Cove Campground

For Colorado locals seeking a truly peaceful and intimate camping experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty, Cove Campground in Eleven Mile Canyon stands out as a hidden gem. Unlike larger, more bustling campgrounds, Cove offers a serene riverside escape, providing a perfect balance of rustic charm and essential amenities. It's a favored spot for those who cherish quiet mornings by the water, the thrill of world-class fishing, and the simple joy of being deeply immersed in Colorado's stunning landscape, all within a manageable distance from Front Range communities.

Cove Campground has earned a special place in the hearts of its visitors, with one reviewer proclaiming it their "favorite campsite in Eleven Mile Canyon," specifically noting its prime location "Right on the river and not too many sites close to it." This feedback underscores its unique appeal for those desiring a more secluded atmosphere. Another highly positive review highlights its suitability for anglers, stating, "This is my and my son's favorite place to fish in Colorado." This strong endorsement for fishing, combined with its intimate setting, makes Cove Campground an ideal choice for Colorado residents looking to create lasting outdoor memories, whether they are experienced campers or simply seeking a tranquil retreat into nature.

Cove Campground is located approximately 7 miles southwest of Lake George, Colorado, at an address generally associated with Lake George, CO 80827, USA. More specifically, it resides within the picturesque Eleven Mile Canyon, a stunning granite-lined gorge carved by the South Platte River, part of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests. Its elevation is approximately 9,900 feet, offering a refreshing mountain climate.

For Colorado locals, accessing Cove Campground is straightforward, yet it feels wonderfully removed from urban hustle. From the town of Lake George (situated on US Highway 24), visitors turn onto County Road 96, which leads directly into Eleven Mile Canyon. The campground is located approximately four to eight miles into the canyon on the right side of the road. While the road into the canyon is generally well-maintained, it is a narrow, dirt road that was once an old railroad bed, so taking it slow is recommended. This controlled access helps maintain the canyon's pristine nature and the campground's serene atmosphere. Its relative proximity to major Front Range cities like Colorado Springs, Denver, and Pueblo makes it a viable option for weekend getaways, offering a true mountain escape without an excessively long drive, making it perfectly accessible for a wide range of Colorado residents.

Cove Campground, while small and focused on a rustic experience, provides essential services to ensure a comfortable stay, particularly for tent campers and smaller RVs.

• Designated Campsites: The campground features four reservable campsites. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill grate, providing basic necessities for outdoor living and cooking.
• Parking Spurs: Campsites offer parking spurs that can accommodate up to two vehicles or one RV with a maximum length of 16 feet, making it suitable for smaller recreational vehicles.
• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are available on-site for camper convenience, maintaining basic sanitation standards.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available via a hand pump, ensuring campers have access to fresh water for their needs (though no water hook-ups are provided directly at sites).
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available, although campers are always encouraged to minimize waste and practice "pack it in, pack it out" principles.
• Reservations Recommended: While some sites might be available first-come, first-served, reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy summer months, and can be made through recreation.gov.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and supervised at all times.

Cove Campground offers several distinct features and highlights that contribute to its popularity and make it a cherished spot for Colorado locals.

• Riverside Location: Its prime position "Right on the river" (the South Platte River) is a major draw, offering soothing sounds of flowing water, easy access for fishing, and picturesque views.
• Exceptional Fishing: Eleven Mile Canyon is renowned for its world-class fly fishing, particularly for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Cove Campground provides immediate access to these gold-medal waters, making it a favorite among anglers, as highlighted by customer reviews.
• Secluded and Intimate: With only four campsites, Cove is significantly smaller than many other campgrounds, ensuring a more private and less crowded camping experience. This is ideal for those seeking tranquility and a closer connection with nature.
• Rock Climbing Access: The polished gray granite cliffs of Eleven Mile Canyon are a popular destination for rock climbers, and Cove Campground offers convenient access to various climbing routes in the area.
• Scenic Beauty: The canyon itself is a stunning natural wonder, characterized by its towering granite walls, lush vegetation, and the winding South Platte River. The campground is surrounded by this dramatic and beautiful landscape, providing ample opportunities for nature photography and appreciation.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The Pike National Forest environment supports diverse wildlife, including various bird species (like Golden and Bald Eagles at certain times), deer, and other forest inhabitants, offering chances for observation.
• Hiking and Nature Trails: While the primary draw is the river, the surrounding Eleven Mile Canyon area offers various informal trails and opportunities for short walks and exploration amidst the scenic beauty.
• Proximity to Eleven Mile Reservoir: Although located in the canyon below the dam, Cove Campground is one of the closest campgrounds to the vast Eleven Mile Reservoir, allowing easy access for those interested in boating or exploring the larger lake.

For those interested in experiencing the tranquility and natural beauty of Cove Campground, here is the essential contact information for inquiries and reservations:

Address: Lake George, CO 80827, USA (located specifically within Eleven Mile Canyon)

Phone: (719) 748-3619

Mobile Phone: +1 719-748-3619

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the national reservation system:

Website for Reservations: recreation.gov (search for "Cove Campground, PSICC"). Reservations can typically be made up to 180 days in advance.

For more detailed information regarding the campground, current conditions, fire restrictions, or any questions about the Pike-San Isabel National Forests, you can also contact the South Park Ranger District:

South Park Ranger District Phone: 719-836-2031

Always check for current fire bans and road conditions before your trip, especially given the mountain environment.

Cove Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in the Colorado region, particularly those who appreciate a more intimate, riverside camping experience. For Colorado residents, its appeal lies in its unique blend of accessibility and seclusion. It offers a genuine escape into the stunning Eleven Mile Canyon without requiring an arduous journey, making it perfect for quick weekend trips or longer, peaceful retreats from city life.

The core attraction for locals is undoubtedly the world-class fishing on the South Platte River right at its doorstep. For anglers, having "my and my son's favorite place to fish" within easy reach is a tremendous asset. Beyond fishing, the small number of sites ensures a quiet and friendly atmosphere, where neighbors aren't on top of each other, fostering that coveted sense of peace and connection with nature. This intimate setting makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers seeking solace by the river.

Furthermore, by choosing Cove Campground, Colorado residents are supporting the continued maintenance and enjoyment of our beautiful national forests. Its blend of essential amenities with a distinctly natural setting provides a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience. For anyone in Colorado seeking a memorable camping trip defined by scenic beauty, excellent fishing, and a tranquil riverside ambiance, Cove Campground is a highly recommended and truly suitable local treasure.

Cove Campground

Lake George, CO 80827, USA