Places to Camp near Cotopaxi, CO

Cotopaxi, CO is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cotopaxi, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Cotopaxi, CO (252)

    Camper-submitted photo from East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge

    1.

    East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge

    25 Reviews
    72 Photos
    449 Saves
    Cañon City, Colorado

    Welcome to East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge, a fantastic spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors near Canon City, Colorado. This campground offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

    One of the standout features here is the incredible scenery. Visitors rave about the panoramic views of the plains to the east and the snow-capped peaks to the west. The Royal Gorge Rim Trail runs right past the campground, making it a perfect base for hiking and exploring the area. If you're into biking, there are also some great trails nearby.

    The campground is well-maintained, with clean pit toilets and a friendly camp host on-site. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire pit, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars. Just remember to bring your own firewood, as it's not available for purchase on-site. And if you're camping with pets, you'll be happy to know that the campground is pet-friendly.

    East Ridge Campground is conveniently located just a short drive from the Royal Gorge Bridge and Canon City, where you can find food, ice cream, and souvenirs. While the campground doesn't have running water or showers, the serene environment and beautiful views more than make up for it. Plus, the $20 per night fee is reasonable for the experience you get.

    So, pack your gear and head over to East Ridge Campground for a relaxing and scenic camping adventure. Whether you're here for the hiking, the views, or just some peace and quiet, you won't be disappointed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    2.

    Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    86 Reviews
    365 Photos
    672 Saves
    Gardner, Colorado

    Overview

    Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is in the San Luis Valley of south-central Colorado at an elevation of 8,175 feet. The dunes lie on the eastern edge of the valley at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Range. The dunefield is part of the nearly 150,000 total acres of the park and preserve that also protects alpine lakes, tundra, six peaks over 13,000 feet, ancient spruce and pine forests, large stands of aspen and cottonwood, grasslands, and wetlands. The park is part of a fragile, dynamic system that influences and sustains the tallest dunes in North America. President Herbert Hoover established the park unit as a national monument by presidential proclamation on March 17, 1932 through the Antiquities Act. The Works Progress Administration constructed the Superintendent___s Residence, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But otherwise, GRSA did not see a great deal of development during the New Deal. Park development did not occur in earnest until Mission 66. During this period, the NPS was able to construct a Visitor Center, the Pinon Flat Campground (88 sites), a picnic area, five comfort stations, six single family residences and a triplex, while also building or improving roads and trails through the park. The Visitor Center shows the motivation of the Western Office of Design and Construction to configure designs to corresponding regions using principles of ___regional modernism.___ Built in the Pueblo Revival style, the Visitor Center mimics adobe construction through modern materials and forms blended with traditional materials and forms seen during the CCC-era in Cecil Doty___s work. Following Mission 66, Congress designated nearly 91% of the monument as wilderness in 1976, which certainly limited the park___s ability to further develop visitor and administrative facilities. GRSA became a national park and preserve in 2000, which also included a transfer of land from the Rio Grande National Forest.The dunes have long stood as a landmark for travelers from ancient North Americans to Southern Ute, Jicarilla Apaches, Navajos, early explorers, gold miners, homesteaders, ranchers, farmers and migrant field workers, to you - today's park visitor.

    Recreation

    Great Sand Dunes' wide range of natural features provides endless outdoor recreational activities. The park is perfect for kids, who love exploring the dunefield on foot or by sled. Medano Creek, at the base of the dunes, is a popular place in the summertime. Kids and adults alike love to splash in the cool water. Many kid-friendly, ranger-led activities and a junior ranger program are available. Many miles of hiking and backpacking trails lead through the park's forests and alpine terrain, including the Mosca Pass Trail, Dunes Overlook/Sand Ramp Trail and Indian Grove Trail.

    Facilities

    Great Sand Dunes' wide range of natural features provides endless outdoor recreational activities. The park is perfect for kids, who love exploring the dunefield on foot or by sled. Medano Creek, at the base of the dunes, is a popular place in the summertime. Kids and adults alike love to splash in the cool water. Many kid-friendly, ranger-led activities and a junior ranger program are available. Many miles of hiking and backpacking trails lead through the park's forests and alpine terrain, including the Mosca Pass Trail, Dunes Overlook/Sand Ramp Trail and Indian Grove Trail.

    Natural Features

    Great Sand Dunes are the magnificent centerpiece of a natural system that includes high mountain peaks, sparkling streams, vast grasslands and lush forests. The campground is situated among pinon pines and sagebrush beneath the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Most sites have beautiful views of the snow-covered peaks. A wide variety of grasses and wildflowers can be found throughout the area, and mule deer are commonly seen in and around the campground.

