Best Glamping near Cowdrey, CO

Do you enjoy camping but don't want to rough it? Glamping is a great option. Glamping is not only a fun alternative to traditional tent camping, but also allows you to pack more or less gear as you see fit. The Dyrt's camping photos, reviews, and tips are an easy way to find the right Colorado glamping spot for you.

Best Glamping Sites Near Cowdrey, Colorado (16)

    Hayley K.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Site 459 - State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Site 459 - State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Site 459 - State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Site 459 - State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Site 459 - State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Site 459 - State Forest State Park near Rand, CO

    1. Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    14 Reviews
    79 Photos
    220 Saves
    Rand, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park near Clark, CO

    2. Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park

    26 Reviews
    66 Photos
    176 Saves
    Clark, Colorado

    Camping at Steamboat Lake offers a spectacular opportunity to immerse yourself in clean, crisp air and true Rocky Mountain living.

    The Dutch Hill campground includes the Marina, the Marina convenience store, swim beach, dump station and Camper Services Building with coin operated showers and laundry. The following loops are included: Wheeler loop has all-electric sites with 50amp outlets. Bridge Island sites are all non-electric.

    Winter camping with electric outlets is available on a first-come-first-serve basis in our Marina parking lot.

    Reservations can be made the day you plan to arrive at the park or up to 6 months in advance. Reservable dates are between the Friday before Memorial Day until September 30. Cabins are available year-round through the Steamboat Lake Marina. Campers can stay up to 14 days at Steamboat Lake during a 28 day period.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Frank H.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Steamboat Springs KOA near Steamboat Springs, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Steamboat Springs KOA near Steamboat Springs, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Steamboat Springs KOA near Steamboat Springs, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Steamboat Springs KOA near Steamboat Springs, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Steamboat Springs KOA near Steamboat Springs, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Steamboat Springs KOA near Steamboat Springs, CO

    3. Steamboat Springs KOA

    23 Reviews
    66 Photos
    155 Saves
    Steamboat Springs, Colorado

    Is an awesome camping trip on your calendar this year? Our summer calendar is filling up fast! Now's the time to make your reservations for the 2017 camping season. Don't miss out..call & make your reservations today. You won't find steamboats, but you will find natural hot springs in this scenic northwest Colorado mountain community (and in the area). This KOA puts you in the heart of all the natural wonders you can experience here, from fishing or floating the trout-filled Yampa River to tackling the nearby slopes of Mt. Werner at Steamboat Ski Resort. World-class hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the surrounding mountains. Enjoy the heated pool, mini golf and other activities at the campground. Then hop on the free bus or grab a rental bike and cruise along the bike paths to downtown, just 3 miles south. A true Western ranching town, Steamboat Springs charms with unique galleries and shows, dining and even a pioneer museum. Get a taste of local culture at the many festivals, including the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo, Rocky Mountain Mustang Roundup and Winter Carnival.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Eileen S.'s photo of glamping accommodations at North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO

    4. North Michigan Campground — State Forest State Park

    9 Reviews
    40 Photos
    218 Saves
    Rand, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $18 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Laramie River Road Dispersed near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Laramie River Road Dispersed near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Laramie River Road Dispersed near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Laramie River Road Dispersed near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Laramie River Road Dispersed near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Laramie River Road Dispersed near Red Feather Lakes, CO

    5. Laramie River Road Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    20 Photos
    694 Saves
    Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

    Located on the southern end of the Medicine Bow Mountain Range in north central Colorado, Rawah Wilderness was designated by the Wilderness Act of 1964 and now contains 73,868 acres. "Rawah" is a Native American term meaning "wild place."

    Elevations in the Rawah Wilderness range from 8,400 to 13,000 feet. The high peaks were carved by glaciers, resulting in spectacular cirque lakes and moraines. There are twenty-five named lakes, ranging in size from five to 39 acres. This high alpine area contains the headwaters of the McIntyre, Rawah, and Fall Creeks, as well as the Laramie River.

