Part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area system, Ponderosa Campground sits along a creek near Antonito, providing both drive-in and boat-in access depending on the specific site. The campground accommodates RVs up to 26 feet with electric and water hookups, though space remains limited for larger rigs. Several tent sites spread across the property, with site #9 noted as particularly well-suited for RVs with driver-side slides.
The creek runs directly through the campground, offering immediate fishing access without leaving the grounds. Michael M. notes that "hiking on the CDT is near the campground and fishing is right in the campground." A camp host provides local fishing advice and maintains the facilities, which include clean bathrooms, showers, and a dump station. The Continental Divide Trail passes nearby for hikers looking to explore beyond the immediate area.
Seasonal deer flies can create challenges during summer months, with some campers cutting stays short due to the persistent insects. The campground tends to attract repeat visitors who appreciate the direct water access and relatively quiet atmosphere. Most sites feature fire rings with grates and picnic tables, with campfires permitted throughout the season.
For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore campgrounds near Curecanti National Recreation Area. The season runs from May through mid-October, with reservations available for advance planning.
Description
Ponderosa Campground is located at the northwest end of the Soap Creek Arm of Blue Mesa Reservoir. 28 tent and medium sized RV sites can be accommodated at Ponderosa. All sites are first-come first-served.
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 hazardous or impassable.
Fee Info
$16.00 per night ($8.00 per night with Interagency Senior/Access Pass)
Reservation Info
All sites are first-come first-served.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
RV ParkPonderosa Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
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.
Address
18584 State Highway 17
Antonito, CO 81120
Coordinates
37.12225824 N
106.32919875 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 9 min from Santa Fe, NM
- 2 hrs 33 min from Farmington, NM
- 2 hrs 45 min from Pueblo, CO
- 2 hrs 59 min from Albuquerque, NM

















