Dispersed camping sites near Cimarron, Colorado range from high elevation forest locations to open areas with direct views of the Front Range. Summer nights at campgrounds above 8,000 feet can drop below 40°F even in July and August, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear regardless of season. Road conditions vary dramatically depending on recent rainfall and spring snowmelt, with many access routes requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Fishing access points: Cherry Creek State Park Campground offers a dedicated swim beach with recently upgraded facilities. According to one visitor, "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one."
Train watching: The area's historic railroad legacy provides opportunities for train enthusiasts. One camper at Peregrine Pines FamCamp notes the "routinely travelled train tracks with mandatory horns" make for reliable viewing times throughout the day.
Mountain biking trails: Several networks of well-maintained trails provide riding options. A camper at Rampart Range Recreation Area mentioned, "This area is geared towards OHV enthusiasts. There are a number of designated campsites off Rampart Range Road and it feels like the road just keeps on going."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities, particularly deer, black squirrels, and various bird species. One camper observed "abundant wildlife with many black squirrels and a ton of black bears" near their site.
What campers like
Spacious camping spots: Many dispersed sites provide considerable distance between campers. At Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping, one camper reported, "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."
Convenient reservoir recreation: Several campsites provide direct access to water activities. A camper at Chatfield State Park Campground noted it's "great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites."
Quick mountain escapes: Many sites offer mountain experiences with relatively short drives from urban centers. One camper stated, "If you are looking for a great way to get away from the city but aren't quite able to make it to the mountains...this is the spot for you!"
Fire ring placement: Established sites typically include well-constructed fire rings. A camper observed, "Each site had some great boundaries created by trees and it was easily fitting our two tents. The site parking spot could hold all 4 of our cars."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many forest roads become difficult or impassable during spring thaw or after heavy rains. One camper at Mount Herman Road warned, "The road up is very tight. Very skinny switchbacks... Don't go up if you are pulling anything larger than a tear drop trailer."
Campground closures: Many sites close seasonally or have limited amenities during shoulder seasons. A camper mentioned, "In each loop there is a few bathroom options but our closest one was closed until Memorial Day."
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential at popular campgrounds, especially on weekends. One camper noted, "This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained... There is also an $11 day pass fee not included in your camping stay."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal bans frequently impact camping during dry periods. A visitor observed, "Fires weren't allowed during our stay due to county-wide fire bans, but normally fire pits are available at designated sites."
Tips for camping with families
Kids' amenities: Jellystone Park at Larkspur offers structured activities for children. One family commented, "So much to do for the littles!! Recently completely redone the entire park and it is all so wonderful! The campsites are amazing and the activities are so much fun."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature recently updated play areas. A visitor mentioned, "There is a new playground that is huge for the kids with a rubber floor in case kids fall. In addition to the park there is tetherballs and open fields for fun ball or frisbee activities."
Morning wildlife tours: Scheduling early morning walks increases chances for wildlife spotting. According to one camper, "The Magpies were 'worming' their way through the grounds and had breakfast with us each morning."
Swimming options: Multiple reservoirs and designated swimming areas provide water recreation. A camper noted, "We stayed here for one night before heading back out on the road. This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many mountain sites require significant leveling equipment. One RVer at Colorado Heights Resort reported, "Our location is quite unlevel. It took four blocks under all tires on one side of our Class A to bring near level."
Water pressure variations: Several campgrounds have unusually high water pressure. One camper advised, "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy."
Road clearance issues: Access roads to many sites have tight turns and overhanging branches. A camper warned, "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. Trees are not trimmed to a good height for a large rig."
Electrical reliability: Power fluctuations can occur at some campgrounds. One RVer cautioned, "Electricity fluctuated throughout the park 104 to 118. Be careful."
