Penitente Campground is located in the Penitente Canyon Recreation Area. Avid rock climbers will love the walls and pinnacles of Penitente Canyon Recreation Area. Technical climbing through nearly 300 world-class routes will test both abilities and endurance. In addition, an extensive trail system offers excellent hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. For an extended stay, a developed campground and primitive camping are both available. Penitente Canyon has a unique history as a spiritual haven for a Spanish religious group long ago. In the more recent past, the “Virgin de Guadalupe” was painted onto one of the canyon walls. In addition, the Old Spanish National Historic Trail, formerly a 19th century Mexican trade route, passes by this area.
The campground is located in a scenic canyon with an Interpretive Site, sites for tent camping and trailer camping, Picnic tables, Toilets, and Drinking water. There are 9 walk-in Tent sites, 4 Drive-in Tent/Camper sites and 2 Group Sites. The facility has 5 Vault Toilets and there is an onsite host. QUIET HOURS – including generators are 10 pm – 7am. For more information, please contact the San Luis Valley Field Office.
Nearby Activities
- Climbing
- Camping
Gallery
Directions
From Highway 285 turn west on County Road G, travel about 6 miles to La Garita follow County Road 38A until you see the Penitente Canyon turn off on your right, less than a mile.
From Del Norte travel northwest on Highway 112 to road 38A turn north, stay on 38 A until you see signs for Penitente Canyon, about 8 miles.
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 37° 50′ 30.5160″ N
Longitude 106° 16′ 48.0720″ W