every sense, though newcomers should take time to acclimate. Here, summer temperatures rarely climb above the 70s, while nights can dip near freezing even in July. The elevation rewards visitors with stunning vistas, brilliant star-filled skies unmarred by light pollution, and the exhilarating feeling of camping among the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryTrujillo Meadows unfolds like a natural amphitheater, where dense stands of spruce and fir give way to emerald meadows dotted with summer wildflowers. The jewel of the area, Trujillo Meadows Reservoir, mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks in its pristine waters, offering both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. A hidden waterfall reveals itself to those camping near sites 40 and 41, its cascading waters providing a natural soundtrack to your mountain retreat. The surrounding forest shelters diverse wildlife, from chattering squirrels to majestic elk, while the meadows burst with Indian paintbrush, columbines, and alpine forget-me-nots during peak bloom. Hiking trails wind through this varied landscape, each turn revealing new vistas of distant peaks, hidden glades, and the endless Colorado sky.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Rio Grande National Forest, Trujillo Meadows occupies a unique geological niche where ancient volcanic activity and millennia of erosion have sculpted a landscape of remarkable diversity. The campground sits in a natural bowl carved by glaciers, surrounded by peaks that tell the story of Colorado's dramatic geological past. Dense conifer forests cloak the hillsides, thriving in the volcanic soils that give this region its fertility. The centerpiece Trujillo Meadows Reservoir fills a natural depression, creating a high-altitude oasis that attracts both wildlife and wonder-seekers. This corner of the Rio Grande National Forest represents the quintessential Rocky Mountain ecosystem - where montane and subalpine zones meet, creating a rich tapestry of habitats that support everything from tiny alpine flowers to towering evergreens.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBarrier-free facilities are available, including toilets, making the campground accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are generally large enough to accommodate ample parking, with some sites specifically designed for two-car groups.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is composed of two sections (Upper and Lower) with campsites located among a mix of conifer trees. Some areas have thick tree coverage, while others are more open.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 34-39 for RV camping as they are in an inner loop unsuitable for RVs.
Best CampsitesSites 40 and 41 are popular for their proximity to the observation platform and waterfall.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is before 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14-day camping limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site not specified.
Groups
One site is designated for two-car groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo sections, Upper and Lower. Sites 34-39 form an inner loop unsuitable for RVs. Observation platform across from sites 40 and 41. Gravel and dirt parking aprons.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via recreation.gov (includes $8 reservation fee).
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified explicitly. However, reservations via recreation.gov might indicate limited walk-up options.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details not provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Trujillo Meadows Campground provides a variety of recreational activities. Popular activities include fishing in the Trujillo Meadows Reservoir, which is stocked with rainbow trout, and boating with small motorized or non-motorized watercraft. Hiking is accessible via nearby trails, including Los Pinos Trail #736. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with opportunities to see local fauna. An observation platform near campsites 40 and 41 offers a scenic view of a waterfall.
Hiking
Hiking is available on nearby trails, including Los Pinos Trail #736. The trail can be accessed via improved dirt Forest Road 1C and 4WD Forest Road #118.Fishing
Fishing in the Trujillo Meadows Reservoir is a major attraction. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout.Boating
Boating is allowed on Trujillo Meadows Reservoir, but only small motorized and non-motorized watercraft are permitted. There is a boat ramp on-site.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, and an observation platform near campsites 40 and 41 offers scenic views, including a waterfall.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned as the campground is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are allowed in the reservoir, which supports non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within provided fireplaces; limited firewood is supplied.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity in the area; visitors must use proper food storage techniques. Cows roaming the campground were noted, leading to issues with flies and potential safety concerns (user reviews).
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Conejos Peak Ranger District located at 15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO, provides ranger assistance. Nearest hospital facilities are likely in Antonito (~35 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are provided, and refuse pickups occur regularly.
Proximity to water featuresSituated above Trujillo Meadows Reservoir, the area allows boating (non-motorized and small motorized watercraft) and fishing for stocked rainbow trout.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight the high camping fees, cow presence leading to flies, and limited amenities for the price.
HostHost information not provided.
Campground Map
15571 County Road T5 La Jara, CO 81140
Driving directionsFrom Antonito, CO, take US 285 south 0.3 miles to Hwy 17. Continue straight onto Hwy 17 and go 35.2 miles to the Trujillo Meadows Reservoir sign. Turn right at sign onto dirt and go 0.1 miles to a 'T' intersection and campground sign (Forest Rd. 118). Turn right onto Rd 118 and go 2.1 miles to campground on right. Alternate Route: From Chama, NM, travel northeast 21.1 miles on Colorado Highway 17. Then go 2.5 miles north on Forest Road 118 to Forest Road 118.1B. Campground entrance is 0.3 miles north on Forest Road 118.1B.
Roads to the campground include dirt and gravel sections. Forest Road 118 is accessible but may require 4WD for certain areas. Seasonal closures are expected as the campground operates only between Memorial Day and Labor Day.Nearby places
Antonito, CO (~35 miles / ~45 minutes), Chama, NM (~21 miles / ~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be acquired in Antonito, CO (~35 miles) or Chama, NM (~21 miles). Both towns offer groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.5
8 reviews
Trujillo Meadows Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Trujillo Meadows Campground are generally positive, highlighting its scenic beauty, the reservoir, and the peaceful environment. However, there are some concerns about the presence of cows and biting flies.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground for its "high mountains, beautiful lake, and waterfall," with one reviewer describing it as "a hidden paradise." The observation platform and waterfall are mentioned...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users complain about the $30 nightly fee being too high for the minimal amenities provided. Another issue mentioned is the presence of cows in the campground, which some users found unsafe and a...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend hiking along the river below the dam and enjoying the scenic views from the observation platform.
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Seasonal complaints include biting flies being present at certain times of the day, which seems to decrease the number of visitors during this...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is one of my favorite places in the world. I've been going there since I was about 7 years old." - Kendra Petty. "Don't tell anyone. Great campgrounds. Hike the river below the dam." - J. M.
Based on 8 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 34 through 39 are not RV-friendly, but sites 40 and 41 are located near the observation platform for the waterfall.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Barrier-free facilities and accessible vault toilets are mentioned, making it a suitable option for campers with disabilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025