The Monastery Campsite

For those of us living in Colorado, the call of the wild is a constant melody. We're always seeking out those special places that offer a true escape, where the journey itself is part of the adventure, and the reward is unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility. If you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast with a love for breathtaking vistas and a willingness to venture off the beaten path, then The Monastery Campsite near Drake, Colorado, might just be your next favorite destination. It's a place that promises "absolutely beautiful" scenery and a genuine sense of solitude.

This article is designed to give you an insightful overview of The Monastery Campsite, from its unique location and the adventure involved in reaching it, to the kind of experience you can expect. We'll highlight what makes this secluded spot so special for Coloradans who appreciate a more rugged and primitive camping experience, offering a true taste of our state's untouched wilderness.

The Monastery Campsite is not your typical drive-up, amenity-rich campground. Instead, it's a raw, authentic Colorado camping experience tailored for those who appreciate rugged beauty and a sense of accomplishment in reaching their destination. Located in the picturesque area near Drake, this site is primarily known for its "Great Views" and a limited number of "8-10 total parking campsites," emphasizing its secluded and less-trafficked nature.

What truly defines The Monastery Campsite is its natural splendor and the journey to get there. As one visitor aptly put it, it's "Absolutely beautiful! Definitely needed 4 wheel drive." This isn't a spot for the faint of heart or those with low-clearance vehicles, but for the adventurous Coloradan, it offers a deeply rewarding experience. It provides a "Magical with no one there" feeling, allowing for an intimate connection with nature and the chance to witness abundant wildlife, including a "moose meandering through." If you're looking to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the unadulterated beauty of the Colorado mountains, The Monastery Campsite promises an unforgettable escape.

The Monastery Campsite is located at 4411 Storm Mountain Dr, Drake, CO 80515, USA. This places it within the rugged and scenic terrain near Drake, a small community nestled in the foothills west of Loveland and east of Estes Park. The campsite is within the Roosevelt National Forest, making it part of a vast network of public lands known for their recreational opportunities.

Accessibility is a key characteristic of The Monastery Campsite, and it's essential to understand its nature. As one reviewer highlighted, it "Definitely needed 4 wheel drive." The primary route to the campsite is via Storm Mountain Drive, which is described as a "bit rough and dirt" and features "Tight switchbacks." Another review mentioned, "The road to get there is a bit rough and dirt, but SOO worth it!!" and "It can get pretty rocky going up there. I went up there in our Jeep Wrangler and the tires spun a couple times, so I put it in 4 wheel drive." This confirms that a high-clearance vehicle, preferably with 4-wheel drive, is strongly recommended or even necessary, especially after inclement weather. The "Good 30 min drive to reach it" from the main road further emphasizes its secluded nature.

For Coloradans, who often seek out less crowded, more authentic outdoor experiences, the challenging access is often seen as a benefit. It helps preserve the "quiet and beautiful" nature of the site by limiting casual traffic. This makes The Monastery Campsite an ideal destination for those equipped and willing to venture into more rugged terrain to find true tranquility and stunning "beauty and splendor."

The Monastery Campsite is a more primitive camping experience, and as such, campers should adjust their expectations regarding services. It is not a developed campground with modern amenities.

• Campsites: The site has a limited number of "about 8-10 total parking campsites." These are likely informal pull-offs or designated spots, suitable for tents or smaller RVs/vans that can navigate the access road. Campers should be prepared for a rustic setup.

• No Facilities: Reviews indicate that there are "No facilities either." This means no developed restrooms (outhouses or flush toilets), no potable water, and no trash disposal services. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient.

• Fire Rings: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, primitive campsites often have informal fire rings. However, campers should always operate under the assumption that they need to bring their own fire pan or leave no trace if no designated fire ring exists, and always check for current fire restrictions in the Roosevelt National Forest before considering a fire.

• Leave No Trace: Due to the lack of services, visitors must strictly adhere to Leave No Trace principles, packing out everything they pack in, including human waste. This ensures the continued pristine condition of the area.

Despite its primitive nature, The Monastery Campsite offers compelling features that make it highly attractive to the right kind of outdoor enthusiast.

• Spectacular Views: The most consistently praised feature is the "Great Views" and the "Absolutely beautiful" scenery. Nestled in the mountains, the campsite offers expansive vistas that capture the "beauty and splendor" of Colorado's rugged landscape.

• Seclusion and Tranquility: With only a handful of campsites and a challenging access road, the site provides an unparalleled sense of "Magical with no one there." It's "very quite and beautiful," perfect for those seeking peace and solitude away from crowded areas.

• Wildlife Viewing: Visitors have reported seeing a "moose meandering through" the area. This indicates a rich habitat for local wildlife, offering incredible opportunities for observation and photography in their natural environment.

• Rugged Adventure: The "long drive on a bumpy dirt Rd" and "Tight switchbacks" that "definitely needed 4 wheel drive" are highlights for adventurers. The challenging access adds to the sense of accomplishment and ensures a more exclusive experience.

• Proximity to Climbing Areas: While not explicitly stated for camping, "The Monastery" is also a well-known rock climbing area. This suggests that the campsite is ideally located for climbers looking to be close to some of Colorado's renowned routes.

• Unspoiled Nature: The lack of extensive development and amenities means the campsite retains a raw, untouched quality, allowing campers to truly connect with the natural environment without distractions.

As The Monastery Campsite appears to be a primitive or dispersed camping area within the Roosevelt National Forest, direct contact information like a dedicated phone number or website for the campsite itself is typically not available. Such sites are usually managed by the local Forest Service district.

Address: 4411 Storm Mountain Dr, Drake, CO 80515, USA

For inquiries about conditions, fire restrictions, or regulations for camping in this area, the best approach is to contact the Canyon Lakes Ranger District of the Roosevelt National Forest. A quick online search for "Canyon Lakes Ranger District phone number" will provide their current contact details. They can offer crucial information on road conditions (especially given the 4WD requirement), any closures, or specific rules that apply to dispersed camping in that part of the National Forest. Remember that primitive sites are typically first-come, first-served and do not require reservations.

For us Coloradans, The Monastery Campsite represents the quintessential rugged mountain escape that truly embodies the spirit of our state. We often seek out experiences that challenge us slightly and reward us with unparalleled natural beauty and profound tranquility, and this campsite delivers on all fronts. Its "absolutely beautiful" views, coupled with the peaceful solitude that comes from its challenging "4 wheel drive" access, make it an ideal retreat from the bustling urban areas of Colorado.

This isn't a place for those looking for glamping or extensive amenities; it's for the seasoned local adventurer who understands and respects the wilderness. The ability to spot a "moose meandering through" the campsite adds an incredible layer of wildlife immersion that is deeply cherished by those of us who live here. The "long drive on a bumpy dirt Rd" is not a deterrent but an invitation to truly disconnect and embrace the journey, knowing that a "very quite and beautiful" reward awaits at the end.

The Monastery Campsite offers a unique opportunity to experience Colorado's untamed beauty in a truly intimate way. It reminds us of the vast, unspoiled wilderness that lies within our reach, encouraging a deeper appreciation for conservation and Leave No Trace principles. For any Coloradan seeking a genuine, adventurous, and profoundly peaceful camping experience, The Monastery Campsite is a destination that showcases the very best of our wild and wonderful home.

The Monastery Campsite

4411 Storm Mountain Dr, Drake, CO 80515, USA