South Meadows Campground

Introduction / Overview

Nestled within the serene beauty of Pike National Forest near Woodland Park, Colorado, South Meadows Campground stands out as an exceptional destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. This welcoming campground offers a quintessential Colorado camping experience, combining natural beauty with well-maintained facilities and a friendly atmosphere. Guests consistently praise its spacious and private campsites, a rare and highly valued feature that allows campers to truly relax and feel immersed in nature, even when surrounded by fellow adventurers. Unlike some bustling resorts, South Meadows maintains a quiet and serene ambiance, making it ideal for those who prioritize tranquility and a genuine connection with the outdoors. It's a place where children can safely explore, ride bikes on paved roads, and make new friends, while adults can unwind by the campfire, enjoy the sounds of the forest, and simply bask in the fresh mountain air. From the lush, grassy sites to the towering trees that provide a mix of sun and shade, every aspect of South Meadows Campground is designed to foster a comfortable and memorable outdoor adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the joys of sleeping under the stars, this Woodland Park gem offers a highly recommended and consistently positive experience for all.

Location and Accessibility

South Meadows Campground is conveniently located in Woodland Park, CO 80863, USA, within the Pike-San Isabel National Forest. Its address, just off Highway 67, places it perfectly for easy access from various parts of Colorado, especially for residents of the Front Range. From Colorado Springs, the drive is approximately 25 miles northwest, a relatively quick and scenic journey that transports you directly into the heart of the mountains. Woodland Park, often referred to as "The City Above the Clouds," offers a charming small-town feel while providing essential amenities and services just a short 6-minute drive from the campground. This proximity to town is a significant advantage, allowing campers to easily restock supplies, grab a quick bite, or explore local attractions without feeling entirely cut off from conveniences. Furthermore, the campground's setting is enhanced by its close proximity to Manitou Lake, which is just a 3-minute drive away, offering additional recreational opportunities. The paved roads within the campground make it accessible for a variety of vehicles, including RVs and trailers, and provide excellent surfaces for biking and walking. This blend of natural seclusion with practical accessibility makes South Meadows Campground a highly desirable and convenient choice for Coloradans looking for an authentic mountain getaway that's still within reach.

Services Offered

• Campsites for Tents, Trailers, and RVs: Offers 64 single-family campsites that can accommodate various camping setups, from traditional tents to trailers and RVs (with sites able to handle lengths up to 84 feet).
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Individual fire rings with grills are provided at each site, allowing for campfires and cooking (subject to fire restrictions).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground, with consistent praise from visitors for their cleanliness.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is accessible at various points within the campground.
• Bear-Proof Containers: Provided at campsites for safe food storage and waste disposal, ensuring compliance with forest regulations and wildlife safety.
• Firewood Available Onsite: Firewood can be purchased directly at the camp house for convenience.
• Campground Host: A dedicated campground host is present, providing assistance, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring a pleasant experience for campers.
• Trash Collection: Designated areas for trash collection are provided to help keep the campground clean.
• Paved Roads: Internal roads within the campground are paved, ideal for biking, scooter riding, and easy navigation.
• Cell Service (Limited): While some providers may have no service, it's a known characteristic of the area, promoting a true "unplugged" experience.

Features / Highlights

• Spacious and Private Sites: A key highlight, campsites are generously spread out, offering a significant degree of privacy and a peaceful atmosphere that is often hard to find in other campgrounds.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Consistently lauded by visitors as an excellent choice for families, with paved roads for kids to bike and scooter, and a safe environment for outdoor play and making friends.
• Cleanliness: Reviews frequently commend the cleanliness of the campsites, vault toilets, and the overall campground, thanks in part to dedicated hosts.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Surrounded by lush trees (including ponderosa pine), offering a mix of sun and shade, creating an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable environment.
• Proximity to Manitou Lake: Just a 3-minute drive away, Manitou Lake provides additional opportunities for fishing, bird watching, canoeing, and picnicking.
• Adjacent to Centennial Trail: The campground is next to the Centennial Trail, a paved multi-use trail connecting Manitou Lake to Woodland Park, perfect for hiking, biking, and inline skating.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting in Pike National Forest offers opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Convenient to Woodland Park: Only about a 6-minute drive to town, providing easy access to groceries, restaurants, and other supplies while maintaining a sense of being "away from it all."
• Consistent Positive Experiences: Many campers are repeat visitors, having camped here for years, testifying to the consistently great experiences offered.
• Well-Managed: The presence of attentive and helpful camp hosts ensures the campground remains well-maintained and that campers have a positive experience.

Contact Information

Address: Woodland Park, CO 80863, USA

Phone: (719) 636-1602

Mobile Phone: +1 719-636-1602

For reservations, current availability, or any specific inquiries regarding South Meadows Campground, Coloradans are encouraged to call the provided phone numbers. As part of the Pike-San Isabel National Forest, reservations can often be made through the Recreation.gov website or by contacting the Pikes Peak Ranger District office, as the provided number might be for information only and not direct reservations. It is always wise to confirm current conditions, fire restrictions, and operating hours before planning your visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Coloradans seeking an accessible, serene, and genuinely family-friendly outdoor escape, South Meadows Campground in Woodland Park is an ideal choice. Its prime location within Pike National Forest means a relatively short and scenic drive from major Front Range cities, allowing for convenient weekend getaways without extensive travel time. This accessibility is a significant benefit for local families eager to immerse themselves in nature. What truly makes South Meadows stand out for Colorado residents is its commitment to providing a comfortable and engaging experience. The spacious, private, and grassy campsites offer a rare sense of seclusion, allowing families to enjoy their own space while still being part of a welcoming community. The paved roads are a huge hit with children, providing a safe environment for biking and scootering, fostering active outdoor play. The consistently clean vault toilets and the presence of dedicated camp hosts ensure a hassle-free and pleasant stay, removing common camping discomforts. Furthermore, the campground's proximity to Manitou Lake for fishing and canoeing, and direct access to the paved Centennial Trail for hiking and biking, offers abundant recreational opportunities right at their doorstep. For Coloradans, South Meadows Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a reliable, peaceful, and amenity-rich haven where lasting family memories are made amidst the stunning natural beauty of their home state, providing that essential refreshing break from daily life.

South Meadows Campground

Woodland Park, CO 80863, USA