Best Tent Camping near Beulah, CO

Tent campgrounds near Beulah, Colorado offer a mix of established sites and dispersed options across varied terrain. Davenport Campground provides walk-in tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables in San Carlos Ranger District, while Phantom Canyon Road offers primitive tent camping opportunities along Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. Red Canyon Park, managed by Canon City, features tent camping with stunning red rock formations as a backdrop for overnight stays.

Access to tent sites varies significantly across the region. Many campgrounds require a short walk from parking areas to reach tent pads, with Davenport Campground sites approximately 50 yards from the parking lot. Primitive camping areas along Phantom Canyon Road have rocky fire rings built by previous campers but lack amenities like drinking water or trash service. Visitors should prepare for potentially challenging dirt roads, especially after rainfall when routes can become rutted or muddy. Most tent areas have vault toilets available, though they may be located some distance from individual campsites. A review mentioned, "The road through the land had just been graded so it was an easy drive through, but it was SO cold at night."

Tent campers frequently appreciate the solitude available at these sites, particularly in less-developed areas. Red Canyon Park offers tent camping with dramatic rock formations and seasonal creek access, though summer temperatures can become quite hot. Sites at higher elevations provide cooler conditions but may be inaccessible during early spring due to snowmelt. Phantom Canyon features tent camping alongside a small creek in a canyon setting, offering both riverside and more secluded sites tucked against canyon walls. The proximity to climbing areas makes some locations particularly popular with tent campers seeking easy access to recreation. A visitor commented, "The spots were tucked in a little canyon about 5 minutes after the second tunnel and probably 300 yards to the next closest site. We couldn't see those spots nor hear anyone else."

Best Tent Sites Near Beulah, Colorado (20)

    1. Davenport Campground

    7 Reviews
    Beulah, CO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $25 / night

    "Good tent sites. Have to carry gear to camp site but only shoeRt hike to campsite. Maybe 50 yards. Has a couple of sires with shelter. Picnic tables are big and heavy."

    "Has a fire pit with grill, picnic table, and sites 2, 5, and 9 have the log covering. The sites are pretty close together, but we had no problem with our neighbors."

    2. Greenhorn Meadows Park

    7 Reviews
    Colorado City, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 676-3059

    "We found GMP in Colorado City and was told they never turn away a tenter. There are a number of spots aligned below a bluff, and a large open field for additional tents."

    "Its as small Campground outside Colorado City. There electric hook ups at your site; however the water is across the path and you need to port it to your rig."

    3. Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites

    38 Reviews
    Cañon City, CO
    30 miles

    "Driving down to this campsite I was happy to have a small car because the road is very narrow to say the least. I cannot imagine the feeling of driving a large rig here."

    "We arrived the Phantom Creek Road around 4:30pm. 10miles and 30 minutes later we found our spot."

    4. Hummingbird Ranch

    6 Reviews
    Rye, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    $30 - $33 / night

    "My husband was a little concerned when we left the highway for a dirt county road, but his concerns quickly changed as we enjoyed the beauty and wonder of the Colorado mountains!"

    "Lots of open meadows with some tree/big bushes for shade. Clean showers!"

    5. Red Canyon Park

    21 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-9028

    "This was my first time solo tent camping. It went well. The space had a fire ring and picnic table. I might have been the only person at the park and it was quite peaceful!"

    "Views were terrific, whether you want something a bit more open or further into the canyon where it’s surrounded by gorgeous red rocks. I chose an open site and if you do, beware of the wind."

    6. Tricki's (Travis and Vicki) Glamping under the stars

    1 Review
    Rockvale, CO
    24 miles
    +1 (303) 809-7819

    $50 - $200 / night

    "We're happy to have this property on our platform. Check them out and come back here to leave them some love!"

    7. The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    9 Reviews
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 378-6395

    "The hike in over the dune to a camp site with all your gear is frankly not easy, but it's short distance so it's manageable."

    "If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent."

    8. Phantom Canyon

    5 Reviews
    Penrose, CO
    34 miles

    "I’m a rooftop tent camper and the views are amazing but was hoping to be close to the water and isolated from other campers."

