Alicia H.
Guide
GuideRainbow Lakes Campground
Nice walk in sites
Very peaceful experience when I was there last in 2024. Nice and rather easy hike from the campground.
Camping near Twin Lakes, CO
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Camping opportunities around Twin Lakes, Colorado range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites across public lands. The area features several developed options like Chatfield State Park Campground and Cherry Creek State Park Campground, both offering year-round access with amenities including electric hookups, picnic tables, and reservable sites. For those seeking more primitive experiences, the surrounding national forest lands provide dispersed camping with varying levels of accessibility. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some locations like Indian Paintbrush Campground at Bear Creek Lake Park also offering cabin and yurt options.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many dispersed camping areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. Several campgrounds remain open year-round, though higher elevation sites typically close during winter months due to snow accumulation. Permits and reservations are essential for most established campgrounds, especially during peak summer months when sites fill quickly. Dispersed camping on national forest land generally allows stays up to 14 days, though regulations vary by specific area. Campers should prepare for rapid weather changes typical of Colorado's mountain environment, including afternoon thunderstorms even during summer months. One camper noted, "Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."
The camping experience near Twin Lakes varies widely based on location and elevation. Twin Lakes campsites offer diverse settings, from scenic waterfront locations to secluded forest spots at higher elevations. Waterfront sites at locations like Arapaho Bay Campground provide scenic views and recreational opportunities. A visitor described it as having "nice sized spaces, many sites close to the water, good wildlife sittings (moose, bald eagles, bear) beautiful large lake with Colorado River headwaters." Higher elevation sites offer cooler temperatures and often more seclusion, though they may have more primitive facilities. Campers frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, with moose, eagles, and occasionally bears spotted in the area. Proximity to hiking trails represents another highlight, with many campgrounds offering direct access to trail networks. Noise levels vary significantly, with sites closer to highways experiencing more traffic sounds compared to more remote forest locations.
Best Campgrounds near Twin Lakes (327)
1. Chatfield State Park Campground
"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."
from $36 - $200 / night
Check Availability2. Cherry Creek State Park Campground
"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."
"It is in the center of the city, but aside from the traffic on the dam in the distance you would not realize it. "
from $28 - $432 / night
Check Availability3. Dakota Ridge RV Park
"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."
4. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
"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."
5. Clear Creek RV Park
"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!"
from $68 - $85 / night
Check Availability6. Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
"area was plowed open to exactly the width of our trailer, so with more than three feet of snow on the ground we needed to get some exercise and do a bit of shoveling so we could back in and be able to walk"
"Late October is very unpredictable in Colorado for a camper who is primarily a tent camper."
from $18 / night
Check Availability7. Standley Lake Regional Park
"It’s $35 a night for a spot super close to the water. The spots are pretty spread out. We are taking our toddler and dogs swimming 100 times a day."
"Take a friend and a picnic for a lovely day on this beautiful lake right here in Arvada. Your worries fall away and you can experience the joy in nature around you. Maybe weird but true!"
from $35 - $55 / night
Check Availability8. Applewood RV Resort by Rjourney
"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."
9. Chief Hosa Campground
"They use a keycode system to restrict access to the centrally-located bathhouse (there is only one in the campground), which I thought was clever. "
"The highway noise was very noticeable, but didn’t take away from the peaceful setting. It was a clean campground. The bathrooms and showers were clean and have a key code for entry."
from $33 - $40 / night
Check Availability10. Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
"This spot is just a quick ride outside of Golden. The scenery is gorgeous with several trails to hike or mountain bike. The campsites are clean and easy to get to."
"Stunning campground nestled right outside Golden and Boulder Colorado. We couldn’t believe it…so close but you feel incredibly removed once you get there."
from $28 - $90 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 9 min from Denver, CO
- 22 min from Boulder, CO
- 49 min from Greeley, CO
- 52 min from Fort Collins, CO
Recent Camping Photos near Twin Lakes, CO
806 Photos of 327 Twin Lakes Campgrounds
Nathan S.
Standley Lake Regional Park
Rita R.
Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
Dyle K.
Cherry Creek State Park Campground
Sabin R.
Mountain View Campsite
A A.
Peaceful Ranch
john B.
Chief Hosa Campground
Mandi K.
Chatfield State Park Campground
Minette and Ron G.
Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Lynae C.
Closed
Fabio O.
Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
Gordon B.
Rifleman Phillips Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
L M.
Aspen Meadows Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Recent Reviews near Twin Lakes, CO
2505 Reviews of 327 Twin Lakes Campgrounds
- Alicia H.Guide
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Beautiful setting, quiet
I’ve camped here several times in several different sites both the walk-in tent sites and drive up sites.
There are amazing day hikes that you can access from the campground. The last time I stayed there, I took a nap after a long hike and woke up to a moose munching on wildflowers 10 ft from my tent. 
