Located about 10 miles northeast of Denver, Eastlake sits at approximately 5,280 feet elevation where the plains meet the foothills. The region experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and cold winters that can drop below 20°F. Camping options range from full-service state parks to primitive dispersed sites, with most established campgrounds requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers extensive multi-use trails. "The park is enormous. The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts. The park feels like it's far from the city, but the drive is easy for a weekend camping trip!" according to Steph A.
Water recreation: At Cherry Creek State Park Campground, campers can enjoy the swim beach. "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. The park also features boating options, though one visitor observed "the boat traffic was awful" during peak times.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds provide opportunities to spot native animals. At East Portal Campground, "Mule deer came through every evening right by our camper to eat grass. One morning 3 large Bull Elk and a young bull came through the valley and up through the campground," Jennifer G. reported.
What campers like
Reservoir access: Chatfield State Park attracts visitors for its water activities. "Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," shares Rick. The park's reservoir serves as a focal point for recreation.
Scenic drives: The approach to many campgrounds offers visual rewards. "The drive from Golden up into the park is beautiful and you truly feel like you are leaving the noise of Denver and the metro behind," writes Amber B. about her journey to Golden Gate Canyon.
Proximity to attractions: Bear Creek Lake Park balances wilderness with convenience. "Proximity to Red Rocks amphitheater, Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and a genuine braying donkey were a huge plus," says Kandisa S. Jennifer L. adds it has "great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas."
What you should know
Capacity limitations: Cherry Creek's popularity creates access challenges. "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."
Site spacing varies: Many campers note proximity concerns. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, "the campsites are great" but one camper warned about peak times: "Given that this is so close to boulder, a ton of people come here. Our campsite definitely had litter laying around which was really sad to see."
Additional fees: Most parks charge entrance fees beyond camping costs. At Hermits Hollow, campers report: "Campsites average prices, but they add an entrance fee to the park for each day on top of the fee." This daily fee structure is common at Colorado state parks.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Indian Paintbrush Campground offers family amenities. "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., highlighting activities suitable for various ages.
Equestrian-friendly parks: While dedicated horse facilities are limited, some parks accommodate equestrians. At Bear Creek Lake Park, Jennifer L. notes the presence of "horse stables and ring," providing options for families interested in horseback activities.
Noise considerations: For quieter family camping, timing matters. Golden Gate Canyon campers observe: "Child friendly... such a beautiful place. Trails are amazing. Although the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience." Weekday visits typically offer more tranquility.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Reverend's Ridge Campground provides RV-friendly sites. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you to situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room," reports Dennis G.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access. For Winiger Ridge, Graham S. warns: "Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
Site levelness: Be prepared for uneven terrain. Rich M. notes about Reverend's Ridge: "The sites are not very level so be prepared to use your blocks." This is common throughout the foothills and mountain campgrounds near Eastlake.
