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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 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.
- Camping diversity: Various camping experiences are available.
- Campground popularity: High demand during peak seasons.
- Seclusion options: Dispersed camping for solitude seekers.
- Family-friendly amenities: Activities for all ages are available.
- Historical exploration: Sites offering cultural and historical significance.
- Backpacking opportunities: Trails allow immersive nature experiences.
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 spots for RVs and 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 North 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 first come, first served tent camping or trailer sites. 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 mind the high altitude if you’re not used to it! You’ll undoubtedly adore this spot for Twin Lakes Colorado camping.
Denver’s Cheery Creek State Park Campground
If camping near Denver, Colorado, is on your wish list, Cherry Creek State Park Campground is the place to go. 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 water and jet 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 has 135 newly renovated campsites: 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 right on 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 rusting around in sleeping bags.
Gordon Gulch Campground in Boulder County is the perfect location for dispersed camping. Colorado provides gorgeous views to admire as you relax in the quiet 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 people camping in Durango, Colorado, and is a delight for people doing activities around the area.
While on 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 provide 44 campsites, 29 reserved when they’re open in May-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 first come first serve. Only large groups can reserve the Florida Group Area.
Every site has potable water, trash pickup, picnic tables, fire grates, and vault toilets nearby. 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 more. You must also check out Lake San Cristobal, the second-largest natural lake in the state.
Woodlake Park offers various sleeping options, including RV and tent sites and cabins for up to 10 people. Bring the RV on this camping trip, as there are 50 RV sites but only two for tents.
However, the tent sites have river access and 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 famous for its lake and stream fishing. 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 is a multi-use trail system for 23 miles of ATV, motorcycle, bicycle, or equestrian fun.
Bear Lake Campground is best suited for tent camping. It has 15 sites to choose from, half of which are reserved; be sure to call at least three to four days ahead 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 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 on the campground. These sites include plenty of RV spaces and ten cabins for travel parties between three and 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 less than three tents and eight people, you’re good to go! You can reserve the affordable sites ahead of time for a preferred location.
Spend a day to 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 has a rich history, cultural features, and prime swimming and fishing sites.
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 important to know that there isn’t a water supply on 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, pinyon, and juniper trees, providing shade and serenity. Every camper can find something to love here: hikers trek the miles of maintained trails, photographers capture the exquisite views, and climbers brave the towering sandstone.
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 spots for RVs and tents; everybody gets a grill and picnic table. Trust me, there’s nothing better than star gazing 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. 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, go mountain biking, study nature, or horseback ride. The winter provides activities like 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. 110 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 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 feel like staying 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 up, 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 with stunning Canon City views.
There are only 12 sites at East Ridge Campground, each equipped with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Remember that there is no water, so bring some.
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 coined for having the best camping experience in Colorado Springs? Golden Eagle Campgrounds, located among Colorado’s historic mountain towns, bring modern comforts to old-school 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 in 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 Peek.
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 and other nearby attractions make this an ideal sightseeing place.
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 to $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 is contingent upon 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 certain regulations that campers must adhere to 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.
Wrapping Up
Colorado’s campgrounds offer a diverse range of camping experiences, catering to the specific needs and preferences of each visitor. The state boasts an array 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 an assortment of amenities and activities suitable for all ages, such as 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.
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