Kite Lake Campground

Closed — Closed for the season due to snow. Typically opens mid-May and operates through mid-October, weather dependent. Access road becomes impassable during winter months.

About

Kite Lake Campground is a primitive, high-altitude camping area located 5.5 miles northwest of Alma in Pike National Forest. Situated above treeline at over 12,000 feet elevation, the campground offers five first-come, first-served campsites that are not recommended for trailers. The facility serves primarily as a base camp for hikers attempting the nearby 14ers including Mount Democrat, Mount Lincoln, Mount Cameron, and Mount Bross. Due to its extreme elevation, campers should be prepared for harsh conditions including cold temperatures, high winds, and intense sun exposure with no natural shade. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table, and vault toilets are provided. However, there is no potable water or trash service, so visitors must bring all necessary supplies and pack out their garbage. The access road (County Road 8/Buckskin Gulch Road) requires high clearance vehicles and becomes impassable during winter months. The campground is operated by a concessionaire and typically operates from mid-May through mid-October, weather dependent. Standard forest regulations apply including a maximum of eight people per site, 14-night consecutive stay limit, leashed dogs only, and quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. A camping fee of $15 per night and a day-use parking fee of $5 apply.

Directions

From Fairplay travel north on Highway 9 to the town of Alma. Turn right onto Buckskin Gulch Road (County Road 8) and travel 8 miles to the campground. High clearance vehicle required.

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