Best Campgrounds near Boulder, CO

Camping near Boulder, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters" at Glacier Basin Campground.
• Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in nearby lakes. A visitor at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake said, "Tons of fishing in and out of the park."
• Paddleboarding: Enjoy paddleboarding at Chatfield State Park. One reviewer noted, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites" at Chatfield State Park Campground.

What campers like:

• Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Moraine Park Campground states, "Just beautiful and in the park so don’t deal with timed entry."
• Clean facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Cherry Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained."
• Wildlife sightings: Campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One camper at East Portal Campground shared, "We saw elk and mule deer in the campground on multiple occasions."

What you should know:

• Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy. A reviewer at Cottonwood Campground mentioned, "There were a LOT of spots but they were right on top of each other."
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area noted, "There’s huge piles of trash everywhere."
• Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds have specific open seasons. For example, Glacier Basin Campground is open from May 23 to September 11.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One camper at East Portal Campground said, "Big playground and not crazy expensive."
• Plan for clean facilities: Clean bathrooms are a must for families. A visitor at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake mentioned, "Clean bathrooms with hot pay showers."
• Pack for the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Moraine Park Campground noted, "Chilly, clear starry night."

Tips from RVers:

• Look for big rig-friendly sites: Some campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. A reviewer at Chatfield State Park Campground said, "The group campsite was spacious."
• Check for hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, "Full service with a very friendly staff."
• Be mindful of noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park shared, "Noise from the bar goes till around 11 and construction sounds begin around 6 am."

Camping in Boulder, CO, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it's good to be prepared and know what to expect. Happy camping!