Alvarado Campground

About

Alvarado Campground occupies a 9,000-foot perch in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains surrounded by ponderosa pine, aspen, lodgepole, and gambel oak. The campground is divided into three tiers: the lower section accommodates tents and RVs with tent pads and lantern posts, the upper section features walk-in tent-only sites, and the middle section includes three equestrian sites where portable corrals are permitted. Alvarado Creek runs through portions of the campground, and several sites offer views across the Wet Mountain Valley. The primary draw is wilderness access. The non-motorized Comanche and Venable Trails climb directly into the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, reaching waterfalls and high alpine lakes. The Rainbow Trail, open to ATVs and motorcycles, runs along the foot of the range and connects to additional wilderness trailheads including Cottonwood and Goodwin. The wilderness encompasses 226,455 acres with 60 alpine lakes and 400+ miles of trails. Each site includes a fire ring or grate, pedestal grill, and picnic table. Potable water is available via hand pump, and accessible vault toilets are provided. There are no hookups or showers. Bears are common; all food and attractants must be stored in a bear-resistant manner. Certified weed-free hay is required for stock.

Directions

From Westcliffe, CO, take State Route 69 south 3 miles to County Road 140 (campground sign). Turn right and go 1.8 miles to a stop sign. Continue straight 2.8 miles to the next stop sign at Road 141. Turn left onto Road 141 and continue 2.1 miles to the campground. Road 141 becomes dirt/gravel after 0.4 miles.