What are the hours and season for Carnero Guard Station?

Carnero Guard Station is open May through October. Check-in: 2:00 PM. Check-out: 12:00 PM.

How do I book a campsite at Carnero Guard Station?

Carnero Guard Station is a federal campground — book at Recreation.gov (search "Carnero Guard Station"). Sites are released 6 months in advance and sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/carnero-guard-station to be notified the moment a site opens up.

Carnero Guard Station

Rio Grande National Forest — fishing, hiking

SAGUACHE, CO4.7 (19)

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Carnero Guard Station is situated in a high open meadow surrounded by forest at an elevation of 9,840 feet. The high-elevation cabin is located in the north-central area of the San Luis Valley in the Rio Grande National Forest. The guard station was first proposed in 1907 by the Cochetopa National Forest, and was originally named the John Smith Ranger Station after a homesteader who built a cabin near the site, but never filed on the land.

Things to do nearby

Rio Grande National ForestLa Garita WildernessThe La Garita Wilderness

Best For

AnglersHikersWildlife watchersFamilies

Site Types

Tent

Amenities

Fire Rings

Picnic Tables

Vault Toilets

Electric Hookups

Fishing

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

May through October

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Carnero Guard Station cost per night?+

Carnero Guard Station costs $50 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups.

What season is Carnero Guard Station open?+

Carnero Guard Station is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.

Does Carnero Guard Station have hookups?+

No hookups.

What is the maximum RV length at Carnero Guard Station?+

Carnero Guard Station can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet long.

How do I make reservations at Carnero Guard Station?+

Carnero Guard Station is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.

How far is Carnero Guard Station from the nearest town?+

Carnero Guard Station is located in SAGUACHE, CO. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.

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