St. Charles Campground

For those of us in Colorado seeking a quintessential mountain getaway, St. Charles Campground offers a truly inviting experience. Nestled within the stunning San Isabel National Forest, this campground provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty that our state is so famous for. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, St. Charles Campground provides a welcoming environment to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of St. Charles Creek flowing nearby, surrounded by towering aspen and Douglas fir trees. This quiet, clean campground is a local favorite, known for its serene atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures. It’s a place where families make lasting memories, and individuals find solace in the crisp mountain air. From the moment you arrive, the friendly atmosphere, often highlighted by the helpful presence of the camp host, sets the tone for a fantastic stay. Many visitors rave about the helpfulness and warmth of the camp host, which truly enhances the overall experience.

The elevation at St. Charles Campground is approximately 8,600 feet, offering cooler temperatures during the summer months, a welcome respite from the warmer plains. This higher altitude also provides breathtaking views and a truly immersive mountain experience. If you’re looking to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary, St. Charles Campground is a destination worth considering for your next Colorado adventure.

St. Charles Campground is conveniently located at Co Rd 374, Rye, CO 81069, USA. Situated in the heart of the Wet Mountains, it’s just about a mile west of the picturesque Lake Isabel, a popular recreational area. The drive to the campground offers scenic views, guiding you through the beautiful landscapes that define this part of Colorado.

For those traveling from Pueblo, the campground is easily accessible. You'll head approximately 25 miles south on I-25 to exit 74, then drive west for about 18 miles on State Highway 165. Once you reach the main entrance to Lake Isabel Recreation Area, take the second left onto Forest Road 374 and follow the signs directly to the campground. The roads leading to the campground are paved, ensuring a smooth journey for most vehicles, including those towing small trailers or RVs.

While the campground offers a feeling of seclusion and an opportunity to truly disconnect, it remains within reasonable driving distance of essential services. The nearby town of Rye provides a sense of local charm and access to some conveniences, making it a practical base for your outdoor adventures. Although cell service can be limited or unavailable in this mountainous region, this often contributes to the desired sense of escape and allows visitors to fully embrace the tranquility of their surroundings.

• Campsites designed for tents, small trailers, and RVs, with tent pads provided for tent campers.
• Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and fire pedestal for your convenience.
• Bear-proof food lockers are provided at each campsite to ensure the safety of your food and local wildlife.
• Accessible vault toilets are available within the campground for visitor use.
• Drinking water is supplied via a hand pump, offering potable water for campers.
• Bear-proof trash dumpsters are on-site for responsible waste disposal.
• Firewood is often available for sale directly from the on-site campground host, making it easy to enjoy a cozy campfire.
• The campground operates with a friendly and helpful camp host, often praised by visitors for their willingness to assist and ensure a pleasant stay.
• Reservations for some sites are recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made through Recreation.gov. Some first-come, first-served sites may also be available.

• Proximity to Lake Isabel: St. Charles Campground is just a mile from Lake Isabel, a beautiful recreational area perfect for non-motorized boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: Both Lake Isabel and St. Charles Creek are renowned for excellent trout fishing, with brown and rainbow trout being common catches. Many campsites are located directly on the banks of St. Charles Creek, allowing you to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the water.
• Scenic Mountain Setting: The campground is nestled among a diverse array of trees, including aspens and tall Douglas firs, providing ample shade and a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience. The 8,600-foot elevation ensures a refreshing climate and stunning views of the Wet Mountains.
• Access to Hiking and ATV Trails: Several trails, including the Snowslide Trail and Cisneros Trail, begin in the recreation area, offering opportunities for hiking, and for more adventurous users, motorcycle and challenging ATV routes. A pleasant hiking path also winds along Lake Isabel.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors consistently praise St. Charles Campground for its tranquil environment, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a serene escape. Reviews frequently mention the quiet nature of the campground, perfect for relaxation.
• Well-Maintained Sites: Campers often highlight the cleanliness and well-kept nature of the campsites and facilities, contributing to a comfortable stay.
• Friendly Camp Host: The presence of a dedicated and helpful camp host, like Steve mentioned in reviews, significantly enhances the visitor experience, providing assistance and local insights.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding San Isabel National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation.
• Bear Awareness: The campground actively promotes bear awareness, providing bear-proof lockers and guidance to ensure visitor safety and protect wildlife.

Address: Co Rd 374, Rye, CO 81069, USA

Phone: (719) 269-8500

Mobile Phone: +1 719-269-8500

For Colorado residents, St. Charles Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's an accessible and authentic escape into the heart of our state's natural beauty. Its location in the Wet Mountains, just a stone's throw from Lake Isabel, offers a quintessential Colorado experience without requiring an extensive journey. This makes it an ideal spot for weekend getaways or longer vacations, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the outdoors rather than on the road.

The campground's suitability for both tent campers and those with small RVs or trailers means it accommodates a variety of local outdoor enthusiasts. The amenities, though rustic, provide everything you need for a comfortable stay, from bear-proof storage to potable water and clean vault toilets. The emphasis on disconnecting, with limited cell service, encourages a true break from daily routines, fostering genuine relaxation and connection with nature – a much-needed antidote to our busy lives.

Furthermore, the consistent positive feedback regarding the camp host highlights a commitment to visitor experience that resonates with a local community valuing hospitality and helpfulness. The abundance of recreational activities, from fishing in the creek to hiking scenic trails and enjoying non-motorized water sports on Lake Isabel, ensures there's something for everyone in the family or group. Whether you're seeking peaceful solitude, a fun family adventure, or an invigorating outdoor challenge, St. Charles Campground offers a well-rounded and deeply satisfying Colorado camping experience that truly feels like home.

St. Charles Campground

Co Rd 374, Rye, CO 81069, USA