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You can enjoy a wonderful summer in Colorado with Rampart Reservoir camping! Between the great weather and plentiful recreation, you will want to add this destination to your travel list.
About Rampart Reservoir
In 1967, the construction of a 3,400-foot wide dam resulted in the creation of the Rampart Reservoir. This dam rests along West Monument Creek and provides water to Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. The reservoir reached capacity in 1972 and opened for recreational use.
When Should You Visit?
You can visit Rampart Reservoir in the summer, which will provide you with daytime temperatures in the 80s-90s and overnight lows in the 50’s and 60’s. You’ll enjoy these conditions for outdoor recreation by day and comfortable sleeping temperatures at night. Those looking to avoid some of the crowds will also appreciate the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall. However, be mindful that snow and cold weather come early and stick around late in the year.
Campgrounds in Rampart Reservoir
The fun doesn’t have to end at sundown! Rampart Reservoir camping provides an excellent way to explore the area. Here are a few great camping options to consider for your trip.
Thunder Ridge Campground
About Thunder Ridge: Thunder Ridge Campground features 21 primitive campsites. This campground opens seasonally from May 7-September 20 but can change slightly from year to year based on the weather. An extended season allows campers to stay through October, but with no water or trash facilities or a camp host. A camp host stays on location during the regular operating season.
Facilities and Amenities: Within the campground, campers have access to drinking water, vault toilets, and trash collection. Three dedicated sites allow for disability access.
Site Types: This campground has no electrical hookups. Each site features a table and fire grate. Sites are at least 30 feet in length.
Fees: You will need to pay a fee of $23 a night. Interagency Senior Pass and Interagency Access Pass holders receive 50% off the nightly prices.
Meadow Ridge Campground
About Meadow Ridge: Meadow Ridge Campground has 19 primitive campsites. Those looking to camp here can do so from early May through September, weather permitting. In addition, you may have an option for an extended season a week before and a week after the regular dates with limited or no access to water, trash, or a camp host.
Facilities and Amenities: At Meadow Ridge Campground, you can enjoy access to drinking water, vault toilets, and trash collection. Two dedicated sites allow for disability access.
Site Types: This is a standard non-electric campground. Those camping will need to either come with a power source or expect no power. Each site has a table and fire grate. Sites are at least 30 feet in length.
Fees: You will need to pay a fee of $23 a night. Interagency Senior Pass and Interagency Access Pass holders receive 50% off the nightly prices.
Activities in Rampart Reservoir
Boating
Many people love boating at Rampart Reservoir. You can use both motorized and non-motorized boats on the reservoir with the day-use fee. Check with a ranger about any season restrictions. You can’t take boats or watercraft of any kind within 500 feet of the dam or spillway structure. Additionally, the road into the reservoir is rough and you may have difficulty towing larger boats.
Fishing
Other than Rampart Reservoir camping, you can also spend the afternoon fishing. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife stock the water with fish. You can commonly catch trout and muskie. Those looking to snag a few fish on their hooks must hold a valid Colorado fishing license and follow the state of Colorado fishing regulations. You can cast your line from the watercraft. However, you can not fish from the dam.
Hiking
Many people enjoy hiking many trails in the area, such as Trail #700. This 11.5-mile trail follows the Rampart Reservoir’s shoreline, giving you great views of the water. Hiking along this route not only provides exercise but also an avenue for selecting an excellent fishing location. The trail begins at the Homestake Fishing Site and ends at the boat ramp parking area. Trail #700 is a non-motorized trail.
Picnicking
There are numerous picnicking opportunities throughout Rampart Reservoir. Camping allows you to have your food nearby, but even day-use visitors will enjoy bringing a picnic basket along, especially on a hike. Lunch with a view is always a great idea!
Pro Tip: If you’re ready for even more awesome reservoir camping, you have to check out our Blue Ridge Reservoir Camping and Kayaking Guide.
Time to Explore
Rampart Reservoir camping makes a great way to explore the area during the summer. If you want a spot to relax and recharge, consider visiting Rampart Reservoir. So what would you do with a few days to explore the area?
