Alvarado Campground

Alvarado Campground defies the typical expectations of crowded mountain campsites by offering a tranquil retreat at 9,000 feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, featuring incredible access to trailheads, shaded forested settings, and breathtaking views of the Wet Mountain Valley. This campground caters to diverse camping styles with designated areas for tents, RVs, and even equestrian campers, all equipped with essentials like picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts. The campground’s natural surroundings, highlighted by ponderosa pines, aspens, and gambel oaks, create an immersive experience, with some sites offering serene creekside locations or stunning valley overlooks.

Located just 10 minutes from the quaint town of Westcliffe, Colorado, Alvarado Campground serves as a gateway to the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, a vast 226,000-acre expanse known for its alpine lakes, waterfalls, and over 400 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails. Nearby trails like the Rainbow Trail (popular with motorized vehicles) and the non-motorized Comanche and Venable trails provide options for adventure seekers. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, trash collection, and strong cell service—ensuring comfort without detracting from the sense of wilderness. This site is ideal for weekend explorers, equestrian enthusiasts, nature photographers, and families seeking a genuine mountain escape close to unspoiled natural beauty.