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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

North Fork Campground

Pitkin, Colorado · Chaffee County · Campground

This campground is the highest elevation campground on the Salida Ranger District. The elevation is 11,000 feet and the campsites are situated on the north shore of the North Fork Reservoir. The road to the campground is very rough and not recommended for vehicles towing trailers. High clearance vehicles are a requirem…

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About North Fork Campground

This campground is the highest elevation campground on the Salida Ranger District. The elevation is 11,000 feet and the campsites are situated on the north shore of the North Fork Reservoir. The road to the campground is very rough and not recommended for vehicles towing trailers. High clearance vehicles are a requirement for reaching this campground. No trash service.

How to Get There

From Salida, CO, travel west for 5 miles to Poncha Springs, CO then continue west on Highway 50 for 6 miles to County Road 240. Turn right on CR 240 and stay on this road for 3 miles to the Angel of Shavano campground. From the campground the road continues west for 6 miles to the North Fork reservoir and campground.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    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 North Fork Campground

Heading to North Fork Campground? 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 North Fork Campground?

No central reservation system listed for North Fork Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/244872) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to North Fork Campground?

From Salida, CO, travel west for 5 miles to Poncha Springs, CO then continue west on Highway 50 for 6 miles to County Road 240. Turn right on CR 240 and stay on this road for 3 miles to the Angel of Shavano campground. From the campground the road continues west for 6 miles to the North Fork reservoir and campground.