Glamping close to Ault, Colorado offers visitors access to the eastern Colorado plains and foothills region, with elevations ranging from 4,600 to 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during the day and cool to 55-60°F at night. The area receives approximately 13 inches of rainfall annually, creating a semi-arid landscape where campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities at Jackson Lake State Park: Located about 48 miles east of Ault, this park offers fishing in a prairie lake setting. A camper noted, "We went during off season and the campground was very isolated until the weekends so we had lots of room to explore and play without having others around."
Hiking the Pawnee Grasslands trails: Crow Valley Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the unique prairie ecosystem. One visitor shared, "We enjoyed exploring this part of the state, complete with pronghorn antelopes, deer, birds, burrowing owls, sunsets, crazy thunderstorms, buttes, and rolling hills."
Bird watching tours: The eastern plains provide excellent bird watching opportunities. A camper at Crow Valley Campground mentioned, "This is the beginning and end of the Pawnee birding driving tour and less than an hour from the Buttes themselves. The campground is fairly open but shady."
Water activities on Horsetooth Reservoir: South Bay Campground offers direct lake access for paddling and boating about 30 miles southwest of Ault. A reviewer commented, "The lake was great for paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking."
What campers like
Clean facilities with reliable amenities: Fort Collins Lakeside KOA provides well-maintained shower facilities and camping areas. One camper shared, "Grounds are well maintained no observed litter on the property. Walking path around the lake keeps our puppies very happy for exploring."
Proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park: Many campers appreciate the ability to access mountain adventures while staying at campgrounds near Ault. A visitor to Glacier Basin Campground noted, "One of the best campsites we have been to. Sites are a little close together, but well taken care of."
Riverside camping experiences: Campers frequently mention enjoying the sounds and views of running water. A guest at Riverview RV Park & Campground stated, "We had a great time at this campground. We spent 4 days in a spot right next to the river. Close to Rocky Mountain National Park. Really enjoyed the river, dog park, live music on sat. night and laundry."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many camping areas feature regular wildlife sightings. At Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake, a camper reported, "Very nice campground and clean facilities. Woke up to elk outside of the tent! Such a cool experience. The campsite is close to town, which is very nice too!"
What you should know
Weather conditions change rapidly: The eastern Colorado plains experience significant temperature fluctuations and sudden storms. Pack layers and rainproof gear regardless of season.
Water availability varies by location: Not all campgrounds offer water hookups at sites. A camper at South Bay Campground mentioned, "Electric hookup worked, but no water at the site, and 'public water' in the area was a broken water fountain. We filled up at the dump station."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options near Ault require advance booking, especially during summer months. Campgrounds fill quickly on weekends from May through September.
Road noise can impact some sites: Several campgrounds are located near highways. A camper at Crow Valley noted, "Campground is located on a the four way intersection stop sign of hwy 14 and hwy 392, Briggsdale, CO. There is too much road noise to sleep in a tent."
Tips for camping with families
Destination with extensive children's activities: Riverview RV Park & Campground offers family-friendly amenities and riverside access. A visitor observed, "Family and Pet Friendly with a High Probability of Seeing Wildlife. My wife and I spent a week here. We enjoyed seeing the kids playing in the playground and riding around the park on their bikes."
Bug protection essential: The prairie and reservoir areas can have significant insect activity, particularly at dusk. A camper at Jackson Lake State Park warned, "The bugs were very horrible. While I know that it's part of camping, they were swarming so bad you heard a constant loud buzzing."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs and wildlife viewing opportunities. At Crow Valley, a visitor mentioned, "Nice quiet campground. Really nice host. Shaded spots next to a wildlife walk. Tons of birds! Campsites were clean, nice big fire pit and bbq."
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Check current fire regulations before planning campfires, particularly during dry months. Many glamping options near Ault provide alternative heating methods during restriction periods.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. A camper at Eagle Campground at Carter Lake reported, "The pull-through site is very rough and difficult to get your trailer level. We finally just did as good as we could and called it done."
Low clearance areas: Watch for overhanging branches at some campgrounds. At Crow Valley, a camper advised, "Careful with large RV as some of the tree branches are very low."
Electrical concerns: Check power pedestals before connecting. A visitor to Jackson Lake State Park warned, "Our camp trip cost us an additional $400 because our site #42 fried our surge protector. We had to run and buy a new one as soon as we realized we had no power."
Seasonal campground variations: Some facilities are limited during off-peak months. A camper at Eagle Campground noted, "The dumping sites were closed and that made for problems. They are re-doing them, which is good, but it meant we had no options for getting rid of gray or black water."
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