Tucker Ponds Campground
04 reviews13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Tucker Ponds Campground
$12.00 - $52.00 / 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: $12 for Day Use, $26 for Overnight. Double Unit: $12 for Day Use, $52 for Overnight. $2 additional fee applies for weekends and holidays.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 9,600 feet elevation, Tucker Ponds welcomes adventurers to its intimate collection of 15 campsites nestled within a single loop. Here, where towering spruce trees frame expansive grassy meadows, you'll discover a landscape transformed by nature's own hand. Following a natural forest renewal in 2015, when spruce bark beetles prompted the removal of older trees, the campground now offers sun-drenched sites with spectacular, unobstructed views of majestic Fox Mountain rising against the alpine sky.
The campground offers basic accommodations catering to tent and RV campers, with no RV hookups or additional lodging options.
Historical SignificanceTucker Ponds tells a story of resilience and renewal. In 2015, the campground underwent a significant transformation when a spruce bark beetle infestation necessitated the careful removal of many mature spruce trees. Rather than diminishing the area's appeal, this natural event opened new vistas and created a unique blend of forest and meadow habitats, allowing the campground to evolve while maintaining its role as a cherished high-altitude retreat for generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, Tucker Ponds offers a true mountain experience where weather can shift from crisp, clear mornings to afternoon thundershowers in minutes. Late May through early August brings the campground's golden season, with wildflower-filled meadows basking under azure skies and comfortable daytime temperatures perfect for hiking and fishing. As autumn approaches, nights turn crisp and frost paints the meadows silver. Winter transforms the area into a snow-laden wonderland, making the traditional camping season from Memorial Day to Labor Day your window to experience this high-country gem.
ElevationAt 9,600 feet above sea level, Tucker Ponds sits in Colorado's alpine zone, where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath reminds you that you're camping among the clouds. This remarkable elevation places you in a world where weather patterns dance across mountain peaks and the landscape transitions between dense spruce forests and sweeping alpine meadows.
Natural Features and SceneryTucker Ponds enchants visitors with its harmonious blend of emerald spruce forests and golden meadows that ripple in the mountain breeze. The campground's namesake twin ponds, each spanning approximately 10 acres, mirror the surrounding peaks and provide excellent habitat for stocked rainbow trout that challenge anglers throughout the season. Just a short journey away, Pass Creek offers a more intimate fishing experience in a designated Rio Grande Cutthroat recovery area, where catch-and-release fishing with artificial flies and lures helps preserve this native species for future generations.
Geological RegionSituated in a remarkable transition zone at 9,600 feet, Tucker Ponds occupies a unique geological niche where dense spruce forests give way to expansive alpine meadows. This high-altitude ecosystem showcases the dramatic interplay between forest and grassland habitats, creating a diverse landscape shaped by millennia of glacial activity, seasonal snowmelt, and the persistent forces that sculpt Colorado's magnificent high country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation about specific accessibility features is not provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as small and narrow; the maximum spur length is 40 feet, and not all sites can accommodate vehicles of this length.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers limited privacy due to the removal of trees affected by spruce bark beetles. The area is now more open and sunny.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers with larger vehicles (over 28 feet) may face difficulty fitting into the sites. Choose sites with open views of Fox Mountain for scenic benefits.
Best CampsitesUser reviews and official sources do not specify site numbers; however, open and sunny sites with mountain views and proximity to water may be popular.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 2:00 PM
Check-out
Before 11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14-day camping limit
Groups
No group sites are available at Tucker Ponds Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with 15 sites surrounded by spruce trees and open grassy meadow.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made; all sites are first-come-first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyCash or check payment is required. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites occupied by the pass holder.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Tucker Ponds Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, picnicking, and winter sports like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
Hiking is available, including access to the Bonito Pass Trail leading to the Continental Divide Trail. Specific trail details such as lengths or difficulty levels are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is a major highlight at Tucker Ponds Campground. The two ponds, each approximately 10 acres, are stocked with rainbow trout. Pass Creek, accessible to the west, offers fishing for Rio Grande Cutthroat trout, but all cutthroat trout must be released.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated fire rings only.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is a notable hazard; campers must remain 'Bear Aware' and store food properly.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Heavy rain
Precipitation: 7.9%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Very Light Rain - (7.90% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Heavy rain
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
Emergency services are located in South Fork, CO. A RV waste station is available next to the Rainbow Grocery at the intersection of US Rt. 160 and State Rt. 149.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash service is available seasonally (Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Proximity to water featuresThe two Tucker Ponds are across the road from the campground and Pass Creek is accessible via hiking west of the campground.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention narrow and unlevel sites and outdated facilities (e.g., tables and pit toilets).
HostUser reviews indicate the presence of helpful and friendly campground hosts.
Campground Map
13308 West US Hwy 160 Del Norte, CO 81132
Driving directionsFrom South Fork, CO: Take Hwy 160 west (toward Pagosa Springs) 13.5 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Rd. 390 (gravel) and go 2.7 miles to another campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground. NOTE: Forest Rd. 390 is single-lane with turnouts.
Forest Rd. 390 is gravel and single-lane with turnouts, which may pose challenges for larger vehicles or inexperienced drivers.Nearby places
South Fork, CO (13.5 miles, approx. 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Rainbow Grocery at the intersection of US Rt. 160 and State Rt. 149 in South Fork, CO offers camping supplies and a RV waste station.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Tucker Ponds Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Tucker Ponds Campground are generally positive, highlighting its beautiful scenery and peaceful environment. However, concerns are raised about the small and narrow campsites, as well as the need for facility repairs.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive remarks include the natural beauty of the campground, the cleanliness of the vault toilets, and the helpfulness of the camp hosts. One user described it as 'a hidden gem that campers...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback focuses on the small and unlevel campsites, aging facilities such as picnic tables, and the lack of recreational activities beyond fishing and hiking. There are also complaints...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend being prepared for limited recreational opportunities and bringing all necessary supplies. ATVs may not find suitable trails in the vicinity.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews reflect that the campground is well-suited for summer use due to its open season from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Rainy weather is noted as a potential drawback during this period.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful and quiet, but campground spots are very small.' - Carriann Johnson
2. 'The absolutely beautiful scenery. Great camp hosts.' - Ditzy Hamman
3. 'Tucker Ponds is an amazing campground. It...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews mention that the campsites are small and narrow, making it difficult for larger campers to fit. Specific site numbers are not identified.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility were found.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews about pet-related experiences are available.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025