Silver Dollar
The Silver Dollar Campground is nestled on the eastern shore of Turquoise Lake in the Pike and San Isabel National Forest in Leadville, Colorado. It's a peaceful and family-friendly campground that has 93 campsites for RVs, trailers, and tents. Campsites sit at an elevation of 10,000 feet, and they're just walking distance from the water. Your cozy campsite will get plenty of shade from the surrounding forest, and the wonders of the vast Mount Massive Wilderness Area are nearby. The best part of it all, though, is that your dog can come along! Just be sure to keep them leashed at all times.
Every campsite will come with a picnic table and a campfire ring, and some spots have tent pads, BBQ stands, and grills as well. Campers are encouraged to use bear-safe lockers or store their food in locked vehicles because bears frequent the area. Guests can purchase firewood from the camp host, and drinking water is also available at Silver Dollar. Recycling and garbage services are provided, but there are no hookups for RVs. The $24 entrance fee is the cost for each night of camping, but if you'd just like to visit the area for day use, you'll be subject to a $7 fee instead.
To keep yourself busy during your stay, head to the lake, which is stocked with several kinds of trout for some great fishing. There's also a boat ramp nearby, and you'll find campers waterskiing, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing. For on-land activities, opt for the Turquoise Lake Nature Trail or the Turquoise Lake Trail. The nature trail is an easy 1.2-mile path that connects to the Turquoise Lake Trail, a 6.4-mile trek. Be sure to grab a brochure at the trailhead to learn more about all the flora and fauna you'll see on your hike. You might also like to make the scenic drive through nearby Independence Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in America.
Thunderstorms are frequent around the campground, so be on the lookout for lightning during your stay, and if you're traveling from a lower altitude, use caution as you acclimate. Book as far in advance as you can and prepare yourself for a busy and pawpular campground at Silver Dollar!
