Tom O.
Guide
GuideChatfield State Park Campground
Great launching point to RMNP
Spacious site with level concrete pads. Convenient to many attaching and amenities. Clean bath and shower facilities. Clean laundry facilities too
Best Campgrounds in Colorado
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Colorado encompasses a wide spectrum of camping experiences, from remote dispersed sites on Bureau of Land Management land to well-developed facilities in national parks. Several prominent campgrounds such as Mesa Verde National Park's Morefield Campground and Rocky Mountain National Park's Moraine Park Campground provide established amenities for tent and RV campers. The state's public lands support diverse accommodation types, with many locations like Mueller State Park offering both traditional campground options and cabin rentals. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping represents numerous primitive camping opportunities on public land throughout the region, where campers can experience more solitude away from developed campground settings.
Seasonal considerations vary dramatically across Colorado's diverse elevations. Many campgrounds like Saddlehorn in Colorado National Monument operate only from spring through fall (March to October), while others such as Chatfield State Park remain accessible year-round. Road conditions in dispersed camping areas can present challenges, particularly after rain or snow events. Permits and reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, especially during peak summer months when popular sites fill quickly. Visitors should be prepared for significant temperature variations, even during summer months, particularly at higher elevations where overnight temperatures can drop considerably. A camper noted, "Lots of dispersed camping throughout this area. At this spot we found a nice area for a tent that had a fire pit."
Several visitors highlight the appeal of waterside locations, with creek and riverside sites receiving particularly positive reviews. Campers frequently mention the combination of natural settings and basic amenities as key factors in their satisfaction. Campgrounds with electrical hookups like Moraine Park provide a middle ground between rustic and comfortable camping experiences. Public lands offer the greatest flexibility for those seeking solitude, though they typically lack facilities like running water or maintained restrooms. Primitive sites on BLM land provide cost-effective alternatives to developed campgrounds, with one reviewer stating they "Got lucky and found a perfect site right by the creek with a fire ring. Easy to get to in our camper van, no 4 x 4 required." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping represent the majority of established options throughout the state.
Campground Showdown in Colorado
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Best Camping Sites in Colorado (2,232)
1. Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park
112 ReviewsMancos, COWebsite+1 (800) 449-2288"Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"
"I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."
2. Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
98 ReviewsEstes Park, COWebsite+1 (970) 586-1206$35 - $70 / night
"Took the kids camping in Colorado for the first time and we had a blast. It rained on us a lot but it didn't stop us. Took a great hike up deer mountain....stunning views. Can't wait to go back."
"Very enjoyable spot, close access to trails and entrance and exit of the park."
3. Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
99 ReviewsGardner, COWebsite+1 (877) 444-6777$20 - $80 / night
"It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."
"Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."
4. Chatfield State Park Campground
81 ReviewsLittleton, COWebsite+1 (303) 791-7275$36 - $200 / night
"Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."
"We were on the outskirts of D Loop. The western views of the mountains were beautiful. Better views in other sites but a walk about gave way to the front range."
5. Saddlehorn Campground — Colorado National Monument
72 ReviewsFruita, COWebsite+1 (970) 858-3617$22 / night
"This is one of my favorite campgrounds, because Colorado National Monument is so stunning."
"Colorado National Monument is one of the treasures of the National Parks system."
6. South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
68 ReviewsMontrose, COWebsite+1 (970) 249-1914$20 - $34 / night
"The South Rim Campground is similar to other national park campground in that it provides convenient access to park activities and trails, but it stands apart due to the fact that the camping fees are"
"Most of the outer sites are tucked into the forest so there is a decent level of privacy. Lots of deer frequent the area, we saw several on each trip."
7. Zapata Falls Campground
70 ReviewsBlanca, COWebsite+1 (719) 852-7074$20 / night
"This was our last night camping in Colorado and it was beautiful!"
"This area in Colorado is one of the most unique places I've seen in a while."
8. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
67 ReviewsBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, COWebsite"Great location right next to the park! There are plenty of sites and the views are beautiful. Entrance was slightly rutted so make sure you can off-road just a bit!"
"A few minutes outside the south gate of the park. Multiple sites, most of which are on dirt. Paths to and from can be a bit rough for most passenger vehicles. But it’s quite and close to the park."
9. Mueller State Park Campground
63 ReviewsDivide, COWebsite+1 (719) 687-2366$28 - $270 / night
"This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."
