Gobbler Grove Campground: Your Scenic Base in Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Gobbler Grove Campground Introduce

For Colorado locals seeking a superb blend of natural beauty and convenient access to city amenities, Gobbler Grove Campground within Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers an outstanding camping experience. This is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a strategically positioned haven that provides breathtaking views of both the majestic Cheyenne Mountain and the glittering lights of Colorado Springs below. As part of a newer and well-maintained state park, Gobbler Grove promises modern facilities amidst a backdrop of rolling hills and forested areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for both seasoned campers and families alike.

Gobbler Grove is one of several camping loops within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, known for its slightly more intimate feel due to fewer sites compared to other loops. Despite its tranquility, it doesn't skimp on convenience, offering full hookups at most sites. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the campground provides a comfortable and scenic base for exploring the diverse landscapes and attractions of the Colorado Front Range. From exhilarating hikes to serene wildlife viewing, Gobbler Grove serves as an excellent starting point for all your Colorado adventures, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while keeping urban comforts within reach.

Gobbler Grove Campground is located within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, with the address being Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA. The park itself is situated directly south of Colorado Springs, nestled at the base of the iconic Cheyenne Mountain. This prime location offers a unique juxtaposition of wilderness and urban proximity.

To reach the park and Gobbler Grove from central Colorado Springs, you typically take Highway 115 South. From I-25, you can use exit #135 (South Academy Blvd), head west past Pikes Peak Community College, and continue west to Highway 115. Turn left (south) onto Highway 115, then turn right at the first stoplight, JL Ranch Heights Road (which is also the light for Fort Carson Gate 1). The park entrance is to the west; simply follow the road into the park and look for signs directing you to the campgrounds, including Gobbler Grove.

While the road up to the campground within the park can be steep (approximately 8-9% grade for about a mile and a half), it is well-maintained, though caution is advised, especially when descending. The park's accessibility means it's only about 5 minutes to a major grocery store (like Safeway), providing convenience for restocking supplies. This strategic location allows locals to enjoy a mountain retreat without a lengthy, challenging drive, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips or longer vacations for residents throughout Colorado. The easy access to Colorado Springs ensures that campers can enjoy both the peace of nature and the amenities of the city with minimal travel time.

Services Offered:

Full Hookup RV Sites: Most sites offer water, electrical (20, 30, and 50 amp), and sewer hookups for maximum convenience.
Tent Pads: Designated, flat tent pads (typically 12'x12') at each site, allowing for comfortable tent setup.
Picnic Tables: Each site includes a picnic table for outdoor dining.
Fire Pits/Grill Rings: Provided at every campsite for campfires and outdoor cooking (check for current fire bans). Firewood is available for sale at the Visitor Center or from camp hosts.
Modern Restrooms: Flush toilets and sinks are available in well-maintained facilities within the campground loops.
Coin-Operated Showers: Hot showers are available at the camper services building ($1 for 4 minutes).
Laundry Room: Coin-operated laundry machines are available in the camper services building.
Visitor Center: Offers interpretive displays, a gift shop, and often sells items like s'mores supplies, ice, and ice cream.
WiFi: Available in certain areas of the park, and cell/mobile data service is generally strong due to proximity to the city.
Potable Water: Available at individual sites with hookups and additional water hydrants for visitor use.
Trash Disposal: Designated areas for waste.
Year-Round Camping: The park is open all year, with some facilities potentially having limited service during colder months.
Reservations Recommended: Especially during peak seasons, it's advisable to reserve campsites through the Colorado State Parks reservation system (CPWshop.com or 800-244-5613).

Features / Highlights:

Stunning Views: Offers beautiful views of the eastern plains, the city lights of Colorado Springs at night, and the majestic Cheyenne Mountain itself.
Extensive Trail System: Over 28 miles of hiking and biking trails within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, catering to various skill levels, from prairie grasslands to mountainous evergreens.
Abundant Wildlife: Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, including deer, rabbits, prairie dogs, and various bird species.
Proximity to Major Attractions: Just minutes away from popular Colorado Springs destinations like Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Garden of the Gods, and NORAD/United States Space Command (Cheyenne Mountain complex).
Well-Maintained Park: Consistently praised as a newer, well-cared-for state park with clean facilities.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Gobbler Grove is often noted for being the smallest of the three main loops, offering a more intimate and private feel.
Level Concrete Pads: Many sites feature concrete pads, ensuring a stable and level setup for RVs and tents.
Friendly Rangers and Volunteers: Park staff are helpful and communicative, enhancing the visitor experience.
Disc Golf Course: A fun and somewhat challenging disc golf course is located next to the campground.
Amphitheater: An outdoor amphitheater (off Raptor Glen loop) for educational programs and events.
Playgrounds: Available within the park, near campgrounds, for children.
Hearing Military Sounds: Due to proximity to Fort Carson and NORAD, campers may hear military reveille in the morning and occasional distant booms.
Weather Preparedness: Colorado weather can be unpredictable; campers should be prepared for various conditions including wind (especially in fall/spring).

Contact Information:

Address: Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA (within Cheyenne Mountain State Park)

Phone: (719) 576-2016 (Cheyenne Mountain State Park Office)

For Colorado locals, Gobbler Grove Campground within Cheyenne Mountain State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice for a camping adventure that beautifully balances nature's allure with urban convenience. The primary reason it resonates with residents is its unique location, offering both serene mountain and plain views, alongside the captivating city lights of Colorado Springs at night. This provides a diverse visual experience that few other campgrounds can match, truly allowing locals to appreciate the multifaceted beauty of their state.

The park's extensive network of over 28 miles of hiking and biking trails is another significant draw. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, these trails offer abundant opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and encounter local wildlife, all within a short distance from your campsite. This accessibility to quality outdoor recreation, coupled with the modern amenities like full hookups, clean restrooms, and showers, ensures a comfortable and enriching experience for all types of campers. The convenience of a nearby city means easy access to supplies, dining, and attractions without feeling entirely disconnected from civilization.

Furthermore, Gobbler Grove’s relatively smaller size compared to other loops within the park contributes to a more intimate and peaceful camping environment, a highly valued attribute for those seeking a tranquil escape from busy life. The year-round availability of the park means that locals can enjoy its beauty across all seasons, from summer hikes to winter snowshoeing. While there may be some ambient military sounds due to the proximity of Fort Carson, many locals find this a minor trade-off for the unparalleled views, robust amenities, and the sheer convenience of having such a well-maintained and feature-rich state park campground right on their doorstep. Gobbler Grove offers a genuinely local Colorado experience that combines adventure, comfort, and breathtaking scenery.