Upper Crossing Guard Station

Upper Crossing Guard Station Campground

Welcome to Upper Crossing Guard Station, a beautiful retreat nestled in the heart of the Rio Grande National Forest in Saguache, Colorado. Here, you’ll experience the captivating beauty of the San Luis Valley while enjoying a comfortable stay at a historic guard station that combines rustic charm with essential modern amenities. Suitable for families and friends alike, this campground offers varied recreational opportunities year-round, making it a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

Accommodation and Amenities

Upper Crossing Guard Station is equipped with the following features:

Capacity: Comfortably accommodates up to nine guests with three bunk beds—twin beds on top and fold-out full beds on the bottom.
Essentials: The cabin is furnished with electricity, heat, and inside running water, ensuring a cozy stay.
Living Space: Enjoy a welcoming living area complete with a table, chairs, couch, and other furniture.
Kitchen Facilities: Kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, stove, cooking utensils, and some pots and pans.
Outdoor Amenities: Features include a picnic table, campfire grill, and horseshoe pit for added fun.

Natural Features

The Guard Station is located at an elevation of 8,400 feet, providing stunning views of the Continental Divide. The scenery is complemented by:

Majestic high mountain peaks
Diverse forest landscapes
Picturesque streams and lakes
Serene working ranches

Guests will appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty surrounding the campground, perfect for catching sight of local wildlife or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Recreational Activities

Upper Crossing Guard Station is ideally positioned for a variety of outdoor activities:

Hiking: Explore the numerous hiking trails that lead to nearby wilderness, suitable for all skill levels.
Fishing: Enjoy excellent fishing opportunities in the creeks nearby, where you can catch rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and brook trout.
Winter Sports: In winter, access the cabin via snowmobiles, snowshoeing, or skiing, and indulge in cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
Horseshoeing: Challenge your friends and family to a game at the on-site horseshoe pit.

Getting There

Accessing the Upper Crossing Guard Station is straightforward, with public access allowed only via specific routes detailed in the ‘Getting There’ section. The brief dirt road leading to the cabin follows an old stagecoach route filled with historic graffiti.

Driving Directions: From Saguache, take Highway 114 west for approximately 22 miles. From Gunnison, remain on Highway 114 until approximately 4 miles past the Buffalo Pass Campground entrance. Look for the Upper Crossing sign and follow the indicated route.

Important Information

Visitors should be aware of certain guidelines during their stay:

Please pack out all garbage and food to maintain the pristine environment.
Do not feed wildlife or livestock; be cautious of the presence of bears in the area.
The guard station is a non-smoking facility.
Pets are welcome but must be kept under control and are not permitted on furniture.
Ensure the cabin is clean upon departure and check that the gate is locked.

For any additional rules or reservation policies, guests are encouraged to check prior to arrival.

Experience History

Originally, Upper Crossing served as the headquarters for the old Cochetopa National Forest in the early 1900s. Today, it offers a perfect blend of history, comfort, and adventure, making it a unique destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration in the breathtaking Colorado outdoors.

Plan Your Visit

Embrace the natural allure of the Upper Crossing Guard Station and plan your outdoor adventure today. Whether you’re fishing, hiking, or simply soaking in the scenery, this campground promises an unforgettable experience.