Camping sites near Evergreen, Colorado range from established campgrounds to free dispersed areas in the Pike and Arapaho National Forests. Located at elevations between 7,000-10,000 feet, the region experiences wide temperature swings, with summer nights dipping into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Mountain thunderstorms frequently develop during summer afternoons, requiring campers to secure tents and equipment before heading out for daytime activities.
What to do
Hike the Colorado Trail sections: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area provides access to multiple trail networks. "This free campground is perfect! We hiked out to the 96 burn area to explore and we ended up doing a nice 7 mile loop to get down to the creek for a cool down," notes a visitor to Buffalo Creek Recreation Area.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The trails around Buffalo Creek are particularly popular with riders. "Great camping spot, esp, if you like mountain biking. Not whistler in terms of terrain but plenty of trails for various ability levels," shares a camper who visited in February.
Fishing opportunities: Clear Creek offers accessible fishing spots right from town. "There is so much to do at this location; aside from the sectioned off RV area, there are lots of paths and locals parks to adventure around. Our favorite is the fishing, so much fun fishing in all the different spots along the creek," according to a reviewer at Clear Creek RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning drives provide opportunities for seeing local wildlife. "Mother Nature: This was a phenomenal state park. Many multiuse trails. Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose," shares a camper who stayed at Reverend's Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Less crowded hiking alternatives: While many tourists head to popular spots, local campgrounds offer quieter alternatives. "We stayed here in early June to avoid the chaos of RMNP and were not disappointed. 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," explains a camper from Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon.
Proximity to recreation: Many sites offer immediate access to outdoor activities. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," notes a visitor to Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park.
Altitude acclimation: Campers appreciate the mid-elevation locations for adjusting to higher altitudes. "We're getting ready to boondock for a bit. Instead of overnighting at a truck spot we snagged site 13 at about noon, same day. Weather was super pleasant and cool enough at night to have windows open on July 10th," shares a visitor to Chief Hosa Campground.
Water features: Many campgrounds offer access to lakes or streams. "Great views of mountains. Just minutes south of Denver. With decent facilities and a playground for kiddos," notes a Chatfield State Park camper.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Bans are common throughout summer months. "There is an active fire ban in the area and the neighbors were lighting 5ft tall fires with gasoline which put us at risk. If you are going to be camping in BLM or Wildlife Areas please follow the restrictions," warns a Buffalo Creek Recreation Area camper.
Site availability challenges: Free dispersed camping areas fill quickly. "Beautiful spot with easy access to lots of trails and Wellington lake. Only downside is that it is very difficult to find a spot on a weekend. We got up there around 6:30pm on Friday night and after driving around for a couple hours ended up bailing and going home," explains a visitor to Buffalo Creek.
Weather preparedness: Conditions change rapidly at higher elevations. "It's high altitude, nestled in the pines. The camp host keeps the outhouses immaculate and even provided maps for the many hiking trails," mentions a visitor to Echo Lake Campground.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. "Water pump is not functioning as of 6/24, so bring your own water. Busy area with tourists and traffic to Mt Evans. Road noise settles down after dark," notes an Echo Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choosing family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds cater better to children than others. "There is a lodge close by in case you want a hot meal at some point as well. Pit toilets were exactly as you'd expect," shares a visitor to Echo Lake Campground.
Accessible activities for all ages: Look for campgrounds with varied recreational options. "This site got a little grungy for a couple of years, but it's been cleaned up and looking great!" notes a camper at Indian Paintbrush Campground.
Playgrounds and facilities: Some sites offer dedicated children's areas. "The campground has a pool and hot tub. The play set for kids is small. The bathrooms are very clean. The staff is helpful," mentions a Colorado camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer nature programs. "Walk up the hill to the open space adjacent to the campground for a view of the mountains and the city," suggests a Dakota Ridge visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water access varies significantly. "Reverend ridge is a favorite of ours. Plenty of space between sites, electricity. Wooded and scenic," shares an RVer who stayed at Reverend's Ridge.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer this service. "Great pricing with only about a $20 premium to dump/fill at Love's and electric/water hookups with dump station included. Really pretty spot," notes a camper at Chief Hosa.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require significant 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," explains a visitor to Reverend's Ridge.
Road access considerations: Not all camping areas have good RV access. "There are some sites that are better than others for group sizes and it isn't very RV friendly. 550 is a washboard road that ends up at Wellington Lake," warns a Buffalo Creek visitor.
