Camping spots near Nederland, Colorado offer diverse terrain options within Roosevelt National Forest at elevations from 8,000-10,000 feet. Winter snow often remains into early summer at higher elevation sites, with freeze warnings possible even in July. The area typically sees afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, requiring campers to plan morning activities accordingly.
What to do
Hiking to glaciers: Rainbow Lakes Campground provides access to Arapahoe Glacier Trail, a challenging but rewarding experience. "Heads up that the trail to the lakes is currently closed as of this review. Take the Arapahoe Glacier Trail though, you will not be disappointed!" notes Joe P. about Rainbow Lakes Campground.
Fishing options: Beaver Park Reservoir offers catch-and-release fishing during summer months. "Beautiful lake with several good sized RV spots. We have a 25 foot camper and feet nicely in. Road in was good as well (May 2025)," reports James S., though access to the water requires respecting private property boundaries.
Mountain biking: Trails near West Magnolia Campground provide technical terrain for riders. A visitor mentions: "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," according to Lori L at West Magnolia Campground.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Beaver Park Reservoir offers excellent animal sightings. "Lots of wildlife; squirrels, rabbits, and a moose that walked right by our campsite. There was some trash near the fire ring, but the rest of the site was clean," reports Benjamin G. at Beaver Park Reservoir.
Accessibility from urban areas: Dream Canyon provides camping within reasonable distance from Boulder. "This spot is super cool, def a little busy but some really awesome canyon views. Went on a Tuesday afternoon and there was foot traffic around our spot from people headed on hikes," explains Mattie C. about this spot that balances convenience with natural settings.
Aspens in fall: Gordon Gulch offers excellent autumn displays. "I spent multiple days at this site due to its remote beauty. Campsites far apart, and it was quiet other than the occasional atv. Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers... Lots of Aspen!" shares Dian G. about Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area.
What you should know
Campsite competition: West Magnolia fills quickly even midweek. "Arrived at 5:30 to find all of the spots were full aside from one (#18), possibly because of the negative review of it on this app? It was a great site for someone just staying the night. The sites are VERY spaced apart," explains Liz W.
Road conditions: Rainbow Lakes access requires careful driving. "The long gravel road in is very rough with potholes to say the least but worth the drive in. At the end of the road is the campground which is very nice but we didn't stay there due to being full," notes Dan W.
Long-term occupants: Some sites face overuse issues. "Unfortunately, we were unable to find any usable campsite. All sites were occupied, even during the middle of the week. Many of those sites were occupied by long term campers as made clear by the multiple tents and bags of trash piled up," reports LW P. about West Magnolia.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kelly Dahl Campground offers designated play areas. "Nice sites, somewhat secluded from others. Beetles did eat out some trees but still some shade available. Decent views, especially from entrance. Killer night skies," states Fabein D. about Kelly Dahl, which also features a playground area for children.
Noise levels: Consider midweek camping for quieter experiences. "7/4 was a complete disaster. People were knocking on my camper asking when I was going to leave, the park volunteer was watching me pack up my stuff which was uncomfortable, people were waiting IN my camp ground as I was leaving," reports Heather P. about Rainbow Lakes during holiday periods.
Winter camping preparation: Winter remains through June at higher elevations. "I went back in February and my 4runner made it up the road fine in the snow, they plow the main dirt road which makes the campsites difficult to get into because the snow banks block them, getting into the site was the hardest part of the drive," shares Catalina H. about Beaver Park Reservoir winter conditions.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides dedicated RV areas. "Campground is very clean. Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables," explains Dennis G. about Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Site levelness: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Sites are not very level so be prepared to use your blocks. When we where there, there were bear in fhe campground," warns Rich M. about Kelly Dahl Campground.
Limited RV access at dispersed sites: Larger rigs face challenges at some locations. "Gnarly ass road, not for trailers/sedans. Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV," warns Graham S. about Winiger Ridge.
