I always end up at Chicago Creek after spending an evening in the Denver/Boulder area and attempt to head west afterwards. Only an hour-ish from the city, this campground is perfect for people heading west from Denver and are looking to be immersed in mountains. The road up to the site is a bit sketchy, so try to arrive before nightfall, although I've always arrived after dark. If the campground is full, quite often people camp just past it, at the end of the road. There are signs that say "No Camping" but I've never had an issue and there are tons of people there. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast in Idaho Springs or continue up the road to Mt. Evans summit!