Best Campgrounds near Englewood, CO
Camping options near Englewood, Colorado range from fully developed state park campgrounds to dispersed sites in surrounding national forests. Within 30 miles of the city, campers can access established facilities at Cherry Creek and Chatfield State Parks, which both accommodate tent and RV camping with hookups and amenities. These two state parks provide convenient options for local overnight stays while still offering outdoor recreation opportunities in proximity to the Denver metro area.
Road conditions to most established campgrounds in the region are generally good, though sites at higher elevations may require high-clearance vehicles, particularly when accessing dispersed camping areas like Gordon Gulch. Many campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operation schedules, with some closing during winter months. Bear Creek Lake Park, for example, operates from April through October, while both Cherry Creek and Chatfield remain open year-round for camping. Elevation plays a significant role in planning, as temperatures can vary considerably between urban and mountain sites. A visitor to Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area noted that "the elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds."
Public lands surrounding Englewood provide varied camping experiences with distinctly different amenities. Established campgrounds like Cherry Creek and Chatfield State Parks offer electric hookups, showers, and reservable sites, making them suitable for both tent and RV campers seeking more creature comforts. More primitive options can be found in the surrounding national forests, though these require additional preparation. According to feedback on The Dyrt, campers seeking a more remote experience should consider that "Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites." Cell service varies considerably across the region, with reliable coverage at developed campgrounds near the city and spotty or nonexistent service in more remote areas at higher elevations.