Camp Hale Memorial Campground: A Historic Mountain Retreat
Discover history and nature at Camp Hale Memorial Campground, a serene mountain escape with hiking, fishing, and WWII historical significance.
Camp Hale Memorial Campground, situated at 9,200 feet in the White River National Forest, provides a tranquil setting steeped in history. This location served as a training ground for the 10th Mountain Division during World War II, where 15,000 soldiers honed their mountaineering and skiing skills. Today, visitors can explore the area's past while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. The campground features 21 campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, and food storage locker. Vault toilets are available, but drinking water and electrical hook-ups are not. The surrounding area offers hiking trails, including access to the Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail. Fishing is also a popular activity, with the Eagle River and nearby streams providing opportunities to catch trout. Visitors can explore the remains of Camp Hale, with interpretive signs along US Route 24 detailing the history and accomplishments of the 10th Mountain Division and the 99th Infantry Battalion (Viking Battalion) who also trained here. While most of the buildings have been torn down, foundations and other remnants offer a glimpse into the past. The campground typically operates from late May to early October, but it's best to check conditions due to weather and snowpack. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance.
Local tips
- Bring your own water, as it is not available at the campground.
- Be prepared for high altitude and pack layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Store food properly in bear-proof lockers to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Check for fire restrictions before your visit, as they may be in effect due to dry conditions.
- Reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak season, as they can fill up quickly.
A brief summary to Camp Hale Memorial Campground
- Forest Rd 7161A, Leadville, Colorado, 80461, US
- +1970-328-6388
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
From Minturn, CO, take US-24 South for approximately 15 miles to Camp Hale. Enter Camp Hale at the main entrance marked by stone pillars. Turn right at the first road and continue to the campground. Parking is available at the campground. Be aware that the road is gravel.
