Most Remote Camping Sites
Want the backcountry experience without being too far away from the parks amenities? Walk-in sites w506-519 in the Kettle Creek Loop are part of the Northern Plains campground and just a bit off the beaten path. Theres parking nearby, with sites a maximum of 120 yards away from your car. Each site also comes with a fire ring and a bench the rest is up to you! You can also camp at Juniper Breaks Campground which is a smaller campground with no hookups. Its a great off grid experience! Bonus camp spots 139, 141, and 143 in Juniper breaks have great lake views and close access to the water. You do have to traverse a steep hill to get to the water though.
The South Shore Trail
At the bottom of the Rock Canyon Trail is an intersection with the South Shore Trail, which returns to the start at the Arkansas Point parking lot.
The South Shore trail intersects with several other canyon trails, so its possible to climb up a different canyon and return to the Arkansas Point Trail.
Heading away from the reservoir, the South Shore Trail also connects to other Lake Pueblo State Park trails.
Other Things To Do In Lake Pueblo State Park
Mountain biking is very popular in the park, and hikers share the trails with mountain bikers.
The parks two marinas and a fishing pier support recreational boating and fishing. Other lake-centric activities include water-skiing, jet-skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, for example. In addition, the anticline fishing pond mentioned above has an accessible fishing pier.
A pond not connected to the main reservoir hosts a swim beach open during the regular summer season of Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Page for Lake Pueblo State Park for hours and rules. By the way, dogs on leash are allowed everywhere in the park except the swim beach.
On land, parts of the park are open for hunting in certain months, and the Bighorn Archery Range is just inside the park entrance.
Finally, the Pueblo State Fish Hatchery is within the park. It produces both warm and coldwater fish for stocking in Colorados lakes and streams. Take a self-guided tour using the signs on the building.
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Campsites Close To Mountain Bike Trails
Colorado attracts mountain bikers from all over the world in search of challenging trails and mountain views, and Lake Pueblo State Parks extensive trail system makes for an ideal destination. There are trails for all ages and skill levels, and youll be close to them all at the Arkansas Point Campground. Sites 69-75 on Loop C and sites 14-19 on Loop A are your best bests. As an added bonus, these sites are also on the far side of the campground, away from the main road so youll have extra peace and quiet.
Where will you call home for a night when you visit Lake Pueblo State Park?
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Lake Pueblo State Park: Hiking With Geology
Lake Pueblo State Park has trails on high ground, others that traverse canyons, and still others following the lakes shoreline. The bluffs and rock formations in the park are enough to turn an ordinary hiker into an amateur geologist. Learn more about Lake Pueblo State Park hiking below.
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Pueblo West Campground And Arena
Pueblo West Campground and Arena offers every kind of camping experience you could ask for from RV to the cabin to the tents. It’s open year-round with laundry rooms and shower-equipped restrooms. In addition, the fully paved access road welcomes pets, motorcycles, and even horses if you want. Pueblo West Campground and Arena is only eight miles from Pueblo Lake, and the affordable full RV hook-up site rates include nightly stays for $30, weekly stays for $150, and monthly stays for $315 plus electricity with a $200 deposit.
How To Get Tolake Pueblo State Park
If you’re coming from the north, you have two choices for getting to Lake Pueblo. Take I-25 to Pueblo and turn west on U.S. Hwy 50 Exit 101. Drive four miles to Pueblo Blvd. Turn south and go four miles to Thatcher Blvd. Hwy 96. Turn west and go four miles to the south park entrances.
Alternatively, take I-25 to Pueblo. Turn west on U.S. Hwy 50 Exit 101. Drive seven miles to McCulloch Blvd. Then, turn south and go four miles to Nichols Rd. Turn south and drive one mile to the north park entrance.
From the south, you should take I-25 to Pueblo. Turn west on Pueblo Blvd Exit 94. Drive five miles to Thatcher Blvd. the road will turn south after two miles. Turn west and continue four miles to the park.
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Camping At Lake Pueblo State Park
Lake Pueblo State Park has several campsites available by reservation only. These sites include a variety of amenities that vary from site to site, with three distinct campsites to choose from: Arkansas Point Campground, Juniper Breaks Campground, and Northern Plains Campground. Pay attention to the nearby amenities before choosing your campground, as the presence of RV hookups and more can change depending on the location.
While there is no dedicated group camping location at Lake Pueblo State Park, there are a few sites within Eagle View that are large enough to accommodate small groups. Be sure to check out their website for more information and to make a reservation today.
Lake Pueblo State Park Hiking
The Official Trail Map for Lake Pueblo State Park hiking and biking isnt very inspiring. It shows about 14 miles of paved trails around the lake and campground areas and the 1.5 mile Arkansas Point Trail.
