Lost Man Campground
4.7115 reviewsLost Man Campground
$22.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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 are reported as $22 per day according to authoritative sources, while user reviews frequently cite $25 per night.
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About this campground
Perched high in Colorado's alpine wilderness at 10,700 feet, Lost Man Campground offers adventurous souls a genuine backcountry experience without venturing too far from civilization. This intimate, first-come-first-served hideaway features just 10 primitive campsites tucked beneath towering lodgepole pines and ancient Engelmann spruces, with several sites offering the gentle soundtrack of Lost Man Creek flowing nearby. Steps from your tent, the Lost Man Trailhead beckons across the road, serving as your gateway to the pristine Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness. Whether you're drawn by the extensive trail network, the nearby ghost town of Independence, or simply the promise of starlit nights in thin mountain air, this campground delivers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience for those willing to embrace its rustic charm.
Lost Man Campground features a mix of tent and standard campsites, all operating on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is a primitive campground with no RV pull-throughs or electrical hookups.
Historical SignificanceJust two miles east along the winding mountain road lies a haunting reminder of Colorado's gold rush dreams—the Independence ghost town. This once-thriving mining settlement, now a collection of weathered wooden structures clinging to the mountainside, tells the story of fortune-seekers who braved these harsh elevations in search of precious metals. The proximity to this historic site transforms Lost Man Campground into more than just a place to pitch a tent; it becomes a basecamp for exploring the remnants of Colorado's mining heritage, where visitors can walk among the ruins and imagine the determination of those who called these unforgiving heights home over a century ago.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 11,000 feet, Lost Man Campground reminds visitors that the mountains play by their own rules when it comes to weather. Even in the heart of summer, temperatures can plummet once the sun dips behind the peaks, turning balmy afternoons into nights that demand warm sleeping bags and perhaps an extra layer or two. Seasoned campers know to pack for all seasons regardless of the calendar date—the combination of high elevation and exposed alpine environment creates conditions where frost can kiss your tent on any given morning, while afternoons might find you basking in brilliant sunshine. This dramatic temperature swing is part of the campground's alpine allure, offering crisp, star-filled nights that make the extra blanket worthwhile.
ElevationAt 10,700 feet above sea level, Lost Man Campground sits in that rarified realm where the air grows thin and the views grow spectacular. This lofty perch places campers firmly in the subalpine zone, where every breath reminds you of the altitude and every sunrise paints the surrounding peaks in alpenglow. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system that keeps summer temperatures refreshingly cool, while also serving up panoramic vistas that stretch across the Continental Divide. Here, you're camping among the clouds, where afternoon thunderstorms roll through with dramatic flair and the night sky seems close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a pristine pocket of subalpine forest, Lost Man Campground immerses visitors in a landscape where lodgepole pines stretch skyward like natural cathedral spires and ancient Engelmann spruces provide sheltering canopies. Lost Man Creek threads through the area, its crystal-clear waters creating a soothing ambiance and supporting the delicate mountain ecosystem. The surrounding wilderness unfolds in layers of green forest, gray granite peaks, and endless blue sky, offering the kind of unspoiled mountain scenery that defines the Colorado Rockies. From your campsite, watch as morning mist rises from the creek, afternoon sunlight filters through the evergreens, and evening alpenglow transforms distant peaks into glowing monuments.
Geological RegionCradled within the vast expanse of White River National Forest, Lost Man Campground occupies a spectacular slice of Colorado's high country where the Continental Divide shapes both landscape and weather. The campground sits at the doorstep of the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness, one of Colorado's premier backcountry areas, where granite peaks and glacial valleys create a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. This subalpine ecosystem, dominated by resilient lodgepole pines and stately Engelmann spruces, represents millions of years of geological forces at work—from ancient seas to volcanic activity to the glaciers that carved these valleys. Lost Man Creek, fed by snowmelt and mountain springs, has spent countless centuries sculpting its path through this rocky terrain, creating the gentle streamside setting that makes several campsites particularly coveted.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available.
Sites SizeSites are standard-sized, with some sites adjacent to Lost Man Creek.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site; some sites are secluded, while others are more open.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest arriving early to secure a good site, as the campground is popular and operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Best CampsitesSite #3 is specifically mentioned in reviews as being highly desirable due to its location next to the creek and the surrounding pine trees.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
5nights maximum stay per visit.
Groups
Group sites are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout with 10 campsites, some of which are adjacent to Lost Man Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from June 9 to September 17.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation system exists as the campground operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Reviews emphasize the importance of arriving early to secure a site.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations cannot be made.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lost Man Campground provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The campground is situated near the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness and Lost Man Lake, offering diverse outdoor activities.
Hiking
The campground provides access to the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness via nearby trails, including a 3-mile trail to Lost Man Lake.Fishing
Fishing for rainbow trout is available at the nearby Lost Man Lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with visitors mentioning encounters with deer and other animals.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned as the campground operates seasonally from June 9 to September 17.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, rafting, or paddleboarding are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsThe elevation and cold temperatures are frequently mentioned as potential challenges. Additionally, the area is bear country, requiring the use of food storage lockers and adherence to safety protocols.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 9 to September 17 (as it aligns with open season).
Trash and recyclingBear-proof food storage boxes are provided, but there is no mention of other trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLost Man Creek runs near several campsites, and the area is within hiking distance of Lost Man Lake.
Common complaintsRecurring issues highlighted in user reviews include the limited number of bear-proof food storage lockers and the lack of potable water.
HostNo campground host is present. Visitors self-register and pay on-site.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Aspen, CO, take State Route 82 east 12.7 miles to the campground sign. Turn right into the campground.
Independence Pass is narrow, steep, and winding, with restrictions prohibiting vehicles over 35 feet in length or vehicle/trailer combinations exceeding 35 feet between specific mile markers (MP 47.2 to MP 84.2). Roads are paved leading to the campground but are challenging due to the terrain.Nearby places
Aspen (approximately 12.7 miles east).
Camper Reviews
4.7
15 reviews
Lost Man Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lost Man Campground receives positive reviews for its scenic location, proximity to trails, and peaceful environment. Visitors appreciate the creekside sites and the abundance of hiking opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned include the campground's proximity to Lost Man Trailhead, the serene environment, well-shaded sites, and the beauty of the creek that runs nearby.
Based on 15 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of bear-proof food storage boxes for all sites, cold nighttime temperatures due to the high elevation, and occasional cleanliness issues with the vault toilets...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a site. Bring warm clothing for chilly nights and insect repellent for creekside sites. Be prepared to self-register and pay upon arrival.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal trends indicate that the campground is busiest during weekends and is prone to cold temperatures at night due to its high elevation. Visitors recommend summer months for the best experience.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "On a whim on a Sunday afternoon, my girlfriend and I pulled in, thinking there wouldn’t be any sites available, but we got a great one! Even though the campground is right next to the highway,...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 3 is highlighted as a favorite due to its proximity to the creek and surrounding pine trees.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available, but no additional accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but there are no specific reviews detailing pet-related experiences.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025