Trinidad Lake State Park
00 review32610 Highway 12, Trinidad, Colorado, 81082, United States
Trinidad Lake State Park
$28.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Campsite fees range from $28 to $36 per night depending on location and amenities. A $9/day vehicle pass is required, and showers are coin-operated (starting at 50 cents). Additional charges apply for extra parking passes.
About this campground
Perched high on the ridges of southern Colorado, Trinidad Lake State Park beckons adventurers to discover its two distinct campground experiences. Whether you choose the panoramic vistas of Carpios Ridge or the lakeside charm of South Shore, you'll find the perfect basecamp for your Colorado adventure. From spacious RV sites to secluded tent spots, this year-round destination transforms with the seasons, offering endless opportunities for outdoor recreation even as winter brings partial closures to some areas.
Trinidad Lake State Park offers a mix of camping accommodations, including options for tent camping, RVs, and group sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you camp along the legendary Santa Fe Trail corridor, where wagon wheels once carved paths through this rugged landscape. Trinidad Lake State Park serves as your gateway to exploring the rich tapestry of Western history, with cultural landmarks and historic sites scattered throughout the region. Each trail and overlook tells stories of traders, settlers, and Native peoples who shaped this frontier crossroads into the vibrant cultural landscape it is today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Colorado's dynamic weather personality at Trinidad Lake, where each season paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Summer afternoons bring dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the mountains, creating spectacular light shows before giving way to star-filled evenings. Fall arrives with a gentle touch, wrapping the park in comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and wildlife watching. Winter transforms the lake into an angler's frozen paradise, with abundant sunshine glinting off the snow-covered peaks, inviting ice fishers and snow enthusiasts to explore this crystalline wonderland.
ElevationRising 150 to 200 feet above the shimmering waters of Trinidad Lake, the campgrounds offer a commanding perspective that feels like nature's own observation deck. This elevated vantage point not only provides cooler temperatures and refreshing breezes but also delivers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views that will become the highlight of your camping memories.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your ridgetop perch overlooking Trinidad Lake, watch as the landscape unfolds in layers of natural beauty. The sparkling reservoir below reflects the surrounding mountain peaks, creating an ever-changing canvas as water levels rise and fall with the seasons. Mature trees provide welcome shade throughout the campgrounds, while native vegetation attracts an impressive array of wildlife. Keep your camera ready for encounters with graceful deer, majestic elk, wild turkeys strutting through camp, and the occasional coyote silhouetted against the evening sky.
Geological RegionNestled in the dramatic mountains of southern Colorado's Southeast Region, Trinidad Lake State Park showcases the raw beauty of this geological wonderland. The campground's ridge-top setting, carved by ancient forces and now overlooking the modern reservoir, offers a front-row seat to the region's stunning topography. As the reservoir's water levels fluctuate throughout the year, they reveal and conceal different aspects of the landscape, ensuring that no two visits are quite the same in this dynamic mountain environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park includes disability-only campsites, and facilities are described as accessible. One reviewer appreciated 'excellent facilities and disability-only campsites.'
Sites SizeThe sites vary in size, including options for larger RVs and smaller tent sites. Some sites are described as tight, while others offer ample space.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some areas offer semi-private sites with natural shade, while others are described as being close together.
Total Campsites73 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended sites include upper 40s for views and site #50 for its location. Site #6 has full hookups including water, electricity, and sewer.
Best CampsitesSites in the upper 40s are highlighted for their lake views. Site #50 is specifically mentioned as a choice spot.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Per CPW regulation, no individual may camp or park a motor vehicle, trailer or camper on a state park for more than fourteen (14) days in any twenty-eight (28) day period on a single park.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Family of 8 stayed in South Shore. Reviews suggest sites accommodate typical family sizes but no explicit maximum is provided.
Groups
Group sites are available but specific capacities are not detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCarpios Ridge and South Shore are the two main campground sections. Sites are described as closer together in some areas.
Open and Closed SeasonCampsites 1-23, 62, and 63 on Carpios Ridge are open year-round. Campsites 24-61 on Carpios Ridge and the entire South Shore campground are closed from mid-October to mid-March or mid-May.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.cpwshop.com or ReserveAmerica.com (with limited functionality).
