298 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping areas in Coaldale, Colorado range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites along Hayden Creek Road. The region includes Cutty's Resort offering cabin and RV camping with amenities like pools and mini-golf, while Hayden Creek Roadside Camp provides primitive tent and RV sites alongside a flowing creek. Several campgrounds connect to the Rainbow Trail system, providing both developed sites with basic facilities and dispersed camping opportunities. Bighorn Park Campground sits directly on the Arkansas River, offering electricity and water hookups for RVs as well as cabin accommodations.
Access to dispersed camping sites along Hayden Creek Road requires navigating dirt roads that may have washboard sections but are generally passable for standard vehicles. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October due to mountain weather conditions, with some sites closing after the first snowfall. The U.S. Forest Service manages several camping areas in the region, with both fee-based campgrounds and free dispersed sites available. Water levels in Hayden Creek fluctuate seasonally, with higher flows in late spring and early summer. A visitor noted, "The creek is nice and the sound was much louder than we anticipated, which was good. In June it is really flowing."
Creekside camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors due to their natural soundscape and cooler temperatures. Many tent sites are positioned with creek access, though recent management changes have placed boulders to prevent vehicles from driving too far off established roads. Campsites along Hayden Creek offer various levels of privacy and shade, with multiple fire rings available at established sites. According to one camper, "There are several camping areas just outside the campground that don't offer the grill and table but are free and are also along the creek." Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area, with visitors occasionally spotting bighorn sheep on nearby cliffs. Cell service is generally unavailable in the canyon areas, providing a true disconnect from urban environments.
"Close to everything you need but you will feel away from it all."
"Our family and another reserved two sites next to each other. The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast. The views in the campground were awesome."
from $60 - $300 / night
Check Availability"really friendly staff, clean facilities, and very close to Salida! Was a perfect weekend."
"The creek that runs through the sites drown out any highway noise. Easy 5 minute run to fishing access. Very family friendly."
"Tent camped in the dispersed area because Hayden creek was full, near Rainbow trailhead, entire area to ourselves 98% of the time besides two groups of hikers over 2 nights almost 3 days."
"It had everything we needed: plenty of shade, the creek rolling by right next to us. I loved falling asleep to the sound of the water."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"The camp sites were simple but great and you have total access to all hot springs, bathrooms, showers, sauna, AND a communal outdoor kitchen."
"This is a lovely, well maintained campground next to the Arkansas River. There is a boat launch and vault toilets (clean). There are no frills, but it is a peaceful setting."
"Basic campground surrounded by beauty nice lake"
from $28 / night
Check Availability"Right next to the river. You can hear the traffic from the highway unfortunately but its not terrible."
"This campsite is a couple miles outside of Salida. Along the river it offers beautiful views and immediate access to the river. The camp host is friendly and the campsite is very well maintained."
from $28 - $90 / night
Check Availability"level, shaded, right by nice size creek. perfect for exploring and quiet. we were in tent but saw several largeRV. some traffic but never heard another person. were a few spots right next to us but we"
"Quite a few flat tent spots right by the creek although there are boulders from preventing you from driving too far into the woods."
"We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us! The park also had a live singer entertain one night!"
"It's tucked away but close to the main road. It feels peaceful and secluded. It's close to Salida. The river is steps away and we had a blast fishing steps from our campsite. "
"Nice location on the Arkansas River, especially if you can get one of the river sites. Heavily shaded and well off Hwy. 50 so it’s quiet. Not cheap but worth it. About a 20 minute trip to Salida."
"Great location, close to Salida and hiking & biking trails. "
"The resort is modern with all new and clean amenities, the staff is responsive to emails and very friendly in person, and the location is convenient to Salida and the activities of the area. "
from $73 - $144 / night
Check Availability
GuideWashboard dirt road to get to site. Plenty of room at this particular site for multiple vehicles and short trailers, with level spaces. Fire ring, but there may be a ban on campfires. An auxiliary space to set up tents with its own fire ring, but it’s 100 feet to walk in.
TravelerGreta place to stay! Beautiful scenic campground with hookups and privacy. Only 2 camp spots so it was perfect for our 2 families and our dogs. Family is very nice that owns it and they have been so helpful! The weather is very hot and windy in June.
GuideStayed in early Sept ‘23 and had the entire place to ourselves. I booked the wrong dates for Pinyon in the park and we had to pivot last minute and this campground was wonderful. Not much shade given the landscape, and there were sooo many ants around the tent pad that we ended up moving the tent to as far back from the epicenter of them as we could and didn’t have any issues. Incredible night sky, beautiful sunset and sunrise. Convenient access to the park as well! Could hear some of the BLM folks in the evening with how well sound carries out here, and heard some coyotes howling around dusk. Felt totally alone out there which was pretty awesome.
