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.

Best Camping Sites Near Allenspark, Colorado (404)

    1. Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    91 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    $35 - $70 / night

    "Took the kids camping in Colorado for the first time and we had a blast. It rained on us a lot but it didn't stop us. Took a great hike up deer mountain....stunning views. Can't wait to go back."

    "Very enjoyable spot, close access to trails and entrance and exit of the park."

    2. Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    60 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    $35 - $70 / night

    "Firewood sold next to the entrance by the same husband and wife that have been selling firewood there for 35 years. There is a shed full of firewood."

    "The spaces are large, but quite close to one another with few trees for privacy. Each site here is variable, with some open with no trees and others nestled in some mature trees."

    3. Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake

    46 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 964-7806

    $45 - $70 / night

    "There’s access to a small playground for kids. The pool looked nice, the lake is right across the road. Overall a good campsite."

    "Since there was construction going on at the national park campgrounds and none were available, we found Mary’s Lake to be a great alternative to take our chances at camping in the park."

    4. East Portal Campground at Estes Park

    40 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 964-7806

    $45 - $80 / night

    "The bathrooms were clean, and close to almost every site. They had a very nice playground for the kids with a climbing wall."

    "Estes Park Campground at East Portal is a short drive away from both RMNP and the city of Estes Park, so you are nearby everything."

    5. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    34 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    7 miles
    Website

    "You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."

    "The location is great, there’s about 10 designated camp sites to choose from and great hiking trails nearby. The drive in is easy."

    6. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides an exceptional spot to stay. Our spot was near the creek, the sound was beautiful. The only downside was absolutely no cell service."

    "We found a spot with several fire rings close to the water and just a short walk from parking along the road."

    7. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    14 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Getting here is easy, only a few miles away from Nederland and I had cell service (verizon) the entire time."

    8. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground

    22 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 541-2500

    $17 - $35 / night

    "If you are looking for the true Colorado experience-look no further. "

    "While there are some hiking trails stemming from the main camping area, Camp Dick is not the best option for those who want to enjoy quiet nature walks since most of the trails also accommodate off-road"

    9. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."

    "Driving down to town during the day, there were some people (probably from the adjacent campground) hiking the road. Overall quiet at night (other than some road noise from 36). Not a bad spot!"

    10. Hermits Hollow Campground — Hermit Park

    25 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 577-2090

    $35 / night

    "Best place to camp in Estes Park/Northern Colorado! Wooded sites mean privacy from your neighbors and shade during the day. Vault toilets are very clean, well kept."

    "This campground has all the privacy you would expect yet provides easy access to Estes Park and the Rocky Mountian National Forest. The Laramie County Staff that were on site were kind and helpful."

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Recent Reviews near Allenspark, CO

2672 Reviews of 404 Allenspark Campgrounds


  • Ben W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Pioneer Park

    Cute, but...

    Great little campground, right on the Colorado River.

    Would be better if a freight train didn't pass through every 2-3 hours, blowing the train horn.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Manor RV Park

    Location Excellent - Campground and showers OK

    The campground is extremely conveniently located and in a pretty area. The campground itself is just ok. Super close together spaces and zero privacy at sites. Nice concrete pads to park beside to help with mud and tracking so that was nice. Each site has its own picnic table. The shower house was centrally located within the grounds. The women's side entrance wasn't very well lit at night. There are no private changing areas in the shower house, except the handicap stall, which I am not a fan of. Water wasn't very hot even on straight hot.

    Men's side was even less private my husband said.

  • leah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    The Lost Site - Dispersed Campsite

    The lost site

    Beautiful quiet spot. Large sites with pull thru. Easy turn around. No facilites and cold in October

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Applewood RV Resort by Rjourney

    Great hiking and biking trails

    The park was okay if you are looking for something overnight. And very expensive and very crowded and no room between rigs. Looks like fulltime living in some spaces. It does have laundry service. And it has a great park just beside it. And there are beautiful hiking and biking trails right next to the facility. And it is very dog friendly.

