West Lake Campground

As Colorado locals, we know that the perfect outdoor escape often involves pristine lakes, towering trees, and a sense of tranquility that only our mountains can provide. Finding a campground that combines these elements with convenience and excellent facilities can elevate a good trip to a truly unforgettable one. West Lake Campground, nestled beside its namesake lake in the charming area of Red Feather Lakes, stands out as a prime example of such a destination. It offers a classic Colorado camping experience with a focus on natural beauty and essential amenities, making it a beloved spot for both seasoned campers and those new to the joys of the outdoors.

West Lake Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to the peaceful and picturesque Roosevelt National Forest. With its clean environment, friendly camp hosts, and direct access to the clear waters of West Lake, it provides an ideal setting for relaxation, recreation, and reconnecting with nature. This article will guide you through the details of West Lake Campground, covering its location, the services it offers, its standout features, and why it's perfectly suited for your next Colorado outdoor adventure.

West Lake Campground is located at 21374 Red Feather Lakes Rd, Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, USA. This places it approximately 48 miles northwest of Fort Collins, within the scenic Red Feather Lakes area of the Roosevelt National Forest. The drive to the campground is a beautiful journey through Colorado's diverse landscapes, transitioning from plains to the forested mountain foothills. As you approach, you'll be greeted by the serene environment that defines this beloved region.

Accessibility to West Lake Campground is generally good, with paved roads leading directly to the entrance. It's situated conveniently close to the village of Red Feather Lakes, meaning that while you'll feel immersed in nature, you're not completely cut off from necessary supplies or limited dining options. This balance of seclusion and convenience is highly valued by campers. The campground's layout and sites can accommodate a range of vehicles, from tents to large RVs (up to 80 feet in some spots), thanks to features like pull-through sites. Visitors should be aware that West Lake Campground is a popular spot, especially during peak seasons. While there may be some first-come, first-served spots, making reservations well in advance is highly recommended to secure your desired site, as spontaneous arrivals can sometimes lead to disappointment if the campground is full.

The campground's direct adjacency to West Lake is a significant draw, offering spectacular views and immediate access to water-based activities. The surrounding ponderosa pine forest, though affected in some areas by beetle infestation and subsequent tree removal, still provides ample shade and a true mountain ambiance, contributing to the overall appeal and accessibility of this beautiful location.

• Campsites: Offers 36 campsites, including 31 with electrical hookups (30/50 amp) and 5 designated walk-to tent-only sites without electricity.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Every site features a fire ring with a grill, suitable for campfires and cooking.
• Bear Lockers: Bear-proof food storage lockers are provided at each campsite, crucial for safety in this wildlife-rich area.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available throughout the campground.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available (typically through late September).
• Trash Collection: Facilities for trash disposal are provided, promoting a clean camping environment.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are on-site, ensuring cleanliness and assisting campers.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host.
• Cell Service: Unlike some more remote campgrounds, West Lake Campground generally has good cell service, which can be a convenience for many.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground allows pets, making it a great option for those traveling with their furry companions (leash rules apply).
• Reservations: Campsites are primarily reservable in advance through Recreation.gov, with some potentially being available on a first-come, first-served basis, though reservations are highly recommended.

• Spectacular Lake Views: Many campsites offer direct views or a short walk to the beautiful West Lake, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop.
• Cleanliness: Consistently praised by visitors for its exceptional cleanliness, particularly the restrooms, which are often described as "immaculate."
• Friendly Camp Hosts: Reviews frequently highlight the friendly, helpful, and diligent nature of the camp hosts who contribute significantly to the positive camping experience.
• Electric Hookups: A major advantage for RV and trailer campers, with 31 sites offering 30/50 amp electrical hookups.
• Walk-to Tent Sites: Five dedicated walk-to sites offer a more secluded tent camping experience.
• Water Activities on West Lake: The 25-acre, no-wake West Lake is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and fishing (anglers can find rainbow and lake trout).
• Hiking Opportunities: A 1.5-mile West Lake Trail circles the campground, and the 4-mile Mount Margaret Trail is also accessible. Numerous other hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails are in the surrounding area.
• Proximity to Red Feather Lakes Village: Close to the small village, which offers limited dining options, gift shops, general stores, a library, and a post office for convenience.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for wildlife sightings, including deer, various bird species, and occasional moose.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites are generally well-spaced, offering a good sense of privacy between campers.
• Level Sites: Many sites are noted as being level, simplifying setup for RVs and trailers.

Address: 21374 Red Feather Lakes Rd, Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, USA

Phone: (970) 295-6600 (This number typically connects to the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests & Pawnee National Grassland Supervisor's Office, which can provide general information or direct you to the Canyon Lakes Ranger District, which manages the Red Feather Lakes area and West Lake Campground).

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the national reservation system: Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

For Colorado locals, West Lake Campground offers a compelling blend of accessibility, convenience, and genuine Rocky Mountain beauty. We cherish our natural landscapes, and this campground provides an ideal setting to immerse ourselves in them without venturing too far from home. The stunning lake views, often directly from your campsite, create an immediate sense of peace and connection to the environment that is so characteristic of our state.

The excellent upkeep of the campground, notably the consistently clean restrooms and tidy sites, is a significant draw for local campers who appreciate well-maintained public spaces. The presence of friendly and attentive camp hosts further enhances the experience, providing assistance and ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone. The availability of electric hookups for RVs and dedicated walk-to tent sites caters to a wide range of camping preferences, making it versatile for various family and group needs.

Beyond the campsite itself, the direct access to West Lake for fishing, paddle-boarding, and canoeing, coupled with an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, means there's never a shortage of activities. This allows Colorado residents to fully embrace the active outdoor lifestyle we value. While the occasional issue with noise from other campers can occur, the overall consensus points to a generally peaceful and well-managed environment. For a beautiful, clean, and amenity-rich lakeside camping experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Colorado's outdoors, West Lake Campground remains a highly recommended choice for locals seeking a memorable escape.

West Lake Campground

21374 Red Feather Lakes Rd, Red Feather Lakes, CO 80545, USA