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Camp Hale Memorial Campground: Echoes of the 10th Mountain Division

Explore the historic Camp Hale Memorial Campground in the White River National Forest, where the 10th Mountain Division trained for WWII.

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Camp Hale Memorial Campground, nestled in the White River National Forest near Leadville, Colorado, offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Once a training ground for the famed 10th Mountain Division during World War II, the campground now provides a serene setting for camping, hiking, and exploring the remnants of this historic site.

A brief summary to Camp Hale Memorial Campground

Local tips

  • Bring your own water, as there is no potable water available at the campground.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the campground is located at a high elevation.
  • Take time to read the interpretive signs and learn about the history of Camp Hale and the 10th Mountain Division.
  • Store all food and scented items properly in the bear-proof lockers to avoid attracting wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Camp Hale Memorial Campground is located approximately 15 miles south of Minturn, Colorado, on Highway 24. From Minturn, head south on US-24. The campground entrance is marked by stone pillars. Turn right at the first road inside Camp Hale and continue to the campground. There are no fees to enter Camp Hale. Parking is available at the campground. Be aware that parking spurs can accommodate vehicles up to 60 feet.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Camp Hale Memorial Campground, you can take a Bustang West Line from Denver or Grand Junction to Minturn. From Minturn, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the campground, which is about 15 miles away. Taxi/rideshare costs from Minturn to Camp Hale could range from $30 to $50. Be sure to arrange for a return trip in advance, as services may be limited in the area.

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Discover more about Camp Hale Memorial Campground

Camp Hale Memorial Campground, situated at an elevation of 9,200 feet within the Camp Hale National Historic Site, provides a tranquil and scenic camping experience steeped in history. This location served as a training base for the 10th Mountain Division, a specialized unit of 15,000 soldiers who honed their mountaineering and skiing skills here during World War II before engaging in combat in Italy. The 99th Infantry Battalion (Viking Battalion) also trained at Camp Hale. While most of the original buildings are gone, the foundations and outlines remain, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Interpretive signs along U.S. Route 24 detail the history and accomplishments of Camp Hale and the soldiers who trained there. The campground itself features standard campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings, and vault toilets are available. Note that drinking water and electrical hook-ups are not provided, so visitors must bring their own water. Bear-proof food lockers are provided at each site, and bear-proof trash receptacles are available at the campground. The campground's location within the White River National Forest provides access to various recreational activities. The Colorado Trail crosses nearby, offering hiking and backpacking opportunities. Gravel roads in the Camp Hale area are ideal for walking and biking. Fishing is also available in the nearby streams, including the Eagle River and East Fork Eagle River.

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