Cherry Creek State Park Campground offers designated glamping areas within 30 minutes of Commerce City, Colorado. Sites have level concrete pads with full hookups including electric, water, and sewer connections. The park reaches capacity quickly on weekends with traffic backing up from the entrance on Parker Road to the entrance booth, sometimes requiring an hour wait.
What to do
Paddle sports on Standley Lake: Rent kayaks, paddle boards, or paddle bicycles at Standley Lake Regional Park for water recreation. "I love watching them in flight with their wings expanded, coming in for a landing, sometimes awkward but always interesting. Inside the visitor center there is a large 'Eagle Cam' TV with live footage of the endangered Bald eagles nesting their eaglets," notes Nancy B.
Hiking trails throughout the foothills: Explore miles of paths at Golden Gate Canyon State Park across varying difficulty levels. "Golden Gate Canyon State Park is enormous. The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts," says Steph A. Most trails connect directly to camping areas, making early morning starts convenient.
Water recreation at Bear Creek Lake: Visit the swim beach and boat rental facilities at Bear Creek Lake Park. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," writes Joshua H. The park includes three separate lakes with different activity restrictions.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Campers consistently rate the bathroom and shower facilities at Cherry Creek State Park Campground highly. "The bathrooms were very clean and the showers were pay only and only with a bank card. $1.50 for a five minute shower," mentions Stephanie S. Most campgrounds require quarters for showers, typically $1-2 for 4-5 minutes.
Distance from urban noise: While technically near Denver, Reverend's Ridge Campground offers a more remote feel. "The drive from Golden up into the park is beautiful and you truly feel like you are leaving the noise of Denver and the metro behind. There is no cell service anywhere in the park (for my Verizon phone anyway) which I actually enjoyed," shares Amber B.
Spacious glamping options: Many campgrounds near Commerce City feature designated glamping areas with more amenities than standard sites. "The sites are for tent/RV and have electric hookups. Beautiful area. There's a few playgrounds within the campground and park area, with access to trails to the lake, a boat launch and boat rental, equestrian stables, and archery," writes Kevin M. about Bear Creek Lake Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Commerce City require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Campground is usually fully booked all season. Reservations can be made six months out. Two week limit," advises Kay S. about Cherry Creek State Park.
Additional fees beyond camping costs: Most parks charge day use fees on top of camping fees. "There is also an $11 day pass fee not included in your camping stay," notes Stephanie S. about Cherry Creek State Park.
Limited shade at some sites: Several campgrounds have minimal tree cover. "Not a lot of shade, ground kinda pebbly. If you're looking for a quick post up near Denver or Boulder, sure. If you're looking for peaceful camping, you could do far better," explains Bojangles R. about Standley Lake Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Indian Paintbrush Campground offers multiple play areas for children. "There's a few playgrounds within the campground and park area, with access to trails to the lake, a boat launch and boat rental, equestrian stables, and archery," shares Kevin M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early morning wildlife spotting excursions. "Mother Nature: This was a phenomenal state park. Many multiuse trails. Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view," recommends Diana M. at Reverend's Ridge.
Kid-friendly glamping structures: For families new to camping, consider the structured glamping options. "Was just beautiful all the staff was wonderful and made our first in Co wonderful I would deffiantly recommend this place for sure beautiful views the yurt was awsome and we tent camped last night," says Rebecca J. about Bear Creek Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Chatfield State Park Campground, RV sites are well-designed. "Campground is very clean. Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room," advises Dennis G.
Electricity amperage availability: Most glamping sites offer electric hookups but verify amperage before booking. "Clean bathrooms. Very friendly attendant. Level primative spots. $26 for primative," notes Christa C. about Chatfield State Park. Sites with 50-amp service typically cost $5-10 more than 30-amp sites.
Extension cords and hoses: Bring extra length cords and hoses as some sites have distant hookups. "Connections are a little far for some RV models, so make sure you have extensions for cords and hoses just in case," warns Christopher H.
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