Glamping opportunities near Denver, Colorado balance mountain recreation with comfortable accommodations. Denver sits at 5,280 feet elevation, with many campsites extending up to 8,500 feet in the surrounding foothills. Temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer, with 30-degree temperature swings common between day and night at higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Water activities at Cherry Creek State Park: The 880-acre reservoir provides swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities from spring through fall. "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one," notes Kay S. at Cherry Creek State Park Campground.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers extensive trail networks for mountain biking enthusiasts. "Many multiuse trails. Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view," shares Diana M. who visited Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Horseback riding and archery: Bear Creek Lake Park includes stables and an archery range alongside camping facilities. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," reports Joshua H.
What campers like
Convenient mountain access with city amenities: Campsites around Denver offer mountain experiences without long drives. "While this campground is minutes from the city and seconds from a highway, at night you feel like you are in a quiet, mountain campsite with stars to gaze for days. Proximity to Red Rocks amphitheater, Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and a genuine braying donkey were a huge plus," explains Kandisa S. about Indian Paintbrush Campground.
Water recreation options: Multiple parks offer lake access for various water activities. "Chatfield is such a great park; I've spent so much time biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, spending time with family; picnics areas are even great to have lunch. The dog park is by far the best," notes Jenny P. at Chatfield State Park Campground.
Variety of accommodation types: Many parks offer alternatives to tent camping. "The yurt was awesome and we tent camped last night please come visit and see for yourself they have archery, a beach, horse stables and ring, large lake to fish, clean bathrooms and courthouses," shares Rebecca J. about her glamping experience.
What you should know
Campground capacity issues: Popular parks fill quickly, especially during peak season. "If you want to get into the Park, suggest you go EARLY, EARLY, EARLY in the day. Traffic backs up all the way from the Entrance on Parker Rd to the Entrance Booth on weekends and holidays. Plan on an hour OR MORE to just get to the booth. Once the capacity for the Park is reached, you will not be allowed in."
Weather considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds experience significant temperature fluctuations. "Make sure if you have a tent it is well tied in. Wind was pretty intense since we were in the middle of the field. Most of our stakes came out despite being hammered in, we relied on luggage in the tent to keep it down," advises Amy S. from Standley Lake Regional Park.
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varied site quality and terrain. "We got site 47, which is labeled as an RV site, but it is NOT suitable for pop up campers. The site doesn't have even a hint of a levelable spot. The rangers weren't very helpful the first night, and we had to speak with the head ranger to get permission to setup on our friends site, #46, which is a great size and worlds more level!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's activities. "This place is great for little kids. From flag raising in the morning to hay rides, all day activities to the camp fire story times there is something for every kids to keep busy. The staff is amazing and friendly every time," says Deanna M. about Jellystone Park at Larkspur.
Playground access: Several parks feature playgrounds for children. "Great campground, well kept. Just minutes south of Denver. With decent facilities and a playground for kiddos," notes Jessica V. about Chatfield State Park.
Nature programs: Many Denver-area parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "The campground is in a beautiful area near Golden. There are plenty of hiking trails in the park some easy some difficult. Make sure you leave out prepared," advises Rich M.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookup locations: Check connection locations before arrival. "Connections are a little far for some RV models, so make sure you have extensions for cords and hoses just in case. The campground advertises a lot of conveniences like pizza orders delivered to your site," explains Christopher H.
Site leveling challenges: Many mountain campsites require leveling equipment. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables," reports Dennis G.
Off-season glamping options: RV campers can find year-round availability at select sites. "This KOA is perched up in between the most beautiful outlooks. The staff is so kind and welcoming, and the amenities are well kept!" shares Saige M. from Denver West-Central City KOA, where glamping near Denver continues even in cooler months.
