Top Tent Camping near Palmer Lake, CO
Looking for the best Palmer Lake tent camping? Find the best tent camping sites near Palmer Lake. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Palmer Lake, Colorado's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Palmer Lake, CO (30)
1.
Mueller State Park Campground
Divide, Colorado54 Reviews155 Photos608 SavesMueller'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.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$18 - $396 / night
2.
Lone Duck Campground and Cabins
Green Mountain Falls, Colorado31 Reviews214 Photos72 SavesWe have everything you need to have a great time in the Colorado Rockies. Tent sites, RV sites, and Camper Cabins! Relax in your shady site or take a dip in our heated outdoor pool. We also have a fishing pond, stocked with rainbow trout, a retro arcade, 24/7 lounge serving locally roasted coffee each morning, playground, and laundromat.
We’re outside the city lights at the base of Pikes Peak- 7600 feet elevation – yet our proximity to all the area’s many attractions makes us an ideal location for families looking for a summer adventure or folks just passing through for a couple of days. We strive to make every stay special. You will love it here at “the Duck”!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$40 - $87 / night
3.
Rampart Range Area Dispersed Campsite
Green Mountain Falls, Colorado9 Reviews17 Photos399 SavesDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:
In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
4.
Matukat Road Dispersed Camping
Lake George, Colorado15 Reviews55 Photos911 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Dispersed
5.
Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
Woodland Park, Colorado5 Reviews37 Photos216 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
6.
Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
Cañon City, Colorado31 Reviews122 Photos889 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7.
Red Canyon Park
Victor, Colorado21 Reviews88 Photos701 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
8.
Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2
Palmer Lake, Colorado2 Reviews19 Photos114 SavesNational Forest
Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands
Part of Pike and San Isabel National Forests Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands. Mount Herman Trail begins at a small parking area on a switchback on Mount Herman Road. This trail provides a 2-mile one-way hike to the summit of Mt. Herman.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
9.
Dutch Fred Trailhead #679
Larkspur, Colorado1 Review13 SavesThe Dutch Fred Trailhead is located south of Indian Creek / Rampart Range area. The trail enters into a system of 115 miles of motorcycle and ATV trails in the Rampart Range area. In order to use any vehicle on National Forest lands, it must either have a valid state license plate or be registered with the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program. Contact Colorado State Parks at 303.866.3437 for OHV registration information. Registered OHVs may be subject to fines if used where they are not specifically permitted.
- Tents
10.
South Platte River Corridor
Buffalo Creek, Colorado1 Review4 Photos29 SavesThe South Platte River Corridor near Deckers, CO has been a popular fishing location for decades. In the 1890's, Stephen Decker built a general store and later a saloon in this area. The South Platte Hotel, located at the confluence of the North Fork of the South Platte, was a popular resort in the early 1900's and was accessible only by train. The confluence provides access for fishing, kayaking, and trail use. The South Platte River is part of a 1.6 million-acre watershed that reaches from the Continental Divide to Strontia Springs Reservoir, southwest of Denver. The watershed is a recreational mecca with over 1 million acres of public lands; it provides municipal water for about three quarters of Colorado’s residents; it is renowned for its “gold-medal” fishing streams; and it is home to numerous threatened and endangered species. The Upper South Platte Watershed varies in elevation from about 6,000' to over 14,000' above sea level and contains five major municipal and several smaller reservoirs.
- Tents
Showing results 1-10 of 30 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews In Palmer Lake
1185 Reviews of 30 Palmer Lake Campgrounds
Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
Great spots along ATV trail
Tons of level, large spots. Road is meant for ATV use, and was a fair amount of traffic throughout the day but tolerable. Hardly any at night. Restrooms at base of road. Found our spot 2.5 miles up the road, definitely needed AWD.
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
Secluded sites along creek
Drove ~3 miles along the service road to find our spot, it was the second pull off “open-area” with several fire pits to choose from. Road was a little bumpy but would be fine with a 2WD. Gorgeous, secluded spot next to the creek. No Verizon service.
Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
Great secluded sites
Pretty smooth mountain road, lots of site options. We found one that was down back from the main road and near the creek. Needed 4WD to get down there, but other sites 2WD would be fine. Appears to be a local cow wandering around, she approached our campsite but went the other way.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Larkspur
Nice but pricey
Overall Nice site. Stayed one night. Too pricey for a stopover. Propane fire pit looks nice but could not use. Must have a 20 pound tank. Store was closed as we arrived at 5 pm.
Train and traffic noise as expected for location. Lot of stuff for kids. Nice facilities. Clean park.
Mueller State Park Campground
Still camping !
From Texas, got married in Colorado two years ago and came back again this year to celebrate. Absolutely love camping and hiking, staff was friendly and everything has been clean so far. Super worried at first about hiking up to campsite but they have carts donated to help carry gear. This is one of the farther tent campsites on this side of the park and we had no issues getting there. Other than a bloody nose from elevation change. Beautiful view lots of wildlife:)
Colorado Springs KOA
Good stay
We had a good time.. activities were fun and location is beautiful!