Joanna S.
ScoutSt. Vrain State Park Campground
Absolutely perfect!
My family and I booked a stay here for a night after struggling all afternoon to find a place to park our RV for the night. We were thankful to even get a campsite for the night, but because of this park we had full Hook-Up too! And for a great price! It was quiet, and there were not very many people there! Such a wonderful hole in the wall place! I know people say the interstate was too loud, however compared to other campgrounds, which are more populated and have lots of people noise, my family and I found it was actually more quiet. We saw plenty of wildlife that we didn’t see at other campsites either.
- Alicia H.Guide
Buckingham Campground
Beautiful, quiet at night
I’ve been here a few times for hiking and camping. Very soothing creek sounds, nice views with some greenery and shade. To unload and park close to your site it’s best to come later in the day, or at 5 AM, as it’s a busy trailhead and that’s why most people are there. The obvious sites have a lot of parking and hikers nearby during the day, but are sites beyond the gate that are more private during the day with bear boxes and picnic tables.
wayne H.
RangerReverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Close to the front plains but feels like a get away
I love this place. It is very well laid out. And even though it accommodates plenty of people and vehicles, you're spread out and surrounded by trees. The restroom facilities are very clean. Bring your hand soap, none is stocked. The Visitor Center was very helpful. Plenty of beautiful Hiking trails around. Don't miss the hike up to the overlook. You can also drive there if you're not up to walking.
- JJ C.Guide
Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
All Star Campground
One of the most beautiful National Park campgrounds, and I’m putting it up against the Yosemite Valley campgrounds. I was able to get same-day reservations and stayed three nights at 2 sites in the D loop.
Ice is way overpriced at $8, so get that at Estes Park (only 15 min from Moraine Park). Moraine Park Visitor Center has great interactive displays and the best gift shop in the park. It’s worth it to take the extra drive to Bear Lake. I went closer to dusk and found parking and there was still enough light to do the easy loop. - JJ C.Guide
Robbers Roost Campground
Gran Turismo
Driving north on the 40 from I70 is pure joy, but there is no warning for the turn-off and it’s easy to miss it. Great sites, loud truck noise, and unparalleled stargazing.
- JJC R.Scout
Farewell Gulch
Beautiful, peaceful
Mid July and no one here. Incredible. The Switzerland trail is in pretty rough shape though, you can definitely make it out if you have AWD, but I almost got stuck on the way in thanks to the overlanding trailer I’m pulling. Be very certain about which site you decide to head to, don’t spend two hours inching your way around one tree like I did.
- ffrank S.Scout
Redskin Creek Rd Designated Campsite
Beautiful
Many large sites. Some flatter than others.. site 15 had 2 bags of garbage stuffed in the pit. Including bread, jelly and tampons. Such a joy to clean up.
Guide to Twin Lakes
Twin Lakes Colorado camping sites cluster around 9,200 feet elevation, creating unique conditions for visitors. The area transitions through distinct seasonal periods with rapid temperature changes even in summer months. Camp sites near Twin Lakes offer access to the highest peaks in Colorado with several 14,000+ foot mountains accessible from nearby trailheads.
What to do
Water activities at Chatfield State Park: Located south of Denver, this park features a large reservoir for water sports. "Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," notes Rick from Chatfield State Park Campground.
Mountain biking in Golden Gate Canyon: The park offers extensive trail networks for cyclists of all skill levels. "Golden Gate Canyon SP is absolutely gorgeous! We loved the experience at the park, the trails are great and the views are wonderful," writes Minette and Ron G. from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon.
Wildlife viewing at Standley Lake: The lake provides opportunities to view diverse bird species. "I love watching them in flight with their wings expanded, coming in for a landing, sometimes awkward but always interesting. Inside the visitor center there is a large 'Eagle Cam' TV with live footage of the endangered Bald eagles nesting their eaglets," shares Nancy B. from Standley Lake Regional Park.
Paddling options for beginners: Rent equipment if you don't have your own. "If you don't have a paddle craft they rent them there. You can rent a kayak, a paddle board, a canoe, or a paddle bicycle on a pontoon!" adds Nancy from Standley Lake.
What campers like
Proximity to Denver with mountain feel: Some campgrounds offer a blend of accessibility and nature. "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," notes Kandisa S. from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park.
Convenient base camps for exploration: Several campgrounds serve as hubs for regional activities. "This campground allows easy access to Denver, Golden, and the foothills. Campers are close together, but there are some mature trees. This campground is nicer than most that provide access to Denver," mentions Colorado C. from Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were VERY clean and seemed to be pretty new - plenty of bathroom stalls, sinks, and large showers. They were quarter showers for 2 minutes of hot water, so basically less than $1 per shower, which is great," reports Danielle V. from Chief Hosa Campground.
