Peak One Campground sits at 9,097 feet elevation near the shores of Lake Dillon. The campground operates seasonally from late May through early September, with typical mountain weather patterns including afternoon thunderstorms and cool nighttime temperatures even in summer. Sites near the shoreline often experience more wind than inland spots, which can impact tent camping during stormy weather.
What to do
Hike to Lily Pad Lake: Access this moderate 3.3-mile roundtrip trail located near Echo Lake Campground, which connects to multiple other trails. "The campground is best suited for tent or small trailers. Its high altitude, nestled in the pines. The camp host keeps the outhouses immaculate and even provided maps for the many hiking trails," reports Karen B.
Mountain biking on Frisco Peninsula: Ride the extensive trail network directly accessible from Burning Bear Campground, with options for beginners to advanced riders. "Not so many locations so come around 2p latest. Legal fire pits in designated locations. Each site has a fire pit, trees for hammocks, parking spaces picnic table near the fire pit," notes Marc F.
Explore historic areas: Visit Camp Hale Memorial, a former WWII training site for mountain troops. "Spent 2 quiet nights here in this roomy and quiet campground adjacent to the Colorado and Continental Divide Trail. Lots of great hiking and just 25 minutes north of Leadville. Crazy to think of the 15,000 or so soldiers training here during WWII," shares Garry K.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Camp Hale Memorial offers spacious camping areas with good separation. "The campsites were very spacious and overall the entire campsite, (including bathrooms) was very clean and well maintained. We booked this at the last minute midweek and there were still open sites when we came in," remarks Jenifer J.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathrooms despite remote locations. At Gold Park Campground, "The pit toilet was clean and did not smell. My 8 year old actually said it was the best one she saw all week and for a newbie camper on her first trip that says a lot!" writes Andrea S.
Proximity to water: Reservoir and creek-side camping spots are highly valued. "We stayed at spot 60 and thought it was lakefront. There's a berm between the spot and the lake, no view. Very quiet campground with generous space for most spots. Easy bike trail to town with rolling hills," says pamela R.
What you should know
Campsite availability strategies: During peak season, arrive early or have backup plans. At Halfmoon Campground, "The campground has seven sites fairly spread out from one another. Got there around 5pm on a Friday (9/9) and there was no one else there. A few more campers showed up on Saturday morning, but it wasn't ever fully booked at any point this weekend," notes Kristen.
Altitude effects: Many campsites sit above 8,000 feet, causing some visitors discomfort. "I came in from out of state and got pretty altitude effected so we had to cut the trip short, but it was lovely nonetheless," says Kristi R. about Echo Lake.
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly, even in summer. "It did unexpectedly hail for about 20 mins but we had our camper and could seek shelter," reports Julie M. about Timberline Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration: Look for campgrounds with safe nature features. At Gold Park, "We loved this site because we were able to hike along the creek and sit on the boulders and watch the fly fisherman and then hike up the hill on the other side of this campsite. Lots to explore to keep the kids busy," shares Andrea S.
Accessible activities: Choose camps near beginner-friendly trails and water. "This is a very family friendly campground! Sites are kind of close together, but you are beside the lake! And some spots have trail access to the lake, so bring your water toys!" advises Mackenzie B.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds offer quieter environments. "If your looking to party it up all night, this is not the place for you. Rick follows the quiet hours to a T!" explains Donna S. about Echo Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for luxury camping: Many glamping sites near Dillon, Colorado can't accommodate large RVs. At Cow Creek South Campground, "Love this campground. Lots of good times and good spots. Big sites for campers, right next to lake, trees and wind blocks, great to good fishing," shares Thomas B.
Leveling challenges: When glamping in Dillon, Colorado in an RV, prepare for uneven terrain. "Noticed a few people had trouble finding flat parking for RVs and vans," warns Lucy L. about Timberline Campground.
Hookup availability: Most glamping and camping options have limited services. "RV sites are VERY close together and a little close to the main road. That is the only downside. Beautiful and spacious sites surrounded by spruce trees. No potable water or electric, so plan ahead," advises Jennifer S.
