South Shore Campground: A Tranquil Haven by Lower Bear River Reservoir

South Shore Campground stands as a gateway to nature’s serenity along the tranquil south shore of Lower Bear River Reservoir, nestled within the expansive Eldorado National Forest. Offering a refuge from the bustle of everyday life, this campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the splendor of its natural surroundings. With 22 campsites catering to a variety of camping preferences, from RVs and trailers to tents, South Shore Campground provides the ideal setting for a memorable outdoor escape.

🗺️ Map & Reservations

As you prepare for your camping adventure at South Shore Campground, it’s essential to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to make the most of your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or venturing into the wilderness for the first time, our comprehensive guide offers valuable insights and recommendations to ensure a seamless and enjoyable stay.

First-time campers will benefit from our top tips, designed to streamline the reservation process and maximize comfort during your stay. From securing your preferred campsite through the reservation system to selecting the perfect spot with partial views of the lake, these tips will help you navigate the campground with ease. Additionally, our guide covers essential pet etiquette and highlights the late summer season as an ideal time to enjoy milder temperatures and a quieter atmosphere.

For those seeking the ultimate camping experience, our strategic strategies and tactics provide a roadmap for adventure. Arriving during optimal hours, targeting the sweet spot in the camping season, and exploring nearby attractions like Salt Springs Reservoir and Silver Lake ensure a fulfilling stay. We also emphasize the importance of bear safety measures and offer recommendations for scenic drives to enhance your exploration of the surrounding area.

No camping excursion is complete without the right gear, and our guide includes a curated selection of recommendations to elevate your outdoor experience. From portable lanterns and comfortable shelter setups to water filtration solutions and convenient cooking gear, we’ve got you covered. Explore our gearlist for precise recommendations tailored to the unique demands of camping at South Shore Campground.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Eldorado National Forest at South Shore Campground, where the shimmering waters of Lower Bear River Reservoir meet the tranquility of a well-shaded campsite. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, South Shore Campground offers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Follow our guide to plan your camping adventure and discover the beauty of this picturesque haven in Eldorado National Forest.

Top Tips for First-Time Campers:

  • Reservation Wisdom: Take advantage of the reservation system to secure your preferred campsite, ensuring a stress-free arrival.
  • Site Selection: Consider the walk-in, tent sites for a more secluded experience, or opt for the double and triple sites if camping with a larger group.
  • Pet Etiquette: Keep your furry friends on a leash and attended at all times, respecting the campground’s pet policy.
  • Waterfront Bliss: Embrace the beauty of Lower Bear River Reservoir by choosing a site with partial views of the lake, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping adventure.
  • Late Summer Serenity: Plan your visit in late summer for milder temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere as the camping season winds down.

Top Strategies and Tactics for the Ultimate Camping Experience:

  • Optimal Arrival Time: Arrive between 10 AM and 2 PM to maximize daylight hours for camp setup and exploration.
  • Seasonal Sweet Spot: Target the early June through early September camping window for the best weather conditions and an abundance of outdoor activities.
  • Recreational Revelry: Dive into the diverse attractions near South Shore, including fishing, swimming, waterskiing, boating, horseback riding, and 4-wheeling.
  • Bear Safety Measures: Store all food, soap, and garbage in bear boxes to avoid encounters and maintain a safe camping environment.
  • Scenic Drives: Explore the picturesque surroundings by driving to nearby Salt Springs Reservoir, Silver Lake, Caples Lake, and Kirkwood for a day filled with breathtaking views.

Recommended Camping Gear:

  • Campsite Illumination: Bring portable lanterns or headlamps for ambient lighting around your campsite after sunset.
  • Comfortable Shelter Setup: Ensure a cozy night’s sleep with quality sleeping bags, insulated sleeping pads, and a well-ventilated tent.
  • Water Filtration Solutions: Pack water filters or purifying tablets to make the most of the piped water available in the campground.
  • Cooking Convenience: Optimize your camp cooking experience with reliable cooking gear, such as portable grills or stoves.
  • Explore Our Gearlist: Check our gearlist account for specific recommendations on camp cooking equipment, sleeping systems, overlanding setups, backpacks, and clothing to elevate your camping experience.

Check out our Gearlist for the gear we use for trips like this

Our Gearlist account lists all of the gear we use. Discover our top picks, where to snag them, and stay informed with our regular updates.

South Shore Campground stands as a beacon of tranquility amid the scenic beauty of Eldorado National Forest. As campers bid farewell to this idyllic retreat, they take with them memories of shimmering waters, shaded campsites, and moments of pure serenity.

Throughout their stay, visitors embraced the essence of outdoor adventure, whether casting a line into the pristine waters of Lower Bear River Reservoir, paddling along its tranquil surface, or embarking on scenic hikes through the surrounding forest. The campground’s strategic location offered easy access to a myriad of recreational activities, from fishing and swimming to waterskiing and horseback riding, ensuring there was something for every nature enthusiast to enjoy.

First-time campers discovered the joys of outdoor living, thanks to our comprehensive guide that provided valuable tips and insights. From navigating the reservation system to practicing pet etiquette and embracing the late summer season, campers were well-prepared to embark on their wilderness adventure. Meanwhile, seasoned outdoor enthusiasts found new ways to elevate their camping experience, whether by exploring nearby attractions or implementing bear safety measures to protect both themselves and the natural environment.

As campers packed up their gear and bid farewell to South Shore Campground, they reflected on the bonds forged around crackling campfires, the laughter shared beneath starlit skies, and the sense of camaraderie that comes from exploring the great outdoors together. Each moment spent in nature served as a reminder of the importance of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnecting with the rhythms of the natural world.

But even as they departed, campers knew that the memories made at South Shore Campground would linger long after their tents had been packed away. They would carry with them the echoes of birdsong in the early morning light, the scent of pine needles carried on the breeze, and the feeling of peace that comes from immersing oneself in nature’s embrace.

As they drove away, leaving behind the tranquil shores of Lower Bear River Reservoir, campers carried with them a renewed appreciation for the simple pleasures of outdoor living. And though their time at South Shore Campground had come to an end, they knew that the spirit of adventure would always beckon them back to the wilderness, where new experiences and unforgettable memories awaited.