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Reading Time: 14 minutesLast Updated on August 14, 2025 by Paul Clayton
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20 Best Campgrounds in Colorado
Colorado, a state renowned for its stunning natural beauty, offers many campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or a base for hiking and fishing trips, the campgrounds in Colorado cater to a wide range of preferences and abilities.
Key Takeaways
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- Colorado Offers Diverse Camping Experiences: Colorado’s stunning natural beauty provides a wide array of campgrounds catering to various preferences, from amenity-rich resorts to secluded dispersed sites, suitable for families, adventurers, and those seeking relaxation.
- Northern Colorado Campgrounds:
- Glenwood Canyon Resort (Glenwood Springs): Full-service resort with RV, tent, suite, and cabin options. Offers rafting, zip-lining, biking, playgrounds, bar & grill, and proximity to town activities.
- Twin Peaks Campground (Twin Lakes): Shaded forest setting near Twin Lakes reservoir. Offers biking, horseback riding, fishing, water sports: First-come, first-served tent/trailer sites with basic amenities.
- Cherry Creek State Park Campground (Denver): Year-round camping near Denver. Offers water sports in the summer, winter activities (including sledding and snowshoeing), newly renovated sites (with full hookups and group sites), showers, laundry facilities, and a dog park.
- Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday: Family-friendly, with mini-golf, pool, community fire, movie nights, camp store, pet playground, and free shuttle to Steamboat Springs. Offers RV, tent, and glamping cabins.
- Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area (Boulder County): Ideal for tranquil, off-the-grid camping with designated sites. Free, but requires self-sufficiency (pack in/out, bring water).
- Southern Colorado Campgrounds:
- Junction Creek Campground (Durango): Base camp for Durango activities. Offers picnic site, pavilion, sports courts, and fishing. Features 44 sites (some reservable), with access to the Colorado Trail.
- Florida Campground (Durango): Low-key, shaded campground near Florida River (trout fishing). First-come, first-served tent sites (group area reservable) with basic amenities.
- Woodlake Park (Lake City): Near Lake San Cristobal. Offers RV, tent (limited but scenic river access), and cabin options. Good for fishing, hiking, biking, and historic sites.
- Bear Lake Campground (La Veta): Renowned for lake/stream fishing. Best for tent camping (15 sites, half reservable) with basic amenities and access to a 23-mile multi-use trail system.
- Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park (San Juan Mountains): Scenic mountain setting along the Dolores River. Offers RV sites, cabins, and B&B rooms—open May-October.
- West Colorado Campgrounds:
- Baby Doe Campground (Turquoise Lake): Family-friendly, shaded lakeshore sites for tents (under 3 tents/8 people). Popular for hiking, fishing, boating (sailing, canoeing). Reservable.
- Molly Brown Campground (Turquoise Lake): Historic site near Baby Doe. Offers lake-perched campsites with basic amenities, located near Leadville and the Mount Massive Wilderness.
- Green Mountain Reservoir: Offers seven off-the-grid campgrounds (tent-focused). No water supply; bring your own. Ideal for jet skiing, 4×4 rides, and taking in the mountain views.
- Saddlehorn Campground (Colorado National Monument): Nestled within rock formations, offering shade and serenity. Ideal for hiking, photography, and climbing. Features 79 sites (RV/tent) with grills and picnic tables.
- North Fruita Desert Campground: Mountain biker’s paradise at the heart of “18 Road” and Kokopelli Trail systems. Offers upper and lower campgrounds with fire rings, picnic tables, and parking. Bring water and trash bags.
- Campgrounds Near Colorado Springs:
- Mueller State Park Campground: Year-round camping with over 40 miles of trails. Offers 132 sites (electrical for RVs/tents, walk-in tent-only). Activities include mountain biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing.
- Eleven Mile State Park Campground: Ideal for fishing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking (ice boating in winter). Offers five miles of trails and designated shoreline/backcountry sites.
- East Ridge Campground (Royal Gorge): Quiet, non-crowded, off-the-grid feel with stunning views of Canon City. 12 sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. No water available; bring your own.
- Golden Eagle Campground: Located in historic mountain towns, it offers modern comforts. Features trout fishing ponds, playground, gift shop, convenience store, and 200 RV/tent sites with restrooms/showers.
