Best Campgrounds near Castle Rock, CO

The Front Range corridor surrounding Castle Rock, Colorado features a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas within an hour's drive. Chatfield State Park Campground, located 20 miles north in Littleton, provides year-round camping with full hookups and lake access. Jellystone Park at Larkspur, just 10 miles south of Castle Rock, offers family-oriented camping with 415 sites including tent spaces, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options. For those seeking more primitive experiences, Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping and areas within Pike National Forest provide free camping options with fewer amenities but greater privacy and natural settings.

Road conditions and seasonal considerations vary significantly across the region. Many established campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. As one camper noted about Cherry Creek State Park, "The park trails connect to a trail that leads to Castlewood Canyon State Park in Castle Rock as well for those who want a good ride." High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing dispersed camping areas, especially after rain or snow. Summer thunderstorms are common, with one visitor reporting, "A large lightning and thunder storm occurred during our visit (not surprising for June)." Fire restrictions are frequently implemented during dry periods, and elevation changes can mean cooler temperatures even during summer months.

Proximity to urban amenities remains a defining characteristic of camping in this area. State park campgrounds typically offer well-maintained facilities with showers, flush toilets, and visitor centers, while still providing natural settings. Highway noise affects some campgrounds, with one reviewer of Jellystone Park noting, "If you're looking to get into the wilderness and away from civilization for a while, this place is not for you." Devil's Head Campground in Pike National Forest provides a more secluded experience from May to October, with tent and RV sites available. Cell service is generally reliable near Castle Rock, with most campgrounds reporting good coverage for AT&T and Verizon users, making the area suitable for remote workers who need to stay connected while enjoying outdoor experiences.

Best Camping Sites Near Castle Rock, Colorado (262)

    1. Chatfield State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    18 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. Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur

    19 Reviews
    Larkspur, CO
    8 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."

    3. Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Centennial, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 690-1166

    $28 - $432 / night

    "This location is in Denver. Cherry Creek State Park has a nice lake, fishing areas, a bike trail looping the entire lake, and several activities."

    "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."

    4. Rampart Range Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Sedalia, CO
    12 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. Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping

    35 Reviews
    Monument, CO
    21 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."

    6. Dakan Road Camping

    12 Reviews
    Larkspur, CO
    14 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."

    7. 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."

    8. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park

    34 Reviews
    Morrison, CO
    25 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."

    9. Devil's Head Campground

    9 Reviews
    Deckers, CO
    16 miles
    Website

    $27 / night

    "My first time In Colorado. It was a little busy but once we found our campsite you would never know it! Awesome views! Campsites very far apart."

    "This is a primitive CG that is walk-up only and popular on the weekends..."

    10. Colorado Heights Resort

    13 Reviews
    Palmer Lake, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 481-2336

    "Great campground on Monument hill about 25 miles north of Colorado Springs. It has a outstanding view looking south of front range."

    "It’s a little tight at the entrance with the tree of shame. I didn’t hit the tree. So get there early enough that light is still out. Not like we did rolling in late."

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Recent Reviews near Castle Rock, CO

1861 Reviews of 262 Castle Rock Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Chief Hosa Campground

    I-70 off-ramp camping

    The campground is unfortunately too close to the highway and the noise makes it difficult to sleep or relax. Nice parking spot if you need to see the sights for a day or two.

  • Kevin C.
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Nice Campground but Terrible Neighbors

    It is a nice spot to make camp.  We had plenty of spots to choose from.  We thought it was perfect at first.  Then the people with the ATVs started showing up and it got loud.  And stayed loud all night long.  Loud, with massive lights that would light up our tent every time they drove by all night long.  We will not be going back, purely because of the other people.

  • k
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Pikes Peak RV Park

    Older and close.

    Sites are very close together. Friendly helpful staff. Bathrooms clean well maintained.

  • E
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Denver East-Strasburg KOA

    Great location

    The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. Campground is clean and quiet.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Bear Creek Lake Campground

    Location, Location, Location

    The Good: Very clean. Diligently maintained. Super friendly staff.

    The Bad: Day use Denverite humans on bicycles who run their mouths as the peddle past. (Get a job, Chad).