No check in and the signage was super minimal so for a while we definitely wondered if we were in the right spot / if we were gonna get kicked out by someone but it was all good
ScoutOne of the most beautiful sites I've ever been to and will always remember since I've been coming here since I was born!
ScoutNice location on the Arkansas River, especially if you can get one of the river sites. Heavily shaded and well off Hwy. 50 so it’s quiet. Not cheap but worth it. About a 20 minute trip to Salida.
TravelerClean grounds, great views, and the fire pits are wonderful. Plenty of places to choose from.
TravelerGreat options to park, some built out fire pits.
TravelerExtremely windy. No trees or break the straight winds.
TravelerThe road in is very rough but you don't need that much clearance. Lots of people here on summer weekends. Nice place for an overnight stay.
Dispersed camping sites near Coaldale, Colorado range from riverside spots to higher-elevation locations accessed via dirt roads. Situated at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in the Arkansas River Valley, this area experiences typical mountain weather with temperatures dropping significantly at night even during summer months. Camping season typically runs from late April through October, with most dispersed areas closing after first snowfall.
River fishing opportunities: Point Barr Campground provides direct access to Arkansas River fishing. "It's right on the arkansas river, also right across from the road, which is a negative as it can be loud with road noise," notes a camper who frequently visits this location.
Hiking nearby trails: Hayden Creek Road connects to several hiking paths, including Rainbow Trail. A visitor mentioned, "It's worth the hike if your able, up towards Rainbow, but there are also nice trails along the creek."
Kid-friendly activities: Cutty's Resort - Hayden Creek offers numerous planned activities for families. One camper reported, "They had young staff that organized hands on crafts and science experiment classes for all the kids to participate in who were staying that weekend. One class was the kids making alka seltzer rockets."
Creek sounds: Campers consistently mention enjoying the natural white noise provided by flowing water. "The creek is nice and the sounds was much louder then we anticipated, which was good. In June 2024 it is really flowing," notes a visitor at Hayden Creek Roadside Camp.
Mountain scenery: The surrounding mountainous landscape provides scenic views throughout the camping areas. At Pleasant Valley RV Park, a visitor appreciated the "great views of the continental divide and relaxing sound of the river."
Wildlife viewing: Observing native animals adds to the camping experience. A visitor at Bighorn Park reported, "We spotted big horn sheep on the cliff behind us!"
Limited cell service: Mobile connectivity is spotty or non-existent in most areas. One camper at Sugarbush Campground noted, "No cell service via Verizon; very spotty with AT&T. But good, fast Wi-Fi is available."
Weather considerations: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, with significant temperature drops at night. A camper at Sugarbush Campground advised, "Sites are close together but very nice and level, plus there isn't large gravel which is a lot easier on the tent."
Road conditions: Access roads to many camping sites require careful navigation. According to one visitor, "Road into the campground was dirt and a bit washboard."
Campsite availability: First-come, first-served areas fill quickly during peak season. A camper recommended, "One thing I would recommend is to get there early. We got there Friday right at 2pm and there were only a couple sites left."
Recreation options: Several campgrounds provide kid-specific amenities. At Cutty's Resort, a parent shared, "We have been here twice and had a blast both times! Quiet, clean, and plenty of things to explore."
Safety considerations: When camping near water sources with children, appropriate precautions are necessary. One parent noted, "Camped right by the creek. Beautiful and fun for any exploring."
Entertainment options: Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust offers unique soaking experiences. A visitor mentioned, "We originally planned just to do a daily soak before heading to our next campsite but ended up just staying here because we enjoyed it so much."
No electronics: Limited connectivity creates opportunities for unplugged family time. One parent reported, "No cell service so teens not happy about this," highlighting the adjustment some younger campers may need to make.
Site selection: RV sites with river views provide enhanced camping experiences. One RVer at Bighorn Park said, "We have an Outlaw toy hauler so we're so lucky to get a back-in spot overlooking the river. Slept with the back open and fell asleep to the river sounds."
Hookup availability: Various campgrounds offer different levels of services. A visitor noted, "30 50 amp. Water and some spots with sewers. Nice office some supplies, showers, laundry."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. As one camper warned about Point Barr Campground, "It's hard to get to and impossible for big rigs, but if you've got somewhat of an adventurous spirit, it's worth the trek."
Weather preparation: Temperature variations require planning. An RVer advised, "If you're looking for shade-this place has trees galore-but that also means it gets chilly at night so be aware!"
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Coaldale, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Coaldale, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 298 campgrounds and RV parks near Coaldale, CO and 91 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Coaldale, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Coaldale, CO is Cutty's Resort - Hayden Creek with a 4.3-star rating from 10 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Coaldale, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 91 free dispersed camping spots near Coaldale, CO.
What parks are near Coaldale, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Coaldale, CO that allow camping, notably Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands and Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.
Keep Exploring
