Best Tent Camping near Carbondale, CO
Searching for a tent camping spot near Carbondale? Find the best tent camping sites near Carbondale. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Carbondale, Colorado's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Carbondale, CO (42)
1. Portal Campground
Aspen, Colorado25 Reviews•141 Photos•1873 SavesPortal Campground is located eleven miles southeast of Aspen on Independence Pass Road and seven miles south on Lincoln Creek Road at an elevation of 9,400'. Campers can access some wonderful day hikes from this location as well as terrain for motorcycle riding, mountain biking, ATV riding, fishing and horseback riding, among other recreation activities. Portal Campground has 5 campsites with limited spurs. 5 day stay limit. High clearance vehicles are required and 4x4 recommended.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
2. McClure Campground
Gunnison National Forest, Colorado5 Reviews•12 Photos•69 SavesThe McClure Campground is located on Highway 133 on the south side of McClure Pass. The historic town of Marble is nearby and the campground sits at the head of Lee Creek. Each campsites has a picnic table and fire rings/grills. This quiet campground is surrounded by aspen that provide excellent shade during the summer and there are beaver ponds near by for trout fishing.
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- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
5. Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin
Snowmass Village, Colorado3 Reviews•18 Photos•60 SavesOvernight permit required for overnight stays within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1083862.pdf
ALERT: Due to recent bear activity, bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route within Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness is an international treasure. This 26 mile (42 km) circuit climbs over four mountain passes higher than 12,000ft, past clear alpine lakes and among the rugged Elk Range peaks. Thousands of people every summer make the journey to see these sights. Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! Early summer snowmelt makes the river crossing perilous and deep snow persists on the passes until late in the summer. Sudden thunderstorms can catch travelers exposed far from the cover of tree-line in mid-summer and snow fall returns to the high country early. Please observe all recommendations and regulations to help the US Forest Service protect this unique experience and wild landscape for all. View a downloadable trail guide: Four Pass Loop Trail Guide (PDF) View select campsite location & restrictions (PDF)
Food, trash and any scented items must be stored in an IGBC approved bear resistant container. Human food habituated bears are a threat to human safety. Visitors without approved bear resistant containers will be ticketed and required to leave. You must have a plan for human waste. Human waste bags (WAG) bags are highly recommended and are available free of charge at the Conundrum Creek and Snowmass Lake trailheads. WAG bags must be packed out. Learn more about how to use a WAG bag. If a WAG bag is not used, visitors are required to deposit solid human waste in holes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet (70 paces) from water, camp and trails. Group size is limited to 10 with no more than 15 stock animals in one group. Large groups multiply impacts to the wilderness and disrupt the solitude of others. Dogs are prohibited in the Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, including the hot springs. Everywhere else, dogs must be leashed. Campfires are prohibited at all designated sites at Conundrum Hot Springs, Capitol Lake, Crater Lake and above 10,800 feet including Snowmass Lake. Campfires consume wood, accumulate trash, kill fragile alpine vegetation, sterilize the soil and scar the land. Lightweight camp stoves are recommended. Campers must camp in designated sites at Conundrum Hot Springs, Copper Lake, Crater Lake, Geneva Lake, Capitol Lake and Thomas Lakes. Everywhere else campers should set up more than 100 feet from lakes, streams and trails and use previously impacted campsites. Camp out of sight of others and away from fragile areas. As with all designated Wilderness, motorized and mechanized equipment is prohibited including bicycles, motorbikes, chainsaws, ATVs, carts, drones, hang gliders and paragliders. This equipment is prohibited to provide visitors with a primitive recreational experience and to preserve outstanding opportunities for solitude.
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6. Thompson Creek Campground
Carbondale, Colorado2 Reviews•5 Photos•43 SavesThe Thompson Creek Recreation Management Area is located just a few miles southwest of Carbondale and provides beautiful, remote recreational opportunities. On the North end of the RMA is the Lorax trail, which is a popular non motorized route. In the southwest corner of the area is the Thompson Creek campground and trail, which winds along Thompson Creek to views of the rare geologic ___fin___ formations. There are 4 shaded campsites along the creek with metal fire rings. There are not picnic tables or restrooms. Must pack out all human waste to eliminate contamination of creek. There are not waste collections. Access is not recommended during wet or snowy conditions. For more information, please contact the Colorado River Valley Field Office.
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7. Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness - Crater Lake Campground
Snowmass Village, Colorado2 Reviews•7 Photos•35 SavesOvernight stays at Crater Lake require advanced overnight permit reservations, which must be purchased at recreation.gov.
Camping at Crater Lake is only permitted in designated sites, and overnight guests are required to bring bear canisters for food storage.
WAG bags are highly recommended for human waste removal/management, but not required. If not using WAG bags, please understand and follow proper human waste disposal techniques.
