Tent camping near Castle Pines, Colorado provides access to sites at elevations between 5,900 and 8,000 feet, creating temperature variations that can reach 30-40°F between day and night, even in summer months. The region's combination of foothills and river corridors offers camping opportunities in both pine-forested settings and along waterways, with most sites available from May through October when mountain roads remain clear of snow.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several camping areas along the South Platte River Corridor offer direct access to trout fishing. A camper at Platte River Campground noted, "Great access to world class fly fishing so you can get started early in the morning," while another mentioned the corridor is "a great location if you are looking to do some fly fishing. The river is right there and easy access."
Rock exploration: The area around Mt. Herman Road Dispersed Site 2 offers unique geological features for climbing and exploring. One visitor reported, "Behind 19 are rocks and boulders. You could scramble up with or without kids (my kid was 2 and climbed with some help) and explore for about an hour just by the site."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping locations report frequent wildlife sightings. At Staunton State Park, campers can observe local fauna while hiking the trail system. A camper at Platte River noted, "We saw many up and down the river," referring to trout in the clear waters.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Though most established campgrounds have visible neighboring sites, some offer better separation. At Staunton State Park Campground, a visitor observed, "Sites spaced out... Beautiful sites, lots of room between each other," providing a more secluded camping experience than riverside locations.
Easy mountain access: For campers wanting quick access to mountain environments without long drives, locations like Mt. Herman Road provide altitude without distance. One camper stated, "I ended up at the top of the mountain and the view is gorgeous. Gets a bit windy and definitely colder but a great site to spend some time at."
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, some locations offer water recreation. At Lone Duck Campground, a visitor highlighted, "The heated pool is awesome (and pretty darn warm!)," while others mentioned creek access for dogs at various sites.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many camping areas implement seasonal or permanent fire bans. At Staunton State Park, a camper reported, "No campfires allowed ever. I brought stoves no bigger than a jetboil/MSR dragonfly," highlighting the need to check current restrictions before departure.
Water availability: Most tent sites require carrying water from central sources or bringing your own supply. At Osprey Campground, a camper noted, "Water - none" in their list of available amenities, indicating the need for self-sufficiency.
Temperature planning: Mountain elevations create significant temperature changes between day and night. One visitor advised, "It will be at least 20 degrees colder at night than Denver most likely so keep that in mind," emphasizing the need for appropriate sleeping gear even in summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Short hike-in options: Several campgrounds offer walk-in sites that provide a backpacking-like experience without long distances. A camper at Reynolds Park Idylease Campground described, "It's a 0.5 mile hike in to the campsite, so plan and pack accordingly," making it manageable for families with young children.
Safety considerations: Some sites feature natural hazards requiring parental supervision. One Reynolds Park visitor recommended site 19 because "It's a nice barrier to any dangerous cliffs, etc. And, you won't be bothered by anyone up there. There's nature to keep the kids busy."
Recreation facilities: For families seeking more amenities, some campgrounds offer additional recreational options. Lone Duck Campground features "a pool, a small pond/lake to fish in, a jungle gym, a game room and a basketball court," making it particularly suitable for children needing entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Many tent camping areas near Castle Pines restrict larger vehicle access. At Bear Creek Lake Campground, a camper noted the campground "offered through the City of Lakewood. The sites are for tent/RV and have electric hookups," but most dispersed and backcountry sites won't accommodate larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Most tent-focused areas lack RV amenities. Bear Creek Lake provides "electric hookups... you have a dumping station instead of sewage hookups. Also water is available but not at the site," requiring RVers to plan accordingly for water and waste management.
