Happy Meadows Campground

Happy Meadows Campground, just three miles from Lake George, Colorado, challenges the stereotype of overcrowded campgrounds with its tranquil riverside setting and limited number of campsites. Situated at an elevation of 7,900 feet within Pike National Forest, it offers direct access to the South Platte River, making it a prime destination for trout fishing, tubing, and scenic hikes.

This cozy campground features only eight sites, including two buddy sites, ensuring a serene and personal connection to nature. Each campsite is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and a nearby water pump, along with well-maintained vault toilets for basic comfort. A short walk brings visitors to the river, where they can bask in the natural beauty or embark on a hike via the nearby Platte River Trailhead. The historic Eleven Mile Canyon is nearby, offering dramatic granite walls towering 500 feet above the water, while the Florissant Fossil Beds, located within a 30-minute drive, provide a glimpse into prehistoric times with their petrified redwoods and ancient fossils.

Located off County Road 77, Happy Meadows is just minutes from the small community of Lake George, which offers basic amenities like a general store and supplies for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether for a weekend getaway or a peaceful fishing retreat, this campground guarantees a rustic and intimate escape into Colorado's wilderness.