Mount Princeton campground

Greetings, fellow Colorado adventurers! Are you seeking a truly immersive mountain camping experience, where pristine nature meets thoughtful amenities? Look no further than Mount Princeton Campground. While its official address is listed as "RANGER DISTRICT, SALIDA, Nathrop, CO 81236, USA," this fantastic campground is beautifully situated in the renowned Chalk Creek Canyon, placing you right in the heart of Colorado's breathtaking Collegiate Peaks region. For us locals, Mount Princeton Campground represents an ideal blend of rugged natural beauty and well-maintained facilities, making it a perfect escape from the everyday hustle.

Mount Princeton Campground is not just a place to set up camp; it's a destination where the soothing sounds of Chalk Creek, the majestic views of 14,000-foot peaks, and the warm hospitality of dedicated hosts create an unforgettable experience. As confirmed by numerous satisfied campers, this site is consistently praised for its immaculate conditions, friendly staff, and the sheer beauty of its surroundings. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, enjoying a cup of coffee by a crackling campfire, and knowing that world-class hiking, fishing, and even a natural hot springs resort are just moments away.

Our aim with this comprehensive guide is to provide you with all the essential details about Mount Princeton Campground, tailored from a local Colorado perspective. We'll explore its precise location and how to easily access it, outline the services and facilities available, highlight its unique features and nearby attractions, and provide crucial contact information. By the end, you'll understand why so many Coloradoans consider Mount Princeton Campground a cherished spot and why you, too, will want to return time and time again.

Mount Princeton Campground is nestled in the picturesque Chalk Creek Canyon, approximately 8.5 miles west of U.S. Highway 285 on County Road 162. While the address provided is Nathrop, CO 81236, its location is more accurately described as being near the popular towns of Buena Vista and Salida, placing it firmly within the Collegiate Peaks region of central Colorado. This area is famous for its stunning fourteeners (peaks over 14,000 feet) and diverse outdoor recreation.

Accessibility to Mount Princeton Campground is generally excellent. From Buena Vista, you would travel south on U.S. Highway 285 for about 7 miles, then turn right onto County Road 162. You'll then travel west, passing the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, for about 8.5 miles until you reach the campground. County Road 162 is a paved road, making the approach easy for all types of vehicles, including RVs. The campground itself has gravel parking spurs, which are well-maintained for convenient parking and maneuvering.

Situated at an elevation of approximately 8,600 feet, the campground offers a genuine high-alpine experience. While it's relatively easy to access, visitors should be prepared for mountain weather, which can change rapidly. Cell service can be unreliable in the canyon (as noted by a review mentioning "NO service at all on T-mobile"), so it's wise to download maps or information in advance. However, some tech-savvy campers have found perfect service with Starlink, suggesting that modern solutions can bridge connectivity gaps. The proximity to Salida and Buena Vista means essential supplies, dining, and other services are just a short drive away, blending remote natural beauty with practical convenience.

Mount Princeton Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offers a focused set of services designed to provide a comfortable yet authentic camping experience in a beautiful natural setting. The emphasis is on cleanliness and essential amenities, as consistently highlighted by visitor reviews.

• Campsites: The campground features 19 single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides wheelchair-accessible vault toilets. These are remarkably well-maintained and clean, a recurring point of praise from campers. As one review stated, "The bathrooms were always immaculate and the host was so friendly," and "The vault toilets were the cleanest we've ever seen."
• Potable Water: Potable water is available on-site, typically via a hand pump, ensuring campers have access to fresh drinking water.
• Firewood Sales: For convenience, firewood bundles are sold directly at the host site. Reviews indicate a price of $10 per bundle.
• Camp Host: A friendly and attentive camp host is present on-site (Site #2 is used by the host from mid-May to Labor Day weekend), providing assistance, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring a pleasant experience for all campers. Their dedication is often highlighted in reviews.
• Trash Services: Designated areas for trash disposal are provided to help maintain the cleanliness of the campground and surrounding environment.
• Site Reservations: While some sites (1, 14-17, and site 2 after Labor Day) are available on a "walk-up," first-come, first-served basis, most sites are reservable, which is highly recommended due to the campground's popularity, especially on weekends. Reservations can typically be made through Recreation.gov.
• Fee: The camping fee is $25 per night (as noted in reviews), payable by cash or check only.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times, ensuring safety and respect for other campers and wildlife.
• Maximum Occupancy: Each site typically allows a maximum of eight people, two tents, and two vehicles or one RV (maximum 45 feet).

These services collectively contribute to a well-managed and enjoyable camping experience, emphasizing cleanliness and the presence of basic necessities.

Mount Princeton Campground stands out for its exceptional natural features and the wealth of recreational opportunities in its immediate vicinity. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a "Fantastic campground" and a highly desirable destination for Colorado locals.

