Top Tent Camping near Federal Heights, CO

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Federal Heights? Finding a place to camp in Colorado with your tent has never been easier. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Federal Heights, CO (73)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    49 Reviews
    96 Photos
    1317 Saves

    Five miles north of Nederland, National Forest System Road (NFSR) 226, commonly known as Gordon Gulch, turns east off of Colorado Highway 72. NFSR 226 intersects other forest roads: NFSR 314, 228, 233 and their off-shoots. There are 15 numbered, designated campsites scattered along the road system within 1.5 miles east of Highway 72. Camping is permitted in designated sites only. Take care when driving in this area. Snow and mud can persist through most of the year. The free Boulder Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Map displays National Forest System (NFS) routes open to motorized travel and is available online and at the Boulder Ranger District offfice.

    Streams; treat water for drinking.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
    Camper-submitted photo from Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir

    2. Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir

    20 Reviews
    55 Photos
    1154 Saves

    Camping is allowed at numbered designated campsites. No fee is charged. Practice Leave No Trace Principles. Camping is limited to 14 days in one location. After 14 days, your camp must be moved at least three miles away. Maximum stay is 28 days within a 60-day period. After 28 days, all property and people must leave the Roosevelt National Forest.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    3. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    37 Photos
    1142 Saves

    NOTE: Campers who build any fires face fines up to $5,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment for open fire violations. Leave No Trace must be observed, as in any outdoor space. In any season this area is prone to very strong dry winds that can pick up a hot coal from a campfire that has lain dormant for as much as three days and ignite dry vegetation, causing horrific devastation. People from outside Colorado may not understand how tinder dry this area can be. 197 homes in this area have been destroyed by wildfires. All of these fires were started by humans. Local residents overlook this area and if they see visible flame or smoke they will call the Boulder County sheriff. Any campers who require a campfire are recommended to disperse camp near Sugarloaf Mountain where fires are permitted.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Allenspark Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Allenspark Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Allenspark Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Allenspark Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Allenspark Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    4. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    54 Photos
    950 Saves

    With a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on National Forest System lands. Restrictions protect resources, minimize road damage, and reduce conflicts between landowners and visitors. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. After 14 days, the campsite must be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for another 14 days. Camping is restricted to 28 days in any 60-day period. Some areas may require the use of designated campsites, and some areas, such as Indian Peaks Wilderness, require camping permits. More than 40% of lands within Boulder Ranger District's boundaries are private property. It is your responsibility to know if you are on private or public land.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Frazer Meadow - Golden Gate Canyon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Frazer Meadow - Golden Gate Canyon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Frazer Meadow - Golden Gate Canyon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Frazer Meadow - Golden Gate Canyon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Frazer Meadow - Golden Gate Canyon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Frazer Meadow - Golden Gate Canyon State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Meadows Campground - Golden Gate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Meadows Campground - Golden Gate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Meadows Campground - Golden Gate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Meadows Campground - Golden Gate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Meadows Campground - Golden Gate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Meadows Campground - Golden Gate State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    8. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    15 Reviews
    64 Photos
    1019 Saves

    Dispersed Camping information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd577265.pdf

    With a few exceptions, dispersed camping is allowed on national forest public lands. Camping in the national forest at one location is limited to 14 consecutive days. The campsite must then be moved a minimum of three miles. Camping can then continue for an additional 14 days. Camping is restricted to a maximum of 28 days in any 60-day period.

    More than 40% of lands within the Arapaho National Forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. A map showing land ownership is recommended. It is YOUR responsibility to know if you are on private, city, county, state, national park or national forest land.

    Pack out all trash. There are no services.

