Ponderosa Campground

A true hidden gem — we had the pleasure of being the only overnight campers there during our entire weekday stay, though there were a few day trippers there fishing. No cell signal available, but that’s fine by us. Sites were clean and well maintained. Fire pits and picnic tables for each designated site. There are 2 bathrooms, very clean but both without running water. There are a few water pumps scattered around. Water was NOT running when we went (Jun 25’), probably due to the low water levels, but still annoying hence the 4 stars. For the price of the camp fee, there are plenty of other sites nearby that would probably offer water year round and more services, but we had a blast regardless. The privacy and views were more than worth the $16. For more information about our trip (and

This is a forest service campground with 29 sites. The fee is $16. There is no electric hookup. There are vault toilets and potable water from a tank filled by a solar pump. The campground is near a branch of the Blue Mesa reservoir, with the campground road leading to the boat ramp (closed for the season) and a beach. There are sites suitable for pull-ins, as well as walk-in tent sites. There are other campgrounds north along 721 and numerous dispersed camping sites (free!). It's a beautiful area, so I wish there had been more hiking opportunities. The trails we tried were poorly marked with really no signage. But there are other trails that seem more official (shown on the area maps) that we didn't have time to get to. Overall, a great place to camp on our road trip.

We stayed one night here in August 21'. The camp sites are clean well maintained. Not much shade to be had. Fire rings and picnic tables at the camp sites, as well as toilets and garbage/recycle cans within the area. The water level was super low, so water access was not possible, which was a bummer. Had we arrived earlier we probably would have sought out a different spot. For $16 there are much better sites available nearby. No cell service here (fine with us, but maybe not for everyone). If you go a mile past the ponderosa site there are free disbursed camp sites near the creek. The views here are incredible, and it was quiet. Several other sites were occupied, and sites are relatively close to one another. Not a bad time, but if you're camping at Blue Mesa reservoir there are better sp

Nice camp area. Sites range widely in stability for tents, particularly if you need a larger pad. The lower loop doesn't have as much shade as the upper loop, but neither are particularly shady. Short walk to the water. Water was low when we were there, so the bank was quite muddy. Bear bins, so use them. Bit of a drive out. 4wd not required, just a long well groomed gravel road. Remote feel without being too remote. Nice of you like more dispersed camping feel, with a walkable toilet. Sites are decently spaced.

Brenda camp host: most excellent assistance finding me a site for extended 3 days. Knowledgeable and kind.