Camping Near Aurora, CO
Looking for the best campgrounds near Aurora, CO? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.
Best Camping Sites Near Aurora, Colorado (159)
1. Chatfield State Park Campground
75 Reviews•141 Photos•706 SavesLittleton, ColoradoThis recreation area is part of Chatfield Lake
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. Cherry Creek State Park Campground
47 Reviews•86 Photos•436 SavesCentennial, ColoradoThis recreation area is part of Cherry Creek Lake
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
3. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
33 Reviews•74 Photos•556 SavesMorrison, ColoradoThis recreation area is part of Bear Creek Lake
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Cabins
4. Dakota Ridge RV Park
37 Reviews•83 Photos•114 SavesGolden, ColoradoSituated between the mountains of Summit County and the bustling excitement of Denver. 141 full-service and premium sites available year round are level and paved. Pull-through and back-in sites are both available.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
5. Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
48 Reviews•105 Photos•953 SavesEldorado Springs, ColoradoGolden Gate Canyon State Park offers multiple campgrounds, cabins, yurts, RV sites, group sites, and a guest house. From Memorial Day to early October, there are 132 campsites in two campgrounds: Reverend’s Ridge and Aspen Meadow. Reverend’s Ridge offers 38 tent sites and 59 sites with electrical hook-ups. Facilities at Reverend’s Ridge include flush toilets, shower, ice machine, laundry facilities, and a dump station. Aspen Meadow offers 35 tent sites and vault toilets. As of January 1, 2019 both campgrounds will be Reservation Only. Golden Gate also offers 20 backcountry tent sites and four backcountry shelters. Our backcountry sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis year-round. Please register for backcountry sites at the Visitor Center.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$18 - $90 / night
6. Clear Creek RV Park
26 Reviews•33 Photos•232 SavesGolden, ColoradoClear Creek RV Park is owned and operated by the City of Golden and is located at 1400 10th Street. It offers a relaxed country-like setting within walking distance of historic downtown Golden. The RV park is open year-round, equipped with 22 full hook-ups, 11 50-amp electric only, 3 tent campsites, large clean restrooms, showers, laundry facilities and a dump station Come for quiet seclusion along the banks of Clear Creek, with easy access to downtown via the Clear Creek Trail. Situated in the heart of Golden with scenic views and the bubbling sounds of Clear Creek, the Clear Creek RV Park is the perfect getaway. Outdoor adventures await steps from your RV site including hiking trails, kayaking, tubing, fishing, parasailing, biking and more! Take a short stroll to historic downtown Golden, world class restaurants, shopping and cultural activities. Majority of our guests are repeat visitors! If you have any questions, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to help!
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$32 - $80 / night
7. Denver East-Strasburg KOA
12 Reviews•15 Photos•37 SavesWatkins, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
8. Chief Hosa Campground
22 Reviews•55 Photos•318 SavesKittredge, ColoradoChief Hosa campground opened in 1918 as “America’s first motor-camping area.” The campground spans 58 acres within the 2,400 acres of Denver’s Genesee Mountain Park, which is home to a city-owned bison herd and provides a unique opportunity to view these animals in a natural habitat. The nearby historic Chief Hosa Lodge is available for event rentals.
Campground Reservations RV and Campground facilities are open May 1 through the fourth week of September each year. Reservations for the 2023 season open at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 8.
As of January 1, 2022, Chief Hosa Campground requires a camping reservation. No in-person or phone payments for reservations will be accepted. Same-day reservations will be based on availability and must be booked by guests through our online reservation system. Guests may access our reservation system at the campground office during open hours for those who cannot make reservations on their own device. Same-day reservations will be available until 9:00 p.m.
