Overview

This campground is at the end of the Rainbow Lakes Road and adjacent to the Indian Peaks Wilderness. There are 18 first-come, first-served Scan & Pay campsites that accommodate tents (on 14x16 foot tent pads) and small trailers. Campsite 8 is oversized and accommodates up to 15 people. Campsites 15 - 18 are walk in sites for tents.

Facilities

Picnic tables, fire grates, vault toilets and trash services are provided. This campground does not feature drinking water, electricity, hook-ups, dump stations, or showers. All campsites with a tent pad have a bear locker.

Natural Features

Abundant hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Nearby Attractions

Brainard Lake Recreation Area is just a 30-minute drive from the campground.

Important Notices

• A maximum of eight people are allowed per site. RVs, trailers or other vehicles must fit on the parking spur. Fishing is regulated by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

• Dogs must be on a hand-held leash.

• Potable water is not available at this site.

• Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.

• Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. 

• EXTRA VEHICLE FEES: One vehicle is included in your reservation. Any additional vehicles will be charged $8.00 per vehicle per night and will be collected by the camphost. There is not a way to pay for extra vehicles when you make your reservation. One vehicle consists of one camper being towed by vehicle, or any other vehicle towed behind camper. One van or one truck with camper attached counts as one vehicle. 

• https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/arp for more information on the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest.

Notifications and Alerts

• STAGE 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT: Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), the following are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland.

  1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal barbecue, or grill, except if using a device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within three feet of the device. 36 CFR § 261.52(a)

  2. Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building. 36 CFR § 261.52(d)

  3. Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame. 36 CFR § 261.52(h)

  4. Using an explosive. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(b)

  5. Possessing or using a motor vehicle off NFS roads, except when parking in an area devoid of vegetation within 10 feet of the motor vehicle. 36 CFR § 261.56.

Directions

<p>From Nederland, head north on Colorado Highway 72 for approximately seven miles. Look for the University of Colorado Mountain Research Station sign and turn west onto National Forest System Road 298. This route is gated during the winter. This road is a five-mile, native-surfaced road. A high clearance vehicle is recommended.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 530-529-0578

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip