Chalk Lake

Chalk Lake Campground

Nestled in the breathtaking Chalk Creek Canyon in Chaffee County, Colorado, Chalk Lake Campground offers visitors an extraordinary experience surrounded by stunning natural beauty at an elevation of 9,000 feet. This campground is perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Available Campsites

The campground features a selection of single-family campsites, equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings for a traditional camping experience. Of note:

Standard Nonelectric Sites: 001 to 019 (Typically reservable)
Tent-Only Sites: 007 to 014 (Some are available on a first-come, first-served basis)
Walk-Up Sites: Certain sites (4-9 and 14) operated as first-come, first-served, making them ideal for spontaneous adventurers.

Firewood is available onsite for purchase, ensuring you can enjoy cozy campfires during your stay.

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Chalk Lake Campground is a fantastic base for various outdoor activities:

Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Chalk Lake, where you can catch rainbow, brook, and brown trout. Don’t forget—motorized boats aren’t allowed!
Hiking: Access the incredible Colorado Trail just 2 miles away, offering extensive scenic routes.
Off-Roading: Plenty of off-road vehicle trails abound, including Mount Antero and Tincup Pass, perfect for 4-wheel drive fans.
Local Attractions: Visit the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes away, along with the cities of Salida and Buena Vista, which offer dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

Natural Features

The campground is characterized by beautiful chalk-like canyon walls, a unique geological feature caused by kaolinite deposits. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to observe local fauna such as:

Chipmunks
Mule Deer
Birds of Prey
Hummingbirds

Important Guidelines

When visiting Chalk Lake Campground, it is essential to be bear aware and keep all food securely stored. The campground is in an area where food must be kept out of sight to avoid unwanted wildlife encounters. Additionally, strict firewood regulations help prevent the spread of harmful organisms, and visitors are encouraged to ‘Leave No Trace’ during their camping experience.

Nearby Attractions

A myriad of attractions can enhance your visit:

Hot Springs: Enjoy a soak at a private hot springs resort located just 4 miles from the campground.
Arkansas River: Engage in various river activities such as rafting, fishing, or kayaking along the 100 miles of scenic river nearby.
Historic Sites: Explore old mining towns with rich histories, and perhaps go rock hounding in search of quartz and aquamarine.
14,000 ft Peaks: Venture into the grandeur of Colorado’s famed peaks, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.

Need to Know

Reservations for campsites can typically be made up to 6 months in advance, with some first-come, first-served sites available. Be aware that weekends, particularly Fridays, can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is advisable. For visitors who wish to camp in colder months, precautions should be taken for high-elevation travel and weather conditions.

Chalk Lake Campground embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation amidst breathtaking Colorado landscapes. Whether you’re coming for the fishing, the hiking, or simply to unwind, this campground promises a memorable outdoor experience.