Campers: Please note that our tent sites were designed for TENT CAMPING only. The parking areas are not level and rocks and landscape materials may not be used to level a vehicle or pop up trailer. Vehicle Campers (Vans, trucks, pop up trailers and roof top tents) should utilize the RV sites for camping.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$33 - $40 / night
9. Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur
19 Reviews•69 Photos•78 SavesLarkspur, ColoradoDiscover the natural beauty of Colorado with the family all year at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur! You can explore, relax, and play at our award-winning resort with 100 acres near Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park. We have a great selection of spacious full hookup RV sites and upscale mountainside cabin rentals.
Our resort offers an array of exciting amenities for all ages! Dive into fun at Yogi Bear's™ Water Zone or challenge your skills at Arcade Alley and mini bowling. You can also find serenity at the yoga lawn, savor delicious meals at the Campfire Canteen, or have a tasty treat at Frostbites Sweet Treats. Other popular amenities include two heated swimming pools and hot tubs, miniature golf, a basketball court, and multiple pickleball courts. We also have a great variety of planned activities and events that are great fun for all ages.
Come join us on your next Colorado getaway for wholesome fun in the great outdoors at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
$50 - $170 / night
10. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
27 Reviews•79 Photos•1752 SavesBuffalo Creek, ColoradoThe Buffalo Creek Recreation Area contains over 50 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails that tie into the Colorado Trail in several places. There are numerous options available for riding or hiking. Some of the old logging roads provide two-track while connecting trails offer single track. It takes about an 1.5 hours to drive to this area from Denver. Please know and respect local area restrictions including; parking and camping in designated sites only. Developed camping is available at nearby Forest Service campgrounds including Buffalo, Green Mountain, Kelsey, and Meadows Group Campground.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Toilets
Recent Reviews near Aurora, CO
1094 Reviews of 159 Aurora Campgrounds
andrew B.
Scout
Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
A mountain biker's dream
Great camping spot, esp, if you like mountain biking.
Not whistler in terms of terrain but plenty of trails for various ability levels.
Much of the area still shows scars from the 1996 fire here, but the sprouts and smaller trees show you a preview of how nature heals and is ultimately uplifting.
Big camping spots, fun campground vibes, noise restrictions so don't worry your kiddos won't be able to hit a reasonable bed time.
- andrew B.Scout
Aspen Meadows Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Wonderful gem, close to Golden, perfect quick get-a-way
Our family loves this spot, the privacy and natural beauty all easily accessible for a 1 night trip for a family breaking in some unruly toddlers to the camping experience.
Panorama Point offers amazing views that even my 70 year old parents were able to join us on.
PP gets really busy but get there early enough after camping and you'll have it mostly to yourselves.
Frazer Meadows is also a fun hike that you can easily accomplish with a kid carrier.
- M
Markayla W.
Traveler
Rainbow Falls - Dispersed Camping
Super Chill
Great spots in here! Lots of shade in the morning at our spot. We were by a dirt road and did have a few vehicles drive by but not bad. There is bear scat, not old and not new, in the area but no wildlife was seen.
- David H.
Guide
Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite
Dispersed Camping
I started camping this area a couple of years ago and have been coming back several times a year. Over 30 dispersed campsites along a moderately smooth dirt road. Sites are spaced well apart, some sites are covered in trees while others are wide open. I haven’t seen one there yet but it’s good to stay BEAR AWEAR. Sites are clean. I camped at sites 15, 18, 22(twice), 26 (twice ), and there’s two sites close to Wellington lake that I’ve stayed three times . Yes it’s a good place to camp and only about a hour from Denver. My visits were between May to October. Only a fire ring is provided,everything else you’ll need to bring……AND PACK OUT when you leave so the next camper can enjoy the site like you did.
- David H.Guide
Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
Snow in April 2022
My first experience was a couple of years ago (2022) I paid for three days camping . It snowed and was unable to camp….no refunds… The following year I bought 6 day passes to go fishing and only used 3. They said no refunds….. told them to keep the money and give the passes to the next three people who came in and wanted one….they said that they couldn’t do that.. So, I still tell people about how beautiful the place is…..and I also tell them that they WILL keep your money no matter what happens…. I’ll camp in the dispersed camping sites on the road that takes you to the private over priced campground….. Oh by the way…it’s catch and release. So, if you want fish for supper you better bring your own.
