Featured amenities
Pet Friendly
Sites & Rates
Average nightly rates17 total sites
Tent Sites
17 sites
About Penitente Canyon Campground
Number of accommodations: 17
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Pet friendly
Pets and Policies
- Pet friendly
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Rates, Sites & Availability
17 Sites Available
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Site Details
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17 Sites Available
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Reviews (246)
What Guests Are Saying
Penitente Canyon Campground is praised for its stunning rock formations, beautiful sunsets, and quiet, secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for stargazing and hiking. The campground features clean facilities, well-stocked bathrooms, and ample hiking and biking trails nearby. However, some visitors reported issues with aggressive dogs from the camp hosts and challenges in finding certain campsites, which may detract from the overall experience.
What Guests Are Saying
Penitente Canyon Campground is praised for its stunning rock formations, beautiful sunsets, and quiet, secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for stargazing and hiking. The campground features clean facilities, well-stocked bathrooms, and ample hiking and biking trails nearby. However, some visitors reported issues with aggressive dogs from the camp hosts and challenges in finding certain campsites, which may detract from the overall experience.
Review Summary
Paul S
VerifiedJanuary 31, 2023 • Stayed at: 11, Loop: Main Loop
We were the only ones iun the entire campground! We loved the experieince and hope to do it again.
Paul S
VerifiedJanuary 31, 2023 • Stayed at: 11, Loop: Main Loop
We were the only ones iun the entire campground! We loved the experieince and hope to do it again.
Thinh T
VerifiedJanuary 2, 2023 • Stayed at: 4, Loop: Main Loop
The campsite was clean and relaxing. This was the second time we had been here, and we will return. We use this camp as our resting point from Dallas, TX, to Moab, UT.
Thinh T
VerifiedJanuary 2, 2023 • Stayed at: 4, Loop: Main Loop
The campsite was clean and relaxing. This was the second time we had been here, and we will return. We use this camp as our resting point from Dallas, TX, to Moab, UT.
Cory G
VerifiedOctober 30, 2022 • Stayed at: 11, Loop: Main Loop
Great site. Large sites offered decent separation and privacy. Clean bathrooms and smokeless firepits. Access to trails and climbing can't be beat. Minimal cover, so guessing weather could be a bit harsh in the right season (windy or very hot in summer?). Would be very concerned about snakes with kids if season was right.
Cory G
VerifiedOctober 30, 2022 • Stayed at: 11, Loop: Main Loop
Great site. Large sites offered decent separation and privacy. Clean bathrooms and smokeless firepits. Access to trails and climbing can't be beat. Minimal cover, so guessing weather could be a bit harsh in the right season (windy or very hot in summer?). Would be very concerned about snakes with kids if season was right.
Genevieve J
VerifiedOctober 24, 2022 • Stayed at: 3, Loop: Main Loop
The hiking was great. Most people mountain bike or climb here. Our campsite was private and quiet. You need to pre-book before arriving as cell service is very spotty.
Genevieve J
VerifiedOctober 24, 2022 • Stayed at: 3, Loop: Main Loop
The hiking was great. Most people mountain bike or climb here. Our campsite was private and quiet. You need to pre-book before arriving as cell service is very spotty.
William H
VerifiedOctober 13, 2022 • Stayed at: 14, Loop: Main Loop
I've camped there a number of times and really like it, but would recommend tourists camp elsewhere.
William H
VerifiedOctober 13, 2022 • Stayed at: 14, Loop: Main Loop
I've camped there a number of times and really like it, but would recommend tourists camp elsewhere.
Location Penitente Canyon Campground
Address:
Blm San Luis Valley Field Office
Monte Vista, CO, 81144
United States
From U.S. 285, turn west onto Saguache County Road G. After 6 miles you will pass the La Garita Trading Post. Go another 0.5 miles to a Y intersection; take the left fork (County Road 38A). The entrance to the recreation area is another 0.5 miles, on your right. Elevation = 7,930 ft.
The campground is accessible via U.S. Highway 285, which is approximately 6.5 miles away.
Elevation: 2413 feet
25 mi drive to downtown Monte Vista (about 28 min)
Policies & Rules
Pets
- Pets must always be kept under control.
Nearby Campgrounds
Last updated: September 6, 2026
