The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Bailey, CO

2,760 Reviews

The Pike National Forest surrounding Bailey, Colorado provides a range of camping experiences from developed campgrounds to dispersed sites. Buffalo Campground, located near Bailey, offers tent and RV camping with drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables available during its May to September season. Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake provides lakefront camping with cabin and glamping options. Several campgrounds in the area feature vault toilets and trash collection, while dispersed camping zones like Redskin Creek Road offer more primitive experiences without amenities.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area provides free camping but has limited facilities compared to established campgrounds like Deer Creek, which remains open year-round. Elevation in the area ranges from 7,000 to 9,000 feet, resulting in cool nights even during summer months. Most developed campgrounds require reservations through recreation.gov, particularly during peak summer weekends. Dispersed camping typically follows a 14-day stay limit on national forest land. One camper noted, "The road is a little bumpy getting there, but manageable. Sites are on the smaller side, probably best for tent camping or smaller RVs."

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Bailey area. Wellington Lake at Castle Mountain Recreation Area receives positive reviews for its fishing and paddleboarding opportunities. Several visitors mentioned the proximity to hiking trails as a key benefit, with many campgrounds connecting to the Colorado Trail system. Campgrounds closer to Bailey tend to fill quickly during summer weekends, while more remote sites offer greater solitude. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers appreciate the balance of wilderness experience while still being relatively close to town amenities. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips that include campfires.

Map showing campgrounds near Bailey, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Bailey, Colorado (430)

    1. Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake

    25 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 838-5496

    $40 - $120 / night

    "The lake is quiet, there is plenty to explore, and it's usually not crowded. I will note that this location is maybe 20 minutes outside Bailey though...."

    "Well-kept lake campground with lakefront sites available. You must book 3 months in advance and they can fill up quickly."

    2. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    12 miles

    "We stayed here a couple weekends in a row and we were able to try out some different spots and trails close to those spots. This free campground is perfect! "

    "There's several creeks that run through the area and a network of trails that intersect the Colorado Trail and the road. The area is popular with mountain bikers."

    3. Chatfield State Park Campground

    77 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 791-7275

    $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."

    4. Buffalo Campground

    11 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 275-5610

    $28 / night

    "We headed out to get to the backroad of Buffalo Creek through Bailey and found this spot."

    "Welcoming campground, spur trails connecting it straight to the Colorado Trail and other connections in the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area."

    5. Deer Creek

    7 Reviews
    Shawnee, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    $28 / night

    "This site is just north of Bailey, about 20 minutes. Beautiful views. Sites are far enough apart to get a decent amount of privacy. RV trailer friendly. The creek provides a tranquil environment."

    "You can hear the water and the creek is right next to your site. Bathrooms were very well maintained. You are close to your neighbors. I just wish they had a dumpster for your trash."

    6. Staunton State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Conifer, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 816-0912

    $28 / night

    "The pit, very clean are at base, and there is a porta-potty by site 14, far enough away from 14 to not be a problem."

    "We brought out the bike and did some trails to find the perfect spot and since we went in the middle of the week we had our choice of spot."

    7. Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    12 miles

    "Each of them have a parking area right along the road with a fire ring a short distance away surrounded by awesome rock outcroppings."

    "This is now my favorite campsite in Colorado. Just an hour from Denver… nice road… large campsites with fire pits, hiking trails. Minutes from fishing. Perfect!!"

    8. Kenosha Pass Campground

    13 Reviews
    Jefferson, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    $28 / night

    "This was a great stay, conveniently located just down 285 for a short get away during the work week.  We stayed for 3 days and during that time there were only a few other campers here."

    "Super easy access for a quick trip to hit the Colorado Trail. We stayed in sight 22, and realized the map on the reservation system was a bit skewed as it is very close to the bathrooms."

    9. Spruce Grove Campground

    18 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "Spruce Grove Campground is a beautiful location approximately 2 hours Southwest of Denver."

    "This is a very popular spot for families with easy access to the South Platte for tubing and swimming, but not ideal for fisherman as many people playing in the river."

    10. Green Mountain

    5 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    8 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "We had 4 adults, 2 tents, and a pup on #2, walked our gear across an adorable bridge making the whole experience seem like a fairy tale.  Vault toilet, $18, very close to Wellington Lake."

