Best Campgrounds near Allenspark, CO
The area around Allenspark, Colorado includes access to various types of camping and campgrounds within the Roosevelt National Forest and near Rocky Mountain National Park. Olive Ridge Campground offers established sites with tent pads and bear boxes, while Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides free primitive sites along Ski Road. Camping options range from developed facilities with picnic tables and fire rings to dispersed areas with minimal amenities. Both tent and RV camping are available at several locations, though RV access may be limited at higher elevations or on rougher forest roads. The region's proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park makes it popular for visitors seeking alternatives to the often-full park campgrounds.
Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from May through September or early October due to high elevation weather patterns. Olive Ridge Campground lacks drinking water on site, requiring campers to obtain water from Crystal Springs in Allenspark. Dispersed camping areas like Gordon Gulch may require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain or snow. Cell service is limited or non-existent at most camping locations, with one reviewer noting, "The only downside was absolutely no cell service." Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips. Elevations range from 8,000 to 10,500 feet, making for cool nights even in summer.
Campers report high satisfaction with the natural settings and proximity to hiking trails. The Wild Basin section of Rocky Mountain National Park is accessible from Olive Ridge Campground, offering challenging hiking opportunities. Dispersed camping areas provide more privacy and often feature creek-side locations. A visitor commented that Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides "an exceptional spot to stay. Our spot was near the creek, the sound was beautiful." Sites at Olive Ridge are described as "well protected from the sun" with "a lot of trees." Developed campgrounds typically offer a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites, with some campgrounds filling quickly during summer weekends. The combination of mountain views, forest cover, and water features makes the Allenspark area popular despite the lack of amenities like showers or hookups at most locations.
