Colorado encompasses a wide spectrum of camping experiences, from remote dispersed sites on Bureau of Land Management land to well-developed facilities in national parks. Several prominent campgrounds such as Mesa Verde National Park's Morefield Campground and Rocky Mountain National Park's Moraine Park Campground provide established amenities for tent and RV campers. The state's public lands support diverse accommodation types, with many locations like Mueller State Park offering both traditional campground options and cabin rentals. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping represents numerous primitive camping opportunities on public land throughout the region, where campers can experience more solitude away from developed campground settings.
Seasonal considerations vary dramatically across Colorado's diverse elevations. Many campgrounds like Saddlehorn in Colorado National Monument operate only from spring through fall (March to October), while others such as Chatfield State Park remain accessible year-round. Road conditions in dispersed camping areas can present challenges, particularly after rain or snow events. Permits and reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, especially during peak summer months when popular sites fill quickly. Visitors should be prepared for significant temperature variations, even during summer months, particularly at higher elevations where overnight temperatures can drop considerably. A camper noted, "Lots of dispersed camping throughout this area. At this spot we found a nice area for a tent that had a fire pit."
Several visitors highlight the appeal of waterside locations, with creek and riverside sites receiving particularly positive reviews. Campers frequently mention the combination of natural settings and basic amenities as key factors in their satisfaction. Campgrounds with electrical hookups like Moraine Park provide a middle ground between rustic and comfortable camping experiences. Public lands offer the greatest flexibility for those seeking solitude, though they typically lack facilities like running water or maintained restrooms. Primitive sites on BLM land provide cost-effective alternatives to developed campgrounds, with one reviewer stating they "Got lucky and found a perfect site right by the creek with a fire ring. Easy to get to in our camper van, no 4 x 4 required." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping represent the majority of established options throughout the state.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
"Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"
"I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."
$20 - $80 / night
"It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."
"Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."
$35 - $70 / night
"Took the kids camping in Colorado for the first time and we had a blast. It rained on us a lot but it didn't stop us. Took a great hike up deer mountain....stunning views. Can't wait to go back."
"Very enjoyable spot, close access to trails and entrance and exit of the park."
$36 - $200 / night
"The easy access to the trail around the lake, the spread out sites, the clean bathhouse and laundry room, the sunset over the mountains, the location close to town, and they don’t have any breed restrictions"
"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."
$22 / night
"This is one of my favorite campgrounds, because Colorado National Monument is so stunning."
"Colorado National Monument is one of the treasures of the National Parks system."
$20 / night
"This was our last night camping in Colorado and it was beautiful!"
"This area in Colorado is one of the most unique places I've seen in a while."
$20 - $34 / night
"The South Rim Campground is similar to other national park campground in that it provides convenient access to park activities and trails, but it stands apart due to the fact that the camping fees are"
"Most of the outer sites are tucked into the forest so there is a decent level of privacy. Lots of deer frequent the area, we saw several on each trip."
$18 - $270 / night
"This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."
"By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"
"Great location right next to the park! There are plenty of sites and the views are beautiful. Entrance was slightly rutted so make sure you can off-road just a bit!"
"A few minutes outside the south gate of the park. Multiple sites, most of which are on dirt. Paths to and from can be a bit rough for most passenger vehicles. But it’s quite and close to the park."
$35 - $70 / night
"Firewood sold next to the entrance by the same husband and wife that have been selling firewood there for 35 years. There is a shed full of firewood."
"The spaces are large, but quite close to one another with few trees for privacy. Each site here is variable, with some open with no trees and others nestled in some mature trees."
RangerThis place was beautiful. The rough road was worth it. There were trails all around the grounds. The lake was beautiful and absolutely a fisherman’s paradise. There was no water available and the main water was turned off, but they had plenty of clean porta-potty’s. There were plenty of spots open and we were able to reserve our spot online after we picked it.
ScoutGreat spot for relaxing weekend getaway for our family. Plenty of room for the kids to explore and they even had a blow up bouncy house for them during the day. Hot tub under the stars at evening time. Very clean bathrooms!
TravelerFrom a Sprinters point of view.
Sites are $45.00 a day plus parking
Sites were sloped, we took the flattest one we could find and it took 6” to block our van level.
Pit toilets were very clean.
Sites had trees and boulders, spaced roughly 50’ apart, but there visible traffic on the main road below.
It was a nice campground but we liked the Bobcat Campground a couple miles farther up the road.
See separate review.