- Garden of the Gods RV Resort: Offers stunning views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. Features two heated pools, playground, game room, bark park, and various rentals (cottages, suites, bunkhouses, tents, RVs).
- Camping Costs & Regulations:
- Cost: Averages $22-$28 per night for basic campgrounds with standard amenities (table, grill, fire ring).
- Permits: Most established campgrounds require reservations and fees. Backcountry permits may be needed for dispersed camping or backpacking in certain areas.
- Legality: Not permissible to camp “anywhere” in the mountains; only in designated campgrounds or with a permit in the backcountry for safety and conservation.
If you’re eager to take your next camping trip out west, Colorado is the place to do it. Have year-round fun exploring, sporting, and adventuring around the best campgrounds in the state.
Let’s get started with the top 20 best campgrounds in Colorado.
Northern Colorado Campgrounds
Colorado’s Glenwood Canyon Resort
Camping in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, should be on every nature lover’s bucket list. There’s no better place to experience its beauty than Glenwood Canyon Resort. Head to this campground anytime for rafting, zip-lining, biking, and much more.
Kids will enjoy the resort’s playgrounds and Ducky (inflatable kayak) trips. Campers don’t have to worry about getting thirsty or hungry; go to the campground bar and grill!
At the Glenwood Canyon Resort, every traveler can find their perfect site. There are plenty of options for RVs, tents, as well as suites, cabins, and cottages. With a permit, you can even fish right from your campsite.
After exploring the resort, head to local Glenwood Springs for more fun. Rock climb, golf, horseback ride, windsurf, or wind down with a massage. This spot has everything you could want in a camping resort.
Colorado’s Twin Peaks Campground
Twin Peaks is another beautiful camping spot in northern Colorado. This campground is in a shaded forest just west of the Twin Lakes reservoir.
Start the day with a bike ride down a nature trail or horseback riding, or head toward the water for some fishing and water sports. You’ll find many spectacular views, precious rocks, and minerals along the way.
Lodging options are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with tent camping and trailer sites available. Each site has picnic tables, parking, and nearby toilets.
Before heading home, you’ve got to check out the nearby Continental Divide and Mount Elbert trails. Just be mindful of the high altitude if you’re not accustomed to it. You’ll undoubtedly adore this spot for Twin Lakes, Colorado camping.
Denver’s Cherry Creek State Park Campground
If camping near Denver, Colorado, is on your wish list, Cherry Creek State Park Campground is the ideal destination. Pack your camping gear any time of year and get ready for some serious adventuring, wildlife viewing, and Colorado sightseeing.
During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including water skiing, sailing, volleyball, fishing, and more. The fun doesn’t stop when it gets cold, though. Winter brings sledding, snowshoeing, tubing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating.
Cherry Creek State Park Campground features 135 newly renovated campsites, including group sites, full hookups, and primary tent sites. You’ll find showers, toilets, and laundry facilities near each camping loop.
Even dogs can join in on the fun in the off-leash area. Don’t get sad when it’s time to pack up the tent and head on your way. You can easily access incredible cities like Denver, Parker, and Englewood.
Colorado’s Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday
Are you headed to Steamboat Springs, Colorado, this summer? This entertaining and family-friendly KOA Holiday is the best place for local camping. Everything you need is correct at the campground, from a camp store to a playground for pets to run free.
While you’re there, play mini golf, swim in the pool, and roast marshmallows by the community fire. If you’re staying on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to check out movie night.
Friendly hosts will guide you to a designated RV or tent site. If glamping is more your style, the campground offers several Deluxe Cabins and Camping Cottages.
You don’t have to worry about missing the local attractions either; they will give you a free shuttle to Steamboat Springs! Enjoy a day of museums, fine dining, and plenty of shopping.
Colorado’s Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area
Some people don’t love falling asleep to the sound of other campers telling fireside stories or rustling around in sleeping bags.
Gordon Gulch Campground in Boulder County is the perfect location for dispersed camping. Colorado offers stunning views to admire as you relax in the tranquil oasis.
East of Highway 72, you’ll find a road system with 15 numbered campsites, all within a mile and a half. Spot a number before plopping down your stuff because camping is only allowed in the designated areas.