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- Reservable
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$10 / night
9. Aspen Grove Campground — Vega State Park
Collbran, Colorado4 Reviews•13 Photos•6 Saves- Reservable
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- Drinking Water
- Toilets
10. SE Flat Tops Area
Glenwood Springs, Colorado1 Review•8 Photos•15 SavesThe SE Flat Tops Area is north of Dotsero and I-70, and is primarily accessed by Forest Service Roads heading northwest off of the Colorado River Road between Dotsero and Burns. This area is part of the Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District.
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- Dispersed
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Recent Tent Reviews in Carbondale
1062 Reviews of 42 Carbondale Campgrounds
Paulina B.
Ranger
Portal Campground
Aspen Escape by the Lake
Nestled just outside of Aspen, Portal Campground offers a serene and scenic retreat in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With its proximity to the Roaring Fork River and sweeping views of surrounding peaks, it’s a perfect spot for campers seeking both tranquility and adventure.
The campground features well-maintained sites surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, providing ample shade and privacy. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and nearby vault toilets, making it a comfortable, rustic camping experience. The sound of the river nearby adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Portal Campground is an excellent base for exploring the Aspen area, with plenty of hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities. The famous Maroon Bells are just a short drive away, and there are several trails nearby offering breathtaking views and alpine scenery.
- Paulina B.Ranger
Lost Lake Campground
Tranquil Alpine Retreat
Lost Lake Campground near Crested Butte, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines serene alpine beauty with a peaceful camping experience. Tucked away in the Gunnison National Forest, this campground offers stunning views of wildflower-filled meadows, dense forests, and the pristine Lost Lake itself, which mirrors the surrounding peaks.
The campsites are well-maintained, spacious, and thoughtfully spaced for privacy, with some offering lakefront views. There’s a charming rustic vibe, with basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups. The nearby trails, including the popular Three Lakes Loop, are perfect for hiking, fishing, and soaking in the mountain scenery.
What sets Lost Lake apart is its tranquil atmosphere—especially if you’re visiting during the off-season. It’s the ideal spot to disconnect and enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty, whether you’re kayaking on the lake or simply relaxing by the campfire.
Be aware that the road to the campground is a bit rough and narrow, so it’s best suited for smaller campers or tents. Also, temperatures can drop quickly at night, so pack warm gear even in summer.
If you’re looking for a quiet retreat near Crested Butte with postcard-worthy scenery, Lost Lake Campground is hard to beat. It’s the perfect blend of solitude, recreation, and breathtaking views.
Kim L.Ranger
Hideout at Glenwood Springs
Small number of “camping spots” in an RV park
This campground offers longer term RV site rental, tiny homes, cabins, in addition to a few overnight spots. Nice creek through the property. Several families live there. Incredible amount of auto traffic through this small area. Close to Glenwood Springs recreation areas.
- Kim L.Ranger
The Campground at Big B’s Delicious Orchards
No amenities but next to orchard, restaurant, activities
Campsites are a small piece of grassy area next to a pond or on an outside loop. Portable toilets only. Traffic noise at night. But was fun being next to a working orchard, a great restaurant with delicious food and a little store. Lots of outdoor seating. There are also special events on the property such as festivals, concerts, etc. it’s rather fun.
- GGreg P.
Traveler
Bear Lake Backpack Site
Belle of Colorado @ Tourquoise Lake
Originally quite nice, tent camping, clean area, nice sites, water available, bathrooms, and access to fishing. Weekends tend now to religious services... :( Been 4 times but now prefer less commercial/church interuptions. RV crud makes for noisy generators, bouncy houses, karaoke... :( Some people swim. Boating. Good perimeter trail, biking allowed.
- cchris R.Traveler
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Nice little spot
Drove straight to the back, not many others camping. Can hear a few cars passing in the distance and not a ton of tree coverage but a great spot nonetheless
Isabelle K.
Legend
Rifle Falls State Park Campground
Great camping spot
A hidden gem in Colorado! Awesome hike in camp sites along the river, but also drive up spots with camper hook ups. Amazing little hiking trails and a super impressive waterfall!
- UUT801Ranger
Elk Creek Campground
Pvt. Campground North of Newcastle CO
Stayed in RV site along creek, which was quite nice with the sound of the water. Unfortunately, sites were not roomy, were close to each other and close to the campground road. Dogs next spot over were not restrained and roamed freely, in front of campground staff. Children wandered around. Smokers walked right by van and smoke smell came right in.
Showers and restrooms were decent and clean and had hot water but centrally located so a bit of a walk.
Food aside: Ate take out from pizza place in town, which was good. Breakfast was sausage and instant egg burritos. Yum.
Melissa G.Traveler
Basalt Mountain Dispersed
Basalt Mountain Road
Multiple sites up here for camping. Trailer/RV friendly.
