Alvarado site 11

Welcome to Alvarado Site 11, a cherished spot within the broader Alvarado Campground, nestled high in the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Colorado. For those living in the Centennial State, and particularly residents of the southern Colorado region, this campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourselves in the natural beauty and rugged wilderness that defines our state. Situated at an elevation of approximately 9,000 feet, Alvarado Campground, including Site 11, provides a serene escape from the everyday, offering stunning vistas, crisp mountain air, and direct access to some of Colorado's most captivating landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker, a family looking for a memorable weekend getaway, or an equestrian enthusiast, Alvarado Site 11 serves as an ideal basecamp for your Colorado adventure.

This destination is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor activity, set against a backdrop of sweet-smelling ponderosa pine, aspen, lodgepole, and gambel oak trees. Some individual sites within Alvarado Campground, including the potential for picturesque views from Site 11, offer sweeping panoramas of the Wet Mountain Valley below, while others are gracefully positioned alongside the gentle flow of Alvarado Creek. The campground’s strategic location places it at the doorstep of the vast Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, an expansive 226,455-acre area teeming with 60 alpine lakes, 400 miles of pristine streams, and an astounding 400 miles of trails waiting to be explored. This rich natural setting ensures that every visit promises new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

Alvarado Site 11 is part of the Alvarado Campground, conveniently located near the charming towns of Westcliffe and Silver Cliff in Custer County, Colorado. The official address for the campground is within the Westcliffe, Colorado 81252 USA vicinity. This makes it easily accessible for many Colorado residents looking for a mountain escape without an excessively long drive.

To reach Alvarado Campground from Westcliffe, CO, you'll embark on a scenic drive that perfectly sets the tone for your outdoor adventure. From downtown Westcliffe, take State Highway 69 south for approximately 3 miles until you see the campground sign for County Road 140. Turn right onto County Road 140 and continue for about 1.8 miles to a stop sign. Proceed straight through this stop sign for another 2.8 miles until you encounter another stop sign at County Road 141. Turn left onto County Road 141 and continue for roughly 2.1 miles to reach the campground entrance. Please note that after about 0.4 miles, County Road 141 transitions from paved to a dirt/gravel surface, adding to the authentic mountain experience. While specific directions to Site 11 within the campground may vary, the general access is straightforward and well-marked.

The accessibility of Alvarado Campground ensures that a wide range of vehicles can comfortably make the journey, though some inner roads are gravel. It's always advisable to check current road conditions, especially during shoulder seasons, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. The proximity to Westcliffe means that essential supplies and services are just a short drive away, providing a convenient balance between wilderness immersion and necessary amenities.

• Campsites for Tents, RVs, and Trailers: Alvarado Campground offers a variety of sites designed to accommodate different camping preferences, including traditional tent sites, RV sites (some with spur lengths up to 29 feet), and sites suitable for trailers.

• Equestrian Sites: For those who wish to explore the trails on horseback, the campground provides dedicated equestrian sites. Please note that campers must bring only certified weed-free hay, cubes, or pellets.

• Potable Water: Water is available from a hand pump within the campground, although it's noted to be mineral-rich and highly chlorinated. Bringing your own drinking water is recommended by some past visitors.

• Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are provided throughout the campground for convenience.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire grate/grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (fire restrictions permitting).

• Trash Receptacles: For maintaining cleanliness and promoting responsible waste disposal, trash receptacles are available.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for sale by the concessionaire at the campground, making it easy to enjoy a warm fire.

• Reservations: Many sites are reservable via Recreation.gov, and it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season. First-come, first-served sites are also available.

• Pet-Friendly: Leashed pets are permitted within the campground, allowing you to bring your furry companions on your adventure.

• Proximity to Sangre de Cristo Wilderness: This is a major highlight, offering direct access to a vast wilderness area with extensive hiking and horseback riding trails, alpine lakes, and waterfalls.

• Scenic Mountain Setting: Alvarado Campground is beautifully situated on the side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, providing a true Colorado mountain camping experience amidst diverse tree species like ponderosa pine, aspen, and lodgepole pine.

• Views of Wet Mountain Valley: Many sites, including potentially Site 11, offer stunning panoramic views of the Wet Mountain Valley below, especially at sunrise and sunset.

• Alvarado Creek Access: The presence of Alvarado Creek alongside some sites adds to the natural ambiance and offers opportunities for quiet enjoyment of the flowing water.

• Variety of Recreational Opportunities: The campground serves as a launching point for numerous activities, including easy to challenging hikes, horseback riding, and exploring sections of the Rainbow Trail (a premier ATV and motorcycle trail in some sections).

• Nearby Attractions: The Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway is easily accessible, providing breathtaking views of 22 peaks within the San Isabel National Forest. The charming towns of Westcliffe and Silver Cliff offer local amenities and a taste of Colorado's small-town charm.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors frequently commend the cleanliness of the campground, including the vault toilets, and the attentiveness of the camp hosts.

• Dark Sky Region: The Wet Mountain Valley and surrounding areas are renowned for their incredibly dark skies, making Alvarado a fantastic spot for stargazing and astrophotography, a truly magical experience for Colorado locals.

Address: Colorado 81252, USA (General area for Alvarado Campground, precise street address may vary for individual sites within the campground).

For general campground inquiries and non-real-time information, you can contact the San Carlos Ranger District office at:

Phone: (719) 269-8500

For reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for specific sites like Alvarado Site 11, please use the national reservation service:

Reservation Phone: 1-877-444-6777

Website: Recreation.gov (search for Alvarado Campground)

For Colorado residents, Alvarado Site 11, and the Alvarado Campground as a whole, represents an authentic and accessible slice of mountain paradise right in our backyard. Unlike some of the state's more heavily trafficked tourist destinations, Alvarado offers a genuine opportunity to reconnect with Colorado's wild heart. Its location in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, easily reachable from many parts of the state, means you can spend less time driving and more time enjoying the outdoors.

The diverse range of activities available caters to various local interests. Hikers will find endless trails leading to breathtaking alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks within the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. Equestrian enthusiasts have dedicated sites and trails to explore the backcountry on horseback. Even those simply looking for a peaceful escape can find solace in the tranquil surroundings, enjoying a campfire under Colorado's famously dark, star-filled skies. The option for both reservable and first-come, first-served sites provides flexibility for spontaneous trips or well-planned getaways.

Furthermore, the emphasis on basic amenities like vault toilets and water from a hand pump, while offering the comfort of picnic tables and fire rings, encourages a truly immersive camping experience. It's a chance to unplug from urban life and embrace the simplicity and grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. The proximity to Westcliffe allows for easy resupply, yet the campground itself feels wonderfully remote. For Colorado locals seeking to explore their own state's natural wonders, create lasting memories with family and friends, or simply find a quiet retreat amidst stunning scenery, Alvarado Site 11 at Alvarado Campground stands out as an exceptional choice, offering a true taste of the Colorado wilderness experience.

Alvarado site 11

Colorado 81252, USA