Year-round camping options: Some lower elevation sites remain open all year. "Clean bathrooms. Very friendly attendant. Level primitive spots. $26 for primitive," notes Christa C. about Chatfield State Park Campground, which operates year-round.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by location: Many campgrounds have specific fire rules. "No campfires, strict restrictions on how you can and can't cook food, no hammocks or lines from trees for dogs or dish towels etc," explains Kim L. from Chief Hosa Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. "The campground is easy to get too right off of Interstate 70. It was nice but the sites are very close and you can hear the traffic on the interstate really well," shares Kimberly M. about Chief Hosa.
Limited shade at some sites: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds. "Not a lot of shade for dogs. Super disappointing the pool was closed in the middle of July. Biker bar and noise didn't affect us," reports Chasing the S. from Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Park entrance fees: Many sites charge additional day-use fees. "Your camping reservation (strongly recommended) includes park admission," notes Jennifer L. about Indian Paintbrush Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Some sites offer dedicated children's areas. "Great campground, well kept. Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites," explains sarah S. from Chatfield State Park.
Consider sites with recreation options: Multiple activities keep children engaged. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," says Joshua H. from Bear Creek Lake Park.
Cabin or yurt options: Alternative accommodations provide comfort for families. "Was just beautiful all the staff was wonderful and made our first in Co wonderful I would definitely recommend this place for sure beautiful views the yurt was awesome," shares Rebecca J. about Bear Creek Lake Park.
Noise considerations: Sound levels vary significantly between sites. "Such a beautiful place. trails are amazing. although the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience," notes Jennifer S. about Deer Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before setup: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "We got site 47, which is labeled as an RV site, but it is NOT suitable for pop up campers. the site doesn't have even a hint of a levelable spot," warns Shannon S. from Standley Lake Regional Park.
Water pressure awareness: Bring regulators for hookup sites. "Be sure to have a water pressure regulator or you'll come back to a flooded RV," advises Love4travel T. about Prospect RV Park.
Shower access codes: Some facilities use key or code systems. "They use a keycode system to restrict access to the centrally-located bathhouse (there is only one in the campground), which I thought was clever," explains Danielle V. about Chief Hosa.
Dump station availability: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Easy to find right off the main drag, so that's a plus. Must be an experienced driver to navigate the tight lots and roads. Smaller sites and not much grass for dogs," notes Chasing the S. about Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need reservations for camping at Twin Lakes, Colorado?
Do I need reservations for camping at Twin Lakes, Colorado?
Reservation requirements vary among campgrounds near Twin Lakes. South Bay Campground requires reservations, especially during summer months when the lake gets busy, but offers some of the best views in the area. In contrast, Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail provides dispersed camping options without reservations, though 4x4 vehicles are recommended to access the best spots. Most established campgrounds in the Twin Lakes area fill quickly during peak season (May-September), so reservations are strongly advised where available. For dispersed camping in the surrounding national forests, no reservations are needed, but arrive early to secure the best spots.
Can I camp at Twin Lakes Reservoir in Colorado?
Can I camp at Twin Lakes Reservoir in Colorado?
Yes, camping is available at Twin Lakes Reservoir in Colorado. For a similar reservoir camping experience, Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir offers excellent sites like Site 5, which is perfect for larger groups and provides privacy while still having access to the reservoir. If you prefer more amenities, Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake provides beautiful lakeside camping with bathroom facilities and a visitor center where you can purchase firewood. Camping at Twin Lakes Reservoir typically follows similar patterns with a mix of designated campgrounds and dispersed options along the shoreline, subject to local regulations and seasonal closures.
Where are the campgrounds located near Twin Lakes, Colorado?
Where are the campgrounds located near Twin Lakes, Colorado?
Twin Lakes, Colorado offers several camping options nearby. Kenosha East Campground is a popular option in the region that doesn't require reservations and tends to fill up by evening on weekends. For those seeking dispersed camping experiences, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area provides approximately 15 numbered sites plus additional unnumbered sites further down road 233.1, some offering spectacular views. The Twin Lakes area is situated in a picturesque mountain region, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding wilderness areas and nearby hiking trails. Additional camping can be found within reasonable driving distance in surrounding national forest lands.
How do I get to Twin Lakes Campground in Colorado?
How do I get to Twin Lakes Campground in Colorado?
To reach Twin Lakes Campground, you'll need to navigate to central Colorado's high country. For comparison, Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground is accessible via well-maintained roads and offers the true Colorado experience with stunning views and river access. Similarly, Olive Ridge is located about a mile from Allenspark, with good road access and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park. Twin Lakes Campground is typically accessible from Highway 82, which runs between Leadville and Aspen. Most visitors approach from either US-24 to Highway 82 if coming from the east, or from Aspen over Independence Pass when traveling from the west (seasonal road closures apply in winter).
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