Lake Fork Campground

Hello, Colorado outdoor enthusiasts! If you're seeking a true mountain getaway, a place where the air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the tranquility is profound, then Lake Fork Campground near Antonito is a destination you absolutely need to explore. Tucked away in the stunning Rio Grande National Forest, this campground offers an authentic high-elevation camping experience that epitomizes the wild beauty of our beloved state. For those of us who call Colorado home, finding a serene spot that truly feels like an escape from the everyday hustle is a treasure, and Lake Fork Campground delivers just that, promising an immersive natural adventure.

Lake Fork Campground is not your typical RV park with all the bells and whistles. Instead, it embraces a more rustic, primitive style of camping, perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency in the wilderness. Situated at an elevation of approximately 9,500 feet, it offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks and provides ample opportunities for alpine wildlife spotting. The campground is nestled among a mix of aspen and conifer trees, with some sites even overlooking the fast-moving, "Gold Medal" Conejos River – a dream come true for trout fishing enthusiasts. This is a place where you can truly disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, making it an ideal choice for Coloradans looking for a genuine outdoor adventure. While it requires a bit of an adventurous spirit to get there, the rewards of its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere are well worth the journey.

Lake Fork Campground is located near Antonito, CO 81120, USA, deep within the Rio Grande National Forest. To reach this serene high-country retreat from Antonito, you'll need to embark on a scenic journey. The typical route involves traveling west on Highway 17 for approximately 24 miles until you reach the junction of Highways 17 and 250. From there, you'll turn onto Highway 250 and travel an additional 18 miles on a gravel or dirt road to reach the campground.

It's important for locals to note that the final 15 to 18 miles of dirt road require careful navigation and can be a significant part of the adventure. While the road is generally manageable, its unpaved nature means it can be rough in spots, especially after inclement weather. However, for Coloradans accustomed to mountain drives, this should be a familiar and enjoyable part of the journey to a secluded destination. The high elevation of 9,500 feet means that visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures, even in summer, and be aware of potential altitude effects. The remote location is precisely what gives Lake Fork Campground its unique charm, providing a true getaway from urban noise and light pollution. Its setting alongside the Conejos River further enhances its accessibility for fishing and water-based recreation, making the scenic drive a worthwhile prelude to an unforgettable outdoor experience.

• Campsites: Approximately 18-19 individual campsites available.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that despite some older information, current conditions indicate there is no potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own drinking water.
• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are provided for convenience. Visitors should bring their own toilet paper as it is not consistently stocked.
• No Campground Host: There is typically no on-site campground host, requiring campers to be self-sufficient and follow Leave No Trace principles.
• No Trash Removal: Campers are required to pack out all their trash, maintaining the pristine environment.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are available at most sites for campfires.
• No Electric Hookups: This is a primitive campground with no electrical hookups at individual sites.
• Gravel Parking Spurs: All parking spurs are gravel.

• High Elevation Beauty: Situated at 9,500 feet, offering breathtaking mountain views and unique alpine scenery.
• Gold Medal Trout Fishing: Located adjacent to the Conejos River, a designated "Gold Medal River" known for its exceptional rainbow and brown trout fishing opportunities.
• Secluded and Quiet: Offers a true escape from city life, praised for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, especially appealing for those seeking solitude.
• Abundant Wildlife: Opportunities for spotting alpine wildlife, including black bears, deer, and marmots, as well as a variety of bird species.
• Proximity to Trails: Conveniently located near several popular hiking trails, such as Lake Fork to Big Lake and Conejos Peak to Blue Lake, offering diverse trekking experiences.
• Wildflower Displays: In season, wildflowers dot the landscape, creating colorful and picturesque scenes perfect for photography.
• Aspen and Conifer Forests: Campsites are shaded by beautiful aspen and mixed conifer trees, providing a classic Colorado forest camping experience.
• River Views: Some campsites offer direct views overlooking the Conejos River.
• Primitive Camping Experience: Ideal for those who enjoy a more rustic, off-the-grid camping adventure with essential amenities.
• Reservable Sites: Campsites can be reserved through Recreation.gov, allowing for planning, though some may be first-come, first-served.

Address: Antonito, CO 81120, USA (This address serves as a general locator for the area; the campground is accessed via a remote forest road.)

Phone: For inquiries regarding Rio Grande National Forest campgrounds, you can contact the Conejos Peak Ranger District Office.

Conejos Peak Ranger District Phone: (719) 274-8971

Rio Grande National Forest Supervisor's Office Phone: (719) 852-5941

For us Coloradans, Lake Fork Campground truly embodies the essence of a quintessential high-country escape, making it perfectly suitable for locals seeking an authentic and immersive outdoor experience. Its prime location within the Rio Grande National Forest, nestled at a lofty 9,500 feet, means we have direct access to the breathtaking mountain scenery and alpine environment that defines our state. This isn't a crowded resort; it's a peaceful sanctuary where the natural beauty of Colorado takes center stage, offering a much-needed respite from the demands of urban life.

One of the most compelling reasons for locals to visit is the unparalleled access to the Conejos River, a "Gold Medal" trout stream. For fishing enthusiasts, this means a consistent opportunity to reel in trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout right from the banks near their campsite – a truly unique and rewarding experience that many of us cherish. Beyond fishing, the surrounding area is a hiker's paradise, with numerous trails inviting exploration into the pristine wilderness. The chance to spot diverse alpine wildlife, from deer to marmots and various bird species, adds another layer of wonder to any visit.

While Lake Fork Campground is primitive, requiring visitors to bring their own water and pack out their trash, this very aspect is often a draw for Coloradans who value self-sufficiency and responsible outdoor ethics. The clean vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings provide just enough comfort without detracting from the rugged charm. The journey along 18 miles of dirt road might deter some, but for us, it's a clear signal that a truly secluded and rewarding experience awaits at the end of the path. Lake Fork Campground is an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect, embrace the simplicity of nature, and fully immerse themselves in the stunning, tranquil beauty that makes Colorado our cherished home. It's an escape that rejuvenates the spirit and reinforces our connection to the magnificent Rocky Mountains.

Lake Fork Campground

Antonito, CO 81120, USA