Chatfield State Park Campground
Greast Spot
Stayed the last night with a rental RV that we needed to return to Denver by 10;30 AM. Campground has an unusual lay out with "loops" being 3 rings of sites. Sites are spread out well. Lots of privacy, Within an hour's drive of the RV rental return location (with a Costco on the way to fill the gas tank). Some sites have elec/water/sewer at the sites. Some have just electrical - this was our site. A communal water/sewer was available with ability to handle two vehicles at the same time.
Chief Hosa Campground
Good Spot, Beware road noise
This was a one-night overnight tent spot after a work conference in Golden. Drive to the site was not bad. The roads are a little bumpy to get into the tent-only camping but even my little Chevy did okay. Bathroom facilities are good with coin-operated showers. Relatively quiet but there is quite a bit of road noise from I-70.
Rampart Range Dispersed Site
Great Access to Rampart Reservoir
Handful of spots stretched out along the road. It was hard to find some open space on a Saturday around 3.
Crags Campground
Easy Access to Devils Playground
I camped here one night before I hiked up to the Devils Playground. Bring cash for the site, it is first come first serve. Great sites with fire pits and picnic tables. Very kind host.
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
great spot by creek
loved this spot even stayed a couple extra days right by nice size creek the cooler weather was nice and meant not alot of bugs. more traffic on road than expected but not bothersome. people close by but not close enough to hear or bother you in anyway. site was clean. there were more shaded ones but we chose next to water. were a couple empty close by on a holiday weekend.
Rocking Chair Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
Nice Campground Lousy Campers
The campground itself is very nice and had all of the makings for a peaceful camping trip. However, when we got there we found our neighboring campground had overtaken our campground because they didn't think we were going to show up (we arrived somewhere around 4 and check-in is at 3). Fortunately they moved their tents out of our campground pretty quickly. There was a separate campground that stayed up until 4 in the morning playing music very loud which was highly irritating. Very surprised there was no enforcement of quiet hours. All in all it was a good spot but definitely felt like it could use a campground host of some sort to help ensure all campers have a good experience.
Mountaindale Cabin & RV Resort
Last Minute
We had to change plans last minute and arrive here on short notice. They had sites to accommodate us and they were very welcoming. This was hands down the nicest privately owned rv park/campground we have ever stayed at! The bathroom suites have recently been remodeled and they are so nice! Best shower of our 10 day road trip. Nice laundry facilities, community rec room, hot tub, and even a hiking trail to the top of the mountain. Highly recommend.
Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed
Peaceful and Secluded
Came mid August. Arrived about 5pm on a Saturday and there were a handful of spots left. I was right next to the river. Had 2 groups close to me that I could see, but it wasn’t an issue. Easy enough to get to.
Red Canyon Park
Great stay very close to Canon City
This was my first time solo tent camping. It went well. The space had a fire ring and picnic table. I might have been the only person at the park and it was quite peaceful!
Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
breathtaking & plenty of tucked away spots
probably one of my favorite spots along the road trip. multiple really rad drive through tunnels and towering canyon walls that blew me away. got there after dark and took and it's definitely a popular place so I would recommend getting there with some day light left. a smidge chilly during the night but does heats up quick. would absolutely come back again!
Matukat Road Dispersed Camping
Excellent!
We spent 10 days at the top of the mountain. There were a few people that came in for a night or so, but not even close enough to hear them or see lights. The views are breathtaking! I am from NY. Drove all the way here just too camp. Was not disappointed!!! Can not wait to come back.
Mountaindale Cabin & RV Resort
Great spot near Co Springs
What a great find close to Co Springs. It’s about 30-40 minutes south, and you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere! A perfect alternative to the crowded campgrounds nearer to the city. The sites are nicely spaced, especially the pull-thru where we stayed. Owners are friendly and helpful, and overall it was super quiet. Phone service was spotty, but there was decent WiFi. We especially enjoyed watching the many hummingbirds zipping about. We would definitely return if we’re back in the area. Thanks for a great stay.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground
Beautiful park with great hiking
Spent one night here. Beautiful park with great hiking trails and full hook ups. Up on the side of a mountain overlooking Colorado Springs. Went to sleep hearing taps and was woken up hearing reveille. Also was visited by several jets from the nearby army base. Spaces were very nice and level and were oncrete with a picnic table. My only two complaints was you had to pay an extra $10 to get into the park even though you paid &46 to camp there and the road up to the campground for about a mile and a half was pretty steep, probably 8 to 9% grade. Watch your brakes coming down.
Cripple Creek Gold Campground
Convenient location
Cripple creek Rv park was very conveniently located just 2 blocks behind casinos . Great views . Most people here are long term. As a matter of fact no line else checked I or our when we were there. Make sure to call the day of arrival to confirm site number the are old school and no emails or txt . No paper or board for late night check in with direction for site . We got there late it was raining and thank you for nice level site . Overall if you are looking to do some gambling and see the site it works as a home base .
