Public Campground
4 dispersed campsites
Fort Collins, Colorado
Campground in Colorado.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About SOUTHSIDE CAMPGROUND - LAKE ISABEL
Federal campground in Colorado.
Southside Campground at Lake Isabel offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Colorado's scenic landscape, making it an ideal destination for RV travelers seeking a genuine connection with nature. Located in southern Colorado, this public campground provides access to the beautiful Lake Isabel, a serene alpine setting where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and water-based recreation throughout the warmer months.
The campground's location in the Pike National Forest region creates a stunning backdrop of pine-covered mountains and pristine forest scenery. This elevation provides cooler temperatures and fresh mountain air, making it perfect for those looking to escape summer heat. The lake itself is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities to catch trout and other freshwater fish, while the calm waters are ideal for paddling and small boat operations. Many guests appreciate the quiet, natural setting that allows them to truly unwind and disconnect from their daily routines.
The surrounding area offers excellent hiking and nature exploration opportunities. Trails of varying difficulty levels wind through the nearby forests, providing scenic walks and more challenging backcountry adventures for those interested. Wildlife viewing is common in this region, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, and various bird species throughout the year. The mountain scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering spectacular spring wildflowers, summer greenery, and fall foliage displays.
Southside Campground is well-suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy traditional camping experiences. It appeals to anglers seeking quality fishing in a natural setting, as well as outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Colorado's mountain terrain. The public campground designation means reasonable rates and accessible camping for all visitors. Those traveling with RVs will find this location offers a genuine outdoor experience without excessive development or commercialization, allowing guests to focus on the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Colorado's lakes and forests so special. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or an extended stay, Lake Isabel provides the kind of peaceful mountain getaway that renews the spirit.
The campground's location in the Pike National Forest region creates a stunning backdrop of pine-covered mountains and pristine forest scenery. This elevation provides cooler temperatures and fresh mountain air, making it perfect for those looking to escape summer heat. The lake itself is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities to catch trout and other freshwater fish, while the calm waters are ideal for paddling and small boat operations. Many guests appreciate the quiet, natural setting that allows them to truly unwind and disconnect from their daily routines.
The surrounding area offers excellent hiking and nature exploration opportunities. Trails of varying difficulty levels wind through the nearby forests, providing scenic walks and more challenging backcountry adventures for those interested. Wildlife viewing is common in this region, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, and various bird species throughout the year. The mountain scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering spectacular spring wildflowers, summer greenery, and fall foliage displays.
Southside Campground is well-suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy traditional camping experiences. It appeals to anglers seeking quality fishing in a natural setting, as well as outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Colorado's mountain terrain. The public campground designation means reasonable rates and accessible camping for all visitors. Those traveling with RVs will find this location offers a genuine outdoor experience without excessive development or commercialization, allowing guests to focus on the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Colorado's lakes and forests so special. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or an extended stay, Lake Isabel provides the kind of peaceful mountain getaway that renews the spirit.
3.8
Rating
29
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Beulah is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Colorado weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Beulah.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Beulah. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
SOUTHSIDE CAMPGROUND - LAKE ISABEL Reviews
Sign in to Review
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Kim Olgren
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Kim Olgren
A handful of sites right next to each other, but still beautiful, quiet, and a steep but short and easy downhill hike to San Isabel Lake. BBQ grills and fire pits at each site make campfire cooking a breeze. Friendly caretakers like Breck, check up on the area regularly and treat you like an old friend.
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Kim Olgren
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Kim Olgren
A handful of sites right next to each other, but still beautiful, quiet, and a steep but short and easy downhill hike to San Isabel Lake. BBQ grills and fire pits at each site make campfire cooking a breeze. Friendly caretakers like Breck, check up on the area regularly and treat you like an old friend.
G
Isaac Grano
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Isaac Grano
The area is beautiful. We visit multiple times during the year and have always loved the hosts. This year we were greeted with attitude and unwelcome remarks and treatment. We will be canceling our upcoming trip because I'm so embarrassed by the treatment my family was given. Which is a shame due to the great traditions we have made at Lake Isabelle. I guess "new management " is not concerned with... The area is beautiful. We visit multiple times during the year and have always loved the hosts. This year we were greeted with attitude and unwelcome remarks and treatment. We will be canceling our upcoming trip because I'm so embarrassed by the treatment my family was given. Which is a shame due to the great traditions we have made at Lake Isabelle. I guess "new management " is not concerned with treating people with courtesy and respect.
G
Isaac Grano
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Isaac Grano
The area is beautiful. We visit multiple times during the year and have always loved the hosts. This year we were greeted with attitude and unwelcome remarks and treatment. We will be canceling our upcoming trip because I'm so embarrassed by the treatment my family was given. Which is a shame due to the great traditions we have made at Lake Isabelle. I guess "new management " is not concerned with... The area is beautiful. We visit multiple times during the year and have always loved the hosts. This year we were greeted with attitude and unwelcome remarks and treatment. We will be canceling our upcoming trip because I'm so embarrassed by the treatment my family was given. Which is a shame due to the great traditions we have made at Lake Isabelle. I guess "new management " is not concerned with treating people with courtesy and respect.
G
Steven Bredemeyer
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Steven Bredemeyer
Beautiful. Quiet. But $22/night for a place to just park? Hey US Forestries- Considering you're receiving tax monies & lease monies from the Corp that leases this place... would you please limit the gouging? Especially considering the upkeep is being done by unpaid hosts.
G
Steven Bredemeyer
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Steven Bredemeyer
Beautiful. Quiet. But $22/night for a place to just park? Hey US Forestries- Considering you're receiving tax monies & lease monies from the Corp that leases this place... would you please limit the gouging? Especially considering the upkeep is being done by unpaid hosts.
G
Roman Roman
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Roman Roman
You can't park your car without a park pass. Then you pay for campsite on top of that! Then you can't collect firewood, you have to buy it from the park. I have never been to a "primitive" campsite where you have to buy wood. Drove 8 hrs to spend the week here. I don't know where the other posters stayed at but this site is dead, dry, and riddled with extra fees. Never again.
G
Roman Roman
Mar 18, 2026
1.0
Google Review by Roman Roman
You can't park your car without a park pass. Then you pay for campsite on top of that! Then you can't collect firewood, you have to buy it from the park. I have never been to a "primitive" campsite where you have to buy wood. Drove 8 hrs to spend the week here. I don't know where the other posters stayed at but this site is dead, dry, and riddled with extra fees. Never again.
G
Andrea R. Trujillo
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Andrea R. Trujillo
Great camp site for campers or rvs... Not alot of room for large tents. We had to put our large tent up in the parking area and park our car right in front of our tent. It worked out. Walking distance to the lake. The hosts are amazing!
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Andrea R. Trujillo
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Andrea R. Trujillo
Great camp site for campers or rvs... Not alot of room for large tents. We had to put our large tent up in the parking area and park our car right in front of our tent. It worked out. Walking distance to the lake. The hosts are amazing!
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