Ward Lake Campground - Grand Valley RD

For Colorado locals yearning for a camping experience that truly immerses them in nature's splendor, Ward Lake Campground on the Grand Mesa offers an unparalleled retreat. Described by visitors as having "beauty here is over the top" and the "scent of pine and the fresh clean air is almost intoxicating," this Grand Valley Ranger District gem provides a captivating escape from the everyday. While it's a "no hookups" campground, the consensus among those who've visited is that the breathtaking surroundings and serene atmosphere are "worth going without."

This article is designed specifically for Colorado residents, offering a detailed look into why Ward Lake Campground is a quintessential choice for your next outdoor adventure. If you appreciate spacious sites, immaculately clean facilities, and the opportunity to disconnect and embrace the tranquility of the mountains, Ward Lake is waiting to welcome you. It’s a destination that perfectly embodies the rugged beauty and peaceful solitude that so many seek in Colorado's high country.

Situated at a high elevation (around 10,200 feet), Ward Lake Campground provides a distinctly refreshing climate, especially during the warmer summer months. This altitude also contributes to the stunning vistas and crisp, clean air that are consistently praised by campers. The campground's design, with ample space between sites, ensures a sense of privacy and seclusion, allowing you to truly unwind amidst the towering spruce and aspen trees.

One of the recurring themes in reviews is the exceptional cleanliness of the facilities. Even without modern hookups, campers are consistently impressed by the "extremely clean bathrooms" and the "good pressure & temperature in the quarter showers." This attention to detail by the campground hosts significantly enhances the overall comfort of a rustic camping experience, making it particularly appealing for families and those who value well-maintained amenities.

The campground’s proximity to Ward Lake itself is a major draw. Many sites offer direct lake views, providing picturesque settings for your tent or camper. The lake is open to non-motorized watercraft, making it perfect for serene canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. And for the anglers, Ward Lake and nearby Arch Slough offer fantastic fishing opportunities, adding another layer of recreational enjoyment to your stay.

Beyond the lake, the surrounding Grand Mesa National Forest beckons with an extensive network of trails. Whether you're a hiker looking for scenic vistas, a mountain biker seeking exhilarating descents, or simply someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll through fragrant pine forests, the area around Ward Lake Campground provides abundant options. This accessibility to diverse outdoor activities ensures that every member of your family or group can find something to enjoy.

Ward Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors physically arrive to secure a site. This method adds a touch of classic spontaneity to your camping trip, encouraging early arrival during peak seasons to secure a coveted lakeside spot. The presence of a delightful camp host further enhances the experience, providing assistance and ensuring the campground remains a pleasant environment for all.

While cell service is generally unavailable at the campground, many consider this a feature, not a bug. It provides a genuine opportunity to disconnect from digital distractions and fully immerse yourself in the natural world. This digital detox, combined with the tranquil surroundings, fosters a sense of peace and rejuvenation that is increasingly valuable in today's fast-paced world.

In summary, Ward Lake Campground on the Grand Mesa offers a genuinely authentic Colorado mountain camping experience. Its combination of stunning natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, spacious sites, and abundant recreational opportunities makes it a highly recommended destination for Colorado locals seeking a memorable outdoor getaway. It’s a place where the fresh mountain air and the scent of pine will indeed be "intoxicating."

Ward Lake Campground is nestled within the Grand Mesa National Forest, near Cedaredge, CO 81413, USA. This prime location places it on the Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-topped mountain, renowned for its hundreds of lakes, diverse wildlife, and stunning alpine scenery. Access to the campground is typically via Colorado State Highway 65, which is part of the Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway. This scenic byway climbs from the rugged canyon floor up to forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet, passing sparkling lakes and wildflower-filled meadows. The campground itself is located a short distance from the highway, often on well-maintained gravel roads suitable for most vehicles, though larger RVs might find some internal roads a bit narrow. While the location offers a remote feel, the town of Cedaredge is relatively close, and a fully-stocked grocery store in "Mossy Rock" (likely referring to a local store or area nearby) is noted to be about a mile away, providing convenient access to supplies.

• Campsites: Approximately 27 individual campsites are available, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs up to 45 feet.
• First-Come, First-Served: All sites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring physical arrival to claim a spot.
• No Hookups: The campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites. It is a "dry camping" experience.
• Potable Water: Potable (drinking) water is available via hand pumps within the campground.
• Vault Toilets: Extremely clean and well-maintained vault toilets are provided throughout the campground.
• Quarter Showers: Some reviews mention "quarter showers" with good pressure and temperature, indicating an unexpected but welcome amenity for a no-hookup site.
• Trash Collection: Ample trash receptacles are available, typically one per 4-6 sites.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Every site includes a fire ring, often with a grill grate for cooking.
• Camp Host: A friendly and helpful camp host is usually on-site to assist campers and maintain facilities.
• Firewood: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host.

• Breathtaking Scenery: Campers are consistently wowed by the "over the top" beauty, including pine forests, fresh air, and lake views.
• Lakeside Sites: Many sites are located directly on the shores of Ward Lake, offering picturesque views and easy lake access.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Ample space between sites provides a sense of privacy and tranquility.
• Family-Friendly: Reviews highlight its suitability for families, with clean facilities and a welcoming environment.
• Water Activities: Ward Lake and nearby Arch Slough are ideal for non-motorized boating (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding) and fishing.
• Extensive Trail Access: Direct access to numerous hiking, mountain biking, OHV, and horseback riding trails within the Grand Mesa National Forest.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• High Elevation: Located at over 10,000 feet, providing cooler temperatures and a true mountain camping atmosphere.
• No Cell Service: Offers a true "unplugged" experience, encouraging disconnection from technology and immersion in nature.
• Cleanliness: Consistently praised for exceptionally clean restrooms and overall campground tidiness.

Address: Cedaredge, CO 81413, USA

Phone: (970) 856-4153 (Grand Valley Ranger District)

Mobile Phone: +1 970-856-4153

Ward Lake Campground, nestled on Colorado's majestic Grand Mesa, is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals seeking an authentic and refreshing outdoor experience. Its "no hookups" nature encourages a return to fundamental camping, emphasizing self-reliance and a deeper connection with nature, which many Colorado residents highly value. Despite the rustic amenities, the campground is consistently praised for its immaculate vault toilets and even "quarter showers," ensuring a comfortable stay that still feels wonderfully disconnected from the urban hustle.

The "over the top" beauty, the intoxicating scent of pine, and the vast expanse of the Grand Mesa provide an unparalleled backdrop for relaxation and recreation. With ample space between sites, you'll find the privacy needed to truly unwind, while the family-friendly atmosphere ensures a welcoming environment for all ages. The direct access to Ward Lake and its non-motorized water activities, combined with the extensive network of hiking, biking, and OHV trails, means there's always an adventure waiting just outside your tent or camper.

For those in Colorado who cherish the crisp mountain air, stunning starry nights, and the chance to truly unplug, Ward Lake Campground offers an ideal retreat. It's a place where the natural beauty is the primary attraction, and the well-maintained facilities enhance, rather than detract from, the wilderness experience. Whether it's a weekend fishing trip, a family hiking adventure, or simply a desire to breathe deeply and reconnect with the spectacular Colorado landscape, Ward Lake Campground promises to be a deeply satisfying escape for locals.

You can see more about the experience at Ward Lake Campground on the (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ba3VA9VG6o).

Ward Lake Campground - Grand Valley RD

Cedaredge, CO 81413, USA