    The Rawahs are host to mammals such as elk, moose, mule deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, marmot and beaver. There are many species of birds including the red-tailed hawk, white-tailed ptarmigan, golden eagle, raven, Steller's Jay and a variety of warblers. Lakes and streams are inhabited with lake, cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Graylings are also found in this area.

    The Rawah Wilderness is very popular with summer backpackers, hikers and anglers. It is also popular with hunters in the fall. To encounter the fewest people, plan your trip for mid-week and use less popular trails.

    Always use Leave No Trace techniques to help keep this area wild, clean and pristine.

    Motorized equipment, or mechanized transportation is prohibited, including motorcycles, chain saws, bicycles or carts. Wheelchairs are exempt. Group size is limited to 12 people and/or livestock combined. Camping and campfires are prohibited within 200’ feet of all lakes, streams and trails to protect water quality, sensitive vegetation and to help assure solitude. Thin soils and mountain vegetation are easily damaged by fire and fires scar rocks and soil. Use a stove, a fire pan or an existing fire ring when and where fires are allowed. Campfires are prohibited in the alpine areas above 10,800 feet. Campfires consume scarce vegetation and leave permanent scars on the fragile soils of the area. Pets must be on a handheld leash at all times if hiking. Equestrian riders can have dogs under voice control.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    Camper-submitted photo at The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO

    6. The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park

    9 Reviews
    41 Photos
    292 Saves
    Rand, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park near Rand, CO

    7. Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    106 Saves
    Rand, Colorado

    This campground offers 31 electric sites and is directly accessible from Highway 14 and within a short walk of Ranger Lakes fishing areas.

    Features:

    The fishing area includes a fishing pier for people with disabilities. Water and vault toilet facilities are available nearby, but please fill large tanks at the water station at the maintenance shop. A nature trail and the Gould Loop Trail are accessible from the campground. Interpretive programs are offered on some weekend nights in the campground amphitheater. Restrictions: Boating and swimming are not permitted in the Ranger Lakes.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $18 - $120 / night

    Karen B.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Pearl Lake State Park Campground near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pearl Lake State Park Campground near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pearl Lake State Park Campground near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pearl Lake State Park Campground near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pearl Lake State Park Campground near Clark, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Pearl Lake State Park Campground near Clark, CO

    8. Pearl Lake State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    12 Photos
    281 Saves
    Clark, Colorado

    ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This small campground along the reservoir offers a quiet getaway. The 36 campsites and two Yurts at Pearl Lake all of the campsites are sunny and have views of both the lake and surrounding views of our Colorado mountains.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $16 - $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO

    9. Winding River Resort

    17 Reviews
    57 Photos
    247 Saves
    Grand Lake, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork Poudre Campground near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork Poudre Campground near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork Poudre Campground near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork Poudre Campground near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork Poudre Campground near Red Feather Lakes, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at North Fork Poudre Campground near Red Feather Lakes, CO

    10. North Fork Poudre Campground

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    132 Saves
    Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

    The North Fork Poudre Campground is located along the Deadman Road west of Red Feather Lakes, near the banks of the North Fork Cache la Poudre River in a dense lodgepole pine forest. This is an older facility with short parking spurs that will not accommodate larger RVs. Each of the nine sites have a picnic table, tent pad and fire grate. Recreational activities in the area include hiking, stream fishing and four-wheel driving.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews near Cowdrey, Colorado

150 Reviews of 16 Cowdrey Campgrounds


  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Dispersed Camping at American Lakes

    This is one of my all-time favorite places to hike and camp in Colorado. I have not yet stayed in any of the campgrounds but have backpacked to the top of the American Lakes Trail. Not only is this hike fantasticly beautiful and full of wildlife (tons of moose especially) but there is great dispersed camping along the trails. You simply cannot find more scenic and free camping in Colorado. I would highly recommended camping anywhere in State Forest State Park!