Walk to the stream for fresh drinking water and cook dinner over the campfire. Arguably, the best thing about the Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping area is that it’s one of the only spots for free camping Colorado has to offer.
Southern Colorado Campgrounds
Durango’s Junction Creek Campground
Junction Creek Campground is a great base camp for those camping in Durango, Colorado, and is a delight for those engaging in activities around the area.
While at the campground, head to the day-use loop for a giant picnic site, pavilion, horseshoe pit, and volleyball court. Campers also enjoy fishing along Junction Creek.
The campground’s four camping loops offer 44 campsites, 29 of which are reserved when they’re open from May to September.
Start the thorough hike through the Colorado Trail right from the ground, or head a few miles to Amias Overlook. Other fun activities nearby include touring downtown Durango and visiting the San Juan National Forest.
Florida Campground in Durango
Still, do you need more of Durango’s beauty after a stay at Junction Creek Campground? Camp at Durango’s Florida Campground (still in Colorado, don’t let the name fool you). Savor a shaded visit surrounded by Douglas fir, blue spruce, and aspen trees.
After getting enough shade, travel down to the Florida River, known for its trout fishing. Anglers must be careful not to cross the private land the river runs through.
This low-key campground has only 20 sites, all of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Only large groups can reserve the Florida Group Area.
Every site features potable water, trash pickup, picnic tables, fire grates, and nearby vault toilets. Be sure to check out the nearby Lost Lake and Stump Lake trails and the Lemon Reservoir for fishing and non-motorized boating.
Colorado’s Woodlake Park
Are you looking for camping near Lake City, Colorado? Woodlake Park is the best place to go, just over two miles south of Lake City.
The city is best known for its nearby attractions, including fishing, hiking, biking, historic sites, and a variety of other outdoor activities. You must also check out Lake San Cristobal, the second-largest natural lake in the state.
Woodlake Park offers a variety of sleeping options, including RV and tent sites, as well as cabins that accommodate up to 10 people. Bring the RV on this camping trip, as there are 50 RV sites available, but only two sites are designated for tents.
However, the tent sites offer river access, are pet-friendly, scenic, and uncrowded. Woodlake Park’s laid-back feel will be a lovely break from the bustling Lake City.
Colorado’s Bear Lake Campground
Fishermen friends, this campground is for you! Just past La Veta, Colorado, Bear Lake Campground is renowned for its fishing opportunities in the lake and streams. Bear Lake is just a mile from the spot, and the tributaries of the Cuchara River run through the campground.
On the north side, you’ll find the Indian Creek Trailhead. The trailhead features a multi-use trail system spanning 23 miles, ideal for ATV, motorcycle, bicycle, or equestrian enthusiasts.
Bear Lake Campground is best suited for tent camping. It has 15 sites to choose from, with half of them reserved. Please call at least three to four days in advance of your planned arrival.
Every site will supply campers with parking spurs, tables, grills, campfire rings, and trash cans. Need a break from wilderness retreating? Head to La Veta for museums, shopping, and more.
Colorado’s Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park
One of the most surreal parts of visiting Colorado is viewing and exploring the lush mountains. Why not camp right in them?
Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park are in the San Juan Mountains along the Dolores River, midway between Telluride and Mesa Verde. Visitors have even called the spot “a slice of heaven.”
Between May and October, you can stay at one of the over 100 sites in the campground. These sites feature numerous RV spaces and ten cabins, accommodating travel parties of three to six people.
If you want to get extra fancy, stay at one of the upstairs Bed and Breakfast rooms in the campground’s main building. Pets will love joining the family for this camping trip.
Camping in West Colorado
Colorado’s Baby Doe Campground
Adventurers love Turquoise Lake, Colorado, and camping. Baby Doe Campground is situated on the eastern shore of Turquoise Lake in the shade of a subalpine fir and lodgepole pine forest.
The family-friendly campground is a beloved summer spot for hiking, fishing, and boating. On the lake, enjoy sailing, canoeing, and water sports.
Carve out some time to meander through the Turquoise Lake nature trail so you can gaze through the forest and down to the lake’s shoreline.