    The Ugly: national home improvement retail outlet neon serves as a directional reference from every vantage point.

  • k
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Colorado Heights Resort

    Nice site, but very close to civilization

    We enjoyed are stay here. The site was well taken care of and the people were nice. The only cons for us were how loud the traffic sounds were and how close together the sites are.

  • alicianlv The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site

    Dispersed Site, Pull off with fire ring

    Very near Idaho Springs and road to location easy. Site is off road on broken but semi level asphalt. Small green patch with pines & aspen trees. There is nice rock formation across the road. Only 1 rock fire-pit (didn't use because it started to rain). Nice place to stop if traveling through as we are. Kinda bummed that we didn't see a fox. 🦊


Guide to Castle Rock

Camping opportunities near Castle Rock, Colorado span across Pike National Forest, which encompasses over 1.1 million acres at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 14,000 feet. The area experiences summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. National Forest campgrounds typically have a 14-day stay limit, while state parks enforce reservations up to 6 months in advance.

What to do

Mountain biking trails: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area offers a network of trails popular with mountain bikers. "This is a very nice area with many walking/biking trails. It is clear the sites are heavily used though, with small pieces of plastic and glass scattered about," notes Ken H. The area connects to the Colorado Trail and features both beginner and intermediate routes across varied terrain.

Fishing opportunities: Cherry Creek State Park Campground provides lake access for anglers. "This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained," reports Stephanie S. The park includes a private fishing pond where "you pay $4.50 to fish, limit is two fish, no throw backs. You will need your own poll and bate," according to one visitor.

Fire lookout hiking: Devil's Head Campground sits near a popular trail leading to a historic fire tower. "This is a wonderful hike on a well maintained trail. The views from the fire lookout at the top of a huge granite rock are breathtaking. Be sure to bring your kids as they can get a free certificate from the site ranger if he is available," writes Brian B. The trail is approximately 1.4 miles one-way with 950 feet of elevation gain.

What campers like

Secluded sites: Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping offers free camping with minimal facilities but greater privacy. "Beautiful views, ~50 minutes of rocky gravel road to reach the top but doable in any vehicle depending on the weather. Tons of spots and easy to be secluded. Very few other campers up there at the time we visited," reports Logan C. Sites feature established fire rings and mountain views.

Urban convenience: Cherry Creek State Park maintains facilities while providing natural settings. "Just bought our adventure van and decided to try it close to home so we could understand how everything worked. The campground is clean and quiet, I made a quick stop in the facilities and everything was well maintained," notes Meg G. The park requires both a camping fee and an $11 daily entrance pass.

Wildlife viewing: Rampart Range Recreation Area provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "We went up for a quick weekend trip and it was perfect, lots of campsites along the road and not too close together. The road was decent to drive on a few bumps but nothing crazy," says Emma H. The area features designated sites with fire rings spread across forested terrain.

What you should know

Busy season limitations: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area fills quickly on weekends. "Beautiful spot with easy access to lots of trails and Wellington lake. Only downside is that it is very difficult to find a spot on a weekend. We got up there around 6:30pm on Friday night and after driving around for a couple hours ended up bailing and going home," warns Keiko F.

Road conditions: Dakan Road Camping requires appropriate vehicles. "All along Dakan Road (also known as Hidden Valley Road), there are dispersed campsites marked by a sign with a tent on it. They are all first come first serve, but offer great solitude in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Dakan Road is mostly known as an Off-Road vehicle Road, so 4x4's are suggested," advises Weston S.

Noise considerations: When selecting campgrounds near Castle Rock CO, consider nearby recreation. "This area is geared towards OHV enthusiasts. The sites are spacious and pretty isolated from other campers but the main road is surprisingly busy and you are close to the OHV trail system," explains Megan C. about Rampart Range Recreation Area. At Dakan Road, another camper notes, "to get away from the city and hustle of everyday life was my main priority when I choose to explore and camp here. I did not end up staying more than 24 hours. My site was close to the road and there were more dirt bikers than I even knew existed."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly attractions: Jellystone Park at Larkspur offers extensive activities for children. "What a place. Hundreds of spots- a water park, a bounce pad, cabins, golf carts, putt-putt oh my! This place is a campers with kids dream," shares Sarah F. The park underwent a complete renovation and now features water slides, pancake breakfasts with characters, and organized activities throughout the day.

