Fourmile Campground

Introduction / Overview

For us Coloradans, the allure of the high country is undeniable. We seek out places where the air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the stars shine brighter than anywhere else. Fourmile Campground, nestled at an impressive elevation of 10,760 feet in the Pike National Forest near Fairplay, embodies this very spirit. This isn't your average bustling resort campground; it's a tranquil, secluded haven designed for those who truly appreciate the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains. With just 14 campsites, Fourmile offers an intimate and peaceful escape, providing a base camp for everything from challenging 14er climbs to serene strolls through ancient limber groves. Known for its quiet atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, it's a favorite among locals looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. Whether you're planning to conquer Mount Sherman, explore breathtaking trails, or simply unwind by a crackling campfire under a blanket of stars, Fourmile Campground promises an authentic and unforgettable Colorado camping experience. It’s a place where the sounds of the wilderness prevail, and the grandeur of the mountains becomes your immediate backdrop.

Location and Accessibility

Fourmile Campground is strategically located at Co Rd 18, Fairplay, CO 80440, USA. Its address places it approximately 9 miles west of the historic town of Fairplay, a key hub in Park County, Colorado. For Coloradans, the campground’s accessibility, while leading to a remote feel, is quite straightforward. To reach this mountain retreat from Fairplay, you simply take Highway 285 South for about one mile, then turn right onto County Road 18. Following County Road 18 for approximately seven miles will lead you directly to the campground, which will be on your left. It’s worth noting that while CR 18 leads to a beautiful destination, reviews suggest it can be a "bouncy" or "rough" road, implying that travelers should take it slow, especially with trailers or RVs, which are limited to 22 feet in length. Despite this, the journey itself is part of the adventure, winding through scenic landscapes. The high elevation of 10,760 feet contributes to cooler temperatures, even in summer, offering a refreshing escape. Its proximity to Fairplay means that if you need to resupply or grab a meal, the town is within a reasonable driving distance, providing a convenient balance between wilderness immersion and access to amenities. This location makes Fourmile an excellent choice for a true high-country getaway without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Services Offered

Fourmile Campground provides essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, yet rustic, high-altitude camping experience. It focuses on fundamental amenities that support self-sufficient campers, ensuring a connection with nature without excessive frills. Key services available include:

• Campsites for Tents, Trailers, and Small RVs: The campground offers 14 individual campsites suitable for various camping setups. It's important to note that RVs and trailers are limited to a maximum length of 22 feet due to site size and road conditions.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Fourmile Campground operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors must physically arrive at the campground to secure a site. While Recreation.gov mentions a "Scan and Pay" QR code option via their app, bringing cash for payment ($17-$20 per night, check current signage) is highly recommended.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and regularly maintained vault toilets (outhouses) are available for all campers, a feature often praised in reviews for their cleanliness.
• Potable Water Pump: A hand water pump provides access to potable drinking water, a crucial amenity in this remote setting. (Note: Water is typically shut off in early October for the season.)
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grates: Every site includes a fire ring with a cooking grate, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires (when fire restrictions are not in place) and prepare meals over an open flame. Reviews commend their cleanliness upon arrival.
• Trash Disposal: A central dumpster is available for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep their sites clean and practice responsible waste management. (Note: Trash pickup occurs around 6:30 AM on Thursdays, which can be noisy if your site is close to the dumpster.)
• Cell Service (Limited): While generally considered to have no cell service, some campers have reported intermittent 1-bar Verizon service, which can be a pleasant surprise for emergency communication.
• On-Site Camp Host: During the operating season (typically early May to early October), a camp host is often present. While experiences can vary, camp hosts generally assist with site questions and may sell firewood.
• No Hookups: It’s crucial to understand that Fourmile Campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs, emphasizing a more traditional, off-grid camping experience.

