Glamping close to Colorado Springs offers access to the area's diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 6,000 feet downtown to over 14,000 feet at Pikes Peak. The region's semi-arid climate creates warm summer days around 80°F and cool nights in the 50s, making temperature-appropriate bedding essential for outdoor accommodations. Most luxury camping sites sit along the western edge of the city, providing proximity to both urban amenities and mountain landscapes.
What to do
Hiking trails: 40+ miles accessible from campsites. The Swift Puma Heights Campground at Cheyenne Mountain State Park connects directly to multiple well-maintained paths. "The staff is extremely friendly, and you really can't beat the location with such great proximity to Manitou. Several trails within the park that are worth checking out and accessible from campgrounds," notes one camper about the nearby area.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning optimal. Mueller State Park Campground offers regular deer sightings at dawn. A visitor observed, "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" The campground sits at higher elevation, providing cooler temperatures and diverse wildlife habitat.
Fishing opportunities: Stock up on gear first. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins maintains a small fishing pond where children can learn basics. "Lone Duck also had a small pond/lake to fish in, a jungle gym, a game room and a basketball court. They make Lone Duck a very family friendly campground where kids can stay entertained," reports a visitor. Note that catch-and-keep policies apply, costing $6 per fish caught.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary significantly by site selection. At Colorado Springs KOA, reviewers note the importance of requesting specific areas. "We stayed here for a few nights while visiting the USAFA. The staff helped us find local restaurant and cool attractions to see," mentions one camper, though they caution about noise levels in tent areas.
Clean facilities consistently maintained. The Meadows Campground at Cheyenne Mountain State Park receives high marks for bathroom cleanliness. A camper shares, "Spacious spots with full hookups. There's a park entrance fee in addition to the spot rental. Park entrance fee is available to purchase via an automated kiosk."
Shade availability: Limited at some sites. Mueller State Park Campground offers more tree cover than many Colorado Springs options. "Each campsite feels personal and is gorgeous. Bathrooms are never far, but the well-kept shower house might be a bit of a walk. The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring," notes a recent visitor appreciating the natural setting.
What you should know
Reservation timing: 3-5 months advance booking needed May-September. Premium glamping sites at Garden of the Gods RV Resort fill quickly. "Great spot with super friendly and helpful staff. After hours check in was easy and our campsite was easy to find. Campsites were close together and with little privacy," reports one camper.
Weather patterns: Afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. Most luxury camping units remain dry, but outdoor activities require morning planning. A Mueller State Park visitor advised, "Get below freezing so be ready for the cold."
Noise considerations: Highway and military base proximity. Several campgrounds experience sound from nearby installations. At Peregrine Pines FamCamp, one reviewer noted, "Down side = the routinely travelled train tracks with mandatory horns. Regardless, we would return without question."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Plan morning outings. The Meadows Campground at Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers easy trail access before afternoon heat. "We really like camping here. It's very close to Colorado Springs and even closer to Fort Carson. So many things to see and do in the hiking trails are great," explains a family who visited.
Kid-friendly amenities: Pool access varies by location. Lone Duck Campground features a heated swimming pool popular with families. A visitor shares, "The heated pool is awesome (and pretty darn warm!), the little trout pond is nice for the kids, and they have a really great arcade in the main office game room."
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness important. Colorado Springs glamping sites require proper food storage. "Manicured trails great for all ages with amazing views. Nothing technical, well manicured trials with amazing views. Lots of wildlife, beware of rattlesnakes," cautions a Cheyenne Mountain State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality: Water pressure varies significantly. At Peregrine Pines FamCamp, RVers recommend pressure regulators. "Campground is clean. Friendly staff. Level spots. Though not exactly private, plenty of pine trees to make you feel you are in the woods. City water was clean/no smell/good pressure, though paperwork says a regulator is mandatory," advises an experienced camper.
Site selection strategy: Premium sites not always best value. Garden of the Gods RV Resort offers various pricing tiers. "All RV spots are ridiculously close. Not only did I feel I was about to hit my new neighbor, I found out that I share a water spout with my back neighbor," warns one RVer who paid for a premium site.
Accessibility considerations: Limited truly accessible options. Some glamping accommodations near Colorado Springs offer ADA compliance. Lone Duck Campground provides accessible options as noted by a visitor: "We had site T-25, and due to the surrounding shrubbery, it was more secluded than most sites."