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Pike-San Isabel/Molly Brown
Overview
Molly Brown Campground offers a quintessential Colorado mountain experience within the Pike-San Isabel National Forest. Named after the famous Titanic survivor who once called Leadville home, this facility is a centerpiece of the Turquoise Lake Recreation Area. Sitting at an elevation of nearly 10,000 feet, the air is crisp and the scenery is dominated by towering lodgepole pines and the shimmering blue waters of the lake. It is a prime destination for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the high-country wilderness.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is situated on the scenic eastern shore of Turquoise Lake, just five miles west of the historic mining town of Leadville. The surrounding landscape features the rugged, snow-capped peaks of the Sawatch Range, including Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. Visitors are treated to spectacular alpine views and a cool summer climate that provides a welcome escape from the heat. Its proximity to the Continental Divide ensures that the surrounding natural beauty remains pristine and vibrant throughout the camping season.
Amenities & Park Features
As a dedicated National Forest site, Molly Brown provides a rustic and authentic camping experience. The park offers several essential features:
- Vault toilets and communal trash collection
- Potable water from shared spigots or hand pumps
- Spacious fire rings and heavy-duty picnic tables at every site
While the park does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups, the gravel pads are generally level and can accommodate various RV lengths. The well-spaced sites offer a high degree of privacy amidst the dense forest canopy, making it a true dry camping experience.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Recreation in this area revolves around the water and the vast trail networks. The Turquoise Lake Nature Trail provides a scenic path for hikers and birdwatchers, while the lake itself is a premier destination for trout fishing and motorized boating. For those looking to explore local history, the nearby Mineral Belt Trail offers a paved loop around the historic mining district. Additionally, the high-altitude shops and museums of downtown Leadville provide a charming cultural excursion just a short drive from your campsite.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for self-contained RVers who value serene natural beauty over modern resort-style luxuries. It specifically appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the quiet atmosphere of a forested high-country setting. Families who appreciate water-based activities and hikers looking for a base camp near Colorado’s highest peaks will find it especially rewarding. If you seek a peaceful retreat with immediate access to the Colorado backcountry, Molly Brown is an excellent choice for your next adventure.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Ricardo Cortina
Great place to camp... Just next to the lake, camp host was very helpful.
Ashley R
Such a beautiful camp site! Would honestly give it 5 stars if it weren't for one major downside. The bathrooms! I get camping is meant to be a primitive experience, but the smell was awful! With the amount of campers, in such a busy time of year, you'd think they'd have them cleaned more often. You could see the pile up right around 3 feet of space between you and it. The smell carried with every cycle of wind. It honestly made the experience not worth visiting again. The location is beautiful. The sites are clean and welcoming. And bathrooms, trash, and firewood were conveniently scattered no matter where you were. Which is why it's still a 4 star experience. But smelly air and piled up toilets were not it.
Michael Hanson
Great camping spot outside Leadville. Amazing sunsets down by the lake. Clean bathrooms.
Larry Barnes
Wonderful campground if you can get in. Fills up fast especially on the weekends. We booked 6 months out as soon as it would allow and got lucky. Pit toilet was clean and noise level was low. It's in the mountains and rains almost daily but not bad.
Brian Clement
Nice campground, clean restrooms. To the person who stole my camp stove and propane tank off our picnic table, I wish you the best of luck with it. The tank is full, so enjoy that. One of the knobs is broken on the stove, I find vice grips work well as a replacement. To the camphost, man you're hard to find. I know it's not your responsibility, but you might want to know there is theft in your camp ground.