Camp at Mt. Elbert Forebay Reservoir

At the base of Mt. Elbert there are three campgrounds. One is a National Forest campground - you have to pay for a spot and it is closed from October-May. The other two are first-come, first-serve free campground areas. As you drive past the south trailhead, right before the reservoir, there is a very large space with multiple campsites.

We were here the first weekend in October and there were only two other campsites set up, but in the summer it can get fairly crowded. Dispersed camping is a blessing when it works, but make sure you have a backup plan in case the campground is full.

While Twin Lakes and the Reservoir are both nearby, there is no water source directly at the campsite. Make sure you bring enough or stop on your way in to get some. Additionally, be aware of the fire ratings while you are there. There is enough cell service at the campsite to search the local fire department's website. If it is a clear night, the space is perfect for night-time star photography!

The roads leading to the campsite are not too bad, but four-wheel drive would be recommended if you are trying to reach the upper trailhead or some of the campsites further away from the road.

Coordinates for the campground: 39.103223, -106.367269