    Also, there are quite a few huts, cabins and yurts that can be rented year round in SFSP!

  • Zann R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jul. 12, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Crags campground, camping (mostly) as it should be

    This is not 'glamping'. This is a pitch your tent, start a fire, watch the deer walk thru type campground. Beautiful views of the Rockies, trails for all levels of hiking. My only tip--bring your own TP, they kept running out. And a jacket, nights are chilly at this altitude. No trailers, RVS allowed as tiny, winding dirt road to get there.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park
    Oct. 18, 2021

    Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park

    Activities Galore

    Fee box at entrance with all current information.

    "Reservation Only" 800-244-5613 or cpwshop.com or come to the Moose Visitor Center Campground is very open. Gravel sites with picnic table 

    Electric $36.00 plus reservation fees Basic and tent $28.00 plus reservation fees Dispersed $18.00 plus reservation fees Small cabins $90.00 Large cabin $120.00 Yurts & Huts $80.00-$275.00 Backcountry no charge 

    The park encompasses almost 71,000 acres. You will find a visitor center 187 campsites for RV and tent and over 60 dispersed sites, 15 cabins and yurts, boat ramps and 94 miles of hiking trails. There are all types or recreation throughout the year.  The park forest is being decimated by the Mountain pine beetle so the dead trees are being removed. This leaves a very stark deserted look. It is very difficult to observe the devastation that the state of Colorado is dealing with.

    LNT 

    Better than when you found it 

    Stay safe and happy travels

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Mar. 17, 2017

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Beautiful Hidden Gem

    I stayed a week here for a backpacking trip in July last year. It was absolutely beautiful! I especially enjoyed the American Lakes trail up to Michigan and Snowy Lakes. That amazing landscape will forever be a special place to me. They were doing a lot of work while I was there, preparing for a potential fire and recreating a trailhead. I saw more heavy equipment along the Kelly Lake trail than I would have liked but such is life. The staff at the info desk are really helpful and local. They helped me plan my trip and answered a lot of questions for me. You are allowed to camp off trail (.25 mi) so you can pick your campsite really well. I unfortunately found a few old fire pits along the way but I didn't have to pick up garbage after anyone. I'm considering going back with my family to stay in one of the yurts or cabins scattered throughout the park. Highly recommended!

  • Tarrah C.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Park Campground
    Aug. 5, 2023

    North Park Campground

    State Forest State Park

    Primitive camping was great here in the North Camp Area. From what I can tell all the Primitive sites have fire rings. Site 470-480 even have a vault toilet but they are close together. I stayed at site 410 which has a stream behind it and was a beautiful spot. I would also recommend sites 411-414 & 421 for the primitive camper. The hiking is just beautiful and there are several lakes (2 are only accessible by hiking in). Most of the sites around the large lake are for RV or Cabin campers and fill up fast. There is no picnic area near the lake so if you are primitive camping you have to be creative. ALL RESERVATION FOR CAMPING ARE DONE ONLINE. There is no cell serves past the entrance so be sure to book in advance. The vault toilets are well kept there is no indoor plumbing that I could find. There is also Yurt camping here. There is no electric hook up for the RVs but there is a dump station. Water can be found in a few areas around the park.

  • Daniel  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from CanyonSide Campground
    Jun. 6, 2019

    CanyonSide Campground

    Ranger Review: Morsel Spork XL at CanyonSide Campground

    Campground Review

    This campground is located in the Poudre Canyon area of Colorado. This is a private, 420-friendly campground. While many will be drawn to that allure, there is a lot of other features this campground offers that makes it a lovely place to stay. There’s communal fire pits, a jungle gym for kids, and hiking trails into and up the Poudre Canyon. It’s also a good place to bunk if you like to fish, with access into the rivers just across the road and so many other spots just a short drive away. Across the road is a general store for any last-minute camping supplies, munchies, booze, and ice. There’s also the Poudre Canyon Grille – a tiny, well-kept trailer serving up burgers, fries, and other fast food sandwiches. Near the office, there’s a large covered patio that has a cell and WiFi booster and in the summertime is a lounge area with a TV. There are two areas that have a bathroom with shower – both single use. When there are nearby music festivals, Canyonside has been known to shuttle festival goers to and from areas of greater access to help you enjoy the show. Speaking of shows, there are sometimes laser light shows where the hosts reflect their displays off the rocky canyon walls, and up the canyon there is also a small ampitheatre.

