Planning a camping trip to Mueller State Park can feel hard if you don’t know what to expect. This park sits in Divide, Colorado and has over 5,000 acres of woods, meadows, and stunning views of Pikes Peak.

Our guide will walk you through all the steps to book your spot, what to pack, and the best things to do at this amazing park. Get ready for the camping trip of your life at Mueller State Park for camping!

Key Takeaways

• Book your Mueller State Park campsite up to six months ahead, as summer and holiday spots fill up fast.
• The park has 136 tent sites, plus spots for RVs with electric hookups and special areas for horses.
• Pack for high altitude (9,600 feet) with warm clothes, rain gear, and plenty of water to avoid headaches.
• Enjoy 44.3 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding with views of Pikes Peak.
• Daily passes cost $10 per car, while camping fees range from $18-$36 per night with a 14-day maximum stay.

How to Reserve Your Campsite at Mueller State Park

Booking your perfect spot at Mueller State Park needs a bit of planning ahead. You can grab a campsite through Colorado Parks and Wildlife‘s website up to six months before your trip, but spots fill up fast during summer weekends and holidays.

Online Reservation Process

Booking a campsite at Mueller State Park is super easy! You must make all reservations through the official website at cpwshop.com or call 1-800-244-5613. I tried to get a spot last summer by just showing up, but learned the hard way that you can’t make any reservations at the park itself.

The website lets you pick your dates, see photos of each site, and check what’s still open. My family loves site #14 because it’s close to the trails and has great views of Pikes Peak.

The online system shows you all the spots with flush toilets and which ones work for RVs. You’ll need to pay when you book, so have your credit card ready. We found that most summer weekend spots fill up fast – sometimes six months ahead! The website works on phones too, which saved us once when we needed to change our dates while driving through Woodland Park.

Best Times to Book for Peak Seasons

Peak camping at Mueller State Park fills up fast! Summer months (June-August) and fall color season (late September) are the busiest times. Plan to make your reservations exactly 6 months ahead for these popular periods.

Many families grab July 4th weekend spots on January 2nd, and Labor Day sites vanish by March 1st. The park’s online system opens at 12:01 AM Mountain Time for new dates, so set your alarm if you want that perfect spot with Pikes Peak views.

Fall weekends bring crowds eager to see golden aspen trees along Peak View Loop. Winter spots for cross-country skiing stay open longer, but still book up on sunny weekends. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife website shows how many sites remain, helping you plan your perfect outdoor trip.

Now let’s look at the different camping choices you’ll find at Mueller State Park.

Types of Camping Options Available

Mueller State Park lets you camp your way with choices for every outdoor lover. You can pitch a tent under the stars, park your RV with all the comforts of home, or saddle up for a night at the horse-friendly sites.

Basic Tent Camping

Tent camping at Mueller State Park gives you a true taste of Colorado’s outdoors. The park offers 136 sites perfect for setting up your canvas home among tall pines and mountain views.

Each spot comes with a fire ring and picnic table where families can gather for meals under the stars. Most tent sites sit on flat, cleared ground that makes setup easy even for camping newbies.

Prices range from $18 to $36 per night, making this an affordable family trip. You can stay up to 14 days, which gives plenty of time to hike the trails or watch for black bears and mule deer.

The sites near Peak View Loop offer the best sunrise views of Pikes Peak. Don’t forget to pack for cool nights – even summer temps drop fast at this high spot near Divide, Colorado!

RV and Electric Hook-Up Sites

Mueller State Park offers great spots for RVs with electric hook-ups. You’ll find these sites in Peak View and Revenuers Ridge Campgrounds, where 29 electrical sites stay open even in winter.

Prices range from $18 to $36 per night, making it a fair deal for families who want some home comforts while camping. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals under the stars.

Your RV spot gives you easy access to flush toilets and a dump station. Many sites sit close to hiking trails, so you can park and start your outdoor fun right away. Pets are welcome too, but keep them on a leash to protect the local wildlife.

The mix of modern needs and nature makes these sites a hit with campers who want both worlds.

Backcountry Camping and Equestrian Sites

Beyond RV spots, Mueller State Park offers special camping choices for those who crave more wild spaces. Backcountry sites sit far from the main loops, giving you true peace in nature.

