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Camping near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

2,853 Reviews

Searching for the best camping near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, CO? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

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Best Camping Sites Near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland (427)

    1. Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    91 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    13 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
    11 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. 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."

    4. Arapaho Bay Campground

    31 Reviews
    Grand Lake, CO
    7 miles
    Website

    $29 - $58 / night

    "Nice sized spaces, many sites close to the water, good wildlife sittings (moose, bald eagles, bear) beautiful large lake with Colorado River headwaters, near town of Grand Lake and entrance to Rocky Mt"

    "This is true wilderness camping at its best overlooking beautiful Colorado waters with the Mountains peaking down upon you is where you will find yourself camping with great amenities and water available"

    5. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    13 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."

    6. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

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

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

    "Take the road far enough and you’ll get past those with homes and find some decent BLM off road camping/overnight parking places. Road gets a bit more 4x4 like as you keep going"

    7. East Portal Campground at Estes Park

    40 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    12 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."

    8. Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake

    46 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    13 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."

    9. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground

    22 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    7 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"

    10. Green Ridge Campground

    27 Reviews
    Grand Lake, CO
    11 miles
    Website

    $29 - $88 / night

    "Our campsite was great and pretty quiet, kind of tucked away from people. The pit toilets were really clean. Very close to Grand Lake for dining."

    "There is a boat ramp and dock

    The campground is nestled at the base of Shadow Mountain with the Colorado River running alongside the campground. "

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Recent Camping Photos near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

1031 Photos of 427 Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

2853 Reviews of 427 Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • Vinny D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Miners Creek Rd Designated Dispersed Camping

    Great spot but have to drive a good ways back

    This is a good spot but confusing. You turn to go towards the trail. Once you get to the service road it starts at as what would look like a bike off. Yes you can drive on the path. Once you cross the road from the path you have to drive approximately 3/4 miles on trail. It’s pretty rough. I made it in my outback but I do have an Onyx XT with a 2 in suspension lift and 32’s. 2 creek crossings, rock bottom don’t be alarmed. After that there will be a sign said camping permitted passed this point. You’re good to go.

  • 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.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    Good overnight spot

    Stayed here overnight and car camped before going into Estes Park. There are some more private wooded spots on the way in, but these were full so we stayed in an open area further down the road where there was not much/any privacy from neighbors. Super windy in early August. Pretty good views. Moderately busy. Road in was not too bad.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    Great dispersed camping

    I stayed at a small spot maybe a mile further down the road from where these coordinates lead you to. There was a fire ring and it was right on the lake. My spot was just before the large spot with the uphill drive that overlooks the lake. Perfect balance of solitude and presence of distant neighbors. Road to get in is a little rough but not the worst and I even saw some sedans doing fine. Easy one hour drive into RMNP in the morning.

Guide to Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

Camping near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland offers a fantastic escape into nature. With stunning views and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, solo adventurers, and RV enthusiasts alike.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer from Moraine Park Campground saying, "Just beautiful and in the park so don’t deal with timed entry."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Timber Creek Campground mentioned, "Moose in campground, and elk calling at night," making it a memorable experience.
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers in the area are perfect for fishing. Campers at Arapaho Bay Campground enjoyed the water activities, stating, "I day-camped for $5—multiple points to picnic with tables with loads of shade."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake noted, "Common bathroom, shower, dish and clothes washing facilities centrally located, clean and well maintained."
  • Beautiful Views: Campers rave about the stunning scenery. One visitor at Glacier Basin Campground said, "Great campground with beautiful views of the mountains!"
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer a peaceful experience. A camper at East Portal Campground shared, "Quiet, no generators heard as big rigs won’t fit!"

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some areas can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Cottonwood Campground mentioned, "There are a lot of spots for RVs so you are a little bit packed."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A reviewer at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area pointed out, "The road is in very poor condition and there were at least 2 large piles of trash."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during specific months. For example, Glacier Basin Campground operates from May 23 to September 11.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. A camper at East Portal Campground mentioned, "Big playground and not crazy expensive."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Teach kids about local wildlife. A family at Timber Creek Campground enjoyed spotting elk and moose, making it an educational experience.
  • Plan for Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Moraine Park Campground noted, "Chilly, clear starry night," so pack accordingly.

Tips from RVers:

  • Space Considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A reviewer at Cottonwood Campground said, "The ones closer to the lake had a nice view," but noted the proximity of sites.
  • Check Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Golden Gate Canyon State Park appreciated the "good amount of hookups and showers/bathrooms on site."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to enhance the camping experience for everyone. A camper at East Portal Campground mentioned, "Quiet, no generators heard," which is ideal for a peaceful stay.

Camping near Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, Colorado, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Arapaho National Forest?

Arapaho National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping options for those seeking more secluded experiences. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area features approximately 15 numbered sites along Road 233.1, with additional unnumbered sites further down the road offering spectacular views. For water recreation enthusiasts, Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir provides a peaceful setting with spacious sites that accommodate larger groups. Site #5 particularly offers privacy while maintaining proximity to the reservoir. Both locations provide that authentic Colorado forest experience with tall pines and mountain scenery, though 4WD vehicles are recommended for accessing the more remote sites, especially after rain.

What camping options are available in Roosevelt National Forest?

Roosevelt National Forest provides diverse camping experiences from developed campgrounds to primitive dispersed options. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground offers well-maintained sites with fire pits, stunning mountain views, and a rolling river. The campground provides easy access to hiking trails right from your site. For more adventurous campers, Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail offers a true backcountry experience, though 4x4 vehicles are required to navigate the rocky, bumpy terrain with water crossings. Additional options include Allenspark Dispersed Camping for those seeking free, primitive sites, and Olive Ridge for campers preferring shaded sites in a forested setting near Allenspark.

What do visitors say about their experiences in Arapaho National Forest?

Visitors consistently praise Arapaho National Forest for its authentic Colorado wilderness experience. Many highlight the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly moose sightings in the higher elevations. Families camping with children at Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park report memorable experiences despite occasional rain, with stunning hikes like Deer Mountain offering rewarding views. Water enthusiasts enjoy Winding River Resort, which provides access to the Colorado River headwaters with fishing opportunities, though late-season visitors (August) note fewer fish. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained sites, and the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness immersion. The forest's proximity to attractions like Estes Park and Grand Lake is also appreciated for day trips.

What are the most scenic areas to visit in Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests?

The American Lakes Trail in Primitive Sites — State Forest State Park offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the region, with abundant wildlife including moose and stunning alpine vistas. For water lovers, South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir provides breathtaking views that longtime Colorado campers consider among the best in the state. The reservoir's blue waters against the backdrop of rocky formations create unforgettable landscapes. Other scenic highlights include the Colorado River headwaters area, which can be accessed near Grand Lake, offering peaceful riverside trails and mountain panoramas. Throughout both forests, visitors encounter pristine alpine lakes, dramatic mountain peaks, and meadows filled with wildflowers during summer months.

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