    "This site is kind of tucked away and doesn’t seem like it gets a ton of traffic compared to other sites in the area. I went for several days in the middle of the week and only had one neighbor."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 430 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Bailey Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Bailey, CO

1093 Photos of 430 Bailey Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bailey, CO

2760 Reviews of 430 Bailey Campgrounds

  • leah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    The Lost Site - Dispersed Campsite

    The lost site

    Beautiful quiet spot. Large sites with pull thru. Easy turn around. No facilites and cold in October

  • 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.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    Stayed here again! 34+ dispersed spots

    Just wanted to write another review of this spot, love it, easy road in but extremely busy even in late September on an early Friday afternoon. Completely full by Friday 6pm I wouldn’t even try after unless it’s November-April. Seriously. Lots of big spots for multiple cars and tents, fire pits in every numbered spot. Trails nearby, even found an old horseshoe! Get there early, but that’s known if you ever been there.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    North Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous, spacious

    Surprising amount of availability for a Friday night after work, big well spaced sites, beautiful views, quiet, and private!

Guide to Bailey

Camping near Bailey, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Paddleboarding and kayaking: Head to Chatfield State Park Campground for some fun on the water. One visitor mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it a great spot for water lovers.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Prospector Campground. A reviewer shared, "It was our home base while we took advantage of nearby hiking, biking, and other activities."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Eleven Mile State Park. One camper noted, "Take a canoe, kayak, or fishing poles and enjoy a day on the lake with a great view of the mountains."

What campers like:

  • Friendly staff: Campers appreciate the helpfulness of the staff at Chatfield State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."
  • Clean facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A camper at Golden Gate Canyon State Park remarked, "Very well kept with nice clean bathrooms."
  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Prospector Campground stated, "The views are great! Campsites are spaced out and have plenty of space."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Eleven Mile State Park, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "The lake is nice and there is access to a lot of water for recreation," but noted the lack of shade.
  • Noise levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially near Chatfield State Park Campground. One camper shared, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7 AM to the sound of model airplanes."
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, as one camper at Reverend's Ridge Campground noted, "The coolest thing is we did see a moose!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the right site: Look for sites that offer some privacy and space for kids to play. A camper at Prospector Campground mentioned, "The campground was mostly private with a lot of little trees in-between sites."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to bring gear for activities like fishing or paddleboarding. One family at Chatfield State Park Campground enjoyed the "paddle board experience."
  • Prepare for weather: Be ready for changing weather conditions. A camper at Eleven Mile State Park advised, "The only downside are the bathrooms. They are very buggy but there is also a park center close by that has really nice bathrooms and showers."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Peak One Campground said, "We had no trouble fitting our 29' Class C, tow dolly, and towed vehicle in the site."
  • Be aware of hookups: Some campgrounds, like Dakota Ridge RV Park, have limited hookups. A camper noted, "It is pricey and there are many rules but it is full service with a very friendly staff."
  • Plan for noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider your campground choice. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, "The place is tightly packed and is located between a biker bar and construction company."

Camping near Bailey, Colorado, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great spot for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed in the Bailey, Colorado area?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in several areas near Bailey, Colorado. The Pike National Forest surrounding Bailey offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area features both numbered sites and additional unnumbered sites further down Forest Road 233.1, some with exceptional views. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail is another option, though it requires 4x4 vehicles to navigate rocks and water crossings. Dispersed campers should follow Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 100 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings, and check for seasonal fire restrictions before visiting.

Where are the best campgrounds near Bailey, Colorado?

The Bailey area offers several excellent campgrounds within a short drive. Handcart Campground is a hidden gem with 11 first-come, first-served sites ($22/night) featuring beautiful river access and scenic views. Just north of Bailey, Deer Creek provides tranquil sites with enough spacing for privacy, trail access, and is RV-friendly. Other notable options include Horseshoe Campground with its smaller, tree-covered sites ideal for tent camping, and Buffalo Campground in nearby Buffalo Creek Recreation Area. For a lakeside experience, Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake offers a peaceful setting about 20 minutes from Bailey.

What amenities are available at Bailey campgrounds?

Bailey area campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities. Horseshoe Campground provides access to beautiful hiking trails that connect to Fourmile campground, with sites nestled among trees. Colorado Campground near Woodland Park (a short drive from Bailey) offers proximity to Manitou Lake and central access to the Pikes Peak wilderness trails while remaining close to town conveniences. Most established campgrounds near Bailey typically provide vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Some have potable water available seasonally. Amenities at dispersed sites are minimal to non-existent, so campers should bring their own water, pack out trash, and be prepared for primitive conditions.

Keep Exploring