These spots need a short hike to reach them, so pack light but smart! I once spent a night at a backcountry site and woke up to a deer family grazing just yards away – pure magic! Horse lovers can book sites 133 and 134 for their four-legged friends.

These horse-friendly spots cost $36 per night plus $10 for each horse (with a max of 2 horses per site). Each has space for your tent, plus room for your horses to rest after a day on the trails.

The park’s 55 miles of paths offer plenty of room to ride and enjoy Pikes Peak views from your saddle.

Must-Have Camping Amenities

Mueller State Park offers all the camping comforts you need for a great outdoor stay. You’ll find clean bathrooms with hot showers, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings at each site – perfect for those evening s’mores sessions after a day of hiking.

Restrooms and Showers

Mueller State Park offers clean bathroom options that make camping more comfy for families. You’ll find flush toilets in most camping areas – a real treat compared to other parks! The coin-operated showers let you rinse off trail dust after a day of hiking Pikes Peak views.

I once forgot quarters for the shower and had to air-dry after a muddy hike – my kids still laugh about it! During winter months, the park switches to vault toilets in cold-weather camping zones.

The laundry facilities also need coins, so pack plenty of quarters for your Colorado outdoor adventure. These simple comforts make Mueller perfect for longer stays when you need more than just basic camping facilities.

Picnic Tables and Fire Rings

Every campsite at Mueller State Park comes with its own picnic table and fire ring. These tables give your family a perfect spot to enjoy meals with Pikes Peak views in the background.

I love how sturdy these tables are – last summer, they held up our entire taco bar setup for the kids without a wobble! The fire rings are deep and safe, perfect for roasting marshmallows or cooking hot dogs.

My husband always says the best part of camping here is sitting around the fire at night, watching stars pop out above the Colorado pines. These basic items make outdoor meals much easier than trying to balance plates on your lap while sitting in camp chairs.

ADA-Accessible Facilities

Mueller State Park shines with its focus on access for all visitors. Seven campsites are fully wheelchair accessible, making family trips easier for those with mobility needs. I was amazed during our last visit how well these sites were set up – flat, paved paths led right to picnic tables with extra room for wheelchairs.

The park also offers two cabins built with wheelchair users in mind. Each has wider doorways, grab bars in bathrooms, and ramps instead of steps. The visitor center features automatic doors, low counters, and maps with large print.

My uncle, who uses a wheelchair, loved that he could reach the water fountains and use the restrooms without help. These thoughtful touches make Mueller State Park a top spot for all families to enjoy Colorado’s outdoor recreation together.

Top Activities to Enjoy During Your Stay

From hiking the trails to watching bears and deer, Mueller State Park offers fun for all ages – keep reading to learn how to make the most of these wild adventures during your stay!

Hiking the 55 Miles of Scenic Trails

Mueller State Park offers 44.3 miles of amazing trails for the whole family to enjoy. I took my kids on the Peak View Loop last summer, and we spotted three mule deer grazing just off the path! The trails wind through pine forests and open meadows with stunning views of Pikes Peak.

You’ll find paths for all skill levels – from easy walks for little ones to tough climbs for teens and adults.

The trails stay open year-round for different fun. Hike in summer to see wildflowers, bike in fall to enjoy the golden aspen trees, or try cross-country skiing in winter when snow blankets the paths.

My husband and I love to pack a lunch and find a quiet spot with a view of the mountains. The visitor center has free trail maps that mark the best spots for wildlife viewing, so grab one before you start your trek!

Wildlife Watching: Birds, Bears, and Mule Deer

Mueller State Park teems with amazing animals waiting for you to spot them! Bring your binoculars to see some of the 158 bird species that call this place home. Look up in the trees for the Canada Jay, American Kestrel, and Clark’s Nutcracker – they love to show off their colors against the Pikes Peak backdrop.

Your kids will jump with joy when they spot their first black bear from a safe distance. These fuzzy giants often wander through the park in early morning or at dusk.

Mule deer roam freely throughout the camping areas, so have your camera ready! The gray fox might dart across your path during an evening walk. The best spots for wildlife viewing are along Peak View Loop and near the visitor center at dawn.

Park rangers offer wildlife guides at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife office to help you know what to look for. Just stay quiet, move slowly, and keep food locked up tight in your car or bear-proof containers.

