Camping at Monarch Park Campground

Overview of Monarch Park Campground

Monarch Park Campground is nestled in the Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (PSICC), which span over three million acres of public land in Colorado. The campground is located near the town of Salida and lies at an elevation of 10,500 feet, offering cool relief from the summer heat.

Camping and Facilities

Campground Features:

• The campground is typically open from June through September, depending on weather conditions.
• It offers single-family campsites, with a few sites large enough for RVs. Bear in mind, hookups are not available here.
• Each site has a picnic table, fire ring or grill, and access to vault toilets.
• Drinking water is available within the campground.
• There are no electrical hookups, showers, or dump stations provided.
• Most sites are shaded, and the area is known for beautiful aspen and fir trees.

Activities

Recreational Opportunities:

• Monarch Park Campground is famous for hiking and fishing.
• Nearby trails, such as the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, offer scenic views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• For fishing enthusiasts, the South Fork of the Arkansas River is close by and features excellent trout fishing.
• The campground is also a short drive from Monarch Mountain, which has outdoor activities throughout the year, including skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

Booking and Usage

Reservations and Guidelines:

• Campsites can be reserved in advance which is highly recommended due to the popularity of the campground, especially during peak summer months.
• Visitors should practice "Leave No Trace" principles to protect the natural environment.
• Be aware that there are bear safety concerns, so proper storage of food and trash is imperative.
• Pets are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Access and Local Services

Getting There:

• Monarch Park Campground is accessible via the Hwy 50, which is the primary route running through this part of Colorado.
• The nearest services are found in Salida, which offers grocery stores, restaurants, and other emergency services.

Weather and Safety

Climate and Precautions:

• Weather at high elevations can be unpredictable. Nighttime temperatures can be cold, even in summer.
• Prepare for altitude sickness if you are not accustomed to high elevations.
• It is advisable to carry a map, compass, and GPS, as cell service can be unreliable in remote locations.
• Always check the local weather forecast, fire restrictions, and regulations before visiting.

Address: The specific address or GPS coordinates can be used to navigate to the campground. Always double-check with the latest maps or contact local ranger districts for precise directions.

Contact Information

Forest Supervisor's Office:

• For any inquiries regarding the campground and current conditions, you can contact the PSICC Forest Supervisor's Office.

Local Ranger District:

• For information specific to Monarch Park Campground, reach out to the Salida Ranger District which is responsible for this area within PSICC.

Before planning a trip to Monarch Park Campground, it is vital to check the latest information from the Forest Service website or contact the local ranger district office for the most current details and any alerts or changes that may impact your visit.