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.
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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."
$30 - $60 / 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."
$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."
$36 - $200 / night
"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."
"We were on the outskirts of D Loop. The western views of the mountains were beautiful. Better views in other sites but a walk about gave way to the front range."
$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."
"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."
$28 - $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!"
$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."
GuideWe ventured in looking for a spot and pretty much all roads were a muddy mess with deep ruts and the further you go rocks.
We looked at 4 spots and all were pretty unkept, trash left at all sites, and even a burnt down truck with trash around it.
Used our sporatic 1 bar of Verizon to find a new dispersed spot to find.
Not sure why this spot has such high reviews. I'd avoid.
ScoutA delay in our travels to Monument Valley from Pueblo led us in search of a comfortable camp site at the last minute that brought us to this amazingly well-kept RV Park and campsite. They had both back- in and pull- through options with electric,water, and sewer hookups on a nice level gravel lot. The manager was quick to respond with reasonable pricing, discounts, and payment options. The lot host was very friendly and helpful as soon as we got to our spot as well. The site was very clean, without any noise disruptions. Although we had no furry friends with us, it was nice to see the site was pet- friendly with a clean potty area for them available. Plenty of lot space with a nice picnic table and well- maintained hookups. FYI- no bathrooms/showers on site but our camper was equipped with that so it wasnt an issue for us.
GuideGreat views. Free coffee. Good vibe. Clean bathrooms.
GuideNot our style but I can appreciate that it will be perfect for the right people. Pretty spendy but right on the river.
TravelerFYI: The coordinates are actually 37.6179275, -104.7560854 off of Exit 49. The RV section is a little bit farther from the Interstate than the gas station part, which is nice for noise. Easy access to downtown Walsenburg as well.
TravelerThere were people camping on the parking lot at the base. If you turn right immediately, there is a camp that overlooks the lake. The road continues to climb steeply from there, and there’s a bailout to turn back down to the road and re-enter the parking lot. If you go straight from the lot, the dirt road is not as steep, but requires high 4wd clearance. We got a significant amount of rain while coming in the second spot up the hill. The descent down was terrifying due to the slick muddy conditions. We have a Tundra, and crawled down in 4L. The camps are a bit slopey, but beautiful views. 4/25-4/27/26
ScoutReally beautiful spot to camp lots of walking. Big dog park just a couple min of a walk, really friendly neighbors and the people working there are awesome highly recommend this spot Will definitely be coming back awesome river right next to it as well give it a 5 stars for sure free coffee every morning too can't beat that 😍
ScoutI am a return visitor to the Salida RV Resort. I have stayed at two other campgrounds in the area, but Salida RV Resort has become my go-to. The resort is modern with all new and clean amenities, the staff is responsive to emails and very friendly in person, and the location is convenient to Salida and the activities of the area. The sites are level and fully functional. They have a nice walking path along the river with an available pickle ball court for those who might play. As for me, I am a fly fisherman and enjoy fishing the Arkansas River. I enjoy camping next to the river, and have even caught quite a few brown trout in my "backyard" behind the camper.
TravelerPulled my 22’ travel trailer in with my half ton. Road was bumpy, no tight turns, easy drive. Turning off 211 was a little tough as the road at the intersection is very rutted and steep but it’s only 20-30 feet. Camper made it down just fine. If you’re going past the first 2 spots, walk the road first because it gets a little tight. Again, camper made it just fine. Pretty windy but that’s just the way it goes. Beautiful, secluded, quiet. I’ve seen maybe 4 other vehicles as they drove past. We stopped just off 211 the first night and realized that may not be an established spot although there was a fire pit. We moved 1/4 mile west the second morning. Stage 2 fire ban.
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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