The best campgrounds near Poncha Springs, Colorado with campfires

If you're looking to go camping near Poncha Springs, Colorado, Hipcamp has over 180 available options tailored to your accommodation and activity preferences. With campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), you can be confident in your choice. Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, showers, and campfires, while engaging in activities such as horseback riding, surfing, and whitewater paddling. The average price per night is $50, with options as low as $10. Happy camping!

96% (2.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking to go camping near Poncha Springs, Colorado, Hipcamp has over 180 available options tailored to your accommodation and activity preferences. With campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), you can be confident in your choice. Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, showers, and campfires, while engaging in activities such as horseback riding, surfing, and whitewater paddling. The average price per night is $50, with options as low as $10. Happy camping!

96% (2.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. A-Lodge Salida

83%

(3)

5.7mi from Poncha Springs · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salida, CO

Cabins. RV. Camping From cozy riverside cabins to full-hookup RV spots and peaceful creekside tent sites, A-Lodge Salida offers a variety of stays for every kind of adventurer. Whether you’re looking for comfort or a more primitive experience under the stars, our property gives you direct access to nature without sacrificing location—just minutes from historic downtown Salida.

2. Tomichi Creek Trading Post

100%

(2)

20mi from Poncha Springs · 45 sites · RVs, Lodging · Garfield, CO

Make the Most of Your Next Outdoor Adventure Whether you're looking for an action-packed week of outdoor adventures, or a relaxing weekend away where you can breathe clear mountain air and observe beautiful wildlife, Tomichi Creek Trading Post is the place you want to be. We are located in one of the most scenic areas of Colorado and the year-round list of things to do is limitless. If you're new to the area, we'll be happy to answer your questions and offer our recommendations for activities during your stay. Our property is ride-in, ride-out to hundreds of miles of off-road trails, so you can unload at your site, and get out into the wild right away. And when you're at your site, you'll have just about everything you need close at hand. Gas and fuel, a well stocked store with gifts and souvenirs, a restaurant and bar, and even an EV charging station. We'll take great care of you!

3. Creekside Chalets

98%

(109)

6.4mi from Poncha Springs · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

4. San Isabel National Forest

91%

(77)

912 sites · Smeltertown, Colorado

Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

89%

(14)

94 sites · Salida, Colorado

Camping comes with a dose of adrenaline and a side of adventure along the Arkansas River.

Pets

Toilets

6. Bonita Flats

100%

(1)

27mi from Poncha Springs · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Moffat, CO

Situated in the northern part of the San Luis Valley, this 1.2-acre property is nestled between the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan Mountains. Just 2 miles from Joyful Journey Hot Springs and 10 miles from Valley View Hot Springs, this slice of picturesque high-desert landscape is ready for your next stay!

7. Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

100%

(179)

33mi from Poncha Springs · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Moffat, CO

Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST. No fireworks are permitted at any time.

8. DeD Tick Ranch

95%

(102)

32mi from Poncha Springs · 6 sites · RVs · Johnson Village, CO

Unbelievable mountain views in an area of open range. This property is in open range, but far from the traffic or other disturbances, it is within a short distance from Antero, Spinney and 11 Mile reservoirs, as well as National Forests. This is the actual area of Colorado that the "South Park" animated series is based off of...

9. Wonderlust Off-Grid Camper

94%

(25)

42mi from Poncha Springs · 3 sites · Lodging · Fairplay, CO

This fun and romantic place to stay offers a history all its own. Located in the heart of Colorado, WonderLust is a perfect getaway, fun family weekend stay, group camping trip on property camp site, photo shoot location and more. Enjoy the surrounding areas hiking, fishing, local restaurants, shops and more. This location is off grid. Solar power is available, outdoor fire pit, small kitchenette inside with a composting toilet. Up to 3 Pets are welcomed.

