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Recreation Region: Boulder Ranger District

Rainbow Lakes Campground

This campground is at the end of the Rainbow Lakes Road and adjacent to the Indian Peaks Wilderness. There are 18 first-come, first-served campsites that accommodate tents (on 14x16 foot tent pads) and small trailers. Campsite 8 is oversized and accommodates up to 15 people. Campsites 15 - 18 are walk in sites for tents. Picnic tables, fire grates, vault toilets and trash services are provided at each campsite. This campground does not feature drinking water, electricity, hook-ups, dump stations, or showers. All campsites with a tent pad have a bear locker.

Reservations

This campground is first come, first served. 

General Information

A maximum of eight people are allowed per site. RVs, trailers or other vehicles must fit on the parking spur. Fishing is regulated by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age and Golden Access passes provide cardholders a 50% discount on campground fees (this discount only applies to single campsites).

View fee information at Current Conditions under Campground Status.

Dogs must be on a hand-held leash.

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 40.01028

Longitude: -105.56954

Elevation

10,000’

Directions

From Nederland, head north on Colorado Highway 72 for approximately seven miles. Look for the University of Colorado Mountain Research Station sign and turn west onto National Forest System Road 298. This route is gated during the winter. This road is a five-mile, native-surfaced road. A high clearance vehicle is recommended.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are available at this site.

Last updated April 3rd, 2025