Educational opportunities: Devil's Head Campground provides learning experiences. The fire lookout tower trail includes "a great learning experience. Not sure if Billy is still there but he was great and there was a write up on him in People one year, which inspired me to go there on my next trip out there," explains Tracy L H. Rangers often provide certificates for children who complete the hike.

Weather preparation: Summer thunderstorms occur frequently in late afternoon. A visitor to Colorado Heights Resort notes, "Winter made a late visit but it added to the beauty." Another camper at Mount Herman Road cautions about planning for quick weather changes: "Beautiful views, ~50 minutes of rocky gravel road to reach the top but doable in any vehicle depending on the weather."

Tips from RVers

Site selection: Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park accommodates RVs with certain limitations. "Close proximity to the highway. Clean level spots. Geared more towards RV camping. Pros: great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas," advises Jennifer L.

Access considerations: For larger rigs, Devil's Head Campground may present challenges. One reviewer notes: "No large trailers are getting in this CG, but if there are no sites available or you're too big there are many along the way on Rampart Range rd that are free/dispersed." This is typical of many campgrounds near Castle Rock Colorado, with Mount Herman Road requiring high clearance vehicles.

Hookup availability: At Colorado Heights Resort, RVers should note electrical issues. "Electricity fluctuated throughout the park 104 to 118. Be careful," warns Mary T., who also mentions that "This is not a big rig friendly park. Really did not like it. A lot of trees close to the road, making it hard to move around. Sites are close together and haphazardly played out."

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Castle Rock camping areas?

Camping areas near Castle Rock offer a range of amenities to suit different preferences. Cherry Creek State Park Campground provides full hook-up spots, a robust visitors program and center, well-treed campsites, and is situated near a lake with bike trails. Mueller State Park Campground features level gravel tent pads, large tables, nice fire pits, and easy access to trails, a visitor center, and scenic drives. Many campgrounds in the area offer basic amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets. More developed campgrounds typically provide water access, shower facilities, dump stations, and camp stores for supplies and firewood. Amenities vary by location, so checking specific campground details before your trip is recommended.

Are there fishing opportunities at Castle Rock camping areas?

Yes, several campgrounds near Castle Rock offer excellent fishing opportunities. Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir provides access to fishing at Gross Reservoir, with Site 5 being particularly good for groups. Colorado Campground is situated right next to Manitou Lake, offering convenient fishing access. Wellington Lake at Castle Mountain Recreation Area is another popular fishing destination with lakeside camping options. Cherry Creek State Park features a sizable lake with dedicated fishing areas. Most fishing locations require a valid Colorado fishing license. The best fishing seasons are typically spring through fall, with species varying by location. Some lakes are stocked regularly, enhancing your chances of a successful catch.

Where are the campgrounds near Castle Rock, Colorado?

Castle Rock is conveniently located between Denver and Colorado Springs, offering several camping options within a short drive. Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake offers beautiful lakeside camping just outside of Denver with bathroom facilities and a visitor center. Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur is located very close to Castle Rock with easy highway access. Additional nearby options include Chatfield State Park to the north near Littleton, and dispersed camping along Mount Herman Road and Rampart Range Recreation Area to the south. For those willing to drive a bit further, Pike National Forest offers numerous camping opportunities around the Castle Rock area.

Is RV camping available near Castle Rock?

Yes, RV camping is readily available near Castle Rock. Dakota Ridge RV Park offers convenient highway access, on-site propane, and connected trails, though it can be somewhat pricey. Pikes Peak RV Park provides 47 sites at the eastern edge of Manitou Springs. For those seeking a family-friendly environment, Lone Duck Campground and Cabins serves as a comfortable basecamp for exploring the surrounding area. Most RV parks near Castle Rock offer full hookups (water, electric, and sewer), though specific amenities vary by location. If you prefer a more natural setting, Chatfield State Park and Cherry Creek State Park both accommodate RVs while offering more outdoor recreation opportunities. Remember to check RV length restrictions and reservation requirements before your trip.