    "It is in a canyon so you won't have any cell phone signal, though I had my Starlink set up and it worked flawlessly. We will go back, and I hope to get that spot before any other!"

    9. Medano Lake Backpackers Camp — Great Sand Dunes National Preserve

    1 Review
    Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve, CO
    31 miles
    Website

    "For backpackers only - this may seem like a short distance from the trailhead, but it is a steep incline the entire way up. With packs, it took us close to 5 hours with short breaks."

    10. Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off

    1 Review
    Cañon City, CO
    31 miles

    "Every summer I go on a road trip , camping ,backpacking and visiting national parks , while driving through Colorado we drove through phantom canyon road and we stopped about 20 times through our drive"

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Tent Camping Reviews near Beulah, CO

911 Reviews of 20 Beulah Campgrounds


  • Staci W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2022

    East Ridge Campground - Royal Gorge

    Pricey but beautiful

    This campground used to be free when I first found it years ago while visiting the Royal Gorge. Since the city has invested money into fixing up the campsites with fire rings, tent pads, and what seems to be pretty good county road maintenance, it’s definitely understandable why they charge a fee.

    No water is available. There are vault toilets.

    There are NO bear boxes.

    Rules worth nothing (according to the sign upon entering camp):

    1. no alcohol (that didn’t seem to stop anyone from enjoying themselves at their site)
    2. You can only stay for 72 hours per visit unless otherwise noted.

    There’s lots of hiking and mountain bike trails near the campground, which brought lots of mellow mtb riders in during my stay.

    Because of the rules/amenities, i felt the price was a little steep as others have mentioned. However it is clean, close enough to Cañon city that you can go to town if needed, but far enough away to “unplug” from the world in a beautiful location. Overall I’d recommend visiting this campsite! I’ll happily return.

  • B
    Feb. 9, 2022

    Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Piñon Flats Camping

    Piñon Flats was an awesome place to camp! It has restrooms as well as easy access to hiking trails, each spot has a fire pit and a big enough dirt pad to stake down a tent or awning. Quiet hours are also nice so you won’t be hearing generators at night.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2021

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    WOW just WOW

    Stayed here 1 night with the backcountry permit through recreation.gov to see the stars and stay the night in the dunes. The hike in over the dune to a camp site with all your gear is frankly not easy, but it's short distance so it's manageable. Climbing in the sand is challenging with the extra weight of the pack and if the wind picks up you get whipped with sand BUT it is 100% worth it. We hiked in around 5/5:30pm at the end of the heat and were set up eating dinner around 8pm. Took a lot of breaks hiking in and went through a lot of water. In total we brought about a gallon of water each, and by the time we hiked out the next morning we were down to the last couple of ounces. Just the tent, no rain fly and using our sleeping bags as quilts was perfect in June. Even if you don't camp out the dunes are open for star gazing, and I highly recommend that. I tried hiking in both sneakers and just socks. Just socks was much better keeping your feet light and reducing cramping. Note: bugs come out at dusk so be ready with lots of spray and cover your limbs and bring good sunblock, you will get toasted.

  • T
    May. 17, 2022

    Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Mountain beach adventure

    Campsites are compact and overlook the Dunes - we parallell parked at our site. Short hike to Medano creek and the dunes. Sites have bear boxes for food storage, picnic table, and tent pads. Not ideal for large travel trailers but great in tents, vans, or smaller trailers. Site 7 is behind a pit toilet and the breeze blows the stink at you perfectly. Most other sites seem ok.

  • Jenni O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2019

    Arkansas Point Campground — Lake Pueblo State Park

    So clean!

    We just left campsite 531 at Kettle Creek Loop! Our 3 kids loved playing around the little inlet of water and the playground was not too far! Very clean vault toilets close to that campsite and a bigger bathroom by the playground with showers! It’s a rocky tent pad so bring a footprint and sleeping pads. Shade provided over picnic table blocking the evening sun- it’s pretty sunny in the am but nice! It was HOT while we were there but it cooled off at night. Bring a shade tent! We will Be back!