    Practice Leave No Trace ethics

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    9. Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    14 Photos
    501 Saves

    The easy Ceran Saint Vrain Trail follows the South Saint Vrain Creek downstream for 1.9 miles. The trail ends at National Forest System Road 252, a rough four-wheel drive road. This road climbs 0.5 miles northwest to a four-way intersection from which it is a steep half-mile to the left up to Miller Rock. Miller Rock is a scenic high-point that offers 360-degree views. Motorized vehicles prohibited. Dispersed camping is allowed at sites that are least 200 feet away from the trailhead, trail and creek. Campfires are permissible unless seasonal restrictions are in effect (contact district office). Fishing and hunting are allowed in accordance with regulations established by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Alcohol

    $1 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill Hiker Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill Hiker Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sawmill Hiker Campground

    10. Sawmill Hiker Campground

    2 Reviews
    3 Photos
    258 Saves
    • Pets
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed

    $12 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 73 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Federal Heights

1845 Reviews of 73 Federal Heights Campgrounds


  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chandler Dispersed
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Camp Chandler Dispersed

    Beautiful Place.

    Bumpy ride up, but we were able to do it in our car SLOWLY. Absolutely beautiful place. Lots of campsite options. I was under the impression fires were allowed, as there were fire pits, but signs everywhere stating no campfires. Columbine Lake is a pretty hefty hike from the trailhead, but so worth the view. Had the entire place to ourselves pretty much all Friday. Beautiful beautiful beautiful

  • Landon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bailey Area Dispersed
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Bailey Area Dispersed

    Difficult road to get to but beautiful views

    The road here has some gnarly washboards. I had to slow down to a crawl at points because it was thrashing my rig around so much. There is also one turn on the road where if you’re not careful, I could imagine getting stuck. However, the views are incredible and it was well worth the effort. Cell signal from Verizon is extremely good, I am getting 5G UWB and download speeds of 180mbps. There’s some cool hills to climb and many great views.

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Denver West-Central City KOA

    Nicest KOA we've been to

    And in fact I believe they were KOA of the year 2023 or 2024. More expensive than we're used to, but has nice amenities. Sites level with concrete pads, fairly large. Some space between with trees. Nice metal patio furniture provided at each site(chairs, table, fire pit). Has decent showers, hot tubs, and off leash dog park. Inexpensive pancake breakfast and pizza/wings to your site are available, also an onsite store. Kind of at the top of a rise, so good views but also kind of chilly for July (60s/40s). Massive thunderstorms with hail and heavy rain two evengings (CO mountains tend to get afternoon t-storms). Communicate via text to let you know about goings on. Good radio station out of Idaho Springs KYGT 102.7 and 103.9

  • UThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Hosa Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Chief Hosa Campground

    Good proximity to Evergreen CO/EZ I-70 on/off

    Stayed in spot RV24. Easy access right off freeway and convenient to TPB start. Some nice small trails in area for easy walking. Mostly pine trees. Orderly, camp hosts seem inclined to enforce rules. Quiet.No campfire pits so no burning allowed at all and most folks seem to knock off early. Showers are available for.25/2 min with a 4 min max. Appeared old, clean.

    For road cyclists: Good place to stay for Triple Bypass

    Food aside: Cooked Hatch green chile sausage and added to Sprouts Hatch mac and cheese and put into burritos. Ate leftovers for breakfast. Low FQ (fart quotient).

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon

    Way too expensive

    I spent the night at Base Camp because the campgrounds North and South of Ned were full and it was dark and getting late. You have to be lucky with those ones to get one of the few good spots that are there. I have been to the convenience store at BC before and it was closer to Idaho Springs (I was going there the next day to meet a friend). $39 per night for a tent site is INSANE. I could have stealth camped and there was another spot I could’ve gone too but BC was close and I was tired. I guess that’s how they make their business. Begrudgingly it worked for what I needed.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    Trash+long term campers

    The place fills up on the weekend. I drove through most of the trail system and did not find a spot. Came back during the week and took a closer spot so as not to risk it. Trash is everywhere. Multiple poop spots are within 100ft of the fire pit with copious amounts of used tp lying around. Trees are slashed, cut, and the forest is not doing well. There are multiple long term campsites here so watch out for squatters. I stayed near the start and then a bit deeper, which prompted me to take photos. I forget the site numbers but honestly it’s not looking good in most places. At the very back are what look like a few nicer spots because they are hard to get to with a non off-road vehicle. It breaks my heart how this campground exists.