Walk-in AvailabilityReservation-only campground per authoritative sources and user mentions. Walk-up availability does not appear to be an option.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies include billing for the full reservation if canceled within 5 days prior (per user reviews).
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of recreational activities is available at Trinidad Lake State Park, catering to different interests and skill levels. These include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, boating, and more.
Hiking
The park offers numerous well-marked hiking trails, ranging from easy to steep. 'The trails are well marked and many start from the campground for easy access,' said one reviewer. Another mentioned, 'We did two hiking trails, one of which warned it was steep.'Fishing
Fishing at Trinidad Lake is popular, with species such as bass, trout, and walleye present. One reviewer noted, 'Fishing at the cove by the archery range was awesome; we easily had 8 catches the first evening.'Biking
Biking trails are available within the park, though specific details about terrain and difficulty are not mentioned.Boating
Boating is a key activity, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The park provides a boat ramp for easy access.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to various wildlife, including turkey, coyote, deer, and elk. One user highlighted, 'We saw a full-grown and two smaller mountain lions cross the road.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The park hosts interpretative programs, although specific topics and schedules are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing and winter wildlife watching.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Charcoal or wood fires are allowed only in designated grills or fire pits.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wind gusts, mud during wet seasons, and wildlife encounters (e.g., mountain lions per user review).
Active alertsSeasonal closures and fire restrictions are in place. Visitors are advised to check current conditions.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 90%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 12.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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 not explicitly mentioned. Visitors are advised to contact the park for more information.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season likely corresponds to summer months, though specific dates are not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, although specific locations and schedules are not detailed.
Proximity to water featuresSites do not have direct access to Trinidad Lake due to location on a ridge. South Shore sites offer closer proximity but still require walking.
Common complaintsComplaints include coin-operated showers, lack of soap in restrooms, small and uneven sites, and crowded conditions during peak season.
HostPark hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Hosts sell firewood and assist campers.
Campground Map
32610 Highway 12, Trinidad, Colorado, 81082, United States
Driving directionsFrom either direction on I-25, take Exit 13-B to West Main Street. At the first four-way stop, turn left onto Nevada Ave. Go through the roundabout and continue west onto Highway 12 for 3.5 miles. The first sign you will see on Highway 12 directs you to the entrance to the boat ramp and then the South Shore. Stay on Highway 12 west until the next entrance (second entrance) which is where the visitor center and Carpios Ridge Campground is located.
Roadways leading to the campground are paved and recently repaved according to reviews. Seasonal closures affect certain campground sections. Narrow roads with tight turns may present challenges for larger RVs.Nearby places
Trinidad (approximately 15 miles, user-reported proximity), other nearby cities are not explicitly mentioned.
Nearby supplies
Walmart is located nearby, approximately 15 miles away according to reviews. The town of Trinidad offers additional supplies and services.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Trinidad Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Trinidad Lake State Park are predominantly positive, highlighting its beauty, range of activities, and well-maintained facilities. Common themes include the scenic views, clean facilities, and friendly staff.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include 'beautiful views,' 'well-maintained campground,' and 'friendly and helpful staff.' Many users appreciated the hiking trails and fishing opportunities.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of swimming areas, coin-operated showers, and the additional vehicle entrance fee. Some users also noted that sites are close together and that vault toilets can be...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers, use mosquito repellent, and consider hiking trails based on skill level. One reviewer advised, 'Make sure you take cash for quarters to use the shower,' while another...
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Seasonal Insights
Fall and winter are described as great off-season times due to mild weather. Summer can be buggy, and spring may see muddy trails.
Camper Quotes
"This is a wonderful place in SE Colorado. The lake is low and we were unsuccessful fishing. However, the campground was beautiful and we had great views of Fisher's Peak." – Jonathan Werner. "The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites in the upper 40s have great lake views. Site 34 is described as beautiful and spacious, and Site 6 offers full hookups.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are appreciated, with one user noting the 'excellent facilities and disability-only campsites.'
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many trails are dog-friendly. One reviewer mentioned, 'Most trails are dog-friendly.'
Last updated August 10, 2025