Details
National Park ServiceLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
Ponderosa Campground is located at the northwest end of the Soap Creek Arm of Blue Mesa Reservoir. From U.S. Highway 50, follow CO Highway 92 1/2 mile past Blue Mesa Dam to Soap Creek Road. Proceed 7 miles north on the gravel Soap Creek Road. Tents and medium sized RVs can be accommodated at Ponderosa. All sites are first-come first-served. Elevation: 7880 feet Note: During dry conditions, the first 7 miles of Soap Creek Road are passable to trailers and RVs. Rain can make the Soap Creek Road impassable.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Ponderosa Campground is along the Soap Creek Road off CO-92. The campground has car camping and trailer sites, as well as walk-in tent sites. There are vault toilets, bear-proof lockers, a horse corral, and hand-launched watercraft ramp.
Weather
Weather can vary greatly throughout the day. Summer daytime temperatures range between 50 to 90F (10 to 32C), nights 40 to 60F (4 to 15C). Precipitation is minimal, but afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds are common during the summer.
Amenities
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Food Storage Lockers
Rates & Fees
Standard Camping Fee
The nightly camping fee at Ponderosa is $20.00. Group size limit is eight people and two vehicles.
Senior / Access Camping Fee
Discounted camping rate for valid Senior or Access passes. The nightly camping fee with valid passes is $10.00. Group size limit is eight people and two vehicles.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Fires are allowed in grates provided. Stoves are allowed.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Unpaved surfaces.
RV Allowed
Yes
RV Information
Medium sized rv's and trailers can be accommodated at Ponderosa.
RV Maximum Length
0
Additional Information
Water may not be available if temperatures remain freezing overnight. Water is currently unavailable until water quality testing can be completed. Lake Fork campground has potable water available.
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
Unpaved surfaces.
Trailer Allowed
Yes
Access Roads
Unpaved Roads - All vehicles OK in good weather
Classifications
Limited Development Campground
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