Best Campgrounds near Castle Pines, CO

The Castle Pines area in Colorado provides several developed campgrounds and dispersed camping options within a 30-minute drive. Chatfield State Park Campground, located about 15 miles northwest of Castle Pines, offers year-round tent and RV sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, and reservable spaces. Other nearby options include Cherry Creek State Park Campground with similar amenities, while Buffalo Creek Recreation Area and Mount Herman Road provide free dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience. The region includes both state park facilities with full amenities and national forest lands with minimal services.

Road conditions and accessibility vary considerably between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. State park campgrounds feature paved roads and level camping pads suitable for RVs and trailers, while forest service roads leading to dispersed sites often require higher clearance vehicles. "We stayed in the outer loop of the C Loop. Our site was on the western side of the loop, which gave us a great view of the mountains and lake," noted one camper about Chatfield State Park. Weather conditions can affect camping experiences year-round, with summer being the busiest season and winter camping primarily available at the state parks that remain open. Reservations are highly recommended for developed campgrounds, especially during weekends and holidays from May through September.

Campers consistently mention wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the area. At Chatfield State Park, visitors report seeing rabbits, magpies, deer, and various bird species around their campsites. Camping at higher elevations in dispersed sites offers cooler temperatures during summer months and more solitude compared to the popular state parks. Reviews indicate that Chatfield and Cherry Creek provide clean facilities with shower and laundry options, making them suitable for longer stays. A visitor remarked, "This is one of our favorite spots to stay when visiting Denver area. Great for biking and all kinds of water sports." Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with state parks experiencing more activity on weekends and dispersed sites generally offering quieter surroundings. Most developed campgrounds in the region feature fire rings, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry periods.

Best Camping Sites Near Castle Pines, Colorado (281)

    1. Chatfield State Park Campground

    77 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 791-7275

    $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."

    "This is the first time I’ve found a state park so close to a major metro area!! Because of its proximity to Denver, Chatfield fills up quickly, so book well in advance."

    2. Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    50 Reviews
    Centennial, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 690-1166

    $28 - $432 / night

    "I only gave it 4 stars because on the outskirts of the state park we have a lot of homeless camps popping up oblong Parker road and 225."

    "It is in the center of the city, but aside from the traffic on the dam in the distance you would not realize it. "

    3. Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur

    19 Reviews
    Larkspur, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (720) 325-2393

    $50 - $170 / night

    "We’re a one night in each location maybe 2 as we tour the US in 4-6week chunks."

    "When we arrived we found out our spot was by the train we asked to be moved and they were extremely accommodating and put us in another spot up higher away from train."

    4. Rampart Range Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Sedalia, CO
    13 miles
    Website

    "My 9 yr old son and I have been “jeeping” around Colorado for about 8 months now. We make it a point to wake up to a different view every day."

    "Fun place to camp lots of sites and pretty trails, however this is known for its off-road ATV riders. If you're staying for a night or you're ATV for the weekend this is your spot."

    5. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park

    34 Reviews
    Morrison, CO
    20 miles
    Website

    "This was our first time staying at Bear Creek Lake. The park is not part of the Colorado Wilds or CPW State Park system, but daily vehicle fees are included with your camping reservation."

    "Note: If the GPS takes you to a dirt road with a closed gate at the end, get back on the highway and take the next exit to the park entrance."

    6. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    22 miles

    "There's several creeks that run through the area and a network of trails that intersect the Colorado Trail and the road. The area is popular with mountain bikers."

    "The area was well kept and obviously beautiful, it's Colorado after all. There was no running water, however the camo host drives an ATV around offering water from giant containers. I loved it."

    7. Dakota Ridge RV Park

    41 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 279-1625

    "This park is kind of pricey even in the winter (we stayed Nov22-Jan23) but it’s Colorado and it’s all pretty pricey. Park staff is super friendly and accommodating."

    "Good site if you want to be close to Denver but still have a short drive to the foothills."

    8. Dakan Road Camping

    12 Reviews
    Larkspur, CO
    16 miles
    Website

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Dakan Road is mostly known as an Off-Road vehicle Road, so 4x4’s are suggested to get up to the sites."

    "The only issue I found is that being so close to civilization/the city is that there was a lack of camp etiquette from neighboring campsites."

    9. Indian Creek Equestrian Campground

    5 Reviews
    Louviers, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 275-5610

    $30 / night

    "Indian Creek is lush and wooded, while still being close to Denver. The drive in is easy, following a paved road most of the way. Great spot for car camping."

    "Water spigots next to the bathroom. There are a few trails here, some are horse trails. Overall a beautiful spot with some shade!"

    10. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 636-1602

    "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"

    "30 minutes and kick back and please crack a cold one for Colorado being the best place."

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Recent Reviews near Castle Pines, CO

1969 Reviews of 281 Castle Pines Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Garden of the Gods RV Resort

    Clean, pretty, well cared for.