  • Vinny D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    Great spot, quiet

    Good spot, this is my second time staying here. You have to drive through a neighborhood to get to the serving road. Follow the directions on Google and you’ll be fine. The best spots are a little further back. The road will come to a Y go left. Once you go left down be hill you’ll go back up a hill and go around the curve to the right. There’s a creek on the left and great spots.

  • Adam  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir

    Eh… it’s ok

    For what you’re paying for it could be better. Vault bathrooms are not clean and smell awful. Look I know they smell and are dirty but people do your part to close the lid and clean up afterwards. Showers are good but you have to pay $2 per shower Dump is $15 too! Good cycling around here Cell service is ok. Sometimes drops. Verizon and att People working here are very friendly and helpful. Leave it better than you found it.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    ESTES PARK / ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK KOA HOLIDAY

    Great Views

    This is a really nice KOA. It doesn't seem like there are any bad sites, but there are a few premium sites that would totally be worth the extra money if you are here a few days and spending evenings at camp. Amazing views from a private deck. We were next to these, and still had great views and a nice fire pit and table area.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    2x winner

    Have now camped here twice, in June & late September, both on Friday nights, and it has been perfect. Loads of well spaced spots, secluded, gorgeous views.

  • Brittanie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Nice Pull Off Dispersed Site

    Easy access

    Easy to access spot with plenty of parking. There is a slope around the area so will possibly need leveling blocks. Campfire ring and great views.


Guide to Allenspark

Camping sites near Allenspark, Colorado sit at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 10,500 feet in the Roosevelt National Forest. Nighttime temperatures frequently drop below 45°F even in summer months, requiring campers to pack warm clothing regardless of season. Sites along Middle St. Vrain Creek offer both the soothing sounds of water and natural protection from the frequent afternoon thunderstorms that roll through the area.

What to do

Elk watching in RMNP: The Moraine Park Campground provides excellent opportunities to see elk herds, especially during early morning and evening hours. "Deer wander in the morning," notes camper S.M., while another visitor mentions, "We got to see some beautiful Elk very close by, which was definitely a highlight."

Fishing at Beaver Reservoir: Located about 20 minutes from Allenspark, this area offers fishing opportunities in a mountain setting. "Beautiful lake with several good sized RV spots," says James S. at Beaver Park Reservoir. The reservoir is stocked with trout, though access requires respect for private property boundaries.

Rock climbing near Hermit Park: Just 25 minutes from Allenspark, this area offers both beginner and intermediate climbing routes. "The rock climbing is off the chart," mentions Tawny G. from Hermits Hollow Campground, which serves as a good base camp for climbers.

Creek-side relaxation: Multiple campsites offer creek access for wading and relaxation. A visitor to Allenspark Dispersed Camping shares: "Lots of spots available... most camp spots are along the creek," making it perfect for those seeking water-based relaxation.

What campers like

Natural sounds: The moving water at many camping areas provides both ambiance and practical benefits. "Right next to a creek, the sound was beautiful," notes one camper about Allenspark Dispersed Camping along Ski Road. The creek noise helps mask sounds from neighboring campsites.

Wildlife sightings: Many campsites offer opportunities to see native wildlife. At Glacier Basin Campground, visitors report frequent animal encounters: "Gorgeous views, tons of wildlife," says Kenneth V., while Jessica T. notes, "Lots of animals sighting but also a lot of screaming kids to make them run away."

Hammock-friendly sites: Despite beetle kill in some areas, many sites still support hammock camping. "Loop C has enough trees to hang a hammock," reports John E. from Glacier Basin Campground, contradicting reservation site information that claimed otherwise.

Fire rings: Most established sites and many dispersed areas have existing fire rings. "Sites have fire rings," confirms Jaqueline E., though fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly from June through September.

