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Pike-San Isabel/Cascade
Overview
Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the Pike-San Isabel National Forest, Cascade Campground offers a quintessential Colorado mountain experience. Situated at an elevation of approximately 9,200 feet, this US Forest Service facility serves as a gateway to the rugged beauty of the Sawatch Range. RVers visiting this site can expect a rustic atmosphere that prioritizes natural scenery over modern luxuries, providing a peaceful escape under a canopy of towering ponderosa pines and Douglas firs.
Location & Surroundings
The park is located along the scenic Chalk Creek Canyon, west of Salida and near the community of Nathrop. The sound of Chalk Creek rushing nearby provides a soothing backdrop for campers. To the south lies the massive Mount Antero, and to the north is Mount Princeton, part of the famous Collegiate Peaks. This location provides a high-altitude climate that stays cool even in mid-summer, making it a premier destination for those seeking relief from the heat.
Amenities & Park Features
As a National Forest campground, the facilities here are designed for simplicity and environmental preservation. The park provides essential features for a comfortable stay in the wilderness:
- Vault toilets located conveniently throughout the camping loops
- Seasonal potable water accessible via hand pumps
- Sturdy picnic tables and heavy-duty fire rings at every site
There are no electric or sewer hookups available. Most sites are shaded and can accommodate trailers and motorhomes up to 35 feet in length, though travelers should verify individual site dimensions before arrival.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure is just minutes away, starting with the nearby Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters. For history enthusiasts, the well-preserved St. Elmo Ghost Town is a short drive up the canyon, offering a glimpse into Colorado's mining past. Hikers will appreciate the proximity to the Agnes Vaille Falls trail and the legendary Colorado Trail, while anglers can test their skills in the cold waters of Chalk Creek.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for the self-contained traveler who appreciates a primitive camping experience without the noise of highway traffic or neighboring television sets. It is a perfect fit for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers who want to be deeply immersed in the Colorado wilderness. If you value starlit skies and early morning access to trailheads over high-speed internet and resort-style pools, Cascade will feel like home.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Gary Rafferty
Beautiful place. Out of the way, but not too far from civilization. Make your reservations months in advance.
Amanda Guajardo
Amazing spot to camp at. The views are gorgeous, and you can here the water at night, it's so peaceful. I didn't have phone service and I have t-mobile. Bring a good book and escape from world!!
Ashley Rairdon
Beautiful campground! We stayed in site 15, which is by far the most private site, and is also disability accessible. It is close to the road and the cascades - so there is a lot of water sound and some road noise during the day, but the road isn’t busy at night. Cascade is one of three campgrounds along Chalk Creek Road - this is my favorite. Aspens, pines, and other deciduous foliage. Camp host was great.
C.B. Patterson
One of the most beautiful and amazing campgrounds we have camped at. 14's everywhere you look. The weather was perfect
Cynthia
There are several campgrounds to choose from along Chalk Creek and I think this one is one of the prettiest. It’s also further from the road making it a bit more quiet. We chose a walk in tent spot along the back loop and it was fantastic. The sites are spacious and well spaced. We stayed at site 7. You do have to walk up some steps to access the tent pad, picnic table and fire pit. You can hike right outside your camp. The hosts were amazingly friendly and knowledgeable about the area. On their advice we drove up to St. Elmo and also to Iron City Cemetery (located at another campground near St. Elmo). We also did an easy hike up to Agnes Vaille falls which is close by. The only downside is there are no bear lockers, so you have to store stuff in your vehicle. We were warned by the hosts that there was an active bear in the area the week we camped here.