Glamping options in Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests range from basic to luxurious accommodations at elevations between 6,000-11,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts even in summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September. Many campsites near the national forests require advance reservations during peak season from June through August.
What to do
Fishing access: 10 minutes from camp: At CanyonSide Campground, fishing spots are readily accessible. "There is a convenient gas station/convenience/liquor store across the road within easy walking distance. There is a restaurant and bar under two miles as well," notes Will T. The campground provides direct access to Poudre Canyon's prime fishing waters.
Mountain hiking: multiple skill levels: Hermits Hollow Campground offers trails for various experience levels. "The Kruger Rock Trailhead is inside the campground, and it is a nice hike with an amazing view of the Rockies and Estes at the top. Bring your crayons - there are two trailmarkers on the trail that you can do rubbings of," shares Erin K. The campground maintains well-marked paths through wooded areas.
Winter activities: seasonal options: When snow blankets the forests, glamping in Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests continues with cold-weather adventures. Mikaela R. mentions that "Rocky Mountain National Park is always gorgeous tho. Photos from this winter." Many glamping sites remain open year-round with heated accommodations for winter exploration.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: daily sightings: Campers frequently report wildlife encounters near their glamping sites. At Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort, visitors observe local fauna regularly. "Elk occasionally pass thru the front area which was really cool!" reports Julia M. Another camper, Sharayah H., appreciated that "Everyone was friendly, the staff and the other people staying there."
Water activities: family-friendly options: South Bay Campground offers multiple water-based recreation choices. "The lake was great for paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking," says Deanne B. Hannah L. adds that her experience involved "a great spot right on the water and our kids were able to play in the water right from the campsite."
Campground activities: organized events: Many glamping sites provide scheduled activities for guests. Timothy N. found that "Staff was very friendly and helpful. Our site was well spaced from our neighbors." Campgrounds typically schedule weekend events during summer months, with live music and communal gatherings common from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What you should know
Reservations: book early: During peak season (June-August), glamping accommodations fill quickly. At Fort Collins Lakeside KOA, Colorado C. advises, "We're State Park campers but love this KOA because it keeps the kids entertained while we kick back and relax." Most glamping sites require reservations 4-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Weather preparedness: afternoon storms: Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms, particularly in July and August. Tyler D. mentions, "We spent 4 days in a spot right next to the river. Close to Rocky Mountain National Park." Pack rain gear and plan morning activities during monsoon season to avoid lightning risk at higher elevations.
Site selection: privacy varies: Campground layouts offer differing levels of seclusion. Wade R. recommends Hermits Hollow: "Sites spaced nicely apart, very well maintained, great fire pits with an attached grill grate." Request specific site numbers when making reservations to ensure your preferred balance of views versus privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: activity planning: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in family camping experiences. "The staff was awesome and when we had to check out a day early, they cheerfully refunded our money. We definitely will stay there again," reports Patty F. Ashley L. adds, "The facility offered tons of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily to the point of falling asleep while eating dinner."
Safety considerations: wildlife awareness: Teach children about proper food storage and wildlife safety. "Moose and black bear apparently frequent but haven't caused any problems," notes Wade R. about Hermits Hollow Campground. Most sites provide bear boxes or food storage solutions to prevent wildlife encounters.
Bathroom facilities: cleanliness varies: When glamping with children, bathroom quality becomes important. Isabelle K. found at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA that "This campground provides a very family oriented environment with luxurious amenities. This campground would be a great option for those wanting a camping experience without having to 'rough it' whatsoever."
Tips from RVers
Site access: arrival timing: For glamping in Arapaho & Roosevelt with larger RVs, arrival timing matters. Joey C. recommends, "Get a site furthest away from the entrance/highway, up a steep road." Midweek arrivals typically offer more space and less competition for premium sites.
Hookup availability: service levels: Many glamping locations offer full hookups, but capacity varies. Julia M. notes, "Wide roads and turns; easy to navigate throughout the campground; quiet; picnic table; spacious, no shade, needed levels on one side of our RV." Most RV sites require advance reservations during summer months.
Weather considerations: wind protection: The mountain regions experience sudden weather changes. At Elk Meadows Lodge, one visitor observed, "It can be suddenly and very windy here, so most campers did not use awnings." Position RVs with doors away from prevailing winds when possible to minimize interior dust.
