Glamping near Cañon City sits between 5,000-10,000 feet elevation, creating distinct microclimates across camping areas. Temperatures can vary dramatically from the Arkansas River valley to higher elevations, with summer daytime highs commonly reaching 90°F in town while remaining 15-20 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Many campgrounds offer proximity to regional attractions but feature limited shade coverage in the high desert environment.
What to do
Paddle boarding and water activities: Five Points Campground at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area provides direct river access through a unique tunnel. "There is a tunnel from the campground to the river and lots of great information for kids and adults about the history of the area and the plants and animals," notes Karla S. The campground's proximity to the Arkansas River makes it ideal for water enthusiasts.
Hiking accessible trails: Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers well-maintained pathways suitable for various skill levels. "Nothing technical, well manicured trials with amazing views. Lots of wildlife, beware of rattlesnakes. Awesome Mountain Biking, great for family's and beginners," shares Amanda B. The park's trail system includes multiple interconnected routes with minimal technical challenges.
Mountain wildlife viewing: Mueller State Park Campground provides opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. "We saw some deer that came through our site," mentions Brian F. The park's 5,000+ acres of protected habitat increases chances for wildlife sightings during early morning or evening hours.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Five Points Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area offers minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Great stargazing and convenient to lots of hiking trails and rafting outfitters, but not close to towns," explains Amber A. The campground's relative isolation from urban areas creates ideal conditions for astronomical observation.
Panoramic views: The elevated position of many campsites provides sweeping vistas of surrounding landscapes. "Our kids liked the nighttime view of the city and plains below best of all," shares Stephanie S. about Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Many sites feature unobstructed views of the plains to the east and mountains to the west.
Proximity to attractions: Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA serves as a convenient base for regional exploration. "The campground is 8 miles from Cañon City and 4 miles from Royal Gorge," notes Jason F. This strategic location places campers within 20 minutes of major attractions while maintaining a more natural setting.
What you should know
Limited shade coverage: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal tree cover. "There is not much shade, but the spots are big and the restrooms are very well maintained," explains Karla S. about Five Points Campground. Temperatures can climb rapidly during summer days, making afternoon heat management essential.
Seasonal weather considerations: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "June 19 buggy & hot - seasonal info. Lots of cactus around," reports Carol B. about Five Points Campground. Early summer typically brings warmer temperatures and increased insect activity before monsoon season begins in July.
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking. "Reservation only sites. Current price per night, $28 plus an additional $9 a day once you get there," explains Jackie G. about Five Points Campground. Popular weekends often fill months in advance, particularly at state park campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cripple Creek KOA offers structured activities for younger campers. "They have a nice gift shop and provided a s'mores night for the campers for free. They have pancake breakfast for $3 on Saturday and Sunday (not always). Overall it was an amazing place to camp everything was reasonably priced and lots of activities for the kids," shares Tasha M. The organized programming helps keep children engaged between outdoor adventures.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds incorporate learning experiences into their facilities. "There is a tunnel to walk through under the highway to get to a pavilion created for viewing the Arkansas River, it was very nice there," explains Paul A. about Five Points Campground. These interpretive features provide context about local ecology, geology and history.
Activity variety: Mueller State Park Campground combines natural experiences with developed recreation. "The camp sites are well maintained and have vaulted toilets and water pumps conveniently located throughout the campgrounds," reports Steve C. The diverse offerings allow families to adjust plans based on weather conditions or energy levels.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When staying at Garden of the Gods RV Resort, location within the campground matters significantly. "Try to get a site on the back towards the trails for the best views and more privacy," advises Sonora J. Interior sites often experience more foot traffic and less separation between units.
Utility considerations: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Current price per night, $28 plus an additional $9 a day once you get there. You are literally camping along the highway here so it is loud. There is no shade, or water available and no trash service so you have to pack it all out," notes Jackie G. about Five Points Campground. Water availability and electrical amperage differ substantially between facilities.
Elevation awareness: Cripple Creek KOA operates at significantly higher elevation than other area campgrounds. "The air is thin up here- real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it," explains Sarah F. The 10,000-foot elevation can affect breathing, vehicle performance, and cooking times.
