Dowdy Lake
Open year-round with reduced capacity in winter when back loops close. Drinking water is typically available through September 30. Fire restrictions may be in effect during high fire danger periods. Sites not occupied within 26 hours of reservation start are released for first-come-first-served use.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
Cave Closure and Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.
About
Dowdy Lake Campground is situated in a ponderosa pine forest on the shore of Dowdy Lake at 8,200 feet elevation, near the village of Red Feather Lakes. The campground offers 70 sites including 10 walk-in tent sites and 5 double sites. All sites except the walk-in tent sites have electric hookups, and each site includes a tent pad, picnic table, fire grate with grill, and bear locker. Vault toilets, drinking water from hand pumps, and trash collection are provided. No RV water connections or dump station are available on site. The 115-acre Dowdy Lake is a no-wake lake with a 10 mph speed limit, popular for canoeing and fishing. Anglers target brown, brook, cutthroat, and lake trout. A day-use area and boat ramp are part of the complex. The surrounding area offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails including the 4-mile Mount Margaret Trail, with several OHV trails within five miles. The back loops close in early fall, leaving approximately 30 sites open year-round. Parking spur lengths range from 30 to 70 feet depending on the site. Due to mountain pine beetle infestation and hazardous tree removal, some sites have reduced shade.
Directions
From Fort Collins, drive 21 miles north on US Highway 287. Turn left (west) onto Red Feather Lakes Road (County Road 74E) and continue approximately 22 miles. Turn right (north) and travel another mile to the signed campground entrance on the right.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $20 - $47 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 130ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 130ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 295-6600 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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