Features / Highlights

Fourmile Campground offers a collection of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Coloradans seeking an authentic mountain escape, combining natural beauty with access to adventure:

• High-Altitude Setting: Located at 10,760 feet, the campground provides a true high-elevation experience, complete with cooler temperatures, stunning vistas, and the unique flora of the subalpine zone.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, Fourmile is largely described as a very quiet and out-of-the-way campground, offering significant distance between sites and promoting a serene environment for relaxation and stargazing.
• Abundant Shade and Wooded Sites: Most sites are very wooded, providing ample shade and a sense of privacy, creating a pleasant and natural camping ambiance.
• Limber Grove Trailhead Access: A significant highlight is the very short walk to the Limber Grove trailhead, an easy 15-20 minute hike that leads to a grove of ancient, twisted limber pines, a unique and highly recommended natural attraction.
• Base Camp for 14ers: Fourmile Campground serves as an excellent base camp for tackling nearby 14,000-foot peaks, notably Mount Sherman. Its elevation helps with acclimatization, making it ideal for peak baggers.
• Off-Road Vehicle Friendly Access: While ATVs are not permitted on the immediate camp road, the main road (County Road 18) allows plated off-road vehicles, providing access to extensive trail systems in the Fourmile Travel Management Area for motorized recreation enthusiasts.
• Beautiful Surroundings: The campground is nestled in a gorgeous area with tall trees, offering beautiful fall foliage and a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and photography.
• Fishing Opportunities: Nearby streams and possibly the Middle Fork of the South Platte River offer opportunities for fishing, appealing to anglers looking for a mountain stream experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural high-alpine environment provides chances to spot various wildlife, including deer, elk, and marmots, contributing to the wilderness immersion.
• Proximity to Fairplay: While offering a remote feel, the short drive to Fairplay ensures access to basic supplies, gas, and a taste of local history in the "Mining Capital of Colorado."
• Clean Facilities: The vault toilets are consistently noted for being very clean, which significantly enhances the overall comfort of a rustic camping experience.

Contact Information

Address: Co Rd 18, Fairplay, CO 80440, USA

Phone: (719) 836-2031

Mobile Phone: +1 719-836-2031

Please note that this phone number is typically for the South Park Ranger District, which manages Fourmile Campground within the Pike-San Isabel National Forests. For the most current information on operating seasons, site availability (as it is primarily first-come, first-served), fees, and any fire restrictions, it is advisable to check the USDA Forest Service website for the Pike-San Isabel National Forests or Recreation.gov. Given the campground's remote location, cell service can be unreliable, so planning ahead is crucial.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Coloradans, Fourmile Campground in Fairplay is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an authentic, high-altitude sanctuary that perfectly encapsulates the essence of our state's wilderness. Its suitability for locals is deeply rooted in its unique combination of serene seclusion, robust recreational access, and true mountain character, all within a reasonable drive from our Front Range communities. The journey up County Road 18, while a bit rugged, leads to a rewardingly quiet and naturally beautiful setting that feels wonderfully removed from the everyday grind, a precious commodity for those of us living in more populated areas.

The campground’s design, with spacious and shaded sites featuring picnic tables and fire rings, caters to a comfortable, self-sufficient camping style that many Coloradans prefer. Crucially, the presence of clean vault toilets and a hand water pump provides essential amenities without diminishing the rustic charm. However, it's the unparalleled access to adventure that truly makes Fourmile a local favorite. Being a direct gateway to the Limber Grove Trail offers a unique, accessible hike to ancient trees, while its strategic position as a base camp for formidable 14ers like Mount Sherman speaks directly to the ambitious spirit of Colorado’s outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, for those who enjoy motorized exploration, the proximity to designated off-road vehicle routes allows for a different kind of mountain adventure, providing diverse recreational options. Despite some potential for noise from these vehicles, the overall atmosphere remains predominantly quiet and peaceful, a testament to the spaciousness of the sites and the vastness of the surrounding national forest. The potential for limited cell service is often seen as a benefit by those seeking a genuine digital detox, fostering a deeper connection with nature and fellow campers.

Fourmile Campground offers an opportunity to truly immerse ourselves in the Colorado high country, providing a tranquil and unpretentious setting that encourages exploration, relaxation, and appreciation for our state's wild landscapes. It's a place where you can escape the heat of summer, embrace the crisp mountain air, and gaze at a sky full of stars, making it an ideal retreat for any Coloradan craving an authentic and unforgettable outdoor experience.

Fourmile Campground

Co Rd 18, Fairplay, CO 80440, USA