Baby Doe Campground offers a selection of single-family campsites along the scenic lakeshore. If you have fewer than three tents and eight people, you’re all set! You can reserve the affordable sites in advance for a preferred location.
Spend a day at Independence Pass for a scenic drive with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding Alpine tundra habitat. It’s one of the highest paved mountain passes in the country, making it a must-see destination.
Colorado’s Molly Brown Campground
Did your stay at Baby Doe leave you craving more camping in Turquoise Lake, Colorado? Look no further than Molly Brown Campground. It’s close to the last site, so you can easily get there, just off Turquoise Lake Road.
This campground boasts a rich history, diverse cultural features, and prime locations for swimming and fishing.
Beautiful campsites perched along the lake include picnic tables, drinking water, and a fire ring. After waking up to a breathtaking lake view, head to the historic local gold and silver mining town, Leadville.
If silver and gold aren’t your thing, check out the Mount Massive Wilderness Area for more nature exploration.
Colorado’s Green Mountain Reservoir
Sometimes, some good, old-fashioned camping is exactly what you need. No glamping or cushy RVs; just you, your tent, and nature. Green Mountain Reservoir in Colorado is full of off-the-grid campgrounds.
Depending on your activities, you can choose from seven different grounds. Whether you pitch the tent in Cow Creek North or Elliott Creek campground, it’s sure to be a lovely spot.
It’s essential to note that there is no water supply available at any of the campgrounds. So, make sure your cooler is packed to the brim with H2O.
However, you can find bottled water and fishing gear at Master Bait and Tackle nearby. Venture into other reservoir parts to find jet skiing, 4×4 rides, mountains, waterfalls, and alluring sunsets.
Colorado’s Saddlehorn Campground
If you ever find yourself in the Colorado National Monument, you’ve got to try camping at Saddlehorn Campground. Who wouldn’t want to camp in a gorgeous location that also preserves one of the extraordinary landscapes of the American West?
It’s nestled within large rock formations, surrounded by pinyon and juniper trees, providing shade and serenity. Every camper can find something to love here: hikers trek the miles of well-maintained trails, photographers capture the exquisite views, and climbers brave the towering sandstone formations.
The campground is about four miles west of the monument’s entrance. Through camping loops A, B, and C, you’ll have a selection of 79 different sites.
There are designated areas for RVs and tents; everyone gets a grill and picnic table. Trust me, there’s nothing better than stargazing at Colorado’s Saddlehorn Campground.
North Fruita Desert Campground
Need a break from all the forests and waterside activities Colorado has to offer? Check out North Fruita Desert Campground, the mountain biker’s paradise.
It’s at the heart of the famous “18 Road” trail system and within easy reach of the beloved Kokopelli Trail System. Just minutes from your campsite, you can take a fast, flowy ride or get tight and technical on the trails.
The campground is split into two areas: the upper and lower campgrounds. A maximum of 58 travelers can settle down in the upper campground. The lower campground is smaller, with only 53 sites available.
Both levels provide campers with a fire ring, picnic table, and parking spaces. Be sure to come equipped with plenty of water and trash bags.
Camping Near Colorado Springs
Mueller State Park Campground in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is one of the most beautiful places in the state to visit. Year-round, head to Mueller State Park to adventure through a wealth of Aspen trees and over 40 miles of scenic trails.
During the summertime, consider going mountain biking, studying nature, or horseback riding. Winter offers activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Throughout the year, you’ll find various animals, such as black bears, deer, coyotes, bobcats, and many others.
There are 132 campsites throughout the seven loops. One hundred ten are electrical and accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents, while the other 22 are walk-in tent-only sites.
Take in the precious spring-fed meadows and massive rocks surrounding your campsite, or venture into the backcountry areas. One thing to note is that the staff requests that you please buy local firewood for your s’mores roasting.
Colorado’s Eleven Mile State Park Campground
Anyone with a knack for fishing would love exploring Eleven Mile State Park Campground near Colorado Springs. The non-crowded waters are ideal for windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Even winter visitors can enjoy the water with ice boating. Do you want to stay dry during this camping trip? Hike the five miles of scenic trails, go duck hunting, or watch the waves from the comfort of your campsite.