10. Rio Grande National Forest

85%

(27)

691 sites · Alpine, Colorado

Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

11. Gunnison National Forest

96%

(37)

423 sites · Crested Butte, Colorado

Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

12. Grand Mesa National Forest

87%

(23)

316 sites · Cedaredge, Colorado

Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

13. Pike National Forest

84%

(66)

904 sites · Westcreek, Colorado

A surprisingly diverse landscape sprawled throughout a huge national forest.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

14. Twin Bridges Campground

93%

(99)

20mi from Poncha Springs · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Coaldale, CO

Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 20 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) along the Arkansas River (Gold Medal fishing) with access for all campers for fishing and floating. Many of our sites are great for star-gazing, watching meteors, looking for fireflies, and seeing the birds zip on by. We are conveniently located on Hwy 50, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and have all sorts of rental options for your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you want to pitch a tent, try out the glamping experience, enjoy the convenience of an RV, or rent one of our fully equipped RVs, we have the perfect spot for you. We have four entrances marked by sail flags into the campground, two by the lake, one near the bathhouse, and one by the post office (on our property). The map of the Arkansas River has our campground listed! Adventure awaits with home to the highest mountain peaks in Colorado and the river and 102 miles of Trout Gold Medal Water. There is access to white water rafting, guided fishing, and fishing lessons. There are at least 5 hot springs within 60 miles of Twin Bridges Campground. Salida is considered the white-water rafting capitol of the US by some and has a whitewater park and surfing wave. Salida area is also home to a ton of hiking (14'ers anyone?) and mountain biking trails. The Royal Gorge is a quick 30 minute drive with restaurants and other fun near Canon City. The Sand Dunes are 90 minutes and Monarch Ski Area is 45, we have some of the best bird watching! Warbling Vireo, Western Wood-peewee, Cassin's Kingbird to name a few.

15. GlampingColorado.com

100%

(17)

41mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Guffey, CO

At Glamping Colorado, we are passionate about the outdoors and helping people connect with nature. Luxury camping with all the amenities of home, enjoying the great outdoors has never been so pleasurable! Our Campsite is a single private site on 1.5 acres surrounded by hundreds of acres of open range. Experience open mountain ranges with an abundant of wildlife! Featuring a spacious Yurt rental with Solar powered electricity, running water, flush toilet and hot shower. Queen size memory foam mattress and pillows, linen and throw blankets, fold out cots for the kiddos are available (no bedding supplied), a portable heater for warmth. Complimentary coffee and tea bar. Outdoor kitchen is fully equipped with cookware, sink, paper plates, and utensils. Enjoy a game of Horseshoes, giant Jenga or just relax and watch a movie on supplied DVD player. This is luxury camping at it's finest!

16. Four Seasons RV Park

93%

(36)

5.7mi from Poncha Springs · 68 sites · RVs · Salida, CO

We are excited to be your beautiful basecamp for countless outdoor activities or a peaceful pad to simply unwind and relax next to our rambling river. Four Seasons is located just a mile outside the vibrant Mountain Town of Salida, and inside the historic Area of Cleora. The settlement started as a stagecoach stop on the Barlow Sanderson Stagecoach line. Explore natural landmarks, hiking trails and a range of activities for the whole family.

17. Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

95%

(55)

48mi from Poncha Springs · 5 sites · Lodging · Center, CO

Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest. The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, an incinerator toilet, and a covered porch. Incinerating toilets are self-contained waste management systems that burn human waste instead of flushing it into a sewer or septic system. These toilets use propane gas to incinerate waste at high temperatures, reducing it to a small amount of sterile ash. Incinerating toilets are commonly used in locations where traditional plumbing is impractical, such as remote cabins and environmentally sensitive areas. They are valued for their efficiency, minimal environmental impact, and the elimination of the need for water or chemical treatments. There is odor associated with the incineration process. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551)(inoperable as of 7/11/2024- BLM working to fix it). Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood. As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp! Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area. Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.

