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Iron City Campground

Closed

Currently closed for the season. Opens May 15, 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis. Season runs through September, weather dependent. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for the Pike-San Isabel area.

Flash Flood Watch issued August 31 at 6:35AM MDT until September 1 at 12:00AM MDT by NWS Pueblo CO

6:35 AM — 2:45 PM

* WHAT...Flash flooding and debris flows caused by excessive rainfall continue to be possible over the Willow burn scar. * WHERE...A portion of central Colorado, including the following areas, Eastern Sawatch Mountains Above 11000 Feet, Central Lake County Below 11000 Feet and Western Chaffee County Between 9000 and 11000 Feet. * WHEN...From noon MDT today through this evening. * IMPACTS...Heavy rainfall over the Willow burn scar will be possible up to and during the period of the watch. Residents near the Willow burn scar should prepare for potential debris flow. Be sure to stay up to date with information from local authorities. Heavy rainfall could trigger flash flooding of low-lying areas, and debris flows in and near recent wildfire burn scars. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - National Weather Service Meteorologists are forecasting heavy rainfall over the burn scar, which may lead to flash flooding and debris flows. - Some locations that may experience flash flooding include... Locations in and near the Willow Burn Scar, and the Chalk Cliffs. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

San Isabel National Forest

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.

San Isabel National Forest

Weed Free Forage Products

The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.

About

Iron City Campground occupies a scenic spot in Chalk Creek Canyon at 10,000 feet elevation within San Isabel National Forest. The 15-site campground serves as a base for exploring the area's extensive ATV trail network and the nearby ghost town of St. Elmo, one of Colorado's best-preserved mining-era settlements. The historic Iron City cemetery at the campground's east end offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and miners through interpretive signage. The campground operates strictly first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Sites accommodate up to 8 people with a maximum of 2 tents and 2 vehicles (or 1 RV up to 25 feet). Amenities include vault toilets during peak season, potable water, and picnic tables. There are no hookups, showers, or dump stations. Dogs are permitted but must remain leashed. Camping and campfires are restricted to developed campgrounds only within Chalk Creek Canyon. Fees are $22 per night with an additional $10 charge for a third vehicle. Day-use visitors pay $10. Payment is via self-service fee tube (cash, check, or money order) or the Recreation.gov Scan and Pay mobile app feature.

Directions

From Buena Vista, travel south on US Highway 285 for approximately 7 miles, then turn right on County Road 162. Travel west on CR 162 for 16 miles to the junction with CR 292, just east of the historic townsite of St. Elmo. Turn right onto CR 292 and travel 0.5 miles to the campground.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store
Price $22

Vehicle

Max RV Length 25ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (661) 702-1420

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

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