Yet, there are miles and miles of much more exciting trails in this 10,000-acre park, with the south side of the lake being particularly notable. The Southern Colorado Trail Builders Lake Pueblo Trails Map shows just how much is missing from the official source.
Even with this map, it may not be clear how to approach the trail system. The two-dimensional guide shows a maze-like network of trails on the south shore but no topography.
To better understand the landscape, use a resource like AllTrails to check the elevation profile for any given route. AllTrails shows over 20 different trail combinations to encourage exploration in short or long distances. For example, this loop combining four named trails is 2.6 miles . It descends through a canyon from a high point down toward the lake, then completes the loop by climbing up a different canyon. The elevation gain is about 275 feet .
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Add Pueblo Reservoir Camping To Your Bucket List
In conclusion, its no surprise that Lake Pueblo is one of the most popular state parks in Colorado. With its variety of activities and numerous campsites, tourists and residents alike enjoy spending time on the water, primarily as summer heat drives them out of the city to cool off.
Garnering a campsite at Pueblo Reservoir during that time would provide a home base for exploring the lake and its surrounding countryside. And staying here with friends might give you the opportunity for some well-deserved lake party time!
Once youve had your fill of Colorado, head west to explore a few of Utahs camping options like Strawberry Reservoir and Pineview Reservoir.
Campgrounds At Lake Pueblo
The gem of most Colorado cities is their proximity to nature. While Pueblo is situated a little further east from the front range mountains than say, Colorado Springs, the massive Lake Pueblo lies in its western backyard. Its only 10 minutes drive from downtown for year round recreation, including camping. This sprawling state park is centered around the 4,600 surface acre, boat-friendly reservoir fed by the Arkansas River. Thats 60 miles of shoreline to enjoy, fish from, and relax on. There are 3 campgrounds featuring 400 campsites, suitable for tents and bigger RVs. Recreation includes biking, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, fishing and boating and water recreation on Lake Pueblo, swimming at Rock Canyon Swim Beach.
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Pets At Lake Pueblo State Park
Dogs are welcome at Lake Pueblo State Park, so long as they are kept on a six-foot or shorter leash, and their waste is properly disposed of.
Horses are allowed along the Arkansas Point Trail System, however, they are not allowed on any paved trails through the park, nor are they allowed in the campsites.
Pueblo: Lake Pueblo State Park Campgrounds
640 Pueblo Reservoir Rd, Pueblo, CO 81005.One of the most popular camping destinations in Colorado, Lake Pueblo State Park has 400 campsites spread throughout three different areas in the park. All sites consist of a paved parking area, covered picnic table, and fire pit. The electrical campgrounds also feature flush toilets, coin-operated showers, laundry, dump stations, and playgrounds. The campgrounds are patrolled for your safety. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed in the campground. Dogs are not permitted on the swimming beach.
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Boating At Lake Pueblo State Park
With more than 4,600 surface acres of water and 60 miles of shoreline, Lake Pueblo State Park is a boating and fishing hotspot. This state park is home to several full-service marinas and is open to sailing, motor-boating, waterskiing, river tubing, and more. Boaters can choose from two different boat ramps when looking to launch into the pristine waters of Lake Pueblo.
Boaters as young as 14 and 15 can pilot their own craft, so long as they have completed a boat safety course and can operate a motorized boat. All other boaters must be at least 16 years old, and all boaters must have the proper registration documents for their crafts.
Whitewater rafting is also available during the summer months, although the speed of the river varies. Those looking to whitewater raft can do so below the dam in the Arkansas River, however all safety precautions should be followed before setting out on your next whitewater rafting journey.
Things To Do While Camping At Pueblo Reservoir
With lakefront property come all of the water adventures imaginable. In other words, you have options from fishing to sailing, jet skiing to paddle boarding, kayaking to water skiing, there are numerous opportunities to skim the surface of this reservoir 24 hours a day. Two full-service marinas provide rentals of every make and model, and swimmers have their own beach on which to lounge.
Landlubbers can tackle more than 34 miles of hiking and biking trails over the state parks 10,000 acres. And of course, Pueblo Reservoir camping goes hand-in-hand with lakeside activities. Lake Pueblo has partial hookup campsites, as well as opportunities for those campers who want a little peace and quiet off the grid.
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Camping Lake Pueblo State Park
We will set up camp, prepare meals and clean up. We will also provide activities for down time. Space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Rental camping equipment is available. Participants must be independent and manage self-care or bring a care-giver/family member to provide assistance.
COVID Vaccination is required to participate in the overnight camping. Please fill out Medical info fully to ensure BIAC staff can set our campers up for success. If you need assistance administering meds please bring a caretake or family member who can assist as a volunteer.
*Parking at the site is limited. BIAC will account for 1 spot. There will be 3 more spots available and will be given highest priority to those who are carpooling.
