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Arapaho-Roosevelt/Echo Lake
Overview
Nestled at an elevation of 10,600 feet, the Echo Lake Campground offers a quintessential high-alpine experience within the Arapaho National Forest. This seasonal destination serves as a gateway to the peaks of the Front Range, providing a cool, timbered escape from the summer heat of the plains. It is a primitive facility that prioritizes natural immersion over modern luxuries, making it a favorite for those seeking the tranquility of the Colorado wilderness near the base of Mount Blue Sky.
Location & Surroundings
Located just south of Idaho Springs along the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, the park is surrounded by a dense forest of Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir. The campground sits adjacent to the stunning Echo Lake Park, a glacial lake that reflects the surrounding mountain peaks. Visitors should be prepared for the high-altitude environment, which offers crisp air and immediate access to rugged terrain and vibrant alpine meadows that stay green well into the summer months.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service site, the campground offers dry camping with no hookups for electricity, water, or sewer. Each of the 18 sites includes a picnic table and a fire ring to facilitate classic evenings under the stars. Guests have access to vault toilets and hand-pumped potable water, though RVers should ideally arrive with full fresh water tanks. The roads and spurs are gravel, designed to blend into the forest while providing level spots for smaller to mid-sized rigs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the drive up the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America, where travelers often spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Hikers can explore the Chicago Lakes Trail or the easier loop around Echo Lake itself. Anglers will find plenty of opportunities for trout fishing in the lake, while photographers often capture the sunrise hitting the high granite ridges from the historic Echo Lake Lodge nearby.
Who This Park Is Best For
This location is ideal for self-contained RVers who enjoy off-grid living and high-altitude scenery. Because of the tight turns and limited site lengths, it is best suited for those traveling in camper vans, truck campers, or smaller travel trailers. If you are looking for a peaceful basecamp to explore the peaks or a quiet retreat near Idaho Springs, this rugged forest setting provides an authentic mountain experience.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Arturo Gonzalez Solís
Beautiful place with a great trail to Idaho Reservoi. A Scenic road since you take your way from Evergreen to Echo Lake.
Joseph Artura
Such an amazing place to visit and hike! Absolutely stunning views
Joe Walkowich
We went on a Sunday afternoon in the fall. Nice ride, beautiful scenery, ducks, chipmunks, picnic benches, hiking trails, and we even had an eagle fly over the lake while we were there. The bathroom is not great but there is one there. Parking was decent.
Michael Richardson
Great drive to see fall colors take i-70 to l Idaho Springs make a left at the stop sign. Take 103 up to Echo Park Lake a true hidden gem 💎
ERIN LEIGH
Really pretty lake that’s accessible by anyone! One side of the lake has the trail, other side you have to walk on roadway. Great picnic spot with families. Beautiful photos from the lodge end of the lake. 1.5 miles total hike around whole lake. Pretty level the whole way around. People fishing here. Has bathrooms. Trailhead area
Patricia Tapia
Such a serene and stunning walk around this lake surrounded by lush tree's
Maye Be Take A Photo
Gorgeous spot to get married! I love getting to photograph microweddings and elopements here. Absolutely stunning area.
Allam Ardah
Echo Lake in the Blue Sky Mountains is an absolute gem, offering breathtaking views year-round. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, the scenery never disappoints. In the warmer months, the lake is a perfect stop on your way up to the mountains, where you can enjoy a delicious barbecue while taking in the stunning surroundings. The cool mountain air, combined with the picturesque landscape, makes for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Winter, however, brings a whole new level of beauty to Echo Lake. The snow-covered peaks and frozen lake create a serene, winter wonderland. That said, be prepared for cold temperatures, especially in winter, and watch out for icy, slippery roads as you make your way to the lake. It’s important to dress warmly and exercise caution on the roads during colder months, as they can be quite treacherous. Overall, Echo Lake is a must-see stop in both summer and winter, offering fantastic views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a great spot for a break. Whether you’re enjoying a BBQ in the summer or marveling at the snowy landscape in winter, it’s well worth the visit.
chichi gates
Scenic, clean and very well maintained. Went on a weekday lunch picnic with a big group (22) and luckily for us, able to set up our spread in the main bldg.. There are Restrooms by the entrance and not just Porta potties. The walk around the lake is just right for good exercise. Free, and parking available.
Biswanath Das
It was bright and sunny spring morning, after driving through the scenic byway we reached the lake. We were pleasantly surprised to find ice on the lake. The summit lake trail was closed for the season so we took a loop around the Echo lake. It was an hour or two well spent hiking around this lake. The lake shore was full of different species of bird. I would highly recommend visiting this lake.