    To learn more about what may be going on near the time of your stay, just call the campground. Which is also what I suggest you do before you book, especially if you’re interested in renting one of their really cool themed cabins (there’s a few, are different sizes, and each have a unique décor theme and were all incredibly clean). There are a few factors like the day of the week, amount of people, and amount of dogs you have that will affect your nightly rate. Ask about the dog policy when you call too, as not all sites allow for pets – like the tent sites – and there is a pet waiver that should be read.

    One thing I noticed that was neat for tent dwellers was that one area of the tent sites (there are two sent site locations on either side of the park) had a hammock or swing chair and access to water to do dishes (there is also communal dishware) in addition to your typical flat plot, fire pit, and picnic table. There is also poured concrete sites for RVs with electric and water hookups, but I don’t remember seeing a dump station.

    Not sure you want to go all the way in on a cabin but don’t want a tent site and you don’t own an RV? That’s OK as there’s also a pop up trailer on site that can be rented as a “glamping” option. It was a pretty neat little place, but due to the size and chance of trapping pet dander, dogs aren’t allowed in there either.

    The hosts are very accommodating and want to help you enjoy your stay. They are approachable and can point you to resources to help you make your stay a 420-featured one, if that’s your thing. I understand they’re looking to add more tent sites and shaded areas and continue to tweak their internet to help it cover more of the grounds. I look forward to returning to see how the place evolves. I do like that there’s so many ways the hosts are there to accommodate you, and one thing that I would love to hear about is that they’ve added drinkable water access. Water is there for you but bring your own drinking water on site.

    I want to give this place a 5 out of 5 because of how nice the hosts are, how well kept the grounds are, how many camping options there are, and how many activity options you have, but it gets a 4 out of 5 from me because of the water access, pet restrictions, and add-on fees (pet, extra guest), plus possible fines for any ‘dog infractions’. If you plan your trip ahead, you will have a great time here and really enjoy the atmosphere. 

    Product Review

    As part of the Dyrt Ranger program I am given camping gear to test from time to time, and today I was reviewing a new kind of spork, the Morsel Spork XL. This company makes 3 kinds: The regular sized spork, then the XL, and a spoon XL. I have the morsel XL spork. No better place to review a munchie-curing tool like a 420-friendly campground! I’ve used a lot of sporks over time, and there were three things about this one that I really liked. 

    • it is long. At first I was like, “Why do I want a spork this big?” until I started using it with my rehydrated meals. I eat those right out of the bag and when you get near the bottom, with other sporks being shorter your hand starts picking up the juices/sauces from the dish when you start to really dig deep into the bag. This spork kept the pasta sauce on the food and away from my hands. 
    • It had a flat edge end on the spoon side. I’ve seen this feature before and it’s an important one because it helps you dig down into the bottom of those bag meals better than a rounded spoon. May not seem like a big deal, but when you’re backpacking and those foods are your fuel, every morsel (see what I did there?) of food counts and a utensil that’s doing a better job than another is the one I’ll want to pack. 
    • The rubberized outer coating. This creates a spatula-like effect and – again – helps with getting the most food on your spork, but also now has an argument as to why it could be used when cooking. I wouldn’t want a plastic spork stirring my eggs in case that thing melts into my food, but I’ve been using this morsel one on the stove top to mix simple meals and it does the job better than my JetBoil folding spatula because its rubberized and not as flimsy. 