  • Hayley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2019

    Swift Puma Heights Campground — Cheyenne Mountain State Park

    Easy to get to, not the most secluded

    We stayed at this campground in order to help out with the Xterra Race that was taking place the next day. We reserved two walk in sites (30 and 34) and it was easy to find them. The walk in sites are between 20-40 feet form the parking lot and on a slight (and rocky) hill. There was plenty of privacy by way of shrubs so it felt secluded even though the sites are right next to each other. 

    You can only set up tents on the tent pads in the sites so that was a little challenging being that we needed to sleep 10 and could only fit 1 tent per site. But we were able to make it work. Also, the ground is very compact, so stakes were hard to get into the ground and we had to tie off our guy-lines to the bushes to keep them in place during the night.  

    Keep in mind that you are on a military base area so you will hear TAPS periodically throughout the day and night. Campground is open year-round 

    It has:

    51 Full Hook-Up sites 

    10 Basic Tent sites 

    Coin operated showers and laundry (Seasonal; These amenities are for active campers only.)

    Overall the sites were great. Bear food lockers and water at each site. The firepits were large and well ventilated. The bathrooms were super clean and accommodating. Lots of trails and ranger led events happening to keep you (and your kids and dogs) entertained.

  • Daniel S.
    Sep. 21, 2020

    Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Awesome Scenery

    This campsite is located in the Great Sand Dunes National Park. A well maintained campground with asphalt roads throughout, including the campsite parking area. Each campsite includes a level dirt area delineated with a low rock wall, a large metal bear proof food storage locker, a metal fire ring with grate and an aluminum picnic table. There is no water, sewage or electric at any of the sites, although at only $20 a night that is quite acceptable. Plan to pick and reserve your site about 6 months in advance as this national park is very popular.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 15, 2024

    The Dunefield — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    Wild and Untamed

    Backcountry dispersed camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers an unforgettable and truly unique wilderness experience. If you’re seeking solitude and raw, untamed landscapes, this is the perfect spot to pitch your tent. With no designated sites, you have the freedom to find your ideal spot beyond the busy dunes and under an expansive star-filled sky.

    The journey begins with a hike deep into the park’s rugged terrain, where you’re surrounded by towering sand dunes, alpine forests, and sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The lack of light pollution makes stargazing an absolute highlight—this is one of the best places to witness the Milky Way.

    Keep in mind, this is true backcountry camping: no facilities, no water sources, and you must pack out all waste. Permits are required, so be sure to plan ahead. The environment can be challenging, with extreme temperature swings and strong winds that shift the sand beneath your feet. Good preparation and Leave No Trace practices are a must.

    The rewards are well worth the effort. From sunrise hikes to the serene sound of nothing but wind across the dunes, this camping experience immerses you in nature’s raw beauty like few others can. It’s an adventure you’ll carry with you long after you’ve left the dunes behind.

    Highly recommend skipping the tent and sleeping under the stars!

  • Rachel P.
    Jun. 20, 2022

    Arkansas Point Campground — Lake Pueblo State Park

    Quiet, lakeside RV camping

    We booked this site last minute and it was perfect! The grounds were quiet and people respected the Quiet Hours curfew. Each site has a covered picnic table to block the wind. The site we booked had electricity hookups. We stayed in a car tent, so we needed non-concrete ground to anchor our tent stakes - the sites are all concrete and gravel with a lot of grass surrounding the main driveway. We were able to park our SUV so that we had access to the grassy area without being intrusive to other folks. The showers are in their own bathroom - toilet, sink, trashcan, bench, towel hooks, and shower. I strongly advise to NOT place clothing or towels on the bench near the shower. The shower has a strong spray and it will get your items slightly wet if too close. The showers are included in your camping fee (aka free to use). There isn't anything to block the wind (except at the picnic table) so be advised weaker tents won't be comfortable.


Guide to Beulah

Tent camping near Beulah, Colorado offers diverse experiences from spring through fall at elevations ranging from 4,800 to 10,000 feet in the foothills of the Wet Mountains. Sites along Phantom Canyon Road feature accessible creek-side spots while some locations in higher elevations provide natural shelter from pine forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during day, dropping to 45-55°F at night.

What to do

Stargazing opportunities: Hummingbird Ranch offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "My girlfriend and I came here to watch the Perseid meteor shower and it did not disappoint. We had the place to ourselves and a great view of the stars," notes Tara M.

