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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.
"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."
from $35 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $35 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $45 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $45 - $80 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
"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."
"Hermits Hollow is a nice place to camp near Estes, offering a quiet retreat away from the crowds. We only stayed the night, arriving late and leaving early. "
from $35 / night
Check Availability"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"
from $29 - $58 / night
Check Availability"This camp is located a mile away from Allenspark. Most sites are well protected from the sun and there are a lot of trees."
"Very nice, well-maintained campground near Wild Basin section of Rocky Mountain National Park. "
from $29 - $58 / night
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ScoutGreat if you’re a family looking for a campsite with lots of amenities, but at $28 a night plus $12 park fee, it’s not for “primitive” camping. The ice machine was broken and the laundry is coin operated, and they don’t let you hang hammocks from the trees. Not great areas for rtt. Kinda sucked for us just looking for a place with a shower.
ScoutTerrible luck. No access from the 36 side anymore. It is gated off and if you want to camp, you’re going to have to park and hail everything in.
ScoutThis is the fourth KOA site I have visited in the past week and it's probably the best. Staff is nice. Place is quiet but still cost $70 just to park near a bench.
TravelerBeing RV campers there is something to be said about pulling up to a site and it being already level. Already off to an amazing start.
This spot was well maintained, had just enough shade, incredibly close to hiking trails, close to the water, and walking distance to the camp store, and also close to a vault toilet. All in all I have no real complaints about inlet bay campground and absolutely loved this site :)
ScoutClean. Just off the highway. Convenient for that reason.
RangerThe North Park campground at State Forest State Park has just been renovated with full hookups and a brand new bath house! The hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing & other outdoor activities are second to none! And you’re surrounded by snow capped peaks to boot! Highly recommend North Park campground if amenities are of importance!
RangerThere’s something truly special about staying inside Rocky Mountain National Park. The surroundings are absolutely beautiful, and having breakfast in the morning while looking out at the mountains is an amazing experience. The free shuttle system also makes it very easy to access a variety of great hiking trails directly from the campground. The only small downside, in my opinion, is that there are no showers, besides of solar showers and the restrooms are not flush toilets. On the other hand, getting fresh water is easy and convenient. Overall, we would highly recommend staying here. The location and the incredible scenery make it a fantastic place to experience the park.
TravelerThis is a great spot with multiple unmarked sites along the road, most also next to the creek. Note that there are not established metal fire rings, so with Stage 1 restrictions in place right now, no campfires. Also, easy access to Salt Creek Cabin road which itself was fun for mountain biking, but also connects to Dadd Gulch trail which is an amazing ride! No cell service.
TravelerVehicle: KIA Soul (FWD- slightly more clearance than a standard sedan, but not as high up as a full size SUV) Campsite type: TENT ONLY, not even mini trailer friendly! . Beautiful views on the way back down from camp, somewhat secluded- quiet. There are residences along the way up, on neighboring roads, AND there's a commercial camp of somekind nearby. Verizon service is largely non existent. You might get lucky and catch one bar. Might
ROAD: Dirt, but not "off road trail"- again people live off of this road so its somewhat maintained. BEWARE OF RAIN WASHOUT AREAS, DIPS, AND WASHBOARD. Do NOT try to take some low riding car like a Tesla up this. Heck, dont even take a cybertruck (too big and clunky to fit in tight spaces). Signs say NO OFFROAD VEHICLES, meaning this is a road road, not a backwoods trail. You'll pass an old (but functioning) fire station on the way up, the pinned location on this post is where camp sites are. It doesnt "look like it" so you might get confused and keep going. If you do, you end up in a turnaround area out by that "Camp Always Choose Adventure" place that shows up on the gps map, a field, more housing, and a road that goes off to somewhere else in the mountains. Theres lots of roads out here so make sure you dont turn off the gulch road once youre on it. Without a high clearance vehicle, youre going to go about 15mph tops due to the washboard and dips once you get up higher. The first half is pretty smooth. If its rainy/muddy, I wouldnt chance it without a 4WD or AWD. Drive safely/carefully- ROAD DOES NARROW IN SOME PLACES/AROUND SOME CORNERS. Do not drive like Denver drivers in town. You'll either hit someone going the opposite way or force them over the edge and off the mountain side. I had a couple of 4WD vehicles come racing around corners. Be kind. Be smart. Respect that this is not a normal road and just BEHAVE.
SITES: There are rock stacked fire rings and some cleared space among the trees around them. Thats it. Woods camping. Nothing is marked, so I couldnt tell if there were others than the few where I stayed. There are signs up saying private property around the camp sites, but theyre not blocked off and are supposed to be on Forestry Service land 🤷♂️ Nobody came out to say anything. During the day some people take their 4WD vehicles out on the other roads and you might run into them leaving when youre going up the gulch road. At night its dead silent. Some people do take dirtbikes thru the area to get out to their trails, but they didnt stay in the area running laps or anything like that.
PETS: If you bring them, I wouldnt let them run off leash. There is hunting land further down the road, that Camp Always Choose Adventure place, lots of houses, and lots of roads that ARE well used. Its not safe for dogs etc to run free any more than on a neighborhood block in town. Besides, if other campers set up, you dont want your pets running over to strangers. Long tie out ropes/cables will be just fine. Wrap one end around the base of a tree and now your pet goes nowhere.
WILDLIFE: Considering all of the human settlements and activity, there doesnt seem to be that big of a threat. Youre not that isolated or "remote". Idaho Springs is a short drive of about 15 min or so.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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