Pike & San Isabel National Forests
Cimarron & Comanche National Grasslands

USDA Forest Service
Pike & San Isabel
National Forests
Cimarron & Comanche
National Grasslands
2840 Kachina Drive
Pueblo, CO 81008
719-553-1400

Telephone for the
Hearing Impaired
719-553-1404

Recreation – San Carlos Ranger District

Purgatoire Reservation Campground

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Click on each picture for a larger view

Purgatoire Campground: This campground is usually open late May through early October.

Location: To get there from La Veta, drive south on SH 12 for approximately 25 miles to CR34. Turn right onto CR34 and follow it for 4 miles until you reach the Purgatoire Campground.

Weather: Weather in the summer is generally mild with warm days and cool nights; highs in the 80's and lows in the 40's. Afternoon thunderstorms are a common occurrence. Spring and fall weather is usually dry and sunny with highs in the 60’s and lows in the 30's.

Attractions: Stream fishing, hiking, bicycling and horseback riding. The headwaters of Purgatoire river runs through campground at around sites 1 - 4. The North Fork Trail #1309 trailhead is located on the north side of campground. This trail is a non-motorized trail and you can access the Wildcat and the Coal Creek trails. These 2 trails dead end into private land and are not maintained. Please check a map for other recreational opportunities close by.

Facilities: 23 campsites, 13 RV sites including 8 that can accommodate larger horse trailers and livestock. 10 sites are tent sites. Parking spurs, tables, fire rings, grills and trash receptacles are provided at this campground. Drinking water is provided by a well with a hand pump. There are 3 double vault accessible toilets.

Horse Sites: The horse sites have more space and are in grassy areas. You must bring only certified weed free hay, or certified weed free cubes, or pellets.

Special User Fee: Reservations for 13 of the 23 sites is required and made by calling 1 877 444 6777 or using the website of: www.recreation.gov. A non refundable reservation fee will be assessed. Reservations may be made up to 240 days prior to your arrival or as late as 4 days prior. During the summer, the site receives heavy use on the weekends and holidays. Please make your reservation as early as possible.

Concessionaire: A camp host resides on site at the Purgatoire Campground throughout the open season and is available to answer questions. Wood may be purchased from the camp host.

Other Important Information: Be Bear Aware. It is prohibited to Possess or leave unattended any food, refuse or other bear attractants unless it is; A. stored in a bear resistant method or, B. being eaten, prepared for eating or being transported. 36 CFR 261.58(cc). Area may be under fire restrictions or fire ban depending on local conditions.

PSICC Special Orders