Glamping near Carbondale, Colorado combines mountain scenery with comfortable accommodations at 6,181 feet elevation. The Crystal and Colorado rivers provide waterfront camping options with seasonal temperatures ranging from 70-85°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Sites throughout the area feature varying levels of amenities from primitive to full-service facilities with mountain views.
What to do
Bike the paved trail network: The Rio Grande Trail connects Carbondale to both Glenwood Springs and Aspen. "The bike trail it right outside the camp ground and you can ride to Aspen or Glenwood," notes a camper at Carbondale-Crystal River KOA.
Fish local rivers and lakes: Sylvan Lake State Park offers excellent trout fishing just 30 miles from Carbondale. "I love this lake. It's beautiful and you can always walk away with some fish," says a camper at Sylvan Lake Campground.
Visit Rifle Falls State Park: Located near the Rifle Gap campground, these stunning waterfalls create a cool microclimate. "The sites were clean and well kept... It is pretty easy to do typical camping, boating, fishing, kayaking, etc...here," explains a camper who visited Rifle Falls from the area.
What campers like
Creek and river sounds: Many riverside sites allow campers to fall asleep to water sounds. "Falling asleep to the sound of the Colorado River literally 3 feet away is just wonderful, well worth the $54/night for a tent site," writes a reviewer at Glenwood Canyon Resort.
Mountain views: Camps with views of Mount Sopris provide stunning backdrops. "Sites 19 & 20 have a view of Mount Sopris. Sites 11-14 are long pull throughs & they didn't have much shade," notes a Carbondale visitor.
Hot springs access: Nearby hot springs offer relaxation after hiking or biking. "Loved how close it was to Glenwood Hot Springs!" shares a camper who stayed at Glenwood Canyon Resort.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially riverfront spots. "I tried to get in here in 2021 and they are booked for the year. Call early or you won't get in," advises a visitor to Elk Creek Campground.
Weather fluctuations: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer. "At 8,500 ft the weather can change fast so be prepared especially with rain gear and warm close," warns a camper about the Sylvan Lake area.
Highway and train noise: Canyons can amplify sound from nearby transportation routes. "Lots of highway noise + train. Both are amplified from the canyon," notes a camper at No Name Rest Area.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Many campgrounds offer water recreation options. "The river sites are the ones to try for. Saying that, sites 19 & 20 have a view of Mount Sopris," shares a family who visited Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA.
Look for on-site amenities: Some resorts include activities beyond camping. "The splash pad, park, pool, hot tub and shower facility were all new and super clean. Wonderful facilities all around," explains a family staying at Glenwood Springs West KOA.
Find family-friendly tent sites: Tent camping with kids works best at sites with specific amenities. "There is a multitude of activities you can partake in. Besides camping... Sylvan lake offers excellent fishing for trout, Stand up Paddle Boarding and Canoeing; Both which can be rented there," describes a family visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and accessibility: Many RV sites have specific limitations. "The sites were tight. Class A's take up most of it. The good thing is the row we were on had lots of room to maneuver in front of the site," advises an RV camper at Glenwood Canyon Resort.
Hookup availability varies: Check what services are available at each location. "After spending three nights in forest service campgrounds, we landed here, lucky to find a place with availability on a weekend in September. We opted for a riverfront RV site (#17) and we were right on the Colorado River," shares an RVer at Hideout Cabins and Campground.
Prepare for tight spaces: Many glamping sites have compact RV areas. "The RV sites are SMALL. We have a 42' fifth wheel, and while we got it backed in perfectly, we didn't have any room for our truck," cautions an RVer at Glenwood Canyon Resort.