About LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE
Overview Lake Fork Campground sits in the Rio Grande Forest, 40 miles northwest of Antonito, Colorado. The campground is a true getaway from any city, and requires an 18-mile drive on a gravel road. This high elevation campground boasts limitless beauty with mountain peaks, alpine wildlife spotting and several varieties of birds.Recreation The campground is convenient to several trails, such as Lake Fork to Big Lake and Conejos Peak to Blue Lake. The Conejos River is a Gold Medal River, meaning it offers the greatest potential for trophy trout fishing. Rainbow and brown trout are the most common species in the river.Facilities Some campsites overlook the river. There is one centrally located drinking water spigot. All parking spurs are gravel. Firewood can be purchased on-site. No electric hookups are available. Campers will find an old-fashioned steel tub bath at Brummel's Rocky Mountain Lodge about 10 miles south.Natural Features The campground is located in south central Colorado on the banks of the Conejos River. It is shaded by spruce, aspen and a few cottonwoods and willows at an elevation of 9,500 feet. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area, including black bears, deer and marmots. Wildflowers dot the region, creating colorful landscapes for photography enthusiasts. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (805) 434-1996. Nearby Attractions Take in spectacular views of the Conejos Canyon and River along Forest Road 250.
How to Get There
From Antonito, travel west on Highway 17 approximately 24 miles to the junction of Highways 17 and 250. Turn on Highway 250 and travel 18 miles on a gravel road to Lake Fork Campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE
Heading to LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE?
No central reservation system listed for LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231850) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE?
From Antonito, travel west on Highway 17 approximately 24 miles to the junction of Highways 17 and 250. Turn on Highway 250 and travel 18 miles on a gravel road to Lake Fork Campground.
How do I contact LAKE FORK(RIO GRANDE NATL FORE?
You can reach the park at phone: 719-852-5941.
References & Official Resources
