Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Arapaho-Roosevelt/Dowdy Lake
Overview
Located within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Dowdy Lake Campground offers a quintessential Colorado mountain experience. At an elevation of approximately 8,100 feet, this destination provides a peaceful retreat amidst towering ponderosa pines. It is one of the most popular spots in the Red Feather Lakes area, known for its scenic lakeside views and well-spaced campsites that offer a sense of privacy and immersion in nature. Unlike typical high-density parks, this location focuses on preserving the forest atmosphere.
Location & Surroundings
The park is situated in the heart of the Red Feather Lakes region, north of Fort Collins. The landscape is characterized by unique granite outcrops, dense forests, and a cluster of pristine alpine lakes. Dowdy Lake serves as a central focal point, offering a cooling breeze and reflection of the surrounding ridges. The atmosphere is exceptionally quiet, providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat and bustle found at lower elevations along the Colorado Front Range.
Amenities & Park Features
Unlike many primitive forest service sites, Dowdy Lake offers electric hookups at a significant number of its campsites, making it a top choice for RV travelers who want a bit of power. The park provides essential facilities including vault toilets and seasonal drinking water access. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. While there are no sewer or water hookups at individual sites, the availability of 30-amp and 50-amp power allows for a comfortable stay deep within the national forest.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Recreation centers on the water, where visitors enjoy trout fishing and non-motorized boating. The lake is restricted to wake-less speeds, ensuring a calm environment for kayaking and paddleboarding. For those looking to explore on foot, the Mount Margaret Trail is accessible nearby, offering miles of hiking and mountain biking through diverse terrain. The nearby village of Red Feather Lakes offers a small-town charm with local shops and basic supplies to supplement your trip.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for RVers who prioritize a natural, rustic setting over resort-style amenities like pools or clubhouses. It is a perfect fit for anglers, wildlife photographers, and families who enjoy traditional camping activities like evening campfires and stargazing. Because it offers electricity in a forest setting, it attracts travelers who want to enjoy the great outdoors and the beauty of Roosevelt National Forest without completely draining their house batteries.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Diane Bellamy
Wonderful campground! Sites are in great shape and allow you to opt for a completely wooded setting or ones with views of the lake. Trails everywhere through the campground itself for easy access to the lake. Very clean and lit restrooms. Camp hosts were friendly and approachable. Forget something? There are stores nearby and even an Ace Hardware.
Shell Bell
Beautiful lakeside camping. The trails are a little lackluster. We were right by the lake so there was no privacy as the lake trail came right next to the site with no delineation between the two. Otherwise very comfortable. Will be back to try a different site next year
Lindsay Field
Great campground! We stayed in site 27 and it was close to the water. I think the lower 20’s are probably closest to the water. Nice small beach area. No swimming but you can fish, paddle board, kayak, or splash a little on the beach. We had a beautiful sunset there in early August. We will be back again!
Jamie Arnold
A peacfeul, quiet campground with a calm lake and view. Bathrooms were clean! Hosts were very friendly! Stayed in #49 which was spacious, had fire ring/food storage, and had quick access to bathrooms and the water. Remember that you must pay with cash and no swimming in the water. Firewood bundles are $10 each.
Christina Zimbelman
Camp sites are beautiful! Each campsite has its own tent area, fire ring, large picnic table, and bear box. Each of these appeared to be freshly cleaned before my arrival. The campsite has a large, level area for tents. The area is large enough to accommodate more than one tent, or a large tent plus a sunshade. Restrooms were both very clean, well maintained, and smelled nicely. The camp host checks in daily, is friendly, and is available. My campsite was #27. I saw campsites #20 to #27, and they were all great! Site arraignment among trees gives everyone a little privacy. I highly recommend this campsite! One of the best sites I've ever found!