18. Open 40 Acres Near The Dream Stream

97%

(19)

43mi from Poncha Springs · 80 sites · Tents, RVs · Lake George, CO

40 acre property overlooking 11-mile reservoir. This property currently has a well drilled and a fire pit installed. More being added regularly. Wildlife in the area are Antelope, Cattle, Elk, Deer, and a large herd of Big Horn Sheep live in the hills to the north of the property. Surrounded by Stoll Mountain, Pulver Mountain, and Puma ridge this is a great open location for RV, Bus, Sprinter, Van, or Tent camping. This area is a 10 minute drive to multiple reservoirs and the Dream Stream which is some of the best fishing in Colorado. Boats, rafts, etc are allowed on different reservoirs. Hiking, ATV trails, fossils, gems, rafting, skiing are all very close to this location. Come enjoy the great outdoors!

19. Mountain Views

97%

(33)

40mi from Poncha Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hartsel, CO

This cozy campsite sits just off Highway 24 and only a few minutes from the charming town of Hartsel. You will enjoy wide open mountain views and sunsets that will stay with you long after your visit. Whether you love fishing, hiking, or gravel biking, this spot is a perfect base for your adventure. Fairplay is only twenty minutes away and Colorado Springs is just over an hour, making this a convenient and peaceful escape. Before your trip, be sure to check the fire ban status in Park County since the winds can pick up at times. The property is open meadowland with no trees for shade during the day, so plan accordingly. The driveway is dirt but easy to access, and even small cars make it in just fine. Review the property layout image before you arrive so you know exactly where to go and what to look out for. If you are car or tent camping, bring warm clothes for the cool evenings, a comfortable spot to sleep, and of course some bug spray. Most importantly, relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of the land and the night sky. While the guideline mentions one car per site, you are welcome to bring friends. With a small additional fee, you can have up to two cars and four people per site so you can share the experience together. Take a moment to look over the access and campsite image before your arrival, and keep in mind that GPS will drop a pin in the middle of the property. We look forward to hosting you and hope your time here is filled with peace, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

20. High Peaks Campground

97%

(774)

37mi from Poncha Springs · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the largest Alpine Valley in the world! San Luis Valley is a region in south-central Colorado with a small portion overlapping into New Mexico. The valley is approximately 122 miles long and 74 miles wide, making it the largest alpine valley in the world. It extends from the Continental Divide on the northwest rim into New Mexico on the south. This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. I encourage binoculars or even a telescope to view wildlife and check out the Rockies and then the night sky views! Looking to submerse yourself in nature? The Sangre de Cristo Range in Colorado contains the following 14ers: Blanca Peak, Challenger Point, Crestone Needle, Crestone Peak, Culebra Peak, Ellingwood Point, Humboldt Peak, Kit Carson Peak, Mount Lindsey, and Little Bear Peak. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, even Meteor showers!!! History: this land was originally part of a large cattle ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by BLM land, BACA land, and Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Be sure to bring extra bug spray and protection needed against biting insects such as flies, gnats, and mosquitoes. For those bringing your pets, they MUST be on a leash/lead at all times. While I do not have much cactus on my property, I do have an abundance of greasewood (Chico brush) which is very thorn-like if stepped on. Accommodations for those with livestock or horses, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Camper favorites near Poncha Springs

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mountain Views

97%

(33)

40mi from Poncha Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hartsel, CO

This cozy campsite sits just off Highway 24 and only a few minutes from the charming town of Hartsel. You will enjoy wide open mountain views and sunsets that will stay with you long after your visit. Whether you love fishing, hiking, or gravel biking, this spot is a perfect base for your adventure. Fairplay is only twenty minutes away and Colorado Springs is just over an hour, making this a convenient and peaceful escape. Before your trip, be sure to check the fire ban status in Park County since the winds can pick up at times. The property is open meadowland with no trees for shade during the day, so plan accordingly. The driveway is dirt but easy to access, and even small cars make it in just fine. Review the property layout image before you arrive so you know exactly where to go and what to look out for. If you are car or tent camping, bring warm clothes for the cool evenings, a comfortable spot to sleep, and of course some bug spray. Most importantly, relax and enjoy the quiet beauty of the land and the night sky. While the guideline mentions one car per site, you are welcome to bring friends. With a small additional fee, you can have up to two cars and four people per site so you can share the experience together. Take a moment to look over the access and campsite image before your arrival, and keep in mind that GPS will drop a pin in the middle of the property. We look forward to hosting you and hope your time here is filled with peace, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