    These sporks are nowhere near the lightest sporks on the market, but their added weight gives them more durability. They aren’t indestructible, but they won’t snap when they get shoved in your pack either. It is technically also a knife because of the ribbed edges of the fork, but I didn’t have a lot of success cutting with this. I love how it’s dishwasher safe and BPA free! Their versatility for camping makes them a better all-around solution for satisfying your hunger than what you’re using now. 4.75/5 because of the whole knife thing not really working super great.

  • Geraldine M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park
    Sep. 18, 2018

    Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park

    One of the best in Colorado

    This is one of our favorite campgrounds in Colorado. We make a habit of visiting the week after Labor Day. The crowds are gone and the campground is peaceful. Amenities as small boat rentals remain open. The local deer migrate into the campground. A site on lake’s edge is usually available. Fall’s morning fog greet you in the morning. Outstanding mountain and lake views suttound your campsite.

  • Buz S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park
    Jul. 9, 2020

    Dutch Hill Campground — Steamboat Lake State Park

    Great Colorado State Park

    Colorado does a great job with their parks and this is no exception. Stayed here spur of the moment booking two nights prior to the stay. It’s a large facility and when we booked, for a midweek stay, there were 11 sites available, one with power. We had a large site with great views of the mountains and if we stood on our tippy toes we could see the lake.

    We’ll be back aiming to snag one of the sites with lakeside views.

  • Amanda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Gorgeous Rocky Mountain Camping - North Michigan Campground

    We found State Forest State Park on a whim this past July 2018. We were on a road trip from California to Colorado for a wedding in Granby, CO. We were camping in Utah at Dinosaur National Monument, but due to the smoke from a nearby wildfire and the high heat of the summer, we decided to cut our stay one day short, and head over to the Rockies a day early. We wanted to be fairly close to our final destinations, Granby then RMNP, but wanted to go somewhere we hadn’t been before. My boyfriend and I are both animal lovers, and our dream was to finally see a moose on this trip out to Colorado. In researching moosey areas on the internet, we found the Moose Visitor Center at State Forest State Park. We figured that a place with a Moose Visitors Center was as moosey as it comes, so we reserved a site online and headed out to Colorado.

    It was late afternoon when we arrived, but since we had already eaten, we didn’t have much to do besides set up our tent and sleeping pads for the night. Getting to the campground and visitors center is easy as they are both right off the highways 41 and 14, but it is quite a drive to get to, in general. The scenery is so pretty, that we did not mind the drive to or from SFSP. North Michigan Campground is right by a lake, it is pretty.

    The sites are primitive - each site had picnic benches and a firepit, but at the time we visited there was a Stage 2 fire ban in place, so we couldn’t have a campfire. The fire ban included the burning of wood and charcoal - using a propane stove was OK.

    There were pit toilets, and they were well maintained. The sites appeared to have once had more in the way of trees and shade, but it looks as though SFSP was hit by the pine beetles, like so much of Colorado. It’s sad to see the destruction the beetles left in their wake, and fewer trees mean less privacy and less shade for tent campers. We would have had a hard time setting up extra tarps in case it had rained that evening. Bringing an easy-up or canopy would be smart in the summer to protect against sun and heat, or a passing thunderstorm.

    WARNING: You ARE in bear country and there were no bear bins in the campground - be bear safe and bear smart, lock all of your food and toiletries inside your car at night. I was once told by a ranger in Yosemite NP that bears can recognize coolers when peering into car windows, so we always put a towel and gear over our coolers when keeping them in the car overnight.

    We packed up early and arrived at the Moose Visitors Center when they opened. The visitors center was educational and interesting, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. After studying some maps of the area with the rangers, we decided to try our luck driving along Highway 14 towards Fort Collins.

