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Map showing campground location near Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado
Camper submitted image from Poage Lake Primitive CampsiteView 9 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Rio Grande National Forest, Colorado

Poage Lake Primitive Campsite

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Within Rio Grande National Forest, Poage Lake Primitive Campsite provides free dispersed camping near a secluded mountain lake. The campground consists of a large parking area where campers can set up adjacent to their vehicles, with a short trail leading to the lake itself. No amenities or services exist at this Forest Service site, requiring campers to bring all necessary supplies including water or filtration equipment for lake water.

The lake offers fly fishing for rainbow and cutthout trout, surrounded by old growth forest. Cell service is unavailable at this remote location. Campers should stock up on supplies in South Fork before heading to this primitive site, as no stores operate in the immediate area.

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Location

Public Campground

Poage Lake Primitive Campsite is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.50206532 N
106.63975997 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews

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4.0

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1 Review

Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Oct. 30, 2019

Poage Lake Primitive Campsite + Lake + Fishing

My friend and I made a fly fishing trip to Poage Lake. This land is part of the National Forest System and offers dispersed primitive camping. 

The Poage Lake campsite consists of a large parking area, a short trail to the lake, and the lake itself. You can disperse camp next to the parking lot. There are no services nor amenities at this campsite, so Leave No Trace principles should be applied..

There is nothing special about the campsite area other than it is conveniently located next to the beautiful Poage Lake. The lake is secluded and pristine and surrounded by old growth forest. It is an excellent place for fly fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout. 

There are no towns nor stores near the campsite, so be sure to pick up any supplies you may need in the town of South Fork, CO. There are grocery stores, gas stations and outdoor gear and fly fishing stores in South Fork. Take any water that you may need or filter water from the lake.

If you like peace and quiet this site might be for you. If you like amenities, this site probably is not your style.

SiteDispersed
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Poage Lake Primitive Campsite by Troy W., October 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Poage Lake Primitive Campsite by Troy W., October 30, 2019
  • Fly fishing at Poage Lake
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Frequently Asked Questions

What fishing opportunities are available at Poage Lake in Colorado?

Poage Lake offers excellent fly fishing opportunities in a serene National Forest setting. The lake is specifically visited by anglers looking to enjoy fishing in a peaceful, natural environment. The relatively small mountain lake provides a good habitat for fish, making it a worthwhile destination for dedicated fishing enthusiasts. For the best experience, bring appropriate fly fishing gear and check local fishing regulations before your visit.

Are there camping facilities around Poage Lake, Colorado?

Yes, Poage Lake offers dispersed primitive camping opportunities. The area features a large parking lot where visitors can disperse camp nearby. This is undeveloped, primitive camping with no formal facilities or amenities. As part of the National Forest System, standard dispersed camping regulations apply. Campers should be prepared to be fully self-sufficient, practice Leave No Trace principles, and bring everything they need, including water and waste disposal solutions.

Where is Poage Lake located in Colorado?

Poage Lake is located within the National Forest System in Colorado. It features a small mountain lake accessible by a short trail from a dedicated parking area. The lake sits in a scenic forest setting, making it a peaceful destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quieter Colorado experience. While the exact location coordinates aren't specified, it's situated within national forest land, offering a true wilderness experience.

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