Pawnee

We've enjoyed camping at Pawnee Campground for many years. We were saddened some years ago when our favorite campsite was eliminated in favor of more parking at Brainard Lake but we understand the necessity of what was done. In the long, run everyone benefits. The restrooms are clean, the campground is well maintained, the scenery is spectacular and the weather was well, some days it was beautiful, other days it reflected the drama of this location at 10.3 ft! Wind, rain, hail and then sunshine. Unpredictable but nonetheless inspiring! If you have a day that the weather keeps you inside, take a short drive to Nederland for coffee, lunch, supplies or just visit this interesting little town.
The hiking in the area and up into the Indian Peaks Wilderness is some of the best anywhere. Between Mitchell and Blue Lakes (definite must sees!) we located a beautiful bull moose. We used to see more of these around Brainard Lake and Pawnee Campground but perhaps it is better that they are more challenging to locate these days. (Moose meat is very good and there are limited licenses allocated for this area that is open to hunting during the season) All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed the 2 separate weeks we spent camping here this summer. The mountains, skies, trees and other flora and fauna are an amazing testament to our loving, powerful Creator!

Be prepared for any weather that might arise.

Awesome, clean campsite. Toilettes were surprisingly clean and everything was orderly and in great condition.

Not only are the campsites well laid out with lots of trees between sites, but it is so close to some of the best hiking in Colorado. We enjoyed a hike to Isabelle Lake one day and Mitchell and Blue Lakes the next. We like it better than Moraine Park Campground in RMNP because at Brainard Lake/Pawnee you can take your dog along on the trails which isn't allowed at Moraine Park. The condition of the toilet was excellent and they are numerous throughout the campground. Also they actually rake the entire campsites between campers including the car/RV pads and tent pads. Not a piece of trash anywhere to be seen. Hosts are helpful and they accept the Lifetime Senior passes for both camping discounts and free entry fee. We visited twice this year and will definitely come again.

Quiet site. Immaculate.

Excellent Campground facility without hookups and very clean vault toilets. Quiet with lots of trees and ample shade. Nice easy walk around scenic Brainerd lake~1.5 mi flat. You can hike to or have someone in your party drop you off at either the Long Lake/Isabelle or Mitchel/Blue lake trailheads. Or hike the snowshoe/cross country ski trails in the area. A Wildflower field guide may help identify the flowers. Great scenery and you may see some wildlife, deer, elk and probably moose. Both lake and stream Fishing is fun but remember it is fishing not catching. At 10,300 ft you may want to have a blanket or two for the nights. There are hikes for almost all abilities but acclimate prior to visiting and hiking at altitude .

Hiking in the area is great.

Nice camp ground with polite and friendly campers. Easy hike to nearby Brainard lake

The toilets are ok but rather smelly without flushing water.

Beautiful

The best of the best! However it is ridiculous that as a camper we are not able to access the trail heads worh our cars unless we pay even more. Also the camp hosts are rude!