    We stopped at various spots along the highway, and ended up walking around the Joe Wright Reservoir for a while. Thunderheads were rolling in, and some rain and thunder started, so we decided to start making our way back towards SFSP then head down to Granby, our next stop. We were around Cameron Pass and had given up on seeing any moose when we saw traffic slowing and cars stopped alongside the road - there were two young bull moose snacking by a small river on the side of the road! We pulled over, turned our hazard lights on, grabbed the camera, and jumped out to see our first moose. The moose seemed unconcerned by their growing audience, and continued to chomp away on their lunch - there was a small ravine between the moose and their human audience, so neither moose nor humans felt threatened.

    According to the staff at the Moose Visitor Center, there are only about 1,000 moose in the entire state of Colorado - and here we stumbled across two moose at once! We were ecstatic, and so happy we made the impromptu, unplanned trip out to State Forest State Park! We returned to the Moose Visitors Center to share the experience with the rangers (they record the specifics of moose sightings in the area on a board), and the ranger gave us a high five for spotting our first ever moose.

    I would like to return to the area someday to hike, I imagine the nearby trails must be goregous!

    CAMPSITE SPECS

    Fees: $18/night

    Plumbed Toilets: NO - pit

    Drinking Water: Yes

    Showers: NO

    Picnic Table: Yes

    Firepit: Yes

    Cooking Grates: Yes

    Shade: Limited!

    Cell Service: NO

    Animal Bins/Food Lockers: NO

  • Landon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Winding River Resort

    Campsite with good amenities and activities

    This is a really well run campground. They have tons and tons of activities on site and you could honestly spend your entire trip just at the campsite. They have horseback rides, ATV rentals, an animal farm, social events, pickle ball court, volleyball court, a nice general store, clean showers, bathrooms, laundry rooms, really everything you could ever want. The only downside is that it’s quite pricey, basically double what I would normally expect. But given the amount of amenities they have, it’s not surprising.

    A cool fact is that you’ll be right next to the Colorado River. This is not far from where the river begins so its journey starts around here as a fairly unassuming creek.

  • Diane D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Winding River Resort

    We loved it and already plan to return

    A lovely wooded campground literally on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park - we even saw moose from the back window of our RV!  Options for everyone from cabins, to FHU RV sites (limited and not the ideal locations, but still nice), water/electric sites and tenting areas.  Even Conestoga wagons!  There is horseback riding on site and we loved watching the horses run in and out each morning/evening and you just have to cross the road for a pretty hike along the Colorado River in RMNP (no dogs on the trails).  We camped with our Great Dane - very dog friendly with bag stations around the park.  Friendly and helpful staff, a small shop with supplies and souvenirs, a cute little petting zoo with goats, sheep, and pigs.

  • Sarah F.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Park Campground
    Aug. 2, 2020

    North Park Campground

    Super Remote, Beautiful Scenery, Great State Park-SNOW in JUNE!

    This campground is part of State Forest State Park but used to be a KOA.  As we understood (from talking with the park rangers), the State Park bought the rundown KOA and is doing repairs as they can.  The campground is on Park Property.  

    The good:  The scenery is unbelievable, truly exactly how Colorado is portrayed in movies and dreams.  You will probably see wildlife-deer and moose are common.  The fishing in the park is awesome.  The sites are well spaced a very level.  You have privacy and lots of room to roam. 

    The bad:  The bathrooms/showers were rundown from the leftovers of the KOA.  The State Park is a haul to get to.  There are no real towns of any significance nearby.  Be prepared to come into this park and stay here for the weekend!  

    No hookups but the views are worth it!

    Word to the wise-we were there in late June and we saw about 6 inches of snow overnight.  It was cold!

  • Jason W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Jun. 18, 2021

    Winding River Resort

    CO river access, nearby access to RMNP, zoo, & access to nearby lakes

    This is a beautiful campground with lots of family-friendly activities to do.  They have direct access to the headwaters of the Colorado River.  We visited a little late in the season (August) to catch many fish, but we still had fun.  We found some tailwaters below the big lakes and caught some trout on the fly rods.  

    This site is minutes away from an entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.  We got up early and hiked a trail in RMNP and had a few moose walk right past us.  It is also close by to the major lakes of the area.  

