Explore Free Camping Options in Salida Ranger District: Top Spots and Tips
Discover the stunning natural beauty of the Salida Ranger District in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests—an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with over 1,300 miles of trails and a diverse landscape featuring everything from alpine lakes to rugged mountain terrains. Popular campgrounds such as the well-equipped Lake Creek Campground and the scenic Cottonwood Lake Campground provide a perfect base for exploring the area, while free camping options like Dispersed Camping near Monarch Pass offer the chance to immerse yourself in nature without spending a dime. The district is home to more than 300 species of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching and wildlife photography. With elevation ranging from 7,000 to over 14,000 feet, visitors can enjoy various elevations for hiking, biking, and fishing. Whether you're pitching a tent in one of the established campgrounds or setting up camp in a serene backcountry site, the Salida Ranger District promises unforgettable adventures. Explore the breathtaking vistas and natural wonders that make this district a must-visit for camping enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Cascade Campground is located in the Salida Ranger District, Pike and San Isabel National Forests (2 hrs 13 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 9,039 feet. There are a total of 21 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 22 and 73 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $24.00 per night. Activities include biking, ohv trails nearby, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails, rock climbing.
Chalk Lake Campground is located in the Salida Ranger District, Pike and San Isabel National Forests (2 hrs 12 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 8,755 feet. There are a total of 19 campsites including 7 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. 12 sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 18 and 62 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $24.00 per night. Activities include biking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Collegiate Peaks Campground is located in the Salida Ranger District, Pike and San Isabel National Forests (2 hrs 12 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 9,867 feet. There are a total of 56 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 22 and 62 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $22.00 per night. Activities include fishing, horseback riding, hiking trails.
Monarch Park Campground is located in the Salida Ranger District, Pike and San Isabel National Forests (2 hrs 34 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 10,498 feet. There are a total of 35 campsites. The campground is normally open from the beginning of June to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 20 and 56 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $22.00 per night. Activities include biking, hiking trails.
Mount Princeton Campground is located in the Salida Ranger District, Pike and San Isabel National Forests (2 hrs 12 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 8,591 feet. There are a total of 19 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid September. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 18 and 58 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $24.00 per night. Some amenities include swimming. Activities include fishing, hiking trails.
Ohaver Lake Campground is located in the Salida Ranger District, Pike and San Isabel National Forests (2 hrs 33 min west of Colorado Springs, CO) with an elevation of 9,204 feet. There are a total of 32 campsites including 3 tent-only sites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid October. 29 sites can accommodate RVs between 26 and 145 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $24.00 to $46.00. Activities include biking, boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
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