North Fork Campground

Introduction / Overview

For adventurous Colorado locals seeking a truly wild and rewarding camping experience, North Fork Campground near Salida, Colorado, presents an exhilarating opportunity. This high-elevation retreat, perched at approximately 11,000 feet on the north shore of the North Fork Reservoir, is not for the faint of heart or low-slung vehicles. The journey to get there is an adventure in itself, but the reward is an unparalleled immersion in the majestic Colorado high country, complete with phenomenal fishing, breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, and a sense of secluded tranquility.

North Fork Campground is a small, first-come, first-served site, perfect for those who prioritize raw natural beauty and a genuine escape from the crowds. It's a destination that calls to the rugged spirit of Colorado residents, offering a chance to truly disconnect and appreciate the state's wild landscapes. While the road demands a capable vehicle, the experience of reaching this hidden gem and enjoying its pristine surroundings makes the effort well worth it for any local seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

North Fork Campground is uniquely situated at a high elevation (approximately 11,000 feet) near Salida, CO 81201, USA, on the northern shore of the North Fork Reservoir. This puts it deep within the Pike-San Isabel National Forest, offering stunning vistas of the Continental Divide.

However, accessibility is a critical factor for this campground. The road from Angel of Shavano Campground to North Fork Reservoir (County Road 240, approximately 6.6 miles) is notoriously difficult. It is described as "ATROCIOUS," with "basketball and five-gallon bucket size rocks" and "steep check-dams." Therefore, a high-clearance vehicle is an absolute requirement, and vehicles towing trailers are not recommended. While some experienced drivers with capable 4x4 vehicles might navigate it with ease, it is not a road to "chance it" for standard passenger cars. The journey from Highway 50, turning onto CR 240 and staying on it for 3 miles to Angel of Shavano Campground, then continuing for another 6 miles to North Fork Reservoir, can take upwards of two hours for this short distance due to the challenging terrain.

It's also crucial to note that fees for North Fork Campground are paid at Angel of Shavano Campground, as there are no signs at North Fork Reservoir to indicate this. This advance planning for payment is essential.

Services Offered

• Pit Toilets: The campground provides basic pit toilets for sanitation. While simple and "nothing special," they offer a necessary amenity in this remote setting.
• No Potable Water: There is no potable water available at North Fork Campground. Campers must bring all the water they will need for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes. This requires advanced planning and preparedness.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: North Fork Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservations, meaning visitors must physically arrive at the campground to claim an available site. This adds an element of spontaneity but also requires flexibility.
• Limited Number of Sites: The campground is small, with only 4-5 spots available, or up to 9 sites according to some sources. This limited capacity contributes to its secluded feel but also means securing a spot can be challenging during peak times, even if reserved sites are not occupied.
• Self-Service Fee Tube: Fees for camping ($20 per night, with discounts for Senior/Access passes) are payable on-site using a self-service fee tube. Payment can be made via cash, check, or money order. It's important to pay at Angel of Shavano Campground before continuing to North Fork, as stated in a review, or be prepared for the self-service option upon arrival.
• Designated Site Capacity: Each site can accommodate a maximum of 8 persons, 2 tents, and 2 vehicles, or 1 recreation vehicle. An additional fee ($10) applies for a third vehicle.
• Dispersed Camping Nearby: For those unable to secure a designated site or preferring a more primitive experience, there are "plenty of dispersed camp sites nearby." This offers flexibility for campers, though rules for dispersed camping should always be followed.

Features / Highlights

• Phenomenal Fishing: The North Fork Reservoir is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for rainbow trout. The reservoir is regularly stocked, making it a reliable destination for anglers. Billings Lake, also nearby, offers additional great fishing.
• Amazing Views of the Continental Divide: The high-elevation location provides "AMAZING" views of the Continental Divide and the surrounding mountain landscape. This stunning scenery is a major draw and makes the challenging journey worthwhile.
• Secluded and Remote: Due to the difficult access road and limited number of sites, North Fork Campground offers a truly secluded and remote camping experience. It's an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a deep immersion in nature, away from crowds.
• High-Elevation Coolness: At 11,000 feet, the temperatures are significantly cooler than at lower elevations, providing a welcome relief from summer heat and comfortable conditions for outdoor activities, though campers should be prepared for cold nights.
• "Hidden" Waterfalls: The area boasts "hidden" waterfalls, adding an element of exploration and discovery to your visit. While they may require some searching, finding them adds to the adventure.
• Proximity to Billings Lake: Just a 10-minute walk from the campground, Billings Lake offers another gorgeous high-alpine location with an abundance of fish, providing more exploration and fishing opportunities.
• Challenging Access Road: While a hurdle, the "atrocious" road is also a highlight for off-road enthusiasts. It offers an adventurous drive for those with capable high-clearance vehicles (like a Ford Bronco Sport or similar 4x4s), making the journey itself part of the outdoor experience.
• Access to Mines (for exploration): The mention of "mines near Billings Lake" suggests potential opportunities for historical exploration, adding another layer of interest for adventurous visitors.

Contact Information

Address: Salida, CO 81201, USA

Phone: (719) 539-3591 (Salida Ranger District)

Mobile Phone: +1 719-539-3591 (Salida Ranger District)

It is advisable to contact the Salida Ranger District directly for the most up-to-date information on road conditions, campground status, and any fire restrictions.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For adventurous Colorado locals, North Fork Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an exhilarating expedition into the heart of the state's most rugged and rewarding landscapes. Its remote, high-elevation setting, combined with the challenging access road, means that this destination naturally filters for those truly seeking an authentic wilderness experience, free from the crowds that can sometimes affect more accessible sites.

Locals who own or have access to high-clearance, 4x4 vehicles will find the "atrocious" road not a deterrent, but an exciting part of the adventure, leading them to a truly secluded paradise. The phenomenal fishing in North Fork Reservoir and nearby Billings Lake offers endless opportunities for anglers to enjoy the bounty of Colorado's alpine waters. Furthermore, the outstanding views of the Continental Divide provide a constant reminder of the majestic beauty that makes our state so unique.

While the campground's primitive nature (pit toilets, no potable water) demands self-sufficiency, this aligns perfectly with the spirit of true Colorado outdoorsmanship. The availability of dispersed camping nearby also offers flexibility for those who prefer even more solitude. North Fork Campground is an ideal destination for Colorado residents eager to push their boundaries, discover hidden waterfalls, explore historical mining areas, and truly immerse themselves in the wild, untamed splendor of the Rocky Mountains. It's a place to create unforgettable memories, earning the spectacular views and unparalleled tranquility with every mile of the challenging, yet rewarding, journey.

North Fork Campground

Salida, CO 81201, USA