Chalk Lake

About

Chalk Lake Campground is located in the heart of Chalk Creek Canyon within San Isabel National Forest, at an elevation of 9,000 feet. The canyon derives its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite clay mineral that forms the distinctive canyon walls, deposited by ancient hot springs. The campground offers 19 sites, with sites 4-9 and 14 available on a first-come-first-served basis while the remaining sites can be reserved through Recreation.gov. The adjacent 12-acre Chalk Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout, making it an excellent family fishing destination where motorized boats are prohibited. Chalk Creek above Cascade Falls also provides quality fishing opportunities. The area is popular for OHV riding with trails leading to Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, and Williams Pass. Nearby attractions include the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes away, where visitors can explore preserved mining-era structures including an old saloon and county courthouse. The Cascade Loop Trail begins across from the campground, and the Chalk Creek Trailhead two miles east provides access to the 500-mile Colorado Trail. A private hot springs resort is located within 4 miles of the campground.

Directions

From Buena Vista, Colorado, take Highway 285 south for 7 miles to County Road 162. Turn west on County Road 162 and travel 8 miles to Chalk Lake Campground.