Mueller State Park Campground sits at high elevation in the Colorado mountains, providing a natural escape within reach of Cripple Creek. Campers enjoy temperatures typically 15-20° cooler than nearby Colorado Springs during summer months. The park's 51 campsites feature electrical hookups with well-maintained gravel pads suitable for both tent and RV camping.
What to do
Hiking with mountain views: Mueller State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks with GPS coordinates marked for safety. One camper noted, "Great hikes, fishing, cabins and views" while exploring the park's diverse terrain.
Fish at Skagway Reservoir: Located near Lone Duck Campground and Cabins, this water recreation area provides fishing opportunities in a mountain setting. A visitor mentioned, "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us."
Explore historic mining towns: Both Cripple Creek and Victor offer glimpses into Colorado's gold rush era. When staying at Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA, you're positioned to explore these historic sites. One camper observed, "Close to rafting, Royal Gorge and other attractions."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Mueller State Park Campground provides regular wildlife encounters. As one camper shared, "Super nice facility and clean. Very busy park as a lot of sites are on the main road. If you can choose to stay off the main road areas you will enjoy more. Lots of hiking and biking. We saw some deer that came through our site."
Mountain privacy: Diamond Campground & RV Park offers secluded sites with mountain character. A visitor noted, "Great campground and beautiful views. We were looking at Google maps and were concerned about the location and spacing of campers but it's a great place and lots of space between campsites!"
Clean facilities: Glamping close to Cripple Creek, Colorado often means well-maintained amenities. At Cheyenne Mountain State Park, campers appreciate the upkeep: "Clean, spacious, quiet. Great sunrise. ❤️hearing TAPS from Fort Carson. Lots of trail options."
What you should know
High altitude effects: Camping near Cripple Creek means adjusting to elevation around 10,000 feet. At Cripple Creek KOA, a visitor warns: "The air is thin up here- real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it."
Weather patterns: Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms to the mountains. A camper at Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA reported, "Camped at Royal Gorge KOA for 1 night, June 23rd. Very easy to find and check in. Staff was very friendly. Fire ban, so no fire-pizza delivery to our campsite was a plus!"
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the area close during winter months. Diamond Campground & RV Park typically operates from "May 10 to September 30" according to their listing information, making advance planning necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Colorado Springs KOA offers entertainment options beyond standard camping. A visitor reported, "They have a water slide and other fun activities," making it ideal for families with children.
Wildlife education opportunities: Children can observe deer, turkey, and smaller wildlife at many campgrounds. At Lone Duck Campground, one camper mentioned, "The staff was super friendly and helpful! The facilities were always very clean. They had breakfast for you in the morning if you wanted for $5. We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us."
Level campsites: For families with small children, Swift Puma Heights Campground offers well-designed spaces. A camper noted, "Stayed in the Swift Puma campground, walk-in site 29, great privacy, very clean and well maintained with level camp pad, picnic table and bear box."
Tips for RVers
Full hookup availability: The Meadows Campground provides complete RV services in a scenic setting. According to one visitor, "Spacious spots with full hookups. There's a park entrance fee in addition to the spot rental. Park entrance fee is available to purchase via an automated kiosk."
Road conditions: Some access roads to glamping facilities near Cripple Creek require careful navigation. At Diamond Campground, a visitor noted, "It is a little hard to figure out the roads and the proper direction to go to fine your site and get into it."
Elevation considerations: RVers should prepare for mountain driving. A camper at Diamond Campground shared, "Some sites are not very level, but others are quite level. Easy to book and pic your desired site."
