Purgatoire Campground

About

Purgatoire Campground is nestled near the headwaters of the Purgatoire River in the Culebra Range of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains within Pike-San Isabel National Forest. At 9,800 feet elevation, the campground occupies an aspen and spruce forest with two distinct loops: one in a large grassy meadow designed to accommodate equestrian campers, and another wooded loop. Originally named Potato Patch Campground, it was constructed by the Youth Conservation Corps in 1976. The campground offers 20 sites total, including 13 standard sites, 6 equestrian sites, and 1 RV-designated site. Each site features a fire ring, pedestal grill, and picnic table. Potable water is available via hand pump, and three vault toilets serve the campground, two of which are ADA accessible. There are no hookups or showers. The North Fork Trail #1309 trailhead is located at the north end of the campground, offering a 5-mile non-motorized trail for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders with mountain vistas and forested terrain. The river provides opportunities for trout fishing. Bears are common in the area, so all attractants must be stored in bear-resistant containers or hard-sided vehicles.

Directions

From La Veta, Colorado, drive south on State Highway 12 for approximately 25 miles to County Road 34. Turn right onto CR 34 and follow the rough gravel road for 4 miles to the campground.