    They rent ATVs and lots of people bring their own horses to this campground to enjoy the many back-country trails that begin at the back of the property and go high up into the mountains.  

    Facilities were well kept and clean.

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    May. 30, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Winter camping in State Forest State Park

    For those looking for dramatic scenery and endless wildlife, State Forest State Park should be at the top of your list. This is one of my favorite places in Colorado for hiking, backpacking, backcountry skiing and of course, camping! The campgrounds in the park are wonderful and offer plenty of amenities, this review in particular though refers to my experiences with the dispersed campsites in the park and my winter camping adventure near Montgomery pass. According to their web site, there are over 60 dispersed camping sites throughout the park. Due to the winter season of our trip in particular, we were snowshoeing to our campsite and didn’t go too far into the park. We approached along Montgomery Pass and camped at approximately site #416. This is a high elevation site and there was plenty of snow, so there was no access to toilets that we could find. However, there were toilets at the trailhead which were still open during our trip. Overall, I cannot express enough how wonderful this park is and all of the campgrounds and dispersed sites are very well maintained. For those looking for well maintained and scenic campgrounds, there are 4 awesome campgrounds to choose from. Those looking for more of an adventure should check out any of the dispersed sites throughout the park. Note that camp fires are not allowed in the backcountry. Also, this park is home to a large population of moose, and visitors should educate themselves on safety precautions specific to these giant and beautiful animals!

    Stay tuned for my reviews of their campgrounds which are coming soon as well.

  • Tanner S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Aug. 29, 2018

    Winding River Resort

    In between a national forest and a national park... Welcome to CO!

    Winding River Resort is a hidden gem. There are plenty of campsites and a few cabins. All spaces are well laid out with plenty of space between each spot. The facilities are clean and provide everything you need for a great stay.

    Be sure to book a horseback ride and get to the cowboy pancake breakfast on the weekends. (Pro tip: Bring a couple eggs for the cooks to throw on the griddle while cooking your pancakes!). If you enjoy trout fishing, be sure to explore the North Fork of the Colorado River that flows through the southend of the property. If you have a disc golfer in the group, bring the discs to play a round or three on the 9-hole course throughout the campground.

    Moose have a tendency to wander through the campground toward the evening and the local elk herds like to eat with the horses. There are bear in the area, so take the proper precautions with your food and cooler storage.

    Winding River is close enough to Grand Lake to get out and explore for the day and you have easy access to nearly all amenities between Grand Lake and Fraser, in case you forgot something. The cabins look great, but we have not stayed in them during our visits.

  • Glenna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park
    Sep. 10, 2022

    The Crags Campground — State Forest State Park

    Amazing Beauty

    I love camping. I love the opportunity to connect to the wild spaces that surround us. I love finding people who share that same passion. What I don't love, is sharing a campground with someone who obviously has no regard for the safety of their fellow campers or the wild animals that call those wild spaces home. Over Labor Day weekend I got the opportunity to camp at State Forest State Park in Colorado and a 'fellow camper' 2 sites down from us made choices that put us all, and one of the coolest cow moose and her calf in danger. Despite knowledge of moose being present in the area, the campers would go to bed every night and leave all of their trash out, and various food and drink sources scattered around their campsite as well. The moose quickly learned she had easy access to food there and frequented their site. Each time they would honk their horn and blow a whistle and clang pans, but moose are typically not afraid of humans at all, so she did not deter easy. Not only did they lure her into their trap, they then harassed her and disturbed the peace of the other campers. They clearly had no regard for the rules of campground and had their dogs off leash many times, one evening one of their dogs chased the moose out of their site, much to their amusement. I reported them to the rangers, and was assured they would be talked to, but their behavior did not change. If that moose decides to 'fight back' instead of run off, it will be her that pays the price. My sisters and I made sure our site was clean and tidy and even when the moose visited during dinner one evening all that was needed from us to scare her off, were a few claps and shouts. My point is this, we have a responsibility to utilize our wild spaces responsibly, and in my opinion, if you can't do that, then you lose the privilege to use them. Enjoy some of the pictures from that weekend, and remember to recreate responsibly, and if you see something, say something!

