Deer Lakes
Deer Lakes Campground and Day Use Area
Deer Lakes Area Reopens After Major Renovations
We’re excited to announce that Deer Lakes has officially reopened after being closed since September 2023 for extensive renovations. The beloved recreation area, situated at a breathtaking 10,500 feet elevation near Lake City, has undergone significant improvements to enhance the visitor experience.
What’s New at Deer Lakes
The modernized facility now features:
- Brand new restrooms
- Updated picnic tables
- Improved fire rings
- Enhanced roads and walkways
- New informational kiosks for better navigation
- Accessibility improvements throughout the campground
These upgrades maintain the natural beauty of the area while providing more comfortable amenities for all visitors.
Perfect Base Camp for Adventure
Deer Lakes Campground continues to serve as a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Its strategic location offers excellent access to both Lake City, La Garita, and Powderhorn Wilderness Areas, making it ideal for:
- Fishing enthusiasts looking to cast a line in pristine alpine waters
- Hikers and backpackers exploring the surrounding wilderness trails
- Wildlife photographers wanting to capture the diverse mountain ecosystem and local wildlife
- Families seeking a mountain getaway
Whether you’re planning a quick few-hour visit, a half-day excursion, or setting up a base camp for extended adventures, Deer Lakes provides the perfect starting point for your mountain exploration.
Important Road Access Information
Please note that NFS 788 road is currently closed. According to our recreation staff and engineer team, the road will remain closed until May 28th, unless conditions improve enough to warrant an earlier opening.
Deer Lakes Campground will be fully open and operational to the public this season. The concessionaire is anticipating opening the campground by May 23rd if road conditions allow.
We appreciate your patience as mountain roads thaw out and dry up for the season. For the most current road status updates, please check our website or contact our visitor center.
Planning Your Visit
With summer approaching, now is the perfect time to add Deer Lakes to your outdoor itinerary. The campground’s improvements ensure a more enjoyable experience while maintaining the rugged mountain charm that makes this area so special.
Open Seasonally: June-September | Number of Units: 12 | Rates: $18
This campground is located near Deer Lakes and provides fishing access to them. Most visitors to this campground come for great fishing in a beautiful location. Hikers, backpackers, and equestrians will enjoy the trails of the La Garita and Powderhorn Wilderness Areas located southeast and northeast (respectively) of this site. This high elevation landscape is mostly aspen trees. 12 campsites. Directions: Drive 9 miles southeast on State Highway 149 to Forest Road 768. Turn left on FDR 768 drive 3 miles on Forest Road 788 to Forest Road 458. Turn left on FDR 458 and drive 2 miles.
See More Camping Options in Lake City / Hinsdale County