Location: Lake Pueblo State Park
Date/Time: September 22nd-23rd
Transportation:
There will be a couple spots for survivors in the Denver metro area and Colorado Springs to carpool with BIAC as we make our way down to Pueblo, CO.
Cost: $100
Gear Rental: Tent $20, Sleeping Bag $10, Sleeping pad $5, Cot $10
Biking At Lake Pueblo State Park
Biking through Lake Pueblo State Park is a unique and wonderful experience that allows you to view the shoreline as well as travel deeper into the park. Bikes are allowed on most of the trails throughout the park, though it is a good idea to check to make sure before heading down a specific trail. A combination of paved roadways and mountain biking trails makes this park a hotspot for bikers of all skill levels. For more information about the various trails throughout the park, check out the state park website.
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Horseback Riding At Lake Pueblo State Park
Horseback riding is allowed on the Arkansas Point Trail System, with parking available in the Arkansas Point Campground. Keep in mind that while horses are welcome along this trail system, they are not allowed on the paved trails or the trails along the north shore, and overnight stays with horses are prohibited, especially in the various campgrounds in the park.
Fishing At Lake Pueblo State Park
Lake Pueblo State Park is a premier fishing location, with over 4,600 surface acres of water to fish in. Visitors can use the CPW fishing app to help plan their fishing trip, or check out the park website for more information on fishing conditions throughout the park. Keep in mind that all fishing licenses and permits are still required, and check individual bag limits before starting your trip.
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Everything You Need To Know About Pueblo Reservoir Camping
The state of Colorado is one of the most popular destinations for summer RVers. The Centennial State usually surpasses expectations. For example, it has thousands of campsites from its eastern plains to its Rocky Mountain interior and along many of its compelling rivers and lakes. One of these enticing locations is Pueblo Reservoir camping. It lies just outside of the Front Range community of Pueblo, near a reservoir named after the town.
Entering Lake Pueblo State Park
Lake Pueblo State Park’s Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lake Pueblo State Park Daily Vehicle Pass: $9.0
Lake Pueblo State Park Annual Pass: $80.0
Lake Pueblo State Park Aspen Leaf Annual Pass for visitors aged 64+: $70.0
Lake Pueblo State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Colorado. All of the state is known for its immense beauty and diversity in natural landscapes, and you’ll see the highlights from the comfort of your RV. If you want to experience an unforgettable RV trip complete with water recreation of every kind, you have to visit Lake Pueblo State Park. If you remember to snap a few pictures while you’re having the time of your life, share your photos by tagging RVshare on social media. Be sure to share your tips with other RV travelers by sending your photos and experiences to We may even include your tips in a future blog post about Lake Pueblo State Park.
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Lake Pueblo State Park Overview
Lake Pueblo State Parks campground has about 400 single-family campsites spread out in 6 camping areas along the shores of Lake Pueblo. Campsites are spacious and all sites have a table, fire ring and grate. Some have a shade shelter. There are also 280 sites with electric hookups.
Arkansas Point , Eagle View , Juniper Breaks , Kettle Creek , Prairie Ridge , Yucca Flats . Kettle Creek campsites 506-519 are tent only / walk-to and only have a bench and fire ring. Several sires are also ADA accessible.
Campground amenities include drinking water, water spigots, flush toilets, showers and laundry facilities. There are also dump stations in the electric hookup loops. Other facilities include boat ramps, marina, playgrounds, amphitheaters, group picnic area, ranger station and visitor center.
Lake Pueblo State Park Area Recreation
Lake Pueblo State Park is one of the more popular camping destinations in Colorado. The Park features Lake Pueblo, which has 4,500 acres of surface water and is home to some exceptional fishing and a variety of water sports including swimming, sailing, water-skiing, jet-skiing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and much more. You can also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, hunting, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Whitewater rafting is also popular on the nearby Arkansas River.
Swimming At Lake Pueblo State Park
Lake Pueblo State Park is home to the Rock Canyon swim beach, which is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. A day or annual pass is required to swim at the beach, however, it is worth noting there is no lifeguard on duty, and that all children must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are not allowed on the swim beach.
Rock Canyon swim beach also has a pavilion that is available on a first-come-first-serve basis that is great for escaping the sun for a few minutes or hosting a beach picnic. If youre looking to swim in one of Colorados many gorgeous lakes, this swim beach is sure to be a must-visit destination on your next trip.
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Best Time Of Year For Pueblo Reservoir Camping
The lake is open year-round, but summer is, by far, the most popular season for Pueblo Reservoir camping. Lake parties are a daily occurrence and fishing for bass, crappie, and bluegill run a close second to revelry.
But many enjoy escaping the snows in the nearby mountains to come here. Spring hits Lake Pueblo much earlier in this milder climate, making it a popular destination. However, winter camping at Pueblo Reservoir can offer solitude without the crowds of summer. Keep in mind that the lake does not freeze over solid for ice fishing, if thats your thing.