Horseback Riding and Biking Adventures

Horse lovers can enjoy special spots at Mueller State Park! Sites 133 and 134 are just for riders and their horses. Bring your four-legged friend to trot along miles of trails with views of Pikes Peak.

Families find these paths perfect for making fun memories together. The park offers safe routes for all skill levels, from easy rides for kids to more tough trails for grown-ups.

Biking fans will love the park’s 44.3 miles of trails too! Grab your bikes and zoom through pine forests and open meadows. The trails wind past spots where you might see black bears or mule deer.

Many paths work for both horses and bikes, but some are just for one or the other. Maps at the visitor center show which is which. Next, let’s look at what you need to pack for your high-altitude camping trip.

Essential Packing Checklist for Mueller State Park

You need to pack smart for Mueller State Park’s high altitude camping. Your gear list should include warm layers, rain protection, and safety items like a first aid kit and bear spray.

Gear for High-Altitude Camping

Camping at Mueller State Park means dealing with thin air at 9,600 feet. My family learned this the hard way last summer! Pack extra layers since temps drop fast after sunset – we saw a 30-degree swing in one day.

Thick sleeping bags rated for 20°F or lower will keep you warm during chilly nights. Don’t forget rain gear even if the forecast looks clear. Colorado mountain weather changes in minutes, not hours.

Sunscreen is a must-have item since UV rays hit harder at high spots near Pikes Peak. Bring plenty of water bottles or a large container – your body needs more water at altitude. Headaches can pop up if you don’t drink enough.

Hiking poles help on steep trails like Peak View Loop, saving your knees from strain. Our kids loved having small backpacks with their own supplies while exploring the 55 miles of trails through this beautiful park.

Safety and Emergency Essentials

Pack a first aid kit with bandages, pain meds, and allergy pills for your Mueller State Park trip. The high altitude near Pikes Peak means you need extra water and sun block too. Black bears visit the park, so store food in bear-proof boxes or your car.

Weather changes fast in Colorado mountains – bring rain gear and warm clothes even in summer. Your phone might not work in all areas, so grab a trail map from the visitor center. Smart campers tell someone their plans before hiking the Peak View Loop or other trails.

Night temps drop fast, so pack extra blankets and flashlights with fresh batteries.

Fees, Passes, and Check-In Information

Mueller State Park offers many pass options for your visit. A daily car pass costs $10, while each person pays just $4 if walking in. Families can save money with an $80 annual pass or $120 family pass.

Seniors over 64 can get the Aspen Leaf Pass for $70. The park also has special deals for those who need them – like the $14 Centennial Pass for folks on tight budgets. Disabled veterans get free lifetime passes! The new Keep Colorado Wild Pass is only $29 when you renew your car tags.

Your camping spot will be ready at 1 p.m., but cabins open at 4 p.m. Everyone must leave by noon on check-out day. You can stay up to 14 days in any 28-day stretch. Make sure to bring your pass info to the visitor center when you arrive at the park near Divide, Colorado.

This helps park staff keep track of who’s using the trails and camping areas.

Seasonal Highlights and Events at Mueller

Mueller State Park shines with magic in every season, from snowy trails perfect for skiing to colorful wildflower hikes led by park rangers. You’ll find special events all year round – like star parties where you can spot planets through telescopes or nature workshops where kids learn about local animals right in their habitat.

Winter Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

Mueller State Park turns into a winter wonderland when snow blankets the ground. Families love gliding across the park’s trails on cross-country skis or stomping through fresh powder with snowshoes.

My kids squealed with joy last January as they spotted rabbit tracks crossing our path on Peak View Loop. The park keeps 29 electrical sites open year-round, so you can stay warm in your RV after a day in the snow.

Trails range from easy flat paths perfect for beginners to more hilly routes for those with some skills. The visitor center rents gear if you don’t have your own, making it simple to try this fun winter sport.

Park rangers often lead guided snowshoe hikes where you might spot mule deer or winter birds. Your camping trip doesn’t need to end when summer does – the park’s hiking trails become perfect spots for winter outdoor fun.

Next, let’s look at some helpful tips for making your camping trip a success.

Guided Hikes and Educational Programs

Park rangers lead amazing walks that teach you cool stuff about nature! Join the Guided Pond Hike on April 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This five-mile trek shows off the park’s best spots, but you must sign up first.