TravelerWe took our Sprinter for its maiden voyage, this camp ground was beautiful, private and secluded.
Camping was $45.00 a day plus a parking fee.
Paid at the entry point to an extremely friendly attendant. Reservations can be made on line ahead of time and highly recommended in peak season, especially on weekends.
Site were 50’ to 100’ apart.
Sites were wooded and tucked into granite boulders.
In the 24 hours we were there we saw one car and two people walking their dogs.
Sites were pretty level, each with fire pits and picnic tables.
The pit toilets were very clean and with in 100’ of most sites.
Road in had signs stating you had to be in four wheel drive to avoid damaging the roads but they were very well graded.
GuideClean facility quietly located in a metro area.
TravelerMost sites are very unlevel both front to back and side to side. Suicides could fit our 35 ft Class A. Other people have made site recommendations for larger RVs here are mine first choices 19 20 21 and 38 second tier 18 and 22.
GuideCool spot. I like there were different sized spots and a clearly marked line where a 4WD/AWD vehicle is needed and no large rigs. I found a spot that was visible by the road, but there was water access and cool surroundings. The main road was well paved, but turning into my site was a bit rough and I needed the 4WD. There were large animal (I assume black bear) prints to give that extra bit of camping excitement, but no actual sitings (one day, Juliana. One day). Some mosquitos but not overwhelming. The scenery was gorgeous. Definitely a bit desert-esque but it was legitimately perfect weather in mid September. Cool creek rocks and a stunner of a sunset. Would absolutely return again. No numbered sites. Toilets about 1/4 mile beyond the drive through boulder.
GuideQuite the drive but worth it. They were repaving some of the road and I personally had no issues getting to a site. It’s gravel, but doable for most vehicles. There was a propane tank and some trash left behind when I got there (always disheartening to find), but it didn’t feel “lived in” like some other spots have so I ultimately felt pretty safe. It was truly beautiful. I got a spot right at the creek that was tucked away from the main road. Maybe a handful of cars passed throughout my stay, so very peaceful and quiet. Zero amenities, so come prepared. No Verizon cell service. Lots of milky quartz laying about, beautiful birds and minimal bugs. Would make the trek here again in a heartbeat.
ScoutLake Wellington is a beautiful family and dog friendly campground just about 90 minutes from Denver. There are 75 sites, and even when it's pretty full they are decently spaced out that you don't feel too on top of other guests. We brought our dogs and a group of friends and had a great few nights, even seeing Bald Eagles mating!
Camping in Colorado offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Centennial State.
Camping in Colorado can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of activities, it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for scenic views?
Colorado offers breathtaking vistas at numerous campgrounds. South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir is renowned for having some of the best views in the state after 15+ years of camping comparisons. For mountain panoramas, Oh Be Joyful Campground delivers amazing vistas with a convenient honor system for fees. The high-elevation sites at Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground provide killer views with great hiking opportunities. For unique landscapes, consider the South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park where dramatic cliff views create an unforgettable experience.
When is the best time of year to camp in Colorado?
Summer (June-August) is prime camping season in Colorado with warm days and cool nights. At Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll enjoy stunning summer hiking opportunities, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Early fall (September-early October) offers spectacular aspen color changes with fewer crowds at places like Freeman Reservoir Campground, which is praised as a 10/10 camping destination with perfect fall weather. Late spring (late May-June) brings wildflowers but potential lingering snow at higher elevations. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, but requires proper cold-weather gear. For high mountain camping, the season is shortest, typically July-September due to snow conditions.
Where can I find free camping in Colorado?
Colorado offers excellent free dispersed camping options. Road 240 - Dispersed is described as one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for free camping, with numerous wooded sites along a river. Buffalo Pass Campground provides free camping in wide-open spaces away from weekend crowds. The Black Canyon Dispersed Camping area offers free sites on BLM land. Throughout Colorado, National Forests provide abundant dispersed camping on Forest Service roads - just look for existing fire rings and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and be prepared with your own water and waste disposal systems.
What are the most popular camping areas in Southern Colorado?
Southern Colorado features several remarkable camping destinations. Zapata Falls Campground near the Great Sand Dunes offers beautiful high-desert camping with access to a scenic waterfall. Great Sand Dunes Oasis provides spacious tent sites with dune views and clean facilities, perfect for first-time Colorado campers. The Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins is praised as one of the most beautiful RV parks in the region. For history enthusiasts, Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park offers convenient access to ancient cliff dwellings. Pinon Flats Campground at Great Sand Dunes National Park is another popular option with its unique landscape.
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