Camping near Como, Colorado provides immediate access to multiple national forest zones at elevations ranging from 9,800 to over 11,000 feet. Temperatures can drop to the 30s even in summer months, with frost possible year-round. Many dispersed sites throughout the region remain accessible with standard vehicles despite the rugged terrain.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campsites in the Como area feature small lakes and streams with trout fishing opportunities. At Horseshoe Campground, campers can cast directly from their sites. As one visitor noted, "There's a river next to our campsite that was amazingly peaceful" and the area includes "several small lakes and hiking trails nearby."
Mountain biking: Trail access from campsites creates convenient riding options without driving. The Peak One Campground area offers "plenty of hiking and biking trails nearby, as well as some great Disc Golf courses within a 15 minute drive." Another camper mentioned it's "ideal for mountain biking and water leisures."
Water recreation: When temperatures rise, Dillon Reservoir provides paddling options near several campsites. "One of the biggest highlights of Heaton Bay is its proximity to Dillon Reservoir, where you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing," reports a camper. Another mentioned, "Easy access to lake from camp spot, walked our paddle boards to beach 20 yards from camp site."
What campers like
Proximity to towns: Many campsites offer wilderness settings with quick access to supplies and amenities. Middlefork RV Resort puts campers within walking distance of necessities: "Grocery store is a 3 minute walk away and cell signal has been great." Another camper appreciated that "We loved the town of Fairplay which has some nice restaurants, ice cream shop, and a coffee shop."
Site privacy: Despite popularity during peak season, many campgrounds offer well-separated sites. At McCullough Gulch Designated Dispersed Camping, "Didn't see another person on a Wednesday night. Very peaceful and plenty of spots to choose from." A visitor to another site appreciated that "our site was far enough from the neighboring spots that we couldn't see or hear other campers."
Wildlife viewing: The meadows and forests around Como host diverse mountain wildlife. "Wildlife was another highlight—there were clear signs of moose activity nearby, and fellow campers just up the road mentioned seeing a moose wander around their site," shared one camper. Other reports mention beaver ponds scattered throughout the area, particularly around Michigan Creek where "beaver ponds scatter the area."
What you should know
Road access variations: Access roads to campsites range from paved to challenging. At Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping, "There are 3 spots right as you go in that offer very fast access to a site... Road gets pretty rough pretty quick, there's only like 3 of the sites I'd consider accessible with a low clearance vehicle."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds close earlier than expected due to weather. "As of 6/9/24 there are 3 spots accessible with 2wd. Up the road high clearance 4x4 is needed due to snow and washout," reported a camper in early June. Another found "road still closed" in early season.
Reservation confusion: Popular campgrounds can have strict policies about reservation timing. One camper warned: "I, like most folks we spoke with after our experience, were not aware that you could book a site 3 months in advance and then have it be given to someone else who comes in earlier than you."
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly spots: Some campgrounds offer excellent beginner experiences with safety features and amenities. "This was a great campground for our first family camping trip. The hosts were helpful. The vault toilets were clean," shared one family at Kenosha Pass Campground who rated their experience highly despite highway noise.
Proximity to water: Select sites offering short, manageable walks to water features for children. "We camped at E70 and there was a trail right to the lake. It was beautiful!" reported a camper. Another mentioned, "The trailhead for section 6 of the Colorado Trail is right next to the campgrounds so we checked out a portion while we were here."
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities to observe animal habitats safely. "A creek and beaver ponds scatter the area," noted one camper at Michigan Creek. "It's secluded, with wonderful views and toilets. There are 12 sites and if you cannot find an established one here, there are many dispersed spots along the road."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds have tight turns limiting larger vehicles. "We were very lucky to find this first come first served campground... Campground is meant for all camping types from tents to rigs as long as your rig is shorter than 25' (we found out after we had squeezed our 29' camper through the entrance)."
Site angles: Consider whether pull-through sites actually work for your specific setup. "We stayed in sight 22, and realized the map on the reservation system was a bit skewed... Our 23 ft camper and truck fit in the site nicely, although close to the campground road."
Hookup availability: Water and power availability varies widely between locations. "You get a spot and that's it. There is no water to fill your tank unless you're a lucky one who got loop C. There also isn't a dump anywhere and of course no power."