    I recently stayed at this campsite and was very impressed by how clean and well-kept it was. The bathrooms and showers were spotless, the picnic areas were tidy, and the grounds were clearly cared for on a regular basis. It made the whole camping experience much more enjoyable and comfortable.

    The campsite itself was beautiful, surrounded by tall trees and well-maintained trails. The natural scenery was stunning, and everything from the campsites to the common areas looked inviting and peaceful. It’s clear that a lot of effort goes into keeping the place both functional and pretty.

    One of the best features was the heated pool. It was clean, comfortably warm, and a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking or exploring. The pool area had plenty of space to sit and unwind, and it added a nice touch of comfort to the outdoor experience. Overall, this campsite perfectly balances cleanliness, beauty, and relaxation.

  • Adam  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Rocky Top Motel & Campground

    Nice facility

    Spots are level. Cell Verizon and ATT is good. View to the east is nice. Propane refill available. Showers are clean and hot. 4 clothes washing and dryer machines. Downside is there’s not any trails to hike immediately from the site. You have to drive to them. Also it’s located on a bluff so it can get a bit windy. Overall I like this place and recommend it. Leave it better than you found it

  • Adam  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    Good spot close to city

    Nice park with lots of things to do here. Bathrooms and showers are nice and kept clean every morning. Laundry wash $1.50 to $2.00 and dry for $1.50! Cell Verizon and att decent with up to 20Mb download Spots are level (101) Water to fill a jug but some spots have full hookups. Free dump station. You can hear the freeway and road traffic but it’s not terrible. Over nice park.

  • Daniel C.
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Forest Service Road 250 Dispersed

    Great Spot Near 11 Mile Reservoir

    Great location, 2.5hrs from Denver and about an hour from the Springs. Had great space for our setup. Only a 5-10 min drive to the state park with great fishing. Drove my VW wagon and had plenty of clearance to manage the dirt road.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Applewood RV Resort by Rjourney

    Great hiking and biking trails

    The park was okay if you are looking for something overnight. And very expensive and very crowded and no room between rigs. Looks like fulltime living in some spaces. It does have laundry service. And it has a great park just beside it. And there are beautiful hiking and biking trails right next to the facility. And it is very dog friendly.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    Stayed here again! 34+ dispersed spots

    Just wanted to write another review of this spot, love it, easy road in but extremely busy even in late September on an early Friday afternoon. Completely full by Friday 6pm I wouldn’t even try after unless it’s November-April. Seriously. Lots of big spots for multiple cars and tents, fire pits in every numbered spot. Trails nearby, even found an old horseshoe! Get there early, but that’s known if you ever been there.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    2x winner

    Have now camped here twice, in June & late September, both on Friday nights, and it has been perfect. Loads of well spaced spots, secluded, gorgeous views.

  • Brittanie T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Nice Pull Off Dispersed Site

    Easy access

    Easy to access spot with plenty of parking. There is a slope around the area so will possibly need leveling blocks. Campfire ring and great views.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    North Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous, spacious

    Surprising amount of availability for a Friday night after work, big well spaced sites, beautiful views, quiet, and private!


Guide to Castle Pines

Camping near Castle Pines, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Paddleboarding and Water Activities: Many campers enjoy the paddleboarding spots at Chatfield State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it a great choice for water lovers.
  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: At Mueller State Park Campground, you can explore numerous trails and spot wildlife. A visitor shared, "Lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery," highlighting the park's natural beauty.
  • Relaxing by the Fire: Campers often enjoy evenings around the fire. One guest at Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon noted, "Plan on making a fire," which adds to the camping experience.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Cherry Creek State Park Campground stated, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have friendly staff who enhance the camping experience. One visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground said, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy having enough room to spread out. A review for Mueller State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are far enough apart that you can enjoy the scenery rather than your neighbor."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Mueller State Park Campground noted, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7AM to the sound of model airplanes."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area lacks drinking water and toilets, which some campers found challenging.
  • Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A visitor at Eleven Mile State Park mentioned, "The road up to the campground for about a mile and a half was pretty steep."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One reviewer at Colorado Springs KOA said, "They do fun activities on the weekends like mining for gems and tie-dye shirts."
  • Safety First: Choose campgrounds with good security. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park warned about theft, saying, "One vehicle stolen and several cars rummaged through."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A family at Colorado Springs KOA appreciated that "quiet time starts at 11pm," making it easier for kids to sleep.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Garden of the Gods RV Resort mentioned, "We stayed in a Deluxe Plus Pull Through... our site consisted of a narrow dirt pad."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Water Pressure: Some campgrounds have low water pressure. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park noted, "The water pressure was low so we filled our tank and used our water pump."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground enjoyed "full hookups" during their stay.

Camping near Castle Pines, Colorado, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Castle Pines, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Castle Pines, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 281 campgrounds and RV parks near Castle Pines, CO and 68 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Castle Pines, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Castle Pines, CO is Chatfield State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 77 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Castle Pines, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 68 free dispersed camping spots near Castle Pines, CO.