What you should know

High-clearance vehicle requirements: Some dispersed camping areas have rough access roads. "Road gets tougher the further back you go, but my low clearance vehicle made it by driving slow," explains Dian G. about Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area. After rain, these roads can become significantly more challenging.

Bear safety measures: Bears are active throughout the region. At Moraine Park Campground, "You ARE in bear country - be bear smart and safe and use your bear box!" warns Amanda M. Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes, while dispersed campers must be self-sufficient.

Limited or no cell service: Connectivity is minimal throughout the region. One camper at Gordon Gulch notes, "No cell service and it was glorious! But if we did need it, about a mile down the road we picked it back up."

Fire restrictions: Bans are common during dry periods, especially July through September. Check current restrictions before planning trips that depend on campfires. "No fires signs posted on the way up," reports a camper at Hell Canyon Dispersed camping.

Tips for camping with families

Choose sites with natural play spaces: Kids enjoy exploring creek areas and forests. Jennifer G. from East Portal Campground shares: "My kids enjoyed playing with sticks and rocks in this little field-something every kid should get to do!"

Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Many children enjoy animal sightings from a safe distance. "We saw horse back riders from the YMCA and stunning views including a small waterfall," notes Jennifer G., providing multiple points of interest for younger campers.

Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds have more ambient noise than others. "Lots of families with screaming children," notes Haley K. about Hermits Hollow, which might be a consideration depending on your family's preferences.

Pack for variable weather: Mountain storms develop quickly, and temperatures fluctuate widely. "Still some snow on the ground in late May," reports Megan B. about Moraine Park Campground, highlighting the need for warm clothing even in late spring.

Tips from RVers

Measure clearance needs: Many forest roads have low-hanging branches. At Camp Dick Campground, RVers note the campground is "big-rig friendly" but access roads may have limitations.

Limited hookup options: Full hookups are scarce in the immediate Allenspark area. "Very nice campground. Great starting point for visiting Rocky Mountain national park," says Jake N. about Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake, one of few options with electric.

Consider site exposure: Tree removal due to beetle kill has left some areas without shade. "The plus side to fewer trees is the better mountain views!" notes John E., highlighting how the changing forest provides trade-offs for RV campers seeking both views and protection.

Plan for dump station locations: Limited facilities mean planning ahead. Paul Y. mentions at Glacier Basin: "One negative is that 4-6 sites had to share a bear box," which can create logistical challenges for RVers managing food storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Allenspark camping areas?

Amenities at Allenspark camping areas vary by location. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground offers well-maintained fire pits, access to hiking trail heads, and a rolling river nearby. At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, you'll find approximately 15 numbered sites, plus additional unnumbered sites with scenic views further down road 233.1. Most dispersed camping areas around Allenspark provide basic camping with limited amenities - typically just fire rings (when fire bans aren't in effect). Be prepared to pack in water and pack out waste, as most dispersed sites lack toilets, potable water, and garbage services.

What campgrounds are available near Allenspark, CO?

Several excellent campgrounds surround Allenspark. Moraine Park Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning views and access to hikes like Deer Mountain. For those seeking dispersed options, Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail provides a more remote experience but requires 4x4 capability to navigate the rocky, bumpy trail. Other nearby options include Winding River Resort, which offers family-friendly activities and direct access to the headwaters of the Colorado River, and Hermits Hollow Campground in Hermit Park, located near Loveland with reservable sites and water facilities.

Where can I find camping sites in Allenspark, Colorado?

Allenspark offers several camping options. Allenspark Dispersed Camping provides a peaceful experience with sites near a creek, though be aware there's no cell service and it's located about 1.5 miles down Ski Road. For a more established campground, Olive Ridge is just a mile from Allenspark with well-shaded sites among trees and easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park (about 10 minutes walking distance via County Road 84). Note that while Olive Ridge has first-come, first-served sites available even during peak season, it lacks drinking water facilities on-site, though water is available from Crystal Springs in Allenspark.