Castle Lakes Campground

For Coloradans who yearn for the quintessential mountain getaway, where starry nights meet pristine waters and unparalleled access to adventure, Castle Lakes Campground in Lake City stands as an exceptional choice. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a cherished destination offering a unique blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and outstanding hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains and directly on the renowned Alpine Loop, Castle Lakes Campground provides an unforgettable escape for families, adventurers, and those simply seeking peace amidst Colorado's grandeur.

What truly sets Castle Lakes Campground apart, as consistently highlighted by delighted visitors, is its stunning location and the remarkable level of service provided. Reviewers often rave about the "wonderful location in the middle of the forest where the stars shine bright at night" and praise the "outstanding" service from the hosts, Monica and Ben. This combination of a breathtaking natural setting and dedicated, attentive management creates an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and meticulously cared for, making guests feel right at home in the wilderness.

One of the most appealing features, particularly for anglers, is the direct access to two private fishing lakes right on the property. Imagine casting your line into clear mountain waters without needing a state fishing license – this is a unique convenience that distinguishes Castle Lakes. Beyond fishing, the campground's strategic position offers immediate entry points to the legendary Alpine Loop, making it a prime base for off-roading enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone eager to explore the rugged beauty of Colorado's backcountry.

For many Coloradans, Lake City itself holds a special place, often described as a "small friendly town." Castle Lakes Campground perfectly complements this charm, providing a peaceful retreat within easy reach of the town's amenities while still feeling wonderfully secluded. It’s a place where you can spend your days exploring challenging trails or simply relaxing by the lake, knowing that a comfortable and friendly base awaits your return.

The dedication to providing a memorable experience extends beyond the scenic views and private lakes. From cozy cabins equipped with essentials to well-maintained RV and tent sites, every aspect is designed to ensure guest comfort. The communal areas, including a lodge with recreation options, further enhance the stay, fostering a sense of community among fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Castle Lakes Campground truly delivers on its promise of a top-notch mountain and lake experience, solidifying its reputation as a highly recommended destination in the Lake City area.

Castle Lakes Campground is conveniently located at 8201 HC Road #30, Lake City, CO 81235, USA. This address places it approximately 9 miles south of the charming town of Lake City, and about 4 miles above Lake San Cristobal, along the historic Cinnamon Pass Road. Critically, it is situated directly on the Alpine Loop National Backcountry Byway, a renowned scenic and off-road route that connects Lake City, Ouray, and Silverton.

Accessing Castle Lakes Campground involves a scenic drive. From Lake City, you will take County Road 30 (Cinnamon Pass Road). The first few miles of this road may be paved, but it quickly transitions to a well-maintained gravel road. While the road is generally suitable for most vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers, it is important to be prepared for mountain driving conditions and potential dust. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering stunning views and a gradual ascent into the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Its direct location on the Alpine Loop means that once you arrive, you have immediate access to a vast network of off-road trails, making it an incredibly convenient base for exploring the high country without needing to re-trailer your OHV.

Given its elevation of around 9,200 feet, the campground's operating season typically runs from mid-May through early October, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions. It is always advisable to check current road conditions and opening dates, especially during the shoulder seasons. The remote yet accessible location strikes a perfect balance, allowing for true immersion in nature while still being within a reasonable drive of Lake City for supplies and services.

Castle Lakes Campground offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities, catering to various camping preferences from rustic tent sites to fully equipped cabins, all designed to enhance your mountain getaway.

• RV Sites: 45 RV sites are available, with options for full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) and electric & water only. Many sites offer 50-amp electrical service, and a significant number are long enough to accommodate RVs 45 feet or longer, with space for slide-outs.
• Tent Sites: 5 dedicated tent sites provide a more traditional camping experience.
• Cabins: A variety of cabins are available, including one and two-bedroom mountain log cabins, many with fully equipped kitchens (pots, pans, dishes, silverware), private bathrooms, and provided linens and towels. There are 6 cabins with cooking facilities and 6 classic travel trailers/mini-mobile homes set up on-site, also fully equipped.
• Private Fishing Lakes: Direct access to two private, stocked mountain lakes for guest-only fishing. No state fishing license is required for these lakes, a significant convenience.
• Lodge Amenities: A central lodge serves as a hub, featuring a recreation room with pool tables, a selection of movies, a fireplace, a general store for essentials, and laundry facilities.
• Restrooms and Hot Showers: Clean and well-maintained hot showers and restrooms are available for all guests.
• Free WiFi: A high-speed internet hotspot is available in the lodge and its immediate surrounding area.
• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets are welcome to stay free in both cabins and campground sites (some limitations may apply, so it's best to confirm).
• Group Facilities: Indoor and outdoor group meeting areas, central areas for open campfires (when no local fire bans are active), and central picnic areas with BBQ grills are available for groups, reunions, and even weddings.
• Firewood: Firewood can be purchased at the office.

The features and highlights of Castle Lakes Campground make it a standout destination in the Lake City area, offering a rich array of activities and natural attractions.

• Direct Alpine Loop Access: Guests can ride their ATV/4WD directly from their site or cabin onto the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway, eliminating the need to trailer vehicles. This is a massive draw for off-roading enthusiasts.
• Outstanding Fishing: With two private stocked lakes on-site (no license required) and close proximity to Lake San Cristobal and the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, fishing opportunities are abundant and excellent.
• Stunning Stargazing: As noted by visitors, the location "in the middle of the forest where the stars shine bright at night" offers incredible opportunities for stargazing, far from urban light pollution.
• Abundant Wildlife: The surrounding Rio Grande National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, providing opportunities for viewing deer, elk, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
• Cozy Cabin Accommodations: The availability of fully equipped cabins provides a comfortable and convenient option for those who prefer more amenities than traditional camping.
• Recreational Variety: Beyond off-roading and fishing, the area is perfect for hiking, biking, and general relaxation amidst breathtaking scenery. Nearby attractions include waterfalls (45 minutes drive to trailhead), historic districts, museums, and ghost towns within a 20-30 minute drive.
• Attentive Management: The consistently praised "outstanding" service from Monica and Ben ensures a pleasant and well-managed stay for all guests.
• Relaxing Environment: The overall atmosphere is quiet and well-maintained, creating a serene setting for a peaceful mountain getaway.

For reservations or further inquiries about Castle Lakes Campground, you can contact them directly. Given their popularity, especially during peak season, making reservations in advance is highly recommended.

Address: 8201 HC Road #30, Lake City, CO 81235, USA

Phone: (970) 944-2622

Mobile Phone: +1 970-944-2622

It's always a good idea to call or check their website (if available) for the most current information on rates, availability, specific amenity details, and any local fire restrictions before planning your trip.

Castle Lakes Campground is an exceptional choice for locals in Colorado who are passionate about exploring our state's majestic mountains and enjoying premier outdoor recreation. For Coloradans, who often seek a blend of adventure and comfort, this campground delivers on all fronts. Its unique offering of private fishing lakes (no license needed!) directly on-site, coupled with immediate access to the legendary Alpine Loop for off-roading and exploring, sets it apart. The consistently praised cleanliness, excellent facilities (including hot showers and reliable WiFi in the lodge), and the outstanding hospitality of the hosts create a truly welcoming and stress-free environment. Whether you're planning a family camping trip, a romantic cabin getaway, or an adventurous basecamp for high-country exploration, Castle Lakes provides an unparalleled experience. It perfectly embodies the spirit of a Colorado mountain retreat, offering incredible stargazing, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities to connect with the natural beauty that makes our state so beloved, right here in our own backyard.

Castle Lakes Campground

8201 HC Road #30, Lake City, CO 81235, USA