Camping options surrounding Aurora, Colorado range from developed state park campgrounds to urban RV resorts with varying amenities. Cherry Creek State Park Campground provides full hookup sites within city limits, offering convenient access to the Denver metro area while maintaining natural surroundings. The region includes several established campgrounds with RV accommodations, including Denver Meadows RV Park in Aurora and Chatfield State Park Campground in nearby Littleton. Most developed campgrounds in the area support tent camping alongside RV sites, with some offering cabin rentals. For those seeking dispersed camping, driving west toward the mountains provides access to public lands with more primitive camping areas.
Seasonal availability remains consistent at many Aurora-area campgrounds, with several operating year-round including Cherry Creek State Park, Chatfield State Park, and Denver Meadows RV Park. Summer temperatures average 80-90°F during daytime hours, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing. Reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when facilities reach capacity. Many private RV parks cater to long-term stays, while state park campgrounds enforce maximum stay limits. Cell coverage is generally strong throughout the area, with service diminishing in dispersed camping areas west of the city. According to one visitor, "Cherry Creek State Park is a great option for camping near the greater Denver metro area with easy access to the sand beach on Cherry Creek reservoir, plenty of hiking and biking trails, and close proximity to Aurora."
Urban campgrounds near Aurora provide a balance between outdoor recreation and city amenities. Several campers mentioned appreciating the convenience of staying close to metropolitan attractions while maintaining access to outdoor activities. The Gold Rush loop at Cherry Creek State Park features full hookups with ample space for larger RVs and towed vehicles, according to review reports. Campers frequently note the benefit of multiple shower and bathroom facilities throughout the campgrounds. Sites at Denver area campgrounds tend to be developed with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and hookups, though spacing between sites varies significantly by location. Reviews indicate that while road and airport noise can be noticeable at some locations, the convenience of proximity to Denver and Aurora often outweighs these concerns for many visitors who use these campgrounds as a base for exploring the region.
$28 - $432 / night
"Easy access to the sand beach on Cherry Creek reservoir, plenty of hiking and biking trails, and close proximity to Aurora, Centennial, and the greater Denver metro area."
"I only gave it 4 stars because on the outskirts of the state park we have a lot of homeless camps popping up oblong Parker road and 225."
$36 - $200 / night
"Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."
"This is the first time I’ve found a state park so close to a major metro area!! Because of its proximity to Denver, Chatfield fills up quickly, so book well in advance."
"This was our first time staying at Bear Creek Lake. The park is not part of the Colorado Wilds or CPW State Park system, but daily vehicle fees are included with your camping reservation."
"Note: If the GPS takes you to a dirt road with a closed gate at the end, get back on the highway and take the next exit to the park entrance."
"The camp ground is close to interstate 70 and cars were driving past every second non stop and super loud. Everything then that the camp is fine"
"It’s close to the interstate, but just fine for one night."
"This park is kind of pricey even in the winter (we stayed Nov22-Jan23) but it’s Colorado and it’s all pretty pricey. Park staff is super friendly and accommodating."
"Good site if you want to be close to Denver but still have a short drive to the foothills."
$40 / night
"Must have access to military bases. The service Personnel were very helpful and courteous. The Base was exceptionally clean (was an Air force Base becoming a Space Force Base)."
$68 - $85 / night
"Had a great spot right next to the Clear Creek walking path. The campground is clean and well looked after. Clean bathrooms and showers. Close to many hikes and mt trails."
"**Campground Review: ** Golden, CO is a super cute town on the outskirts of Denver. The city has a campground in a prime location, and we were lucky to book a site!"
"Good location close to interstate to access all the cool towns and site seeing west of Denver."
"When I walked in the office, I was greeted by 5 wonderful sweet dogs. I love dogs so there couldn't have been a better greeting. Kathy was very friendly and helpful."
$35 - $55 / night
"What makes this place even more special is the heart behind it. The animals here are so well cared for, and it’s clear that the owners pour their souls into creating a safe haven for them."
ScoutFree overnight camping up to 14 days. Is quite a bumpy route but totally worth it! Definitely coming back again. It was breathtaking and the sky at night is just as beautiful as the mountains. Can see every star in the sky.
ScoutGreat place for off roading and possibly tent but definitely not RV or trailer
TravelerThey need a sound reducing wall between the campgrounds and I-25. They need a lot more restrooms. Most campsites are too far away from a restroom. They need laundry facility added to the bathhouse. One of the vault toilets needed the floor mopped and front of toilet cleaned.
TravelerWonderful camper services building with laundry and clean showers.
TravelerIt was pretty windy but was a wonderful spot with lots of spots
TravelerBeautiful views of gold lake, this specific spot has a rough road that will require high clearance. The other spots are off of a well maintained fire road if you’re in a low clearance vehicle. High 38mph winds all night long at 24 degrees F. Lake is private and there’s lots of private property lines to look out for. The only reason it’s not a 5/5
GuideA truck camper dumped along with bins of clothes..garbage... pots and pans... trash.. the place is trashed.