Rampart Range Dispersed Site
Great free camping stay
Dispersed is further up the mountain but what a beautiful drive! We found a wooded spot that was super private and cozy! Climbed nearby rocks for some amazing views 🏔️
Dutch Fred Trailhead #679
Two strangers met and went to the best campground
Amazing and wonderful absolutely love the view
North Round Mountain
Nice place to sleep under the stars
We got there late at night and it was plenty of space. Unpaved road but no problem to get there with a campervan. Really close to the hwy but not noisy at all. Good option to spend the night.
Diamond Campground & RV Park
Very cramped camping
I chose this park due to the other reviews but they obviously had much different experience than we did. We were given camp site 44 and we were shocked! When we backed our little Little Guy teardrop camper into the spot we were 13 feet from the camper on the left, and there were 3 campers backed in at the back within FEET. Then a new camper pulled in on the right, a camper van. It was 5 feet from our door. Basically, it was like cramming 3 campers into one spot. It was like they put 3 campers in 1 campsite. This was an inside camp spot. The outer spots had more room. Also, out sewer hook up was 10 inches above ground making it super hard to get drainage. We looked around and there were quite a few like that but most were close to the ground. Like I said, it’s like they made 3 site out of one. The bathhouse is fine. They do have a nice laundry facility but you have to sign up for a time slot since the campground is so big. They had firewood and camper/camping supplies at the office. Given how many other campgrounds are in the area, I wouldn’t stay at this one again.
clyde dispersed camping
Amazing place
First time dispersed camping and it was amazing. Beautiful. The warms days and cold nights were incredible.
Indian Springs Ranch and Campground
Little Oasis , Wonderful Host
Stayed full day and overnight, sweet little campground. Chris the owner is a wonderful person and met us as we pulled in. Gave us a choice of sites, full hook up or just water and 30 Amp electric.(they do have 50 Amp too) Wife and I swam in the nice pool on site. Will go back on way home. Rates excellent!
South Meadows Campground
Good for families!
This campground was very nice! The sites are a little close together and it seemed like a lot of families were staying here for the weekend. It’s really close to red rocks Trail, which I highly recommend taking. There’s also a lake about a five minute drive from the campground as well. I showed up to a first come first serve site and had a very restful evening.
Guide to Palmer Lake
Camping near Palmer Lake, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Paddleboarding and Water Sports: Chatfield State Park Campground is a great spot for paddleboarding. One visitor mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it a perfect place to cool off on hot days.
- Hiking: Mueller State Park Campground has trails that lead to stunning views. A camper noted, "Short walk to Grouse peak," which is ideal for those who love to explore nature.
- Wildlife Watching: Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground is known for its wildlife. One reviewer shared, "We saw deer multiple nights," highlighting the chance to see animals up close.
What campers like
- Friendly Staff: Many campers appreciate the helpfulness of the staff. At Chatfield State Park Campground, one visitor said, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."
- Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Cherry Creek State Park Campground remarked, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained."
- Scenic Views: Campers love the views at Mueller State Park Campground. One reviewer stated, "Campsites 8 and 9 offer stunning views of Sentinel Point," making it a picturesque spot for camping.
What you should know
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7AM to the sound of model airplanes," so be prepared for early morning sounds.
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, at Mueller State Park Campground, one visitor noted, "No water at site but several drinking water stations with hose hookups," so plan accordingly.
- Access and Terrain: Some campgrounds require a bit of driving on rough roads. A review for Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping stated, "Four wheel drive is required," which is important for those planning to visit.
Tips for camping with families
- Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. The Colorado Springs KOA offers fun activities like mining for gems and tie-dye shirts, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "They do fun activities on the weekends."
- Safety and Cleanliness: Choose campgrounds that prioritize cleanliness. A visitor at Lone Duck Campground and Cabins mentioned, "Nice bathroom/showers," which is essential for families with kids.
- Space for Play: Ensure there's enough space for kids to play. At Golden Eagle Campground, one camper noted, "Every site had its own fire pit, and amazing views were present," providing a great environment for family fun.
Tips from RVers
- Site Size and Accessibility: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A reviewer at Cherry Creek State Park Campground said, "We stayed in Site 95 and had no trouble fitting our 29’ Class C," which is reassuring for RV travelers.
- Amenities Check: Look for campgrounds with good amenities. At Garden of the Gods RV Resort, one visitor mentioned, "The park was fine... nice facilities; main laundry," which can make your stay more comfortable.
- Road Conditions: Be aware of road conditions leading to campgrounds. A camper at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping advised, "Road was very rutted and bumpy," so it's best to check your vehicle's capabilities before heading out.
Camping near Palmer Lake, Colorado, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful campgrounds like Chatfield State Park Campground, Mueller State Park Campground, and Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground, you're sure to find a spot that suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Palmer Lake, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Palmer Lake, CO is Mueller State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 54 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Palmer Lake, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 30 tent camping locations near Palmer Lake, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.