Adam D.
Scout
Bellyache Road
Super rutted out, but unbelievable views
Definitely would advise 4x4, and not for travel trailers at all. Bringing one up could lead to a serious situation , since there are no places to turn around whatsoever. That said, views were absolutely breathtaking. We also lucked out and saw the northern lights while at site.
- Doris D.
GuideRifle Falls State Park Campground
Peaceful
Great little campground, I was there the first week in October and it wasn’t so busy. During the day there is some day use, but it’s in the back by the falls, so the campground stays pretty quiet. It has electric and water, but absolutely no Internet, which can be nice a good place to get away from it all.
Alice S.Legend
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West
Not Bad
The road up to the campground is pretty rough for the first 100 ft or so but then it gets a lot better. Quite a bit of space but no privacy. I would definitely not suggest for large rvs. I’m in a van and didn’t have much problems at all.
Dwight R.TravelerTwin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Late Sept Fall colors
We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove. There is a lot of hiking trails and some cool spots to visit down by the lakes.
jsbeezgGuide
FR 48 Dispersed Camping
Road is CLOSED!
The road has been closed and there is no longer access to this camp area.
- TTim K.Traveler
McClure Campground
Beautiful well maintained campground.
I came down to Marble, CO from Carbondale with the intention of staying at the Marble campground on a Wednesday but it was full so I went up the road about 10 miles to the McClure campground and was very pleasantly surprised at how much nicer it was than the Marble campground. While Marble did have showers and some sites with water and electricity it was much more crowded and uneven than McClure. McClures sites were all nice and level and several were pull through that could handle fair sized rigs. McClure was a dispersed site at one time but now costs $14/night compared to Marbles $40+ fee. Of course Marble has showers which are worth the extra price to some but McClure had the most important item which was a clean vault toilet. When I got to the campground there were only a couple of other sites occupied so I picked a beautiful level spot only about 150' from the toilet, which is very important to an old man with artificial knees and a weak bladder. By Friday night all the sites were taken and as most other campgrounds were also full there were lots of campers coming through the campground looking for a spot to camp. I had only planned to stay a couple of days but I liked the site so much I stayed for 5 nights. I used it as my base to drive the Crystal River trail which is about 10 miles down the road at Marble. Let me warn you right now, don't do the Crystal River trail unless you have a strong heart and a very sturdy mid sized or smaller vehicle or off-road vehicle because it is very narrow and extremely rough. I've driven some rough country and have a big 4x4 pickup but that trail was all my rig could handle and I left lots of paint on the rocks and trees at the narrower spots. I'm sure half my tires on the drop-off side were in mid air at times and since it is a single track trail if you met someone coming from the other direction one of you would have to back up to a spot that you could pass each other. Very scary. Anyway, back to McClure. The nearest place to get cell service and supplies is Carbondale which is about 20 miles away but if you are self contained and don't need to be on the internet every few minutes this place is great. There was lots of wildlife sharing my site which was fun to watch. I had a doe deer and her boyfriend show up before I even got my tent set up and squirrels and chipmunks were everywhere as were the hummingbirds. I had hummingbirds buzzing up to a foot away from my face to check out my red cap thinking it might be some kind of giant exotic new flower lol. The only reason I didn't give the camp 5 stars is that it is right next to route 133 which it turns out is a main road through this area and traffic noise is sometimes pretty loud, especially early in the mornings on week days. If I am back near that area I will definitely stay in this campground. Almost forgot one other thing. The elevation is high enough that it gets pretty cool most nights, even in July and rain showers came through almost every early morning but the rain never amounted to anything and by mid morning it was beautiful. Camp fees are on the honor system and you need to have cash or checks.
- hhercules N.Scout
Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed
Beautiful, but a little busy
Went out late on a Friday night. My timing was wrong to get a good spot, but I was hoping there would be at least one spot left, unfortunately all the established sites I could reach were taken! I couldn't get more than a few miles up the road, the first few were manageable in my Impreza but having a higher clearance vehicle is definitely ideal. I was able to find a spot to pitch my tent for the night, but it was far from level or smooth. Still, incredible views of the stars and absolutely gorgeous to see the Aspen leaves changing!
Tamara S.Scout
Ami's Acres Campground
Great Hosts & awesome location
We recently stayed here for two nights. The camp hosts and maintenance employees were incredibly friendly. There is some highway noise, but it didn't bother us with some ear plugs in and rain sounds playing on my phone. The night sky is amazing at this dark sky park. I can't say enough good things about this campground, we will define back.
Trey C.ScoutRifle Falls State Park Campground
Awesome stay
Walk in camping with wheelbarrows in the parking lot, connects to beautiful hiking trail! Very tidy campground. Table and fire pit, but you need to bring in firewood.