    Nearby Attractions

    Zapata Falls is just south of the national park off Highway 150. A short but slippery 1/2-mile hike leads to a 25-foot high cascade. Simply driving to the trailhead provides an excellent view of the entire dunefield and San Luis Valley, especially at sunrise or sunset. San Luis State Wildlife Area is located at the western edge of Great Sand Dunes National Park. It features a large natural lake popular for boating, water skiing, sailing, windsurfing and fishing.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Rules and Reservation Policies__

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA

    3.

    Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA

    18 Reviews
    31 Photos
    29 Saves
    Cañon City, Colorado

    Welcome to the Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, nestled near Canon City, Colorado. This campground is a great spot for those looking to enjoy the outdoors with a touch of comfort. Open from April 15 to October 1, it offers a range of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.

    One of the standout features here is the beautiful scenery. The views are simply stunning, and there's a great walking path that's perfect for stretching your legs or taking your dog for a long stroll. If you're into hiking, you'll find plenty of trails nearby to explore.

    Families will find plenty to keep the kids entertained. There's a playground, a slide, and even mini-golf. The camp store is well-stocked with essentials, and you can even grab some pizza and wings if you don't feel like cooking. For those who need to stay connected, the campground offers electric hookups and drinking water.

    Pets are welcome, and there's a sanitary dump and sewer hookups for RVs. The bathrooms and showers are generally clean, though some visitors have noted they could use a bit of an update. Firewood is available for purchase, and you can enjoy a campfire at your site.

    The campground is conveniently located just a few miles from the Royal Gorge Bridge, making it easy to pop over for a visit. Whether you're here for a night or a week, the friendly staff and well-maintained facilities make it a pleasant place to stay. So pack up your gear and come enjoy all that Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA has to offer!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Alvarado Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Alvarado Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Alvarado Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Alvarado Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Alvarado Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Alvarado Campground

    4.

    Alvarado Campground

    15 Reviews
    32 Photos
    133 Saves
    Westcliffe, Colorado

    Overview

    Alvarado Campground, located at an elevation of 9,000 ft., is a prime location for accessing easy to challenging hikes in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. The variety of trails lead to high elevation lakes, picturesque waterfalls, and a number of stunning scenic overlooks. Alvarado is designed for a range of campers, with facilities for tent, RV and equestrian campers. Pike-San Isabel National Forests include over a million acres of wilderness and over half of Colorado's mountain peaks that reach above 14,000 feet.

    Recreation

    Near the campground are several trailheads that provide visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities. All trails are open for horseback riding and hiking. The Rainbow Trail is a premier ATV and motorcycle trail. The non-motorized Comanche and Venable Trails lead into the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness where waterfalls and alpine lakes may be enjoyed.

    Facilities

    Near the campground are several trailheads that provide visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities. All trails are open for horseback riding and hiking. The Rainbow Trail is a premier ATV and motorcycle trail. The non-motorized Comanche and Venable Trails lead into the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness where waterfalls and alpine lakes may be enjoyed.

    Natural Features

    Alvarado is perched on the side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains among sweet smelling ponderosa pine, aspen, lodgepole and gambel oak trees. Some sites offer views of the Wet Mountain Valley below while others sit beside Alvarado Creek. The campground is within reach of the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, which spans 226,455 acres with 60 alpine lakes, 400 miles of streams and over 400 miles of trails to explore. Large aspen stands visible in the area today are a result of fires set in the early 1900's to clear pasture land, expose minerals and produce charcoal.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore the Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway that takes drivers through the Wet Mountains and provides spectacular views of 22 peaks, all within the San Isabel National Forest.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee.__ A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite.____ Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive.__ In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    $27 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

    5.

    Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

    20 Reviews
    78 Photos
    188 Saves
    Nathrop, Colorado

    Welcome to Hecla Junction Campground, part of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area near Salida, CO. This place is a haven for those who love the great outdoors, especially if you're into whitewater rafting or fishing. The Arkansas River runs right alongside the campground, offering fantastic river access. You can practically step out of your tent and cast a line or launch a kayak.

    The campground itself is pretty straightforward—no frills, just nature. There are no electric hookups or potable water, so you'll need to bring your own supplies. But hey, that's part of the charm, right? Vault toilets are available, and each site comes with a picnic table and a fire pit. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as there's no trash service.

    The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with some offering stunning river views. If you're in an RV, be prepared for some uneven ground; extra leveling blocks might come in handy. The campground is also big rig friendly, so no worries if you're rolling in with a larger setup.

    One thing to note: this place can get busy, especially in the summer with all the rafting traffic. But even with the hustle and bustle, the natural beauty and the sound of the river make it worth it. Plus, there's a nice hike downstream to Seidel's Suckhole, which is both scenic and relatively easy.