High Peaks Campground

97%

(774)

37mi from Poncha Springs · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Moffat, CO

Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the largest Alpine Valley in the world! San Luis Valley is a region in south-central Colorado with a small portion overlapping into New Mexico. The valley is approximately 122 miles long and 74 miles wide, making it the largest alpine valley in the world. It extends from the Continental Divide on the northwest rim into New Mexico on the south. This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. I encourage binoculars or even a telescope to view wildlife and check out the Rockies and then the night sky views! Looking to submerse yourself in nature? The Sangre de Cristo Range in Colorado contains the following 14ers: Blanca Peak, Challenger Point, Crestone Needle, Crestone Peak, Culebra Peak, Ellingwood Point, Humboldt Peak, Kit Carson Peak, Mount Lindsey, and Little Bear Peak. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, even Meteor showers!!! History: this land was originally part of a large cattle ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by BLM land, BACA land, and Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Be sure to bring extra bug spray and protection needed against biting insects such as flies, gnats, and mosquitoes. For those bringing your pets, they MUST be on a leash/lead at all times. While I do not have much cactus on my property, I do have an abundance of greasewood (Chico brush) which is very thorn-like if stepped on. Accommodations for those with livestock or horses, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!

Observatory At South Park

100%

(68)

45mi from Poncha Springs · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Fairplay, CO

Observatory At South Park! THE UNIVERSE AWAITS With an incredable Night Sky, The Observatory at South Park is located on 5.37 acres in Harstel Colorado. According to web site Darksitefinder.com, The Observatory at South Park location is rated Dark Blue! That's the 3rd darkest on their scale with Gray & Black skies to the South & West. Telescope Our main Telescope this year is a custom built well-crafted 13-inch Dobsonian telescope. This scope created by Robert Teeter of Teeters Telescopes has a 13in primary mirror. Stay Up with us! See Planets, Moons, Rings, Star Clusters, Nebulas, Galaxies and more! Outdoor recreation is the maindraw to the area, The pristine South Platt River flows thru Hartsel/South Park offering great trout fishing year round. The South Platt fills 3 awesome Reservoirs, Antero, Spinney, and Eleven Mile State Park with boating, fishing, hiking, biking, swimming. Hunting is also popular on Federal lands and stat wildlife areas.

Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

100%

(133)

8.2mi from Poncha Springs · 52 sites · Tents, RVs · Salida, CO

Nestled in a small valley in the San Isabel National Forest along the south fork of the Arkansas River, Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground is at 8,620 feet above sea level – literally in the Heart of the Rockies. We offer free Wi-Fi access, clean laundry and shower facilities, and a camp store with last-minute supplies and snacks. Our RV guests can enjoy 60-foot+, pull-thru sites with full hook-ups, including 20, 30 and 50 amps of power. We also have tent campsites with the south fork of the Arkansas river close by.

Thousand Peaks Ranch

100%

(12)

38mi from Poncha Springs · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Fairplay, CO

Salida RV Resort

100%

(14)

5.4mi from Poncha Springs · 76 sites · RVs · Salida, CO

Salida RV Resort is a brand new luxury RV park in Colorado with over 1,600 feet of Arkansas riverfrontage and is surrounded by the beautiful Collegiate Peak mountains. Book your spacious RV Site and be just 2.5 miles to shops and dining in Salida’s lovely and hip historic downtown district. With year-round full hookup RV Sites, Salida has four seasons of outdoor adventure awaiting you! Perfect for year-round guests, we offer access to all of the wonderful river activities, including our private river access ramp for non-motorized rafts and floats. Visitors can explore wonderful mountain biking and hiking trails for all skill levels in the nearby Sawatch Range, or participate in the town of Salida’s many great summer festivities! In the winter, Monarch Ski Resort is just 23 miles away. Don’t forget to take a dip in one of the local hot springs while you’re here any time of year! Salida’s mild year-round climate caused by the “banana belt” is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets!