- JJasmine G.Scout
Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
Great spot to camp
Had a great time here with hardly anyone there so very peaceful.
Kay S.Guide
Cherry Creek State Park Campground
Easy Access GO EARLY IN AM
If you want to get into the Park, suggest you go EARLY, EARLY, EARLY in the day. Traffic backs up all the way from the Entrance on Parker Rd to the Entrance Booth on weekends and holidays. Plan on an hour OR MORE to just get to the booth. Once the capacity for the Park is reached, you will not be allowed in.
Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one.
Please plan to pack your trash out. Seems to be a severe shortage of dumpsters or trash cans and people leave behind huge bags of trash - or, sadly, just trash strewn around. Please respect our space!
Campground is usually fully booked all season. Reservations can be made six months out. Two week limit.
I live close to the Park and visit every month of the year.
Paulina B.
Ranger
Rainbow Trout Ranch and Campground
Peaceful Riverside Retreat
A hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies, Rainbow Trout Ranch offers a serene mountain retreat. With its riverside setting and towering trees, this campground is perfect for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The sites are rustic but well-kept, and the peaceful environment is ideal for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of Denver. Nearby hiking trails and wildlife add to the charm.
AIM for a site along the creek. And beware of the rules. No wildfires nor swimming in the creek.
- VVanessa H.Scout
Boulder County Fairgrounds
Big rig friendly first come first serve
Clean shower and rest room. Easy self check in.
Landon C.Ranger
Bailey Area Dispersed
Difficult road to get to but beautiful views
The road here has some gnarly washboards. I had to slow down to a crawl at points because it was thrashing my rig around so much. There is also one turn on the road where if you’re not careful, I could imagine getting stuck. However, the views are incredible and it was well worth the effort. Cell signal from Verizon is extremely good, I am getting 5G UWB and download speeds of 180mbps. There’s some cool hills to climb and many great views.
- MMark M.Ranger
Denver West-Central City KOA
Nicest KOA we've been to
And in fact I believe they were KOA of the year 2023 or 2024. More expensive than we're used to, but has nice amenities. Sites level with concrete pads, fairly large. Some space between with trees. Nice metal patio furniture provided at each site(chairs, table, fire pit). Has decent showers, hot tubs, and off leash dog park. Inexpensive pancake breakfast and pizza/wings to your site are available, also an onsite store. Kind of at the top of a rise, so good views but also kind of chilly for July (60s/40s). Massive thunderstorms with hail and heavy rain two evengings (CO mountains tend to get afternoon t-storms). Communicate via text to let you know about goings on. Good radio station out of Idaho Springs KYGT 102.7 and 103.9
- MMark M.Ranger
Chief Hosa Campground
Good proximity to Evergreen CO/EZ I-70 on/off
Stayed in spot RV24. Easy access right off freeway and convenient to TPB start. Some nice small trails in area for easy walking. Mostly pine trees. Orderly, camp hosts seem inclined to enforce rules. Quiet.No campfire pits so no burning allowed at all and most folks seem to knock off early. Showers are available for.25/2 min with a 4 min max. Appeared old, clean.
For road cyclists: Good place to stay for Triple Bypass
Food aside: Cooked Hatch green chile sausage and added to Sprouts Hatch mac and cheese and put into burritos. Ate leftovers for breakfast. Low FQ (fart quotient).
- AA A Ron J.Guide
Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon
Way too expensive
I spent the night at Base Camp because the campgrounds North and South of Ned were full and it was dark and getting late. You have to be lucky with those ones to get one of the few good spots that are there. I have been to the convenience store at BC before and it was closer to Idaho Springs (I was going there the next day to meet a friend). $39 per night for a tent site is INSANE. I could have stealth camped and there was another spot I could’ve gone too but BC was close and I was tired. I guess that’s how they make their business. Begrudgingly it worked for what I needed.
