Piñon Campground

For Coloradans seeking an incredible blend of stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, look no further than Piñon Campground, nestled within Lathrop State Park near Walsenburg. This is not just a place to set up camp; it's a vibrant outdoor hub designed to cater to every kind of adventurer, from families with young children to seasoned hikers and water sports enthusiasts. Piñon Campground offers a truly comprehensive camping experience, providing excellent access to trails, breathtaking views, and a diverse range of activities that ensure there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most striking aspects of Piñon Campground is its remarkable versatility. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot for quiet contemplation or a bustling area where kids can run free and make new friends, the campground's thoughtful layout with loops A-D ensures you can find exactly what you need. Imagine waking up to the majestic sight of the Spanish Peaks, casting their grandeur over the landscape, or spending your days on the water, fishing, boating, or even jet skiing on one of the park’s two inviting lakes. This campground truly embodies the spirit of Colorado's outdoor lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for any local looking to make the most of our state's incredible natural resources.

Piñon Campground is conveniently located within Lathrop State Park, just a short drive from Walsenburg, Colorado. The official address is Walsenburg, CO 81089, USA, but for precise navigation, it's within Lathrop State Park, accessible via County Road 502, approximately three miles west of Walsenburg off Highway 160. This location makes it a highly accessible destination for residents across Colorado, including those from Pueblo (around a 49-minute drive), Colorado Springs (approximately 1 hour 28 minutes), and even Denver (about 2 hours 21 minutes). The ease of access from major population centers contributes significantly to its popularity among local users.

Once you arrive at Lathrop State Park, navigating to Piñon Campground is straightforward. The park is well-signed, guiding visitors to its two main campgrounds, Piñon and Yucca. Piñon Campground, with its more developed sites, is a central feature of the park, ensuring you're close to many of the recreational opportunities. Its position offers excellent access to the park's two lakes, Martin Lake and Horseshoe Lake, both of which are central to the park's recreational offerings. The accessibility extends beyond just driving; the campground provides direct access to various trails for hiking and biking, allowing campers to explore the surrounding pinyon-juniper woodlands and grasslands directly from their campsites. This blend of easy vehicular access and on-site recreational pathways makes Piñon Campground a highly convenient and engaging destination for all Colorado adventurers.

Piñon Campground offers an excellent array of services and amenities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of all campers, catering to both RVs and tents. These facilities ensure a well-rounded and accommodating stay within Lathrop State Park.

• Electric hookups (20/30/50 amp) available at most sites, though water and sewer hookups are not directly at every site, water spigots are conveniently located.
• Clean and well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets.
• Hot showers available (coin-operated, so remember to bring quarters).
• Designated RV dump station for convenient waste disposal.
• Spacious campsites, many of which are pull-through, featuring picnic tables and fire rings.
• Bear boxes are generally available at campsites, and their use is mandatory for food storage.
• Playground area for children, offering a safe and engaging space for play.
• Access to potable water hydrants throughout the campground loops.
• Visitor Center within Lathrop State Park offers park information, interpretive displays, and often sells firewood, ice, and permits.
• Pet-friendly policies (leashed pets are generally allowed, but check for specific restrictions).
• Generators permitted during specific hours (usually 9 AM to 9 PM).

Piñon Campground stands out for its impressive array of features and highlights that promise a memorable outdoor experience for every type of Colorado visitor. It’s a destination that genuinely offers "something for everyone."

• Diverse Campsite Layouts: The campground’s loop system (A-D) provides a variety of site configurations, allowing campers to choose between spacious, more isolated spots or areas conducive to group camping with friends, fostering both privacy and community.
• Stunning Views: Many campsites offer spectacular views, particularly of the Spanish Peaks to the west, providing a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
• Abundant Water Activities: With two lakes, Martin Lake and Horseshoe Lake, within Lathrop State Park, campers have access to a wide range of water sports including fishing (stocked with various species), boating (motorized and wakeless options), jet skiing, and a designated swim beach on Martin Lake (open Memorial Day to Labor Day).
• Extensive Trail System: The campground provides excellent access to a network of trails for hiking and bicycling, including the multi-use Cuerno Verde Trail (a 3-mile paved loop around Martin Lake) and the 2-mile Hogback Nature Trail with interpretive points.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a playground and ample open space makes it an excellent choice for families with children, offering plenty of room for kids to run around and play.
• Geocaching Opportunities: For those who enjoy a modern treasure hunt, there are a handful of geocaches hidden around the park, adding an extra layer of fun and exploration.
• Proximity to Golf Course: Lathrop State Park uniquely adjoins a 9-hole municipal golf course, complete with a full restaurant and bar, offering an additional recreational option within easy reach.
• Wildlife and Nature Observation: The pinyon-juniper woodland and mixed-grassland communities attract diverse wildlife, providing opportunities for birdwatching and spotting various mammals.
• Year-Round Accessibility: While services may vary seasonally, Piñon Campground is open year-round, allowing for winter camping for those prepared for colder conditions.

For reservations or any further questions regarding Piñon Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: Walsenburg, CO 81089, USA (within Lathrop State Park)

Phone: (719) 738-2376

Mobile Phone: +1 719-738-2376

Piñon Campground at Lathrop State Park is an outstanding choice for Coloradans looking for a versatile and engaging outdoor experience that truly caters to all interests. Its convenient location near Walsenburg makes it an accessible escape for families, solo adventurers, and groups of friends alike. The incredible range of activities, from water sports on the two lakes to extensive hiking and biking trails, ensures that boredom is simply not an option. With amenities like electric hookups, clean restrooms, hot showers, and a playground, it offers a comfortable yet authentic camping experience. Whether you’re drawn by the majestic views of the Spanish Peaks, the allure of fishing, the thrill of jet skiing, or the simple joy of a campfire under the stars, Piñon Campground provides the perfect setting. It’s a testament to Colorado's diverse natural offerings, making it an ideal local destination to create cherished outdoor memories and fully embrace the Rocky Mountain lifestyle.

Piñon Campground

Walsenburg, CO 81089, USA