Heart of Colorado Campsite

100%

(6)

31mi from Poncha Springs · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hartsel, CO

South Park, in Park County,, Colorado. Prepare to be mesmerized by the 'Heart of Colorado,' where this campsite awaits. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, it's a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Immerse yourself in the refreshing scent of the valley, thriving in the semi-arid climate. Be awed by the dramatic sunrise and sunset, with the silhouette of grazing cattle in the distance. Park County is a renowned destination for fishing and hiking, and within a 50-mile radius, you'll find over five majestic 14ers, each one a conquest waiting to be achieved. And if that's not enough, the area is home to numerous reservoirs and lakes, all starting within a 30-minute drive. We kindly ask that you adhere to Leave No Trace principles during your visit.

New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

100%

(56)

35mi from Poncha Springs · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Saguache, CO

New Sky’s bones are those of an old settler’s homestead in the San Luis Valley that dates back to the early 1900’s. Nestled up against the Rio Grande National Forest, it is a high mountain desert oasis that holds the original dance hall of the county and a whole lot of history. New Sky Ranch is a wild, wild place. We are not only off grid, but also nestled in a large natural caldera (meaning a volcano that has collapsed on itself) and are right next to national forest. This means that we can experience all 4 seasons in a single day - having extreme winds and rain in one moment, and clear summer skies the next! We invite you to not only be prepared for this, but to lean into the experience as this unique high alpine environment can be one of the most inspiring and epic places on earth. We are currently fixing up what is already on the property for an eco-experiential retreat as well as a space for like minded artists to take refuge and create magic on the land. We currently have our workshop and studio space up and running as well as the first of several livable structures completed - an 100 year old rehabbed miners cabin using Hempcrete and other natural materials, complete with a communal outdoor kitchen. We also have begun hosting our first artist/maker residents who are using the shop space and land to bring their own creations to life. Over time, we have dreams of permaculture farming, eco building workshops, community collaboration, and the ability to host gatherings – however, we are committed to taking it all one step at a time and allowing only what is meant to be to unfold. For now it is simply our home, a maker space for art and experimental eco building, a gathering spot for friends and a quiet Hipcamp spot.

Public campgrounds near Poncha Springs

100%

(4)

O'Haver Lake Campground

7.4mi from Poncha Springs · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

Angel of Shavano Group Campground

9.1mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · in San Isabel National Forest

A waterfall, just a little bit up the road from Angel of Shavano Campground!

100%

(3)

Angel of Shavano Campground

9.2mi from Poncha Springs · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

83%

(3)

Hecla Junction

9.2mi from Poncha Springs · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Rincon

12mi from Poncha Springs · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Monarch Park Campground

14mi from Poncha Springs · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

100%

(1)

North Fork Campground

15mi from Poncha Springs · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

100%

(1)

Bootleg Campground

15mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · in San Isabel National Forest

100%

(4)

Mount Princeton Campground

16mi from Poncha Springs · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

100%

(3)

Chalk Lake Campground

16mi from Poncha Springs · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

Ruby Mountain & the Brown Canyon National Monument

100%

(5)

Ruby Mountain

16mi from Poncha Springs · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Cascade Campground

16mi from Poncha Springs · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Isabel National Forest

Stories from the community

A.