  • Darren H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Aug. 11, 2020

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Exactly what a vacation should be.

    We had a primitive site that was very quiet and next to the creek. The park rangers and attendants were extremely helpful and polite. Had great fly fishing in the creek and the beaver ponds. Only negative was the amount of space to place trash because of the busy weekend before.

  • Meghan H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jun. 4, 2020

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Great family spot!

    Something for everyone. My dog could swim in north Michigan reservoir. The kids could ride bikes in trails and throw rocks in the water. Hiking was fun. Beautiful views. Bathrooms close and super clean.

  • Jen M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jun. 24, 2020

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Beautiful spot with gorgeous views.

    We stayed at North Michigan Campground. The campground is beautiful. We had site 221 which is right above the water with it's own little trail going down to the reservoir. From what I've seen, I think this is one of the best sites available. Bring bug spray! Also, there is no water directly in this loop of the campground so make sure you fill up near the cabins before driving up.

  • Kell H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jul. 11, 2020

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Mountain Heaven

    Stayed in the North Michigan Reservoir loop for three wonderful days after the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Perfect weather and beautiful scenery. The campground was well maintained, even after the busy weekend. We hiked, biked and just enjoyed the view. Fishing was slow but in such a pretty place we didn’t care. It was not crowded during the week but was full for the weekend. Great place to camp and relax. Highly recommended!

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Beautiful setting with close sites

    Pretty setting on the reservoir (amazing setting and great for water activities). There aren’t a ton of sites and they’re grouped in pods. Pods are pretty close but manageable. Great access to hiking

  • B B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Aug. 26, 2019

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Great site, right on the water

    State Forest State Park is enormous, but we were in a small campground with only five sites—four on them are right on the water (and one is reserved for those needing an accessible site). 

    We were able to paddle board and fish right from our campsite, and had a wonderful fresh trout dinner. 

    We stopped in the visitor center for maps and hiking recommendations. We settled on Lake Agnes. It was a steep climb but well worth it. We alternated looking at the beauty of Lake Agnes and watching the skiers hiking to the top and skiing what was left of the snow.

  • Weston S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jul. 27, 2019

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Looks like a campground, feels primitive

    We stayed 2 nights on the “Primitive Loop” in site 479; about 3 miles north of North Fork Michigan River. It was essentially a cul-de-sac of about 15 tent sites. Not much natural sun coverage, as you are sitting on top of a small ridge, but there are great views of the mountains and sunrises/sunsets. Great hiking trails nearby also. The primitive loop felt like a little community! Everyone was so kind and willing to talk. Will be back!

  • Hayley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    May. 31, 2019

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Amazingly quiet and easy to get to in the middle of Winter

    We stayed in cabin #3 and it was an awesome experience! We had room enough for 4 people and 3 dogs and didn't feel like we were on top of each other. The gas stove kept us nice and toasty all night long! 

    There are 4 cabins. Ours seemed to be the smallest sleeping 5. The largest cabin can easily hold 30 people. 

    The bathroom was a pit toilet, which was up the hill and farthest from our cabin so it was a chilly bathroom run in the middle of the night. 

    We spent a lot of time sledding and snowshoeing and we were basically the only ones out there. There was another large group in the bigger cabin but we barely saw them until they left on Sunday. 

    The beds were plastic coated so it was easy to throw a sheet over them and sleep. The Couch was a bit gross, not sure if the cover gets washed much. There were shelves to hold food and an outdoor picnic table in the room to cook on.

  • Toby V.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Park Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    North Park Campground

    Not well kept, but has potential

    Was an old KOA. In fact, there are two typical KOA A frame buildings that need to be torn down due to their lack of upkeep. The grounds were overgrown with weeds knee high.


Frequently Asked Questions

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