Colorado’s 20 Best Campgrounds
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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 of 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 any time of year 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 parched or hungry; just go to the campground bar and grill!
Every traveler can find their perfect site at the Glenwood Canyon Resort. There are plenty of spots for RVs and tents, as well as suites, cabins, and cottages. Even fish right from your campsite with a permit. After exploring the resort, head to local Glenwood Springs for more fun. Rock climb, golf, horseback ride, wind surf, 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 spot in North Colorado for camping adventures. This campground sits in a shaded forest, just west of the Twin Lakes reservoir. Start the day with a bike ride down a nature trail, go horseback riding, or head toward the water for some fishing and water sports. You’ll find lots of spectacular views, precious rocks, and minerals along the way.
Lodging options here are first come first serve tent camping or trailer sites. Each site has picnic tables, parking, and nearby toilets. Before you head back 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! There’s no doubt you’ll 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.
There are 135 newly renovated campsites at Cherry Creek State Park Campground: group sites, full hook-ups, and basic tent sites. Near each camping loop, you’ll find showers, toilets, and laundry facilities. 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’ve got easy access to awesome cities like Denver, Parker, and Englewood.
Colorado’s Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday
Headed to Steamboat Springs, Colorado this summer? This entertaining and family friendly KOA Holiday is the best place for some 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. 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 has got you covered with several Deluxe Cabins and Camping Cottages. You don’t have to worry about missing out on the local attractions either; they will give you a free bus 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. Make sure you spot a number before plopping down your stuff because camping is only allowed in the designated areas. Walk to the stream for some fresh drinking water and cook dinner over the campfire. Arguably the best thing about Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping area, is it’s one of the only spots for free camping Colorado has to offer.
Southern Colorado Campgrounds
Durango’s Junction Creek Campground
People camping in Durango, Colorado will be delighted by Junction Creek Campground. It’s a great base camp for those doing activities around the area. During your time 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 a total of 44 campsites, 29 of which are reservable when they’re open in May-September. Start the thorough hike through the Colorado Trail right from the ground or head a few miles down the road to Amias Overlook. Other fun activities nearby include touring downtown Durango and visiting the San Juan National Forest.
Florida Campground in Durango
Still need more of Durango’s beauty after a stay in 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 fire, blue spruce, and aspen trees. After you’ve gotten enough shade, travel down to the Florida river, known for its trout fishing. Anglers must be careful not to cross 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 is equipped with 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, as well as the Lemon Reservoir for fishing and non-motorized boating.
Colorado’s Woodlake Park
On the hunt for camping near Lake City, Colorado? The best place to go is Woodlake Park, just over two miles south of Lake City. Most known for its nearby attractions, you can expect to experience fishing, hiking, biking, historic sites, and more in the city. You also have to check out Lake San Cristobal, as it’s the second largest natural lake in the state.
There are various sleeping options at Woodlake Park, including RV and tent sites and cabins for up to 10 people. Bring the RV on this camping trip, because there are 50 RV sites, but only two for tents. However, the tent sites have river access and are pet friendly, scenic, and uncrowded. The laid-back feel of Woodlake Park will be a lovely break from the bustling and busy Lake City.
Colorado’s Bear Lake Campground
Fishermen friends, this campground is for you! Bear Lake Campground, just past La Veta, Colorado, is most popular for its lake and stream fishing. Bear Lake is just a mile from the spot, and the tributaries of the Cuchara River runs through the campground itself. 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 most suitable for tent camping, and has 15 sites to choose from. Half of them are reservable; 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 being able to view and explore lush mountains. Why not camp right in them? Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park is 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 10 cabins for travel parties between three and six people. If you want to get extra fancy, stay at one of the Bed and Breakfast rooms, located upstairs 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 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’ve got 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 venturing out to nearby 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 Turquoise Lake, Colorado camping? Look no further than Molly Brown Campground. It’s close to the last site so you can get their easily, just off Turquoise Lake Road. This campground has rich history and cultural features, as well as prime swimming and fishing sites.
There are beautiful campsites perched along the lake that all 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. There are seven different grounds to choose from depending on the activities you’re into. 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 will be able to find bottled water and fishing gear at Master Bait and Tackle nearby. Venture into other parts of the reservoir 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 great 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.
You can spot the campground about four miles west from 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, and everybody gets a grill and picnic table. Trust, 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 situated at the heart of the famous “18 Road” trail system, and within easy reach of the beloved Kokopelli Trail System. Take a fast, flowy ride or get tight and technical on the trails just minutes from your campsite.
The campground is split into two areas; the upper and lower campground. 58 travelers, can settle down in the upper campground. The lower ground is smaller with only 53 sites available. Both levels provide campers with a fire ring, picnic table, and parking spaces. Just be sure to come equipped with plenty of your own 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. Head to Mueller State Park year-round to adventure through a wealth of Aspen trees and over 40 miles of scenic trails. During the summertime, go mountain biking, study the nature, or horseback ride. The winter provides activities like snow shoeing and cross-country skiing. Throughout the year, you’ll find tons of various animals such as black bears, deer, coyotes, bobcats, and many others.
You’ll find a total of 132 campsites throughout the seven loops. 110 of them 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. 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 pick 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. Just keep in mind that there is no water; don’t forget to bring some! Once you’re ready to get out of nature and back into the real world, head to 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, Colorado Springs experience? Golden Eagle Campgrounds, located among Colorado’s historical mountain towns, brings modern comforts to old-school camping. Start the day at Golden Eagle’s trout fishing ponds. Enjoy 12 miles of hiking or if you’re a little one, have fun in the playground. 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 into May Natural History Museum of Tropical Insects before heading home!
Colorado’s Garden of the Gods RV Resort
Garden of the Gods of one of the most breathtaking natural attractions Colorado has to offer. Camping in Garden of the Gods RV Resort will not only give you an up-close view, but also 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 place to sightsee. Fill your days with trips to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Olympic Training Center, Old Colorado City, Cripple Creek, and more. There’s no doubt the whole family will find something to love near Garden of the Gods RV Resort.
If you haven’t already started booking campsites and packing up the camper, now’s the time. These stunning Colorado campgrounds are waiting for you to come visit! Before you start up the RV, check out Crow Survival for all the camping info you need.