- AA A Ron J.Guide
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
Trash+long term campers
The place fills up on the weekend. I drove through most of the trail system and did not find a spot. Came back during the week and took a closer spot so as not to risk it. Trash is everywhere. Multiple poop spots are within 100ft of the fire pit with copious amounts of used tp lying around. Trees are slashed, cut, and the forest is not doing well. There are multiple long term campsites here so watch out for squatters. I stayed near the start and then a bit deeper, which prompted me to take photos. I forget the site numbers but honestly it’s not looking good in most places. At the very back are what look like a few nicer spots because they are hard to get to with a non off-road vehicle. It breaks my heart how this campground exists.
- AA A Ron J.Guide
West Magnolia Campground
‘Long term’ campsites&trash
Couldn’t find any spots over the weekend. Drove through the whole campground. There is an absurd amount of trash everywhere, especially at closer campsites. There are multiple ‘long term’ campsites by the looks of the trash, gear, and supplies left out. The forest is not in good shape either.
Came back mid week and stayed at site #4 because it was close and I did not want to roll the dice on not securing a spot again.
Keeping it brief: -I thought someone had been through my campsite when I was sleeping due to things moved -I might have met the squatter at the site. Couldn’t be sure, but determined there were red flags after talking to the guy and did not want to stick around to find out -so much trash it breaks my heart
The county needs to do something about this campsite and the similar one North of Ned.
- Ioan P.
Legend
Chatfield State Park Campground
Super nice
Very clean, very well maintained. Large spaces near the lake.
Lori L.TravelerWest Magnolia Campground
Fall camping
Great location with single tracks for hiking and mountain biking. Camping spots are well-marked. WiFi was decent. The sad part was the trash left behind from former encampments in some of the camping spots.
Andria R.Guide
Dispersed Camp Near Dream Canyon
Sketchy
Two beat up, broken down cars at the entrance. Road is very rough, full of potholes from the start. Did not feel comfortable staying here.
- Andria R.Guide
Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
4x4 and tents only
Beautiful, but really need a compact 4x4 to get into and out of parking lot and there are tent sites only. We almost didn’t make it out with our 24 ft van (checked it out but didn’t stay overnight). Very crowded on a Saturday at 4:30pm.
- KKerri M.Guide
Denver East-Strasburg KOA
Quick overnight
Not a lot of options on I 70 east of Denver for overnight parking so opted for a KOA last minute. Easy last minute check in process. Served great for a quick in and out.
- JJason R.Guide
Forsythe Canyon Trailhead Forest Service Road 357 Dispersed — Golden Gate Canyon
Not free, golden gate canyon SP
Idk who did this but luckily there is service but anything nearby is outta the way. Says need permit online access filled it all out $10 plus camping. Dispersed without wheels requires a $4 fee too
Osborn T.Scout
A-Lodge Boulder - Car Camping
Mazda car stickers
Want to decorate your car? You can buy mazda car stickers on various online platforms specializing in car accessories. However, I would recommend the site supdec.com. This store offers a wide range of quality stickers for Mazda, which are durable, weather-resistant and easy to install. You will be able to choose designs that will highlight the style of your car. The site also often offers various promotions and fast delivery, which makes the purchase even more convenient.
Rebecca L.GuideRedskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite
Site #6 of 33
Finally, a nice campsite on a road that isn't horrible. There are 30+ designated, numbered, dispersed campsites on this road. Each of them have a parking area right along the road with a fire ring a short distance away surrounded by awesome rock outcroppings. The parking areas tend to be very unlevel and there are only a few that you can pull right up to your campsite. #6 had a level spot large enough for my van and the camping area just a few steps away. These are great campsites and the area is really awesome. After so many horrible roads and places closed, it was a blessing to find this spot. The road is a bit of a washboard, but that is nothing compared to most of the forest roads in Colorado. Highly recommended! Cell service with At&t in site 6 is decent. Calling is 2 bars. at least half of the sites are big rig friendly. All of the sites are 100% free.