  • Andria R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    4x4 and tents only

    Beautiful, but really need a compact 4x4 to get into and out of parking lot and there are tent sites only. We almost didn’t make it out with our 24 ft van (checked it out but didn’t stay overnight). Very crowded on a Saturday at 4:30pm.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver East-Strasburg KOA
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Denver East-Strasburg KOA

    Quick overnight

    Not a lot of options on I 70 east of Denver for overnight parking so opted for a KOA last minute. Easy last minute check in process. Served great for a quick in and out.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    Site #6 of 33

    Finally, a nice campsite on a road that isn't horrible. There are 30+ designated, numbered, dispersed campsites on this road. Each of them have a parking area right along the road with a fire ring a short distance away surrounded by awesome rock outcroppings. The parking areas tend to be very unlevel and there are only a few that you can pull right up to your campsite. #6 had a level spot large enough for my van and the camping area just a few steps away. These are great campsites and the area is really awesome. After so many horrible roads and places closed, it was a blessing to find this spot. The road is a bit of a washboard, but that is nothing compared to most of the forest roads in Colorado. Highly recommended! Cell service with At&t in site 6 is decent. Calling is 2 bars. at least half of the sites are big rig friendly. All of the sites are 100% free.

  • Savannah B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    Perfect for a quick overnight trip

    My husband bought a new tent so we just wanted to find something kinda close to Denver but still beautiful for just a quick overnight trip. Our goal was Chinns lake but stupid Apple Maps took us here instead. It was still beautiful and there were a handful of spots still open for us. I wouldn’t recommend for a big group unless you get there early and claim the whole top but we really enjoyed it! The lake was low but still beautiful.

  • c
    Camper-submitted photo from Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site

    Great spot, minus the “no camping” signs

    We camped here after a Red Rocks show. The spot is a great area. About 20 minutes off of I-70. There are many pull offs along this road that could theoretically be good camp sites. However there are “no camping” signs, which is why I gave it 3 stars. Everything is great besides that: beautiful stars, good tent site, safe parking area.

    The spot we chose is a bit farther down the road than the one listed here. It’s in between the bend in the road. We parked at the pull off and walked down a small hill to find a good tent site and a fire ring.

    Also be aware it’s pretty chilly compared to just a few miles up the road. It was in the mid 30s at night.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverview RV Park & Campground
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Riverview RV Park & Campground

    Great stop over

    Staff were super friendly. The place did everything we needed for an overnight stay the drive in from RMNP was fantastic. Showers were clean(dated who cares, they worked. I’m not an instagrammer)

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gross Reservoir Dispersed
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Gross Reservoir Dispersed

    Great Spot, Bright Construction Lights

    Overall a very fun spot if you have a vehicle with some ground clearance to get to the nice sites by the reservoir. My Peak Edition Atlas handled it well. Only complaint is the damn project at Gross reservoir is a 24 hour site and the lights are ridiculously bright.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Pole Hill Rd Dispersed
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Pole Hill Rd Dispersed

    Camping 10/10. Off-road Trail Extreme

    I went up Pole Hill road in a 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD off-road and it took everything in me to not scrape or bottom out. Lifted 4x4 is highly recommended.

    Once you get past the off-road portion, the camping is amazing.

  • Hanna K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Ceran St. Vrain Trail Dispersed Camping

    Quiet with a lot of options

    We parked in the parking lot and walked into the valley. After a while we found quite a lot of options with fireplaces already there. So you should mostly find something.

    It is quiet, but also a popular spot for hikers so early in the morning, some people arrived. But you can camp far enough in the valley and away from the trail. Water is available