    Reservations are a must, especially during peak season from April to October. So lock down your spot and get ready to enjoy some quality time by the river. Whether you're here for the fishing, the rafting, or just to soak in the scenery, Hecla Junction won't disappoint.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek

    6.

    Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek

    9 Reviews
    37 Photos
    54 Saves
    Coaldale, Colorado

    Located in beautiful Coaldale, Colorado, Cutty's Hayden Creek Resort has been a family tradition for over 50 years. We offer an abundance of RV and tent sites as well as cabins and other rentals. We have equipment available on-site for miniature golf, tennis, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and more. Our outdoor pool is open for 2020. Meals are served in the Rec Hall on the weekends for a surcharge and we have a general store for snacks and camping supplies. WiFi is available in the lodge. If you stay with us on a Thursday or Saturday night, you can enjoy an outdoor movie that is included in your stay. Check us out on Facebook and feel free to give us a call so you can book your getaway in the mountains. We are your Oasis in the Rockies, isolated and remote so you can kick back and disconnect.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $60 - $300 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mueller State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mueller State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mueller State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mueller State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mueller State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mueller State Park Campground

    9.

    Mueller State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    152 Photos
    591 Saves
    Divide, Colorado

    Mueller's campground has 136 campsites each with a picnic table and fire ring. There are 99 electric sites, many with tent pads and 22 basic walk-in sites in Prospector Ridge (sites 55-66) and Turkey Meadow (sites 100-109) Campgrounds. Sites 12 and 22 are handicapped designated​ sites​. You must have a handicapped placard or license plate.

    Campground Amenities The Comfort Station is open year-round. The Camper Services Building is open only in summer (Mid May - Mid October) Both buildings contain flush toilets. On-site accommodations​​ include firewood for sale, a camper services building with coin-operated showers/laundry and modern restrooms, vault toilets, dump station and a playground.

    Mueller offers three group campground opportunities nestled in the aspen and conifer forest, conveniently located near the Camper Services Building.

    Winter Camping: Mid October - Mid May Mueller has 29 electrical sites available within the Peak View Campground and the Revenuers Ridge Campground (Sites 1 –9, 11-13, 15-22 and 81 – 89) during the winter. The Comfort Station, containing flush toilets, will remain open. Vault toilets will be open at Outlook Ridge, Peak View Campground and across from site #87. Water is available at the outside spigot at the Comfort Station; all other hydrants are closed, so we suggest bringing your own water. The dump station is dry dump only, which means you will not have water to rinse out your equipment.

    $18.00 per night Mueller State Park has 4 backcountry campsites located in 2 separate groups. Both backcountry campsite groups require an approximate 1.5 mile hike from the Black Bear Trailhead to the sites. Sites are available to reserve from May 1 through October 31st.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins

    $18 - $396 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Canyon Park

    10.

    Red Canyon Park

    19 Reviews
    84 Photos
    645 Saves
    Victor, Colorado

    Welcome to Red Canyon Park, nestled near Canon City, Colorado. This spot is a gem for those who appreciate rugged beauty and a bit of solitude. The park is known for its stunning red rock formations and scenic views that make it a fantastic place to explore and unwind.

    The campsites here are pretty basic but offer what you need for a comfortable stay. You'll find picnic tables and fire rings at many of the sites, though not all. Vault toilets are available, but don't expect them at every campsite. The park is free to use, which is always a nice bonus.

    One of the highlights of Red Canyon Park is its accessibility for both tent and RV camping. The sites are dispersed, giving you a sense of seclusion. Some spots are more level than others, so you might need leveling blocks if you're in a campervan or RV. The road can get a bit rough, especially after rain, so be prepared for some ruts and mud.

    Visitors have mentioned that the park is best enjoyed in the fall and spring when the weather is milder. Summer can get quite hot, so plan accordingly. The park is also a popular spot for local youth gatherings, but hopefully, your stay will be peaceful.

    For those who love to explore, there are plenty of trails and rock features to check out. Whether you're hiking along the seasonal river or climbing the red bluffs, there's something for everyone. Just remember to bring bug spray, as gnats and mosquitoes can be a nuisance.

    Overall, Red Canyon Park offers a beautiful, rugged camping experience with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Enjoy your stay!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cotopaxi, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cotopaxi, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 252 campgrounds and RV parks near Cotopaxi, CO and 71 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cotopaxi, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cotopaxi, CO is East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge with a 4.3-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cotopaxi, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 71 free dispersed camping spots near Cotopaxi, CO.

What parks are near Cotopaxi, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Cotopaxi, CO that allow camping, notably Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands and Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve.