Southside Campground - Lake Isabel
If you and your pooch are hopping in the RV for a Lake Isabel, CO outdoor adventure, you might want to consider camping at Southside Campground! Though the area is designed specifically for RVs, the facilities are on a par with most US Forest Campgrounds in the area -- in other words, pretty basic. You won’t find any RV hookups, electricity, or showers. Privacy is also a concern, as most of the sites are very close together with little to no cover in between. You can technically camp there in a tent, but beware that you might be sandwiched in between 2 vehicles.
That being said, Southside Campground does have a grrr-eat location! While there aren’t many trees between sites, the area is shaded by tall ponderosa pines and aspen trees. And at an elevation of over 8,000 feet, you and your buddy should have no problem keeping cool even in the height of summer! There’s no entrance fee to the area, and a night will set you back $20. You’ll need to spend a minimum of 3 nights at the campground if you’re planning to stay on a holiday weekend. Although some sites are first-come, first-served, spaces still fill up quickly, so it’s best to make your reservation early.
You and your buddy should have no trouble sniffing out something to do during your stay! Avid anglers will be well catered for, as the lake is well stocked with brown and brook trout, and you can cook your catch on one of the grills provided with each site. Hound-dog hikers will also find plenty of op-paw-tunities for adventure. The 3.5-mile out-and-back Cisneros trail has an entrance just outside of camp, and this furrific route is suitable for most ages and abilities, snaking its way along a river through deciduous wooded wonderland. Careful, though -- the trail is quite popular with off-roaders, so keep your wits about you!
WiFi isn’t available at Southside, and cellular coverage varies from network to network. Fires are permitted, and you’ll find drinking water available on-site. Remember to bring waste bags to clean up your canine companion, and have a pawesome time!