TravelerRoad closed early January. Came two weeks in a row, prepare to hike your gear in, I advise bringing a sled for winter camping. Barely made it to site 1, need to work on cardio 😓
ScoutHost was very communicative and friendly and met us at the one site on the property. Water and 30 amp electric available.
Aurora, Colorado sits at an elevation of 5,471 feet with proximity to both prairie landscapes and mountain foothills. Camping sites near Aurora provide varied terrain options with nighttime temperatures that can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs even in summer. Sites at Cherry Creek State Park fill completely during summer weekends, often requiring reservations months in advance.
Water activities at Cherry Creek: Reserve beach access at Cherry Creek State Park Campground where many visitors enjoy the reservoir. "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one," notes Kay S.
Biking on paved paths: Try Chatfield's trail system which connects to a larger network. "This is one of our favorite spots to stay when visiting Denver area. Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," according to Rick at Chatfield State Park Campground.
Archery and horseback riding: Visit Bear Creek Lake Park for diverse activities beyond typical camping. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," reports Joshua H.
Urban convenience with outdoor access: Clear Creek RV Park offers an unusual combination of city and nature. "There is so much to do at this location; aside from the sectioned off RV area, there are lots of paths and locals parks to adventure around. Tubing & swimming in the creek is wonderful especially in summertime," writes Dea D.
Showers and laundry: Find clean facilities at Denver East-Strasburg KOA. "The laundry, bathroom and showers were clean with nice hot water. They have pizza delivery to your site-- which on a day that was 36 degrees with icy rain, was a welcome treat!" shares Paula O.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round unlike mountain sites. "It is a no thrills, Quiet, peaceful, full hook-ups kind of park. Little expensive but one cost covers everything. Plus it is an all season park," notes Mark S. about Denver Meadows RV Park.
Noise levels vary significantly: Highway noise affects some sites more than others. "While this campground is minutes from the city and seconds from a highway, at night you feel like you are in a quiet, mountain campsite with stars to gaze for days," according to Kandisa S. at Indian Paintbrush Campground.
Goat heads and thorns: Check your shoes, pet paws and bike tires at certain locations. "Beware of the goat heads! They're everywhere. I got one in my foot, my son got one in his bike tire, and we had a flat on the camper due to one. When I say they are thick, they are THICK," warns Jennie P.
Reservation timing matters: Popular sites fill months in advance, especially for summer weekends. "Chatfield is popular for fishing and boating. So many people come out for the weekend so they can get up early with the fish."
Park congestion awareness: Plan early arrivals for popular recreation areas. "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," advises Kay S. at Cherry Creek State Park Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play structures for children. "This campground was tiny and a little cramped but was very clean and had running showers that was a plus. It was surrounded by trees but they were small which didn't help block the wind. We would stay here again because the staff was very friendly and they had a nice little store and playground," notes Pam B.
Site spacing considerations: Some family-friendly sites provide more separation. "It's a beautiful park just wasn't expecting a lot of people to be here. Also wish the camp spots was further from another spot," mentions Lamarcus S.
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for certain sites. "The A3 site chosen is gravel with a hole or two and significantly tilted low to the front left....requiring a 4 high stack," reports David M. at Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Extended stay options: Some parks accommodate longer-term visitors. "Sites 8 & 9 are extremely unlevel, but the other sites are pretty fine," notes Janine R., who stayed at Clear Creek RV Park for a month and a half.
Sewer connection positioning: Be prepared for different hookup layouts. "The sewer is 6 inches above grade and slinky support wasn't tall enough. You might be lifting your hose to assist emptying," cautions Love4travel T.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Aurora, Colorado?
Aurora offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Cherry Creek State Park Campground stands out as the premier option closest to Aurora, featuring full hookup sites that can accommodate large RVs, hot showers, and flush toilets. For those willing to drive a bit further, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area offers a more rustic experience with numbered sites and many additional unnumbered campsites with scenic views. These campgrounds provide a mix of developed and natural experiences, making them perfect for different camping preferences while staying relatively close to Aurora's amenities.
Can I find lake camping near Aurora, Colorado?
Yes, several beautiful lake camping options exist near Aurora. Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake offers beautiful lakeside camping just outside of Denver with bathroom facilities and a visitor center where you can purchase firewood. Another excellent option is Echo Lake Campground, situated next to its namesake lake off Squaw Pass Road. For those willing to drive a bit further, Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir provides secluded sites with access to the reservoir, creating a private feel even with other campers nearby.
Are there any RV parks or camping options in Aurora, Colorado?
Aurora and its surroundings offer several quality RV parks. Denver East-Strasburg KOA is conveniently located right off I-70, making it ideal for overnight stays, though expect some highway noise. Sites are clean though somewhat compact. For a more premium experience, Dakota Ridge RV Park provides friendly staff, on-site propane (great for winter stays), and connecting trails for dog walking, though it is pricier. If you're looking for something more family-oriented, Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur offers easy highway access while being close to attractions in both Denver and Colorado Springs.
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