Best Campgrounds near Cotopaxi, CO

Camping near Cotopaxi, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

• Hiking and Exploring: The area is surrounded by beautiful trails. Campers at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites rave about the "multiple really rad drive-through tunnels and towering canyon walls." It's a great spot for those who love nature and want to hike along scenic routes.
• Fishing and Water Activities: If you enjoy fishing, the Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is known for its great views and access to the river. One visitor mentioned, "The campsite has an awesome view of the mountains and at some sites the river as well."
• Wildlife Watching: Campers at Salida North BLM have spotted mountain goats during their stays. One camper shared, "Very quiet stay with few visitors except for the mountain goats who were just as curious of us as we were of them."

What campers like

• Scenic Views: Many campers appreciate the breathtaking views. At Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, one reviewer said, "Spacious sites that are magnificently kept. Big flat tent sites at each site, right near the river."
• Privacy and Space: Campers at Red Canyon Park enjoy the seclusion. One camper noted, "This is a beautiful park with great dispersed sites! We went quite a ways in and found a site for our campervan. Needed leveling blocks but saw several occupied sites more level."
• Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, like Browns Creek, offer a peaceful environment. A visitor mentioned, "This isn’t one of those horribly loud OHV spots. There are tons of dispersed spots along these trails and many are spread out from one another."

What you should know

• Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge do not have drinking water or electric hookups. One camper pointed out, "Pit toilets were pretty standard, and a camp host was available if needed."
• Mosquitoes in Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. Campers at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites mentioned, "In June there were plenty of mosquitoes."
• Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A visitor at Salida North BLM noted, "The road going in was a little bumpy but any car should be able to make it."

Tips for camping with families

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and water access. At Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, one parent shared, "Lots of great stuff for kids. Slide, playground, mini golf."
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. Campers at Ruby Mountain Campground enjoyed the river but reminded others to be cautious, saying, "Fishing is also an option."
• Plan for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in summer. Campers at East Ridge Campground noted, "Lots of bugs when it gets hot."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Alvarado Campground mentioned, "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and RV up to 30 or so."
• Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites can be uneven. Campers at Hecla Junction Campground advised, "Some of the RV/trailer sites are uneven. So bring extra leveling blocks!"
• Plan for Limited Services: Many campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A visitor at Chalk Creek Campground noted, "No water or electrical hookups."

Camping near Cotopaxi, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and nature lovers alike.