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Camping in Lago Posadas

Lago Posadas, a hidden gem in remote Santa Cruz province, offers stunning dual-colored lake camping where turquoise and milky waters meet. Drive deep into Patagonia's emptiest reaches to camp at this spectacularly isolated destination off Ruta 40.

4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
3 campsites
Full guide to Lago Posadas →

Lago Posadas (and its connected twin, Lago Pueyrredón) is one of Patagonia's most spectacular and least-visited destinations, hidden in the remote interior of Santa Cruz province. The two lakes are dramatically different in color — Lago Posadas is a deep turquoise while Lago Pueyrredón appears milky green due to glacial flour — and where they meet creates an extraordinary visual spectacle. For car campers, reaching Lago Posadas is an adventure in itself, requiring a 90 km detour from Ruta 40 along a gravel road through empty steppe. The tiny settlement of Hipólito Yrigoyen (population ~100) on the lake's shore is the only outpost of civilization. This is camping at its most remote and rewarding — dramatic landscapes, zero crowds, and the satisfying self-reliance of true Patagonian exploration.

Campsites

Camping Municipal Hipólito Yrigoyen

Paid

The tiny town's municipal campground on the shores of Lago Posadas. Basic but welcoming, with direct lake access and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Facilities: toilets, cold showers, drinking water, BBQ shelters
Cost: ARS 1500-2500/night
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Lago Pueyrredón

Free

Wild camping along the shore of Lago Pueyrredón, accessible via a rough track from Hipólito Yrigoyen. The milky green lake surrounded by red and ochre hills is otherworldly.

Facilities: none
Cost: Free
No reservation needed
Access:

Camping Cerro de los Indios

Free

Free camping near the Cerro de los Indios archaeological site with ancient rock art. Walk to the painted caves and camp beneath the same rock formations humans used for millennia.

Facilities: interpretive signs
Cost: Free
No reservation needed
Access:

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Before you hit the trail: Lago Posadas

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the two lakes different colors?

Lago Pueyrredón receives glacial meltwater carrying fine rock flour that gives it a milky green/grey color. Lago Posadas is fed by clearer streams, giving it a deep turquoise. The contrast where they meet is stunning.

How difficult is the access road?

The 90 km gravel road from Ruta 40 is generally passable with high-clearance 2WD in dry conditions. After rain, it becomes muddy and potentially impassable. 4x4 recommended. Check conditions before committing.

Is there fuel at Lago Posadas?

Occasionally a resident sells fuel but never count on it. Fill up completely before leaving Ruta 40 and carry extra fuel. The round trip from Ruta 40 is 180+ km on gravel.

Can I visit the rock art?

Yes, Cerro de los Indios is accessible on foot from near the settlement. The paintings include hands, guanacos, and geometric designs similar to Cueva de las Manos. No entrance fee but respect the heritage.

How many days should I plan?

Minimum 2 nights to justify the long drive in. Three nights allows time to explore both lakes, visit the rock art, and hike the surrounding hills without rushing.

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