Belle of Colorado Campground

For Colorado adventurers seeking an authentic and serene camping experience, the Belle of Colorado Campground stands out as a true mountain sanctuary. Tucked away on the eastern shore of the stunning Turquoise Lake, this tent-only campground offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, inviting you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Leadville high country. Unlike many other campgrounds, Belle of Colorado is known for its spacious sites, peaceful ambiance, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a highly sought-after destination for locals. It's a place where the pristine beauty of a Colorado mountain lake meets the comfort of well-maintained facilities, promising an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Belle of Colorado Campground is ideally situated in Leadville, CO 80461, USA, specifically on the eastern shore of Turquoise Lake. This prime location makes it easily accessible for Colorado residents, offering a relatively straightforward drive from major Front Range cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder. The scenic journey through the mountains sets the tone for your peaceful retreat. While the exact numerical address provided might be less useful for navigation than a general location, its proximity to Leadville and its direct access to Turquoise Lake via a dedicated trail are key advantages. This means you can enjoy the serenity of a lakeside campsite while still being just a short, approximately 15-minute drive, from the historic town of Leadville, where you can find supplies, dining, and explore local history. The campground's setting within a shaded lodgepole pine forest further enhances its appeal, providing a natural and private atmosphere for each site.

Belle of Colorado Campground is designed to offer a comfortable and convenient tent camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that enhance your stay in the wilderness:

• Potable Water Taps: Drinking water is readily available through a pressurized water system, though it's always wise to confirm availability, especially early or late in the season.
• Clean Restrooms (Vault Toilets): Campers consistently praise the cleanliness and maintenance of the vault toilets, ensuring a hygienic experience.
• Fire Pits: Each campsite comes equipped with a fire pit, perfect for warming up on cool mountain evenings or cooking delicious campfire meals.
• Big Picnic Tables: Generously sized picnic tables are provided at every site, offering ample space for dining, preparing food, and social gatherings.
• Pedestal Grills: In addition to fire pits, some sites may feature pedestal grills for alternative cooking methods.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is conveniently available for purchase on a cash basis from the camp host, saving you the trouble of bringing your own.
• On-site Camp Host: A welcoming and helpful camp host is present to assist visitors, provide information, and ensure a smooth camping experience.

The Belle of Colorado Campground truly shines with its unique features and highlights, setting it apart as a premier tent camping destination in Colorado:

• Tent-Only Campground: This dedicated feature ensures a quieter atmosphere, free from the noise of generators often associated with RVs, making it ideal for those seeking true tranquility.
• Private Beach Access for Campers Only: A significant highlight, offering exclusive use of a beautiful beach area on Turquoise Lake for swimming, sunbathing, or launching non-motorized watercraft. This "campers only" policy enhances the peaceful and uncrowded feel.
• Super Quiet at Night: Consistent feedback emphasizes the peaceful nights, allowing for deep relaxation and excellent stargazing opportunities.
• Spacious Sites with Good Distance: Campsites are generously sized and well-separated from each other, providing privacy and a sense of seclusion. Reviewers highlight "HUGE site overlooking the lake," demonstrating the quality of individual spots.
• Close Proximity to Turquoise Lake: Beyond the private beach, the campground's overall closeness to the lake means easy access for all water-related activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: While this requires early arrival, especially on weekends, it also means that coveted spots can be secured without prior reservations, adding to the adventurous spirit.
• Good Tree Coverage: Situated in a shaded lodgepole pine forest, sites offer natural shade, which is a welcome feature during sunny Colorado days.
• Great Trails to Hike Nearby: The surrounding area boasts numerous hiking trails, including those that wind around Turquoise Lake, providing ample opportunities for exploration and scenic walks.
• Friendly and Helpful Host: Campers consistently praise the "nice" and "helpful and kind" hosts, who contribute significantly to the positive camping experience.
• Stunning Lake Overlooks: Many sites offer incredible views of Turquoise Lake, especially those close to the shoreline, providing a breathtaking backdrop to your camping adventure.

For inquiries regarding Belle of Colorado Campground, especially concerning its first-come, first-served availability, you can use the following general contact information for the Leadville Ranger District, which oversees the campground, or the broader recreation system.

Address: Leadville, CO 80461, USA

Phone: (719) 553-1400 (This number is for Recreation.gov which often handles bookings or inquiries for federal campgrounds, but remember Belle of Colorado is first-come, first-served.)

Mobile Phone: +1 719-553-1400

Given its first-come, first-served nature, direct phone calls to "book" a site are not applicable, but these numbers can be useful for general information about the area or conditions. It's highly recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season or weekends, to secure a spot.

Belle of Colorado Campground is an outstanding choice for Colorado locals for several compelling reasons. Its location on Turquoise Lake, just a short drive from Leadville, makes it easily accessible for many residents across the state, offering a convenient mountain escape. For those who own tents and prefer a traditional camping experience free from the noise of RVs and generators, the "tent-only" policy is a significant draw. The promise of "super quiet at night" and "spacious sites with good distance from other sites" ensures a truly peaceful and private retreat, allowing locals to fully unwind and connect with nature. The campground's most unique highlight—its "own private beach that doesn't allow day use" and is exclusively for campers—provides an unparalleled opportunity for lakeside relaxation and recreation without the crowds. Furthermore, the availability of clean restrooms, potable water, and convenient firewood sales addresses essential needs, making the experience more comfortable. The consistent praise for the "nice host" underscores a welcoming environment, adding to the overall positive impression. For Colorado residents seeking a genuine, serene, and well-maintained tent camping experience with direct lake access and breathtaking views, Belle of Colorado Campground represents an ideal local getaway where memories are truly made.

Belle of Colorado Campground

Leadville, CO 80461, USA