Families love the Basic Survival for Kids class on April 11 from 2-3 p.m. Your little ones will learn outdoor skills while having fun. Don’t miss the Junior Naturalist Spring Renewal event on April 13 for your kids to become nature experts.

These programs make your camping trip at Mueller State Park more fun. The trails offer great chances to spot black bears and mule deer while learning from experts. Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff share facts about plants and animals that call Pikes Peak home.

Your camping gear list should include items that will keep you ready for all the outdoor fun waiting at the park.

Tips for a Successful Camping Experience

Camping at Mueller State Park needs some smart planning for the best trip. You’ll face wild weather swings and thin air at 9,000 feet – pack layers and drink extra water to avoid altitude sickness.

Dealing with High Altitude and Weather Changes

Mueller State Park sits way up high where the air gets thin. Your body needs time to get used to this height. Many folks feel dizzy or get headaches their first day in the park. Take it easy at first – walk slow, drink lots of water, and rest often.

The weather at Pikes Peak can flip from sunny to stormy in just minutes! Pack extra layers even on nice days. A warm jacket, rain gear, and dry socks will save your camping trip if clouds roll in.

Check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife weather alerts each morning. The park ranger at the visitor center can also tell you if bad weather might come. Smart campers bring gear for both hot days and cold nights – this keeps the whole family safe and happy.

Quiet Hours and Park Regulations to Know

Park rules keep everyone happy at Mueller State Park. Quiet hours start at 10 p.m. and end at 6 a.m., so turn down music and voices after dark. Kids need sleep, and your camp neighbors do too! All pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.

Never tie your dog to trees, signs, or water spouts – this harms plants and blocks paths for others. Park staff can ask you to leave if you break these simple rules.

Fire safety matters in Colorado’s dry climate. Use only the fire rings at your site, and never leave flames alone. The park sits near Pikes Peak with lots of wildlife around. Black bears visit campsites that smell like food, so lock up all snacks in your car at night.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules protect both you and the animals that call this place home. Clean up trash right away to keep the outdoor spaces nice for the next family.

How to Get to Mueller State Park

Getting to Mueller State Park is easy with a GPS and a map. You’ll find this Colorado gem just west of Colorado Springs off Highway 67 near the small town of Divide.

Directions from Colorado Springs and Nearby Areas

Finding Mueller State Park is easy from Colorado Springs. Take Highway 24 west toward Woodland Park. Drive through Woodland Park and continue on Highway 24 for about 8 miles to Divide.

At Divide, turn left onto Highway 67 South. The park entrance sits about 3.5 miles down this road on your right. You’ll see clear signs for the park. The full address is 21045 Highway 67 South, Divide, CO 80814.

The drive from Colorado Springs takes about 45 minutes with normal traffic. Many families enjoy the scenic route past Garden of the Gods and along the base of Pikes Peak. The roads are well-maintained, but winter visitors should check weather reports first.

Snow can make Highway 67 tricky in bad weather, so pack chains or use a four-wheel drive vehicle during snowy months.

Conclusion

Mueller State Park waits for you with open arms! Pack your tent, grab your hiking boots, and head to this Colorado gem. You’ll make lasting memories under starry skies while bears and deer roam nearby.

The park’s 55 miles of trails offer chances to see nature up close. Your perfect outdoor trip starts with this guide – now go enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning Pikes Peak views!

FAQs

1. Where is Mueller State Park located?

Mueller State Park sits near Divide, Colorado, with amazing views of Pikes Peak. You can reach it by taking I-25 to the west of Colorado Springs.

2. What camping options are available at Mueller State Park?

The park offers tent and RV camping with flush toilets for comfort. Each site has its own charm, but Peak View Loop spots give the best mountain views. You must book through Reserve America before you arrive.

3. Can I see wildlife while camping at Mueller State Park?

Yes! The park is home to many animals, including black bears. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages the area to keep both visitors and animals safe. The visitor center has tips for wildlife viewing.

4. What activities can I do besides camping?

Hiking trails wind through the park for all skill levels. In winter, the paths turn into spots for cross-country skiing. The park focuses on sustainable outdoor recreation that helps protect nature.

5. Is there history behind Mueller State Park?

The land once belonged to ranchers who worked the area for many years. Now it’s one of the most loved Colorado state parks. The visitor center shares stories about the people who lived here before it became a park.