Trip
Camp – Jefferson Lake Recreation Area
Camping trip to Jefferson Creek Campground to hike and see Perseid meteor shower. Dogs welcome but not required.
- Wed, Aug 12, 2026 — Fri, Aug 14, 2026
- Rocky Mountain Over the Hill Gang
- Camping, Exploring Nature
- Adults
- Moderate
- Mileage: 5.0
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft
- High Point Elevation: 10,800 ft
- Pace: Doggy casual/slow
- FULL (6 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
The peak of the perseid shower is Aug 12-13, just after midnight. There will be a new moon, and the 10,000 ft elevation of the lake should allow for excellent viewing if we have a clear night. A two night stay will give us two chances.
There are two hikes that start from the campground. We will hike the Jefferson Creek trail for about 4 miles after we set up camp on Aug 12, and hike a portion of the Colorado trail on Aug 13. Both are fairly easy, but I marked as moderate due to the altitude.
Dogs must be leashed at all times, unless in a tent or car. They cannot be left unattended at the campsite.
This is bear country. Bear boxes are available, and we need to be scrupulous about cleaning up any spilled food items (including dog food).
Note: There are three campgrounds at Jefferson Lake. We will stay at the Jefferson Creek campground. The campground opens at 2:00. We will meet at my campsite (007) at 4:00, after people have had a chance to make camp, and then we will explore and take a short hike.
Each campsite can hold two cars, and up to 8 people. I have reserved one site (007). If you would prefer your own site, you can make a reservation at Recreation.gov
There is an $11 fee per car to enter the park. This fee is waived with a national park pass.
Required Equipment
10 essentials-bring a coat and blanket or something to sit on for late night star gazing.
All camping gear and food for two breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners, and snacks. Plan on using a propane stove, as fire restrictions may be in place.
The campground has vault toilets and a pump with potable water, but I would suggest bringing water in case the pump is not working or water not to your taste.