Rainbow Lakes Campground
Currently closed for the season. Rainbow Lakes Road is anticipated to open June 1, 2026. The campground operates June 12 through September 13, 2026. No reservations accepted; all sites are first-come, first-served.
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
Rainbow Lakes Campground is a rustic high-elevation campground at 10,000 feet in the Boulder Ranger District of Roosevelt National Forest. Located at the end of Rainbow Lakes Road and adjacent to Indian Peaks Wilderness, it provides excellent access to alpine terrain and the Rainbow Lakes Trail system. The campground has 18 first-come, first-served sites. Fourteen sites feature 14x16 foot tent pads with bear lockers and can accommodate tents or small trailers. Sites 15-18 are walk-in tent-only sites. Site 8 is oversized and accommodates groups up to 15 people. Standard sites have an 8-person maximum. Each site has a picnic table and fire grate. Vault toilets and trash service are provided. This is a primitive campground with no potable water, electricity, hookups, dump station, or showers. Campers must bring their own water. Access requires a 5-mile drive on native-surface Forest Road 298; high clearance vehicles are recommended. The campground typically fills by Friday morning on weekends during the season, so arrive early. There is a 14-day stay limit.
Directions
From Nederland, head north on Colorado Highway 72 for approximately 7 miles. Look for the University of Colorado Mountain Research Station sign and turn west onto National Forest System Road 298. This route is gated during winter. The road is a 5-mile native-surfaced road; high clearance vehicle recommended.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| 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 | $22 - $44 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (970) 295-6600 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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