LA VISTA CAMPGROUND - LAKE ISABEL (recgovnpsdata)

Are you a Colorado local yearning for a refreshing escape into nature? Look no further than La Vista Campground at Lake Isabel, a true gem nestled in the stunning Wet Mountains. This highly-regarded campground offers a quintessential Colorado outdoor experience, blending rustic charm with essential amenities, making it a perfect destination for families, adventurers, and anyone seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking scenery.

La Vista Campground is situated within the expansive Pike and San Isabel National Forests, offering a serene meadow setting that overlooks the picturesque west side of the 40-acre Lake Isabel. This area is celebrated for its natural beauty and is part of both the Frontier Pathways and Historic Byway, as well as one of the designated Colorado Birding Trails. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Lake Isabel itself was developed purely for recreation, attracting a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby St. Charles Creek also adds to the allure, providing additional opportunities for fishing and exploration. With its elevation of approximately 8,400 to 8,600 feet, La Vista Campground provides a welcome respite from the summer heat of the plains below, offering cool, invigorating days and crisp, starlit nights.

Recent visitors have consistently praised the campground's overall quality and appeal. Many appreciate the spaciousness of the sites, noting that they "are not necessarily on top of each other," allowing for a sense of privacy and natural immersion. Customers have highlighted the "very nice" nature of sites, with some specifically mentioning "sites 1 and 2, which were very nice." The proximity to the lake is a major draw, with reports of "nice hike to the lake" and the ability to "walk around most of the lake." While wildlife encounters are a possibility, as noted by one camper who had "a couple bears come in on the site down from us," adhering to bear-aware guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all. The commitment to cleanliness is also frequently mentioned, with campers commending the "super clean bathrooms" and the efforts of camp hosts in keeping the facilities "very clean" and well-maintained.

Whether you're an experienced camper or looking to try something new, La Vista Campground provides an accessible and well-equipped base for your Colorado adventures.

Location and Accessibility

La Vista Campground is conveniently located near Cañon City, Colorado, within the San Carlos Ranger District of the Pike and San Isabel National Forests. Its address is 3028 E Main St, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA. For those traveling from Pueblo, the campground is easily reachable by taking Interstate 25 south to Exit 74, then heading west on State Highway 165 for about 16 to 18 miles. You'll turn into the main entrance at Lake Isabel Recreation Area, then take a right into the first campground on your right, approximately 1 to 1.25 miles in. The drive itself is part of the experience, transitioning from the open plains to lush forests of ponderosa pine, blue spruce, and aspen as you gain elevation into the scenic Wet Mountains.

It is important to note that while the campground is accessible by vehicle, some tent sites are designated as "walk-to" sites, with parking spurs located about 15 to 50 yards from the actual campsites. This design enhances the natural feel of these specific sites. Roadways within the campground are paved, contributing to ease of navigation. Cell service is generally not available in this area, offering a true opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

Services Offered

• 29 single-family campsites, including both tent-only and RV-accessible sites.
• 17 campsites equipped with electric hookups (sites 11-27), with two first-come, first-serve sites (#17 and #24) also offering electric hookups.
• Picnic tables and fire rings with grates at each campsite.
• Accessible vault toilets throughout the campground, regularly cleaned and stocked.
• Potable drinking water available from faucets.
• Trash collection services.
• Firewood available for sale from the camp host.
• On-site camp hosts to assist visitors and maintain the campground.
• Self-service fee tube available for on-site payments (cash, check, or money order).
• Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777 (at least 4 days in advance).
• Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Pets are allowed but must be on a leash at all times.
• Maximum of 8 persons per site, 2 tents and 2 vehicles, or 1 recreational vehicle.

Features / Highlights

• Situated in a scenic meadow overlooking Lake Isabel, offering beautiful views.
• Part of the Lake Isabel Recreation Area, specifically developed for outdoor recreation.
• Proximity to St. Charles Creek, providing additional fishing opportunities.
• Direct access to hiking trails, including a pleasant trail around the lake and connections to longer routes like Snow Slide Trail and Cisneros Trail (some of which are open to ATVs and motorcycles).
• Opportunities for non-motorized boating, canoeing, and kayaking on Lake Isabel.
• Excellent fishing for stocked brown and brook trout in Lake Isabel and St. Charles Creek.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including a variety of forest creatures (be bear aware and store attractants properly).
• Located along the Frontier Pathways and Historic Byway and a Colorado Birding Trail.
• Cool summer temperatures at 8,400-8,600 feet elevation, providing a relief from the heat of the plains.
• Nearby lodge offering paddle and rowboat rentals, groceries, and a restaurant (availability may vary).
• Shady pine and aspen trees throughout the campground providing natural cover.

Contact Information

Address: 3028 E Main St, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA

Phone: (719) 269-8500 (For non-real-time campground information. For reservations, call 1-877-444-6777 or visit Recreation.gov)

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

La Vista Campground at Lake Isabel truly stands out as an ideal destination for Colorado locals seeking an authentic and accessible outdoor experience. Its prime location within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests offers a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel. For those living in and around Cañon City, Pueblo, and other front range communities, it's a relatively short drive to an entirely different world of mountain tranquility.

The campground’s diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests. If you’re an angler, the well-stocked Lake Isabel and nearby St. Charles Creek promise rewarding fishing experiences. Hikers and nature lovers will appreciate the network of trails, from leisurely strolls around the lake to more challenging routes through the Wet Mountains. Families will find the amenities, including clean vault toilets and available drinking water, make for a comfortable stay, while the spacious sites ensure a pleasant camping environment. The opportunity for non-motorized boating allows for serene exploration of Lake Isabel's calm waters. While cell service is limited, this very feature is a benefit for those truly looking to unplug and reconnect with nature and loved ones, free from digital distractions.

Moreover, the presence of dedicated camp hosts and consistent positive feedback on cleanliness and maintenance underscore a commitment to visitor satisfaction. This means you can arrive with confidence, knowing the facilities will be well-cared for. From the vibrant fall colors of the aspen groves to the refreshing cool mountain air, La Vista Campground provides a year-round (seasonal operation from mid-May to mid-September) retreat that embodies the very essence of Colorado's natural beauty. For a memorable weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, La Vista Campground at Lake Isabel offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery right in our own backyard.

LA VISTA CAMPGROUND - LAKE ISABEL (recgovnpsdata)

3028 E Main St, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA