Pawnee
Currently closed for the season. Opens late June 2026. Reservations available through Recreation.gov. Campers with a reservation do not need a separate timed entry ticket for the Brainard Lake Recreation Area but must show proof of reservation. Fire restrictions are in effect due to high fire danger.
From Recreation.gov
Visitors with a Pawnee Campground reservation do not need to purchase a timed ticket to enter, but must show proof of their campground reservation. Parking limited to Pawnee Campground for the duration of the reservation. A separate timed ticket is required to park at other lots in the fee area (including trailheads).
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.
About
Pawnee Campground is a high-elevation destination in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, located 35 miles south of Estes Park along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. At 10,350 feet, the campground occupies a scenic spruce-fir forest at the base of the Continental Divide, directly adjacent to 25-acre Brainard Lake and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. The campground offers 47 sites spread across the Elk and Moose loops, including 39 standard nonelectric sites and 8 walk-in tent-only sites. Each site includes a picnic table, fire grate, and bear locker. Vault toilets, potable water via hand pump, and trash service are provided. No hookups, dump stations, or showers are available. Sites accommodate up to 8 people, except units 12 and 32 which hold 15. Brainard Lake offers excellent canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Numerous hiking trails provide access to the Indian Peaks Wilderness, with options for rock climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing depending on conditions. Dogs must remain on a hand-held leash during the summer season. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms and cold, wet weather at any time.
Directions
From Colorado Highway 72 at Ward, turn west onto Brainard Lake Road. Travel 2.5 miles to the entrance portal, then continue another 2 miles to Pawnee Campground on the east side of Brainard Lake.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $29 - $58 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 48ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (303) 541-2500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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