There is designated camping around the shoreline, nestled among the backcountry trees. Sites range from basic to electric and, of course, lakeshore, so view the park map before reserving a spot. Even if your prime location is booked, you’re sure to find another one you love, with 325 to choose from.
East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge
Every camper loves that “off-the-grid” feeling every once in a while. The little-known East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge is quiet and non-crowded. Contact the host year-round to make reservations at this campground, offering stunning views of Canon City.
There are only 12 sites at East Ridge Campground, each equipped with a vault toilet, fire ring, and picnic table. Please note that there is no water available, so bring some with you.
Once you’re ready to leave nature and return to the real world, visit nearby Canon City for museums, Red Canyon Park, and the Royal Gorge dinosaur experience.
Colorado Springs’ Golden Eagle Campground
So, which location is known for having the best camping experience in Colorado Springs? Golden Eagle Campgrounds, situated among Colorado’s historic mountain towns, offer modern comforts to traditional camping.
Start the day at Golden Eagle’s trout fishing ponds. Enjoy 12 miles of hiking or have fun in the playground if you’re a little one. Before the day is done, you must check out the campground’s gift shop and convenience store.
Book one of the 200 RV or tent sites. The ground provides two separate restrooms and shower houses, so camping doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Don’t forget to use your discount at the May Natural History Museum of Tropical Insects before heading home!
Colorado’s Garden of the Gods RV Resort
Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado’s most breathtaking natural attractions. Camping in Garden of the Gods RV Resort will give you an up-close view and show off Colorado’s Pikes Peak.
In addition to the gorgeous views, you’ll get access to two heated swimming pools. Let the kids and pets run free at the playground, game room, and “bark park.”
The resort offers rentals for cottages, suites, bunkhouses, tent sites, and RV camping. Colorado Springs’ downtown area and other nearby attractions make this an ideal sightseeing destination.
Fill your days with trips to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Olympic Training Center, Old Colorado City, Cripple Creek, and more. Undoubtedly, the whole family will find something to love near Garden of the Gods RV Resort.
How much does Camp in Colorado Cost?
The cost to camp in Colorado falls within a modest range, typically averaging between $22 and $28 per night.
This price provides access to basic campgrounds with standard facilities and improvements for a comfortable camping experience.
Each campsite is specifically designated and outfitted with amenities such as a table, grill, and fire ring.
Can you Camp in Colorado without a Permit?
It depends on your chosen location for camping within the state. Most established campgrounds and public lands, including state and national parks, necessitate reserving a campsite and paying requisite fees.
A backcountry permit may be compulsory for dispersed camping or backpacking in certain areas.
Can you camp anywhere in the mountains of Colorado?
While the prospect of camping anywhere in the mountains of Colorado might seem appealing, it is not permissible. The state has specific regulations that campers must follow for their safety and the conservation of natural resources.
Campers can only set up their tents in designated campgrounds equipped with necessary facilities. Alternatively, they can camp in the backcountry, provided they have procured a permit for the same.
Final Thoughts
Colorado’s campgrounds offer a diverse range of camping experiences, catering to the specific needs and preferences of each visitor. The state offers a diverse range of options, from traditional tent camping and RV parks to cabins and yurts, providing unique accommodations for every type of camper.
During peak seasons, the demand for these campgrounds escalates significantly due to the region’s natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. However, Colorado also provides dispersed camping options for those seeking solitude and tranquility.
These secluded spots allow visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the serene wilderness.
For families, the campgrounds in Colorado offer a variety of amenities and activities suitable for all ages, including hiking, fishing, biking, bird-watching, and wildlife photography.
Furthermore, many of these campgrounds are situated near sites of historical and cultural significance, providing opportunities for educational exploration and learning.
For adventurous spirits, the state’s vast network of trails offers countless backpacking opportunities. These trails take campers through some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes, allowing them to experience the state’s natural splendor up close.
In conclusion, Colorado’s campgrounds promise a memorable experience that blends recreation, relaxation, and discovery, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a novice outdoor enthusiast.
If you haven’t already started booking campsites and packing the camper, now’s the time. These stunning Colorado campgrounds are waiting for you to visit!
Before you start up the RV, check out Crow Survival for all the camping info you need.
