The Meadow Group Campground

Hey, Colorado adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts! Are you planning a family reunion, a large gathering with friends, or an epic group trip into our magnificent mountains? If you’re looking for a spacious, scenic, and activity-rich destination that can accommodate everyone, then The Meadow Group Campground in the Colorado Springs area is precisely what you need. Nestled in a beautiful alpine meadow, this campground offers an authentic Colorado experience with incredible access to some of our state's most beloved outdoor pursuits. For local users, finding a spot that comfortably fits a large group while providing a true wilderness feel can be a challenge, but The Meadow Group Campground rises to the occasion. Let's explore what makes this high-altitude haven the perfect basecamp for your next big Rocky Mountain adventure.

The Meadow Group Campground, often referred to as Meadows Group Campground, is a dedicated group camping facility located in the stunning Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, approximately 45 miles south of Denver and accessible from the Colorado Springs vicinity. Situated at a comfortable elevation of 7,400 feet within the Pike National Forest, it offers a refreshing alpine environment. What truly sets this campground apart is its capacity: it features two large group campsites, each capable of accommodating up to 150 people and 25 vehicles. This makes it an unparalleled choice for family reunions, scout troop outings, corporate retreats, or any significant gathering where ample space is a priority. While primarily designed for tent camping, RVs can park in designated parking areas, allowing for flexibility in accommodation. The campground embraces a more rustic, "no frills" camping experience, focusing on immersion in nature rather than extensive amenities. However, essential facilities like drinking water and vault toilets are provided, ensuring a comfortable stay. It serves as a fantastic launching point for exploring the extensive 40-mile trail system popular with mountain bikers, hikers, and horseback riders, and offers access to renowned fishing spots. It's a place where the fresh mountain air, towering pines, and vast skies invite group bonding and unforgettable outdoor memories.

The Meadow Group Campground is specifically located within the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, near the town of Buffalo Creek, Colorado, though its services are often sought by those in the Colorado Springs region due to its placement within the Pike National Forest. The address provided, Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA, points to the general district encompassing the campground, which is roughly 67 miles south of Pikes Peak. To reach the campground from Denver, you would typically take Highway 285 southwest to Pine Junction, then turn south on Jefferson County 126 and travel approximately 15 miles to Buffalo Creek. From there, turn right on Forest Road 550 and drive about 5 miles to the campground. This journey brings you deep into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, offering increasingly scenic views as you approach. The roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, but as with any mountain area, it’s advisable to check current conditions, especially during the spring and fall when weather can be variable. The elevation of 7,400 feet means cooler temperatures than the plains, providing a refreshing escape during warmer months. While cell service is typically not available in the immediate campground area, this encourages a true digital detox and fosters a deeper connection with the natural surroundings.

• Two Large Group Campsites: Each site can accommodate up to 150 people and 25 vehicles, providing ample space for large gatherings.
• Tent Camping Focus: Primarily designed for tent camping, but RVs can be parked in designated parking areas.
• Drinking Water: Potable water is available via communal hydrants, though bringing extra drinking water is recommended.
• Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are provided for convenience.
• Picnic Tables: Accessible picnic tables are available at campsites for group dining and activities.
• Fire Rings / Fire Pits: Centralized fire pits are provided for campfires and cooking (check for current fire restrictions).
• BBQ Grills: Grills are often available at sites for cooking.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash disposal facilities are provided (though packing out what you pack in is always encouraged).
• Nearby Firewood Vendor: Firewood may be available for purchase at nearby Buffalo Campground (a half-mile east on Forest Road 550).
• Pets Allowed: Friendly, well-behaved pets are welcome, typically on leash.
• No Cell Service: Be prepared for a digital detox as cell service is generally unavailable.

• Exceptional Group Capacity: The most significant highlight is its ability to host up to 150 people per site, making it one of Colorado's premier destinations for large group outdoor events, from family reunions to organized youth camps.
• Direct Trail Access: Located within the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, the campground offers immediate access to a renowned 40-mile trail system, highly popular for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Several trailheads are within walking distance, including access to the Colorado Trail.
• Beautiful Alpine Meadow Setting: Situated at 7,400 feet in a picturesque alpine meadow, the campground provides stunning natural beauty with mild temperatures during peak season, surrounded by the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.
• Trout Fishing Opportunities: Buffalo Creek is a popular area for brook trout fishing, offering a relaxing and rewarding activity for anglers.
• Stargazing: Far from urban light pollution, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, providing breathtaking views of the night sky.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest and meadow are home to diverse wildlife, offering chances for campers to observe native birds and mammals in their natural habitat.
• Rustic Wilderness Experience: For groups seeking to truly immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of modern amenities (like cell service or electrical hookups), this campground provides an authentic and invigorating wilderness escape.
• Proximity to Attractions: While remote enough for a true outdoor feel, it's conveniently located about 45 miles south of Denver and offers access to attractions like Wellington Lake and various mountain peaks.

• Address: Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA (This refers to the general area within Pike National Forest. The actual physical location is near Buffalo Creek, CO.)
• Managing Agency: Pike National Forest, South Platte Ranger District
• South Platte Ranger District Phone: (303) 275-5610 (For general campground inquiries and information)
• Reservations: Reservations for The Meadow Group Campground are typically made through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to reserve well in advance, especially for large groups and during peak season (late spring to early fall).
• Recreation.gov Website: www.recreation.gov (Search for "Meadows Group Campground")

For Coloradans, The Meadow Group Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an invaluable resource perfectly suited for gathering large groups and embracing the authentic Rocky Mountain experience. Its standout feature – the ability to host up to 150 people per site – directly addresses a common challenge for locals: finding spacious and accommodating venues for significant family reunions, organizational retreats, or group celebrations that truly immerse everyone in nature.

The campground’s location at 7,400 feet within the Pike National Forest near Buffalo Creek provides a quintessential Colorado setting. This means easy access to the activities that Coloradans cherish: world-class mountain biking on the Buffalo Creek trail system (including direct access to the Colorado Trail), exhilarating hiking, and serene trout fishing. For active local groups, this abundance of recreational opportunities right at their doorstep is an undeniable draw. Furthermore, the deliberate lack of cell service encourages a much-needed digital detox, allowing everyone to truly connect with each other and their natural surroundings, fostering deeper bonds and memorable experiences. While it’s a rustic campground with vault toilets and no electrical hookups, this only enhances its appeal for locals who appreciate genuine wilderness camping and are prepared for self-sufficiency. The ability to escape the city for mild alpine temperatures, enjoy spectacular stargazing, and create lasting memories with a large community of friends or family, all within a convenient drive from Colorado Springs and Denver, makes The Meadow Group Campground an absolutely ideal and highly sought-after destination for Coloradans looking to celebrate and explore together in our stunning backyard.

The Meadow Group Campground

Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA