Nestled within the boundaries of the Pike National Forest, Cinnamon Creek Camp provides visitors with a genuine wilderness experience while maintaining essential amenities for comfort and safety. This public recreation area spans approximately 1,200 acres of protected land featuring mixed conifer forests, clear mountain streams, and diverse ecosystems that support abundant wildlife including elk, deer, and various bird species.
Location and Access Information
Positioned approximately 35 miles west of Colorado Springs, Cinnamon Creek Camp sits at an elevation of 8,200 feet along the western slope of Pikes Peak. The camp is accessible via Forest Road 300, a well-maintained gravel road suitable for standard passenger vehicles during dry conditions. Visitors traveling from Denver should allow approximately 2.5 hours for the 120-mile journey, while those coming from Colorado Springs need about 45 minutes.
During winter months (November through April), access becomes limited due to snow accumulation, and the road requires high-clearance vehicles or snowmobiles. The nearest visitor center providing updated road conditions and weather information is located in Woodland Park, 18 miles east of the camp entrance. Important context: Road accessibility is dynamically updated through the Pike National Forest Alerts System – verify conditions within 24 hours of departure as weather rapidly changes at this elevation.
Campsite Types and Amenities
Cinnamon Creek Camp offers three distinct camping zones to accommodate different visitor preferences and experience levels. Each zone maintains a balance between visitor comfort and environmental preservation, following strict Leave No Trace principles.
| Campsite Type | Capacity | Key Amenities | Reservations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Developed Sites | 4-8 people | Fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, potable water | Required May-Sept |
| Primitive Sites | 2-6 people | Fire rings, pit toilets, natural water sources | First-come basis |
| Group Sites | 10-20 people | Multiple fire rings, large tables, dedicated toilet facilities | Advanced booking required |
Recreational Activities and Natural Features
The diverse landscape surrounding Cinnamon Creek Camp supports numerous outdoor activities throughout the year. The area's network of hiking trails ranges from easy 1-mile loops suitable for families to challenging 10-mile backcountry routes for experienced hikers. The namesake Cinnamon Creek flows through the camp, providing excellent opportunities for fly fishing, particularly for native cutthroat trout during the summer months.
Fishing Regulations Evidence
Anglers must comply with Colorado Parks and Wildlife's scientifically monitored regulations. The following verified data reflects 2024 season rules for Zone 15 (Pike National Forest):
| Season | Species | Bag Limit | Critical Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 1 - May 31 | Brown/Rainbow Trout | 2 fish | Barbless hooks required |
| Jun 1 - Aug 31 | Cutthroat Trout (native) | 1 fish | Artificial lures only above 7,500 ft |
| Sep 1 - Mar 31 | All species | 0 (catch-and-release) | Mandatory immediate release |
Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife Official Regulations - verified August 2024
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the regular sightings of mule deer, black bears (from a safe distance), and numerous bird species including Steller's jays and mountain bluebirds. The camp's location within a protected forest area ensures minimal light pollution, making it an exceptional spot for stargazing and night photography.
Seasonal Considerations for Visitors
Cinnamon Creek Camp operates year-round with varying conditions and accessibility. The prime camping season runs from late May through September when temperatures typically range from 50-75°F during the day and 30-50°F at night. July and August offer the most stable weather but also attract the highest number of visitors.
Activity Timeline Evidence
| Period | Key Natural Events | Visitor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| May 15-31 | Wildflower bloom peak (Columbine, Paintbrush) | Trail access limited above 9,000 ft due to snowmelt |
| Jun 15-Jul 31 | Native trout spawning season | Fishing restricted to artificial lures only |
| Sep 15-Oct 15 | Aspen foliage peak | 75% higher visitation; book sites 4+ months ahead |
| Nov 1-Apr 30 | Winter wildlife migration | Snowmobile access only; check avalanche forecasts |
Source: Pike National Forest Phenology Records - 30-year observational dataset
Spring (May-June) brings wildflower blooms and rushing streams but also higher precipitation and lingering snow at higher elevations. Fall (September-October) features spectacular aspen displays with golden foliage, though nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. Winter camping is permitted but requires advanced preparation for snow and sub-zero temperatures.
Planning Your Visit to Cinnamon Creek Camp
Visitors should complete several essential preparations before arriving at Cinnamon Creek Camp. All campers must obtain a valid camping permit, which can be secured through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance for developed sites. During peak season, popular sites often book 3-4 months ahead, making early reservations crucial for weekend visits.
Context-Specific Regulations
Campfire policies operate under strict environmental boundaries:
- Elevation threshold: Above 8,500 ft, all fires prohibited May 15-Aug 31 per forest order FS-2670-2023
- Weather dependency: When humidity drops below 25% for 48+ hours, fire restrictions activate automatically
- Wildlife protection: Fire bans expand within 1 mile of active elk calving zones (Jun 1-15)
Always verify real-time status via the Rocky Mountain Coordination Center – regulations change hourly during fire season. During permitted periods, fires must be completely extinguished with water until cool to the touch before leaving the site. Never leave a fire unattended, and never use flammable liquids to start fires.
Pack appropriate gear for changing mountain weather, including rain protection and warm layers even during summer months. Food storage regulations require all food and scented items to be stored in bear-proof containers or hung at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from tree trunks.
For those seeking additional recreational opportunities, the nearby Pikes Peak National Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views and connects to numerous trailheads for extended hiking adventures. The camp's proximity to Mueller State Park (approximately 25 miles east) provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and educational programs.
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