Family-friendly glamping options near Cotopaxi, Colorado offer alternatives to conventional camping in this region where elevations range from 6,400 to 8,000 feet. Located in the Arkansas River Valley, the area experiences warm summer days with cool nights and afternoon thunderstorms common from July through early September. Winter camping options remain limited with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing at night.
What to do
River activities: Access at Five Points Campground provides direct paths to Arkansas River recreation. "We camped here after going on a rafting trip. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area has a number of campsites along the river," notes Amber A. from Five Points Campground. The campground features a convenient tunnel under the highway for river access.
Hot springs soaking: Visit natural thermal pools at Valley View Hot Springs where clothing is optional. "Very Beautiful! We loved the sauna. Hiking to the hot springs pools and soaking with snow on the ground was a whole experience worth having," writes Katie from Valley View Hot Springs. The property features several natural hot springs and cave access via hiking trails.
Family recreation: Enjoy on-site activities at Cutty's Resort. "They have mini golf, tetherball, swimming pool, play areas, cornhole, etc. Wonderful location with a peaceful stream running through it. Also an indoor pool and arcade games," says Linette C. Sites include riverside options with shade from numerous pine trees.
What campers like
Mountain views: Experience panoramic vistas from camping areas. "The camp spots themselves are not all that great, though perfectly suitable. Most are exposed and about 1/3 have a great view of the expansive valley below," explains Morgan Y. about the Valley View Hot Springs glamping experience.
Wildlife sightings: Watch for native species near your campsite. "As a bonus, we did have a herd of wild mountain sheep nearby," notes Troy C. from Five Points Campground. Wildlife viewing opportunities vary seasonally with higher activity in early morning and evening hours.
Water features: Select sites adjacent to streams. "We were lucky enough to get a spot to park our 27ft trailer parallel to the creek - so we have a perfectly private front yard with a view," shares Morgan J. from Wilderness Expeditions RV Park. These premium water-adjacent sites typically require advance reservations.
What you should know
Site spacing: Prepare for varying levels of privacy between campgrounds. "The sites for camping were nice, there were many campgrounds to choose from along the area and sites were large and spacious," reports Crystal C. about Salida East Campground. However, at other locations: "Sites are close together. We were placed near the bathroom, which was fine."
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for premium glamping accommodations. "You need to reserve well in advance as the demand is much higher than the capacity," warns Morgan Y. about Valley View Hot Springs. Most glamping facilities in the Cotopaxi area require reservations, especially during peak summer months.
Weather considerations: Pack for temperature variations. "It gets chilly at night so be aware!" cautions Sarah F. from Cutty's Resort. Temperatures often drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs, making layered clothing essential even during summer glamping trips.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Check campgrounds with dedicated children's programming. "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," shares Thomas P. from Cutty's Resort.
Playground access: Select campgrounds with play facilities. "The kids always had something to do with 2 pools, basketball, tennis, put put, hikes and horse shoes," writes Pepper I. Many glamping sites near Cotopaxi include recreation areas designed specifically for children.
Technology limitations: Prepare for limited connectivity. "No cell service so teens not happy about this," warns Janet H. about Cutty's Resort. Some glamping facilities offer WiFi in common areas only, while others have no connectivity options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific types of sites when booking. "The tent pads are pretty small though. They are great for 1-2 people, but we are a family traveling with pets, so we have a larger tent," reports Kara D. from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA. RV sites typically offer more space than tent-only areas.
Hookup availability: Confirm electrical needs before arrival. "Campsites with electric hook ups are limited. Bathrooms and showers are clean," notes Katie about Valley View Hot Springs. Most glamping facilities offer at least basic electrical access, but amperage varies between locations.