• Chalk Creek Canyon Setting: The campground is nestled within the beautiful Chalk Creek Canyon, which gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite walls. This unique geological feature creates a visually stunning backdrop.
• Proximity to Chalk Creek: Chalk Creek runs through or adjacent to the campground, offering the soothing sound of rushing water, as noted by visitors. It's also an excellent spot for stream fishing, particularly above Cascade Falls.
• Nearby Hot Springs: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is located just about 4 miles away (on County Road 162), providing an ideal opportunity for a relaxing soak after a day of outdoor activities. This proximity makes the campground a perfect base for combining rustic camping with a rejuvenating hot springs experience.
• Access to High Peaks (14ers): The campground offers incredible views of Mount Princeton (a prominent 14,197-foot peak) and other Collegiate Peaks. The area boasts fifteen 14,000 ft. mountains, providing endless challenges for hikers and mountaineers.
• Fishing Opportunities: Besides Chalk Creek, nearby Chalk Lake (about a mile west) is known as a great family fishing lake, stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout.
• Historic Ghost Town of St. Elmo: Just a 15-minute drive from the campground via County Road 162, the well-preserved ghost town of St. Elmo offers a fascinating glimpse into Colorado's mining history with its old saloon, courthouse, and other historic structures.
• ATV/UTV and 4x4 Trails: The surrounding area provides extensive opportunities for off-road enthusiasts, with trails leading to destinations like Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, and Pomeroy Lakes.
• Proximity to Buena Vista and Salida: These vibrant mountain towns are a short drive away, offering unique restaurants, shops, art galleries, and additional recreational opportunities, including over 100 miles of Arkansas River for rafting, fishing, and kayaking.
• Changing Weather: While a challenge, the "changing weather at a moment's notice" adds to the authentic mountain experience, reminding visitors of the wild beauty of Colorado.

These highlights collectively ensure a diverse and exciting outdoor adventure for every visitor to Mount Princeton Campground.

For reservations, current conditions, or specific inquiries about Mount Princeton Campground, the most reliable contacts are through the U.S. Forest Service, which manages the site, and the national reservation system.

Address: The provided address is RANGER DISTRICT, SALIDA,, Nathrop, CO 81236, USA.

This refers to the Salida Ranger District office, which oversees this area of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests.

Salida Ranger District Office:

Address: 325 Rainbow Blvd, Salida, CO 81201 (Note: Some sources list 5575 Cleora Road, Salida, CO 81201 for the physical office. It's always best to verify before visiting).

Phone: (719) 539-3591

Mobile Phone: +1 719-539-3591 (This number is for the Salida Ranger District).

For Reservations:

The majority of sites at Mount Princeton Campground are reservable through Recreation.gov. This is the highly recommended method, especially during peak season, as the campground is popular and can fill up quickly.

Website: www.recreation.gov (Search for "Mount Princeton Campground")

Reservation Phone: 1-877-444-6777

When calling the Ranger District, inquire about current fire restrictions, road conditions (especially in shoulder seasons), and any other alerts that might impact your stay. Remember that campsite fees ($25/night) are typically cash or check only, payable on-site.

For Colorado locals, Mount Princeton Campground is more than just a place to sleep under the stars; it's a quintessential mountain experience that perfectly encapsulates the adventurous spirit and natural beauty of our state. Its suitability for residents lies in its remarkable blend of accessibility, pristine environment, and diverse recreational opportunities right in our backyard.

Firstly, the campground's location in Chalk Creek Canyon, just off a well-maintained county road and close to Buena Vista and Salida, makes it incredibly convenient for a weekend getaway. We know how valuable time is, and being able to access such a high-quality natural retreat without a lengthy, challenging drive is a significant advantage. This allows for more time to immerse ourselves in the activities we love, rather than just getting there.

Secondly, the consistently "immaculate" bathrooms and the presence of a "friendly, attentive host" like Randy speak volumes about the care put into this campground. For those of us who appreciate clean facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, Mount Princeton Campground delivers. The availability of firewood on-site further adds to the ease of an authentic campfire experience. The $25 per night fee, payable by cash or check, offers a reasonable price point for such a prime location and well-maintained site.

Beyond the excellent facilities, the natural highlights are truly what make this spot shine for locals. The soothing sounds of Chalk Creek, the stunning views of Mount Princeton and the Collegiate Peaks, and the proximity to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo offer a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you're an avid angler seeking trout in Chalk Creek or Chalk Lake, a hiker tackling nearby trails, or simply someone who enjoys relaxing by a campfire with majestic views, this campground caters to every preference. The added bonus of a nearby hot springs resort provides a unique opportunity for post-adventure relaxation. Mount Princeton Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a hub for experiencing the best of Colorado's outdoor lifestyle, making it a highly recommended destination for any local seeking adventure, tranquility, and lasting memories in our beautiful state.

Mount Princeton campground

RANGER DISTRICT,SALIDA,, Nathrop, CO 81236, USA