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to A-Lodge Salida

We had a great experience staying at the A Lodge tent site. The spot felt peaceful, secluded, and safe, especially with a few permanent camper trailers on the property. The location is fantastic, only about 15 minutes from Salida Colorado, making it super convenient for exploring local activities. The amenities building (bathrooms, hot showers, and laundry) was a bit of a walk from our spot, especially on snowy nights or rainy days, so we ended up driving there most of the time. The bathrooms were basic but impressively clean, and the hot showers were a huge plus after a long day out. The host was super nice, he answered the phone immediately when we needed help and was extremely helpful and attentive. Overall, a comfortable and enjoyable stay. We’d definitely consider coming back!

e

erica

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

Great tiny cabin with amazing views of the night sky and distant city lights

M

Matthew

3 weeks ago

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

A perfect place for start gazing and well maintained. Paul was very responsive and everything went smoothly. Hope to return in the future!

Z

Zachary

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

The campsite was perfect for our one night stay near Crestone. Our host was super easy to communicate with and even made some really helpful local suggestions in the area to visit. I would definitely recommend booking here. I look forward to another trip in the spring.

Val

November 2025

Weekend Trip to A-Lodge Salida

super clean & cozy, perfect for a weekend trip to salida!

A

Ashley

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS PLACE! Honestly, I will be back - many times. Beautiful views, extremely communicative host, and all around great property and stay. Home was comfortable, clean and truly one of a kind.

Kansas

October 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

Very clean well maintained campground. It's very near hiway but the creek is strong and loud enough to drown out any traffic. There is only a porta potty available if you are tent or RV camping. But it's clean and maintained. Very nice propane fire pit that is very warm and no need to wood are worth the fee.

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Taylor

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

Great host, made everything easily available. Anything you needed Paul was there for you. Site 4 was great and easy to get to. Only like 50 minutes from the Dunes. Will be coming back!

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Brian

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Open 40 Acres Near The Dream Stream

Awesome spot. Host was amazing and was quick to answer all our questions. 10/10 would recommend!

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Laura

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Four Seasons RV Park

Whether you’re staying for a night or a month, this place is simply lovely. Waking up to the sounds of the Arkansas River was magical and the amenities were great. The owners were equally as great and so friendly!! We’ll definitely be back!

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Ffion

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

all of the comments are true! paul is incredibly knowledgeable and kind. the bathroom is great & so is the campsite. so peaceful with a wonderful view of the stars!!

Emily

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

The RV was perfect and had everything we needed. The landscape and night sky were absolutely breathtaking. Would absolutely love to visit again and recommend staying here!!

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Dylan

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Open 40 Acres Near The Dream Stream

Tons of wildlife! Saw plenty of pronghorn, deer, eagles, and a massive heard of bighorn sheep. It’s a very open area which means the view is great, but it can get extremely windy in the afternoon.

Mary

October 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Creekside Chalets

Our camping space amongst the beautiful aspen trees and the creek made our adventure all the more enjoyable. Hiking trails were close by too.

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Stephanie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

We loved it! Grateful there was a pour-over coffee set up because we forgot our french press!

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Kyler

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to High Peaks Campground

We had a great time staying out here this past weekend. It was very windy and rainy, but that is to be expected. The property is very calming and open, which is great for the astrophotography we were able to take. Clouds made it difficult, but that isn't Christine's fault! The water from the pump is very rusty, and we opted not to drink/use it. However, there is a Dollar General 6 miles up the road, so it was no big deal! Would definitely recommend staying here.

Amanda

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

This is in an open space with mountains behind you and fields in front. Such a peaceful space with a sky full of stars. Plus, just a 30 min walk away is this wonderful historic church. The walk was easy and beautiful. Visiting that church was a nice spiritual experience. We settled into our space nicely and slept comfortably. Very Cool Space!

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Chester

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Open 40 Acres Near The Dream Stream

Exactly as advertised, and all I needed. Land for the night.

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Alexis

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Had the BEST time tent camping here over the weekend! The staff onsite was friendly and helpful. The sites and bathrooms were clean and well managed. I was shocked to see there was laundry on site as well which was so nice to have after coming back from the hot springs. Definitely recommend 10/10 will stay again.

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Roman

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

Magnificent place with incredible views, privacy and a lot of tranquility, the boys enjoyed all the outdoor activities offered and fishing in the lake was the icing on the cake