Silouan A.Traveler
Slate River Dispersed Sites
Great area, lots of available sites
This is the go to place in this area. Just past Oh Be Joyful campground, there are a few miles of posted sites, fist come first serve.
- EErich M.Scout
Four Mile Road Dispersed
Where are all the great sites???
Went here on a Saturday in Sept after reading all the great reviews. Drove for miles and every site taken. There aren't many sites like people would make you think. Have these people been to the San Jaun Mountains - so much better. Had to drive home because just nothing available.
- DDeitz B.Guide
Washington Gulch Dispersed 2
Nice sites and views
I camped for 2 nights a few days apart in different sites. The first one was WG30 and it had an amazing view. I forgot to take note of the second one, but it was a little bit more down the road. Fire pits here which is nice. There’s a few spaces in the wide open and some nestled into some trees.
Both nights that I stayed here there was a site that had a tent and table, but no one came back that night. Tuesday night and Friday night and nothing had changed. Kind of a bummer when someone snags a nice spot like that and isn’t there for multiple days.
- KKaren S.Scout
Lakeview Campground
Beautiful quiet campground
Spaces are large and well maintained. Views vary with the spots but all are peaceful. There
Necia S.Traveler
Glenwood Canyon Resort
Established, on the River
We’re Van camping in the lower campground, 50’ from the banks of the Colorado River. Electric & Water. Cabins avl. On the River and upper grounds. Our site, 44 is also located off set and below the deck of the resort event center. (Weekend celebrations may offend some, not us) quite time is 10pm. We’ve enjoyed watching Rafters, Kayakers & Geese float & fly the turns of the River. Wonderful staff. Available if needed. Kevin, manager; generous & helpful. Twilla, the work & stay host att. Is super attentive. Clean, accessible Bathhouse facilities. Discounts on rafting while booked at GCR. 1.7m to downtown Glenwood, (foodies, cute shops) bike path, or… just hang by the river near the boat launch & tent sites. (Our fav. spots!) Great place to R&R, Hot springs, Hike…
Amy K.Guide
Deep Creek Trailhead Camp
Quiet spot
Pretty good spot with ok views. Used starlink with no issues. Driver further up the road and found a good spot on the side of the road with a fire pit.
- LLorene N.Guide
Portal Campground
Favorite spot!
This will probably always be my favorite spot for the beauty and memories. We were right on the lake by the inlet and fishing was fun. We’ve been twice.
- Jacob D.Guide
Coffee Pot Road Dispersed
Dispersed road side camping
Tried to camp at Deep Creek but had no luck with the very limited spots. If you keep driving up the road there’s about a dozen spots off the road; none very nice but are a free place to stay with great views.
- TTarrahScout
Kebler Corner
Hidden Gem
We stayed here Thursday through Monday over Labor Day Weekend. It is in an absolutely beautiful spot and the campground is kept immaculately. It is right on the river so my husband was happy to be able to fish right behind our RV. We stayed in#33 which is on the end so we had more privacy and room. It was a concrete pad so easy to level and fire pits were great. They have everything you could think of-ninja lines, playset, zip line, hammocks, jenga, frisbee golf, etc. There were tons of kids that had a huge time. Mine loved it! There is a trail to hike up to a beautiful meadow. They have a general store/liquor store on site with a really good selection of items. We were able to make a short drive to Black Canyon National Park as well as some really nice local produce stops. The town of Hotchkiss is 15 mins away and has propane/restaurants/etc. Highly recommend staying here.
Guide to Carbondale
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Colorado, Carbondale offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.
Tips for tent camping near Carbondale
- McClure Campground provides a clean vault toilet and picnic tables, making it a convenient choice for those who appreciate basic amenities while enjoying nature.
- The Upper Colorado Rec Area is perfect for those looking to combine camping with river activities, offering a beautiful setting along the Colorado River.
- For a more secluded experience, the SE Flat Tops Area allows campers to set up anywhere, providing a true back-to-nature experience without the distractions of modern conveniences.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- At McClure Campground, visitors can explore the Crystal River trail, known for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain, ideal for adventurous spirits.
- The Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin offers a challenging backpacking experience with stunning vistas, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Colorado's natural beauty.
- The Upper Colorado Rec Area is a hotspot for rafting and soaking in natural hot springs, making it a great destination for water lovers.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- McClure Campground features picnic tables and fire pits at each site, enhancing the camping experience with opportunities for outdoor cooking and gathering.
- The Radium Recreation Site near the Upper Colorado Rec Area offers developed campsites with clean toilets and easy access to a creek, perfect for families and groups.
- Silver Bar Campground provides clean vault toilets and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a well-reviewed spot for those seeking a quiet retreat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Carbondale, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Carbondale, CO is Portal Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Carbondale, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 42 tent camping locations near Carbondale, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.