- cclinton H.Guide
Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site
Great spot, minus the “no camping” signs
We camped here after a Red Rocks show. The spot is a great area. About 20 minutes off of I-70. There are many pull offs along this road that could theoretically be good camp sites. However there are “no camping” signs, which is why I gave it 3 stars. Everything is great besides that: beautiful stars, good tent site, safe parking area.
The spot we chose is a bit farther down the road than the one listed here. It’s in between the bend in the road. We parked at the pull off and walked down a small hill to find a good tent site and a fire ring.
Also be aware it’s pretty chilly compared to just a few miles up the road. It was in the mid 30s at night.
- SSawyer S.Traveler
Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
Super sick spot
We camped a very short walk from the parking lot. Amazing camp site with not many people around.
patty W.Guide
St. Vrain State Park Campground
Ok
Busy and right off highway
- TTristan S.Scout
Gross Reservoir Dispersed
Great Spot, Bright Construction Lights
Overall a very fun spot if you have a vehicle with some ground clearance to get to the nice sites by the reservoir. My Peak Edition Atlas handled it well. Only complaint is the damn project at Gross reservoir is a 24 hour site and the lights are ridiculously bright.
Guide to Aurora
Camping near Aurora, CO, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
What to do:
- Paddleboarding and Water Activities: Many campers enjoy paddleboarding at Chatfield State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the trails at Mueller State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Short walk to Grouse peak," making it easy to enjoy the great outdoors.
- Fishing and Swimming: Bear Creek Lake Park has a reservoir perfect for swimming and fishing. One camper noted, "Great biking, hiking right from the campsite," making it a versatile spot for outdoor fun.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at Cherry Creek State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained."
- Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpful staff at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. One camper shared, "Park staff are very friendly," which adds to the overall experience.
- Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Cottonwood Campground — Boyd Lake State Park. A visitor mentioned, "Large sites. Some trees for shade," making it a comfortable place to set up camp.
What you should know:
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Dakota Ridge RV Park, can be noisy due to nearby bars and construction. One guest warned, "Noise from the bar goes till around 11 and construction sounds begin around 6 am."
- Limited Amenities: At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, amenities are minimal. A reviewer pointed out, "The road is in very poor condition and there were at least 2 large piles of trash," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
- Wildlife Caution: Campers at Mueller State Park Campground have spotted wildlife. One visitor noted, "Lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery," so keep an eye out for animals.
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Cottonwood Campground — Boyd Lake State Park. A camper mentioned, "Lots of kids and bikes and playgrounds," making it a great spot for families.
- Plan for Hot Weather: If you're camping in the summer, consider sites near water, like at Chatfield State Park Campground. One reviewer advised, "I’d recommend finding a site closer to the lake so you can get to the water quicker when it’s super hot."
- Bring Entertainment: Campgrounds like Garden of the Gods RV Resort have activities on-site. A visitor said, "Lots of stuff here. Cabins/studios. Tons of RV sites," which can keep kids entertained.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mueller State Park Campground said, "Our site was a pull-through with a tight radius for a 25ft trailer."
- Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, lack electric hookups. A visitor noted, "No water at site but several drinking water stations with hose hookups."
- Plan for Road Conditions: If you're heading to Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping, be ready for rough roads. One camper advised, "Four-wheel drive is required," so make sure your vehicle is up for the challenge.
Camping near Aurora, CO, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Aurora, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Aurora, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 159 campgrounds and RV parks near Aurora, CO and 35 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Aurora, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Aurora, CO is Chatfield State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 75 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Aurora, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 35 free dispersed camping spots near Aurora, CO.
What parks are near Aurora, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Aurora, CO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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