Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers luxury glamping options near Empire, Colorado. Located at 8,500-9,000 feet elevation, the area receives significant snowfall from October through May, creating seasonal limitations for some accommodations. Most glamping locations near Empire remain open from late spring through early fall, with some yurts and cabins accessible year-round with proper vehicles.
What to do
Hiking at Chicago Lakes Trail: Located near Echo Lake Campground, this 9-mile roundtrip trail offers alpine lakes and mountain views. "We spent the day hiking the nearby trails and came back to our glamping spot to relax on the deck with amazing views," noted one visitor. A camper mentioned it's "a strenuous hike to the Chicago Lakes" but worth the effort.
Mountain biking through aspen groves: Golden Gate Canyon has extensive trail systems for riders of all levels. A camper at Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon shared, "This park has great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide."
Visit nearby mountain towns: Central City's historic district is just minutes from glamping accommodations. "You are super confidently located near Black Hawk and Central City while also being near i70," says Sarah F. about Denver West-Central City KOA. The location allows easy day trips to mining towns and gambling districts.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many glamping sites offer chances to spot local wildlife. At Arapaho Bay, one camper reported, "We had many moose sightings in the campground during our stay," while another mentioned, "good wildlife sittings (moose, bald eagles, bear)."
Stargazing from private decks: The elevation and distance from urban areas create prime stargazing conditions. A visitor at Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon noted their appreciation for "unplugging for the weekend" in a location with minimal cell service, which enhances night sky viewing.
Clean, modern facilities: Many glamping locations maintain high-quality amenities. "The facilities are clean, convenient and easily accessible," reported one visitor to Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Another mentioned that "the bathrooms are clean and park rangers monitored the area often."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites need advance booking, especially during summer. At Reverend's Ridge Campground, a camper advised, "Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites," which can be challenging for those needing specific accommodations.
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. "It's high altitude, nestled in the pines. The camp host keeps the outhouses immaculate and even provided maps for the many hiking trails," notes one camper about the conditions at higher elevations.
Limited cell service: Many glamping locations have spotty connectivity. A visitor noted, "There is no cell service anywhere in the park (for my Verizon phone anyway) which I actually enjoyed." Another mentioned, "Phone service wise Verizon was very patchy but sprint seemed to have 2-3 bars."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping sites offer kid-friendly facilities. At Peak One Campground, "This is a very family friendly campground!" according to a visitor. Another mentioned it has "great facilities and was very quiet."
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "Camp management was very very friendly and welcoming," noted one visitor, while another mentioned the educational opportunities available throughout the park system.
Fire safety with children: Teaching proper campfire protocols is essential. "Sites have at least one picnic table and a fire ring," noted a camper, emphasizing the importance of supervising children around designated fire areas, especially during fire restriction seasons.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Not all glamping sites offer full RV connections. One camper at Golden Gate Canyon noted, "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."
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging. "The drive up can be a bit breathtaking, but it can be done!" advised one RVer about the mountain roads leading to glamping sites near Empire.
Winter access limitations: Many glamping locations close or become difficult to access with RVs during winter months. "We stayed in their offseason and it is still so beautiful and facilities are amazing!" reported one visitor about shoulder-season camping options.