Hike to geological formations: Red Canyon Park features distinctive red rock formations with multiple trails. "So many fun places to explore, like climbing on rocks to see the mountains around you," reports Emily, who barely saw anyone during her stay.

Wildlife spotting: Keep your camera ready for the diverse wildlife. A camper at Red Canyon Park mentioned, "We did have a bear encounter as we were driving out of the park," while another visitor noted seeing "deer, rabbits near our campsite."

Rock climbing access: Phantom Canyon provides direct access to climbing walls adjacent to campsites. Josh M. shared that it "has access to climbing walls right by sites," making it convenient for climbers to maximize their time on the rock.

What campers like

Secluded creek-side spots: At Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, campers appreciate the privacy and water access. "We found an amazing camp site that was down a slope. We parked up top and lugged everything down the slope... There were 5 different camp site areas at the bottom right next to the water," explains Madi G.

Dark skies for star viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates spectacular night viewing. At Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, Gregg & Sally W. reported, "Starlink worked great as there is no Verizon cellular for miles," highlighting the remote nature that creates excellent star visibility.

Natural shelters: Several sites offer built-in protection from the elements. At Davenport Campground, Kevin Y. noted, "Site 9 has a shelter and is close to parking lot and toilet," while another camper mentioned, "Some spaces have a shelter with table."

Mild temperatures: Despite hot summer days, evening temperatures drop considerably. A camper at Hummingbird Ranch shared, "Absolutely beautiful! Large area to park away from others!" highlighting the space and comfort available at higher elevations.

What you should know

Fire restrictions vary: Check current fire rules before arrival. Sebastian from Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites observed, "There is a bathroom near the entrance stocked with TP and sanitizer at the time I was there," but also noted, "There is no signal so get your communication out of the way before entering."

Limited water access: Most dispersed sites have no potable water. At Greenhorn Meadows Park, one reviewer noted, "The water is across the path and you need to port it to your rig," indicating the need to plan for water transport.

Road conditions: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. At Red Canyon Park, a camper advised, "The dirt road felt well maintained and the spots felt very ample and spacious," though another mentioned, "There's major dips in the roads."

Insect preparation: Biting insects are common in summer months. At Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, Hayden P. warned, "There is a lot of biting flies so bring bug spray if you plan to camp!"

Tips for camping with families

Sheltered sites for comfort: Davenport Campground offers protected spaces for family camping. Becki S. shared, "Designated tent spots. Some spaces have a shelter with table. Outhouses are clean. Fire pits are built and work great. Trail right off campgrounds is an easy, beautiful hike."

Bathroom access considerations: Facilities vary widely between established and dispersed sites. At Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, Jayden W. noted, "BATHROOMS are pit toilets that are located around at sight (18) and I believe (8) the sights are relatively easy to find."

Distance to campsites: Be prepared for carrying gear at walk-in sites. Kevin Y. from Davenport Campground advised, "Have to carry gear to camp site but only short hike to campsite. Maybe 50 yards."

Educational opportunities: Red Canyon Park offers geology lessons for children. DeAnn M. noted, "Went in the autumn and hike along the river bed and climb the falls. Vaulted toilets, fire rings, covered tables and Flatish camp spots."

Tips from RVers

Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, Sebastian advised, "My little Toyota did just fine, there was snow in the areas which was shaded but tires did not slide."

Leveling requirements: Prepare to level your rig on uneven terrain. At Phantom Canyon, Charles L. explained, "Definitely was isolated and found one spot that worked out well for rooftop camper. Like 14 miles on dirt road, on the right, 20 feet before a sign that reads 'leaving public land.'"

Dump station access: Plan for waste management. At Greenhorn Meadows Park, a reviewer mentioned, "There is a laundry room and dump station. Not sure if the dump is included as the sign says $10 if your staying here or $15 if your a guest."

Site spacing concerns: Some established campgrounds have tight spacing. Genepher at Greenhorn Meadows Park observed, "Most of the other campers here look like they are parked long term," suggesting potential limitations for newcomers seeking space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Beulah, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Beulah, CO is Davenport Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Beulah, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 20 tent camping locations near Beulah, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.