Spirit Lake

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground operates seasonally from June through September. Winter access is not available due to snow.

About

Spirit Lake Campground offers a peaceful and scenic retreat at an elevation of approximately 10,170 feet in the Ashley National Forest. Surrounded by towering conifer trees, the campground provides a rustic and natural camping experience beside the picturesque Spirit Lake. The campground features vault toilets but does not provide water or garbage services, so visitors must come prepared with their own water and pack out all trash. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis as reservations are not accepted. Spirit Lake is a popular destination during the summer months, attracting visitors for fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The lake offers excellent opportunities to catch trout, and the surrounding trails invite exploration and adventure. Kayaks, paddle boards, pedal boats, and row boats are available for rent at the nearby Spirit Lake Lodge. At this high elevation, weather can change rapidly with sudden drops in temperature, strong winds, and the potential for snow or rain even during summer months. Campers are advised to bring appropriate gear including layered clothing and waterproof equipment. Roads and camp spurs are dirt and gravel.

Directions

Take Highway 414, turn right (south) at the McKinnon Junction up through Sols Canyon, Forest Road 221. Turn right on Forest Road 001; turn right and follow the dirt road to the campground. Alternatively, take Highway 191, which turns into Highway 44. Shortly past the Dowd Mountain overlook, turn left onto Forest Road 218. Turn onto Forest Road 221 heading west, until you reach Forest Road 001; turn left and follow the dirt road to the campground. Roads and camp spurs are dirt and gravel.

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