Cathedral Campground

About

Cathedral Campground is a quiet, lightly-used USFS campground northwest of Del Norte in the Rio Grande National Forest. Situated at 9,400 feet elevation in a beautiful mature aspen and blue spruce grove, the campground offers striking views of Cathedral Rock to the north. Embargo Creek flows alongside the east edge of the grounds. The campground consists of two loops: the left loop features a large meadow with more open sites, while the right loop has dense woodland and a more secluded, rustic atmosphere. All 22 sites are first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Five sites are pull-throughs and 17 are dead-end spurs, with lengths ranging from 35 to 45 feet. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Vault toilets are available. No trash service exists, so pack out all garbage. The area is bear country, and food storage regulations are in effect April through December. Recreation opportunities include fishing in Embargo Creek and trail access to Cathedral Creek Trail #794, Embargo Trail #792, and Fremont's Camp Trail #885. Motorcycles are permitted on the trails but ATVs are not allowed. The historic site of John Charles Fremont's ill-fated 1848 winter expedition camp is nearby.

Directions

From Del Norte: Travel 8.75 miles west on US Highway 160 to Embargo Creek Rd and County Rd 18 signs. Turn right onto Rd 18 and go 1.4 miles to a T intersection (County Rd 15). Turn right onto Rd 15 and go 0.3 miles to another T intersection (County Rd 65). Turn left onto Rd 65 and go 3.2 miles to Y intersection (Forest Rd 640/650). Bear left onto Rd 640 (dirt, single lane with no turnouts) 7.6 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.