"By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"
10. Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
60 ReviewsEstes Park, COWebsite+1 (970) 586-1206$35 - $70 / night
"Firewood sold next to the entrance by the same husband and wife that have been selling firewood there for 35 years. There is a shed full of firewood."
"The spaces are large, but quite close to one another with few trees for privacy. Each site here is variable, with some open with no trees and others nestled in some mature trees."
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Recent Reviews in Colorado
10000 Reviews of 2232 Colorado Campgrounds
Lou P.GuideSpruce Grove
Great campground for what it is
We stayed here to enjoy the cooler weather one finds at 9500 feet. This is a typical USFS campground in many respects. It’s ideal for vans, smaller trailers or truck campers. It’s not really designed for bigger rigs. It’s very shady, so have an auxiliary solar panel if you are staying for a couple of days. The bathrooms are new and very clean. The road through the campground has some potholes, so drive slowly. If you need water hookups, electricity or a sewer connection, this campground is not for you.
- ssusan F.Guide
Hideout Cabins and Campground
Convenient, tree cover
We were looking for a place to camp near Glenwood Springs, but far enough off 70 to avoid the freeway noise. This is a sweet little campground located along the edge of the canyon, south of downtown Glenwood Springs. We arrived in a downpour with thunder, lightening and hail! We were grateful for the easy access to water, electricity and clean bathrooms and showers. The storm flooded I-70 near Silt and closed the road - with a detour on route 6.
Although a relatively large campground, there are only a few sites available with hookups or for tent camping. Most sites provide permanent housing for locals. Since many residents get up early for work, it is a quiet place to stay.
There is a dog park, clubhouse with laundry, coffee and other amenities.
Triston C.
TravelerMeeker Park Overflow Campground
Great camping spot
This site was really quite nice and a perfect weekend or day trip from Denver. 29 sites available and each site has a clean spot for your tent, a bear locker and a fire pit. This site also had porta potties which was also nice. My only complaint is the sites were a little close together but I wasn’t disturbed during my visit. I spent $16 a night and I was able to access almost all sites from a Toyota Camry. I visited Tuesday-Thursday and it was about half full, so I could see it filling up fast on weekends
Morgan R.GuideThirty Mile
Pretty spot & great hosts!
This was a nice spot. Very quiet and we got a first come first serve spot mid day on a Wednesday. The hosts were so kind, friendly, and helpful! We actually overpaid and he came over and gave us some of the money back! Walking distance to the river and the lake was drivable distance. We caught so many fish at the lake, even a salmon! Potable water was easily accessible and the vault bathroom was okay… the host said they were closing it down to repaint and fix them up a bit 😊. We also had lots of animal visitors (deer and chipmunks). The deer are definitely used to being fed because they took food from our hands with no hesitation. Overall it was a nice experience for 4 days.
- Vicki S.
ScoutChief Hosa Campground
Not great, last resort spot only
Lots of garbage everywhere, only half the sites have bear boxes, a lot of car noise, and a lot of inconsiderate families that you can tell don't camp often. They're leaving bags of garbage outside, filling up air mattresses at 430 in the morning, letting their kids run around our campsite. We spent all of 12 hours here before deciding to leave and take the hit on the second night
- kkyle M.Scout
Lost Lake Dispersed
Packed, not very scenic
There’s spots, it’s not incredible but gets you out there. Trash bags left behind by other campers. may pick them up in the morning. Expected more but oh well. Took my 24” toy hauler down to the end and back.
- cchelsea S.Traveler
Pole Hill Rd Dispersed
amazing site, crazy road
the sites are gorgeous! beautiful overlook of Estes.
the road is very off-roady, not gravel or just some rocks but truly off-road 4 wheeler style.
we mostly saw lifted jeeps or ATVs up there.
my stock Subaru Outback and i are an incredible duo and i was able to make it to a great spot. further up there was more, but i wasn’t risking the steeper, rocker portions ahead.
one year later after that, my control arm snapped in half and i do assume this drive was the cause of the initial damage. probably worth it though.
- DDaniel K.Guide
Matterhorn — Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre And Gunnison National Forest
Cool, green, lovely!
I was randomly suggested this campground by another traveler at a gas station. Could not have been happier!
I had been staying in Ridgway State Park. It amazingly had hit the mid 90’s and the smoke from the fires kept rolling in and out. I really wanted cool weather, and was able to get in here for a week of 60’s/40’s (days/nights) and lots of intermittent showers. Loving it!
There are about 25 spots here, with a few having full power/water in the center of the park. These also have your least privacy if that’s a concern. The ones on the outer side of the loop are much more private.
There’s an older updated common bathroom that is kept EXCEPTIONALLY clean! Hot water showers too. The two women working as camp hosts are wonderful and very responsive!
The camp itself is nested amongst trees with some views across a valley towards peaks. I personally really love it.
The review says it’s 7 miles from Telluride but I believe it’s a few more than that. The road is in excellent condition.
I would absolutely stay here again if only for the colder weather.
Guide to Colorado
Camping in Colorado offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Centennial State.
What to do
- Explore the Outdoors: Colorado is known for its beautiful parks. For instance, at Chatfield State Park Campground, you can enjoy paddle boarding and hiking. One camper mentioned, “Loved the paddle board experience.”
- Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Mueller State Park Campground, are home to diverse wildlife. A visitor noted, “Lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery.”
- Fishing and Boating: At Eleven Mile State Park, you can fish or take a canoe out on the water. One camper said, “Take a canoe, kayak, or fishing poles and enjoy a day on the lake.”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Cherry Creek State Park Campground stated, “Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained.”
- Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. At Mueller State Park Campground, a camper remarked, “Park staff are very friendly.”
- Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. One visitor at Turtle Rock Campground said, “This place is beautiful. Easy to get to.”
What you should know
- Weather Variability: Colorado weather can change quickly. A camper at Eleven Mile State Park warned, “Winds in the evening almost made me leave site.”
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, lack basic facilities. A review mentioned, “There’s huge piles of trash everywhere.”
- Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Prospector Campground noted, “If you have one of the US Park lifetime senior lifetime whatever’s then it’s only $13.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. Cherry Creek State Park Campground offers various activities, making it great for families.
- Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and games for the kids. One camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, “The staff was great and managed to get us a site at short notice.”
- Plan Activities: Have a list of fun things to do. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground said, “The state park is enjoyable.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Mueller State Park Campground noted, “Our site was a pull through with a tight radius for a 25ft trailer.”
- Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A review for Prospector Campground mentioned, “There is no water, no electric, no sewer.”
- Stay Vigilant About Security: Some areas have reported theft. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park warned, “One vehicle stolen and several cars rummaged through.”
Camping in Colorado can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of activities, it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for scenic views?
What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for scenic views?
Colorado offers breathtaking vistas at numerous campgrounds. South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir is renowned for having some of the best views in the state after 15+ years of camping comparisons. For mountain panoramas, Oh Be Joyful Campground delivers amazing vistas with a convenient honor system for fees. The high-elevation sites at Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground provide killer views with great hiking opportunities. For unique landscapes, consider the South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park where dramatic cliff views create an unforgettable experience.
When is the best time of year to camp in Colorado?
When is the best time of year to camp in Colorado?
Summer (June-August) is prime camping season in Colorado with warm days and cool nights. At Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll enjoy stunning summer hiking opportunities, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Early fall (September-early October) offers spectacular aspen color changes with fewer crowds at places like Freeman Reservoir Campground, which is praised as a 10/10 camping destination with perfect fall weather. Late spring (late May-June) brings wildflowers but potential lingering snow at higher elevations. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, but requires proper cold-weather gear. For high mountain camping, the season is shortest, typically July-September due to snow conditions.
Where can I find free camping in Colorado?
Where can I find free camping in Colorado?
Colorado offers excellent free dispersed camping options. Road 240 - Dispersed is described as one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for free camping, with numerous wooded sites along a river. Buffalo Pass Campground provides free camping in wide-open spaces away from weekend crowds. The Black Canyon Dispersed Camping area offers free sites on BLM land. Throughout Colorado, National Forests provide abundant dispersed camping on Forest Service roads - just look for existing fire rings and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and be prepared with your own water and waste disposal systems.
What are the most popular camping areas in Southern Colorado?
What are the most popular camping areas in Southern Colorado?
Southern Colorado features several remarkable camping destinations. Zapata Falls Campground near the Great Sand Dunes offers beautiful high-desert camping with access to a scenic waterfall. Great Sand Dunes Oasis provides spacious tent sites with dune views and clean facilities, perfect for first-time Colorado campers. The Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins is praised as one of the most beautiful RV parks in the region. For history enthusiasts, Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park offers convenient access to ancient cliff dwellings. Pinon Flats Campground at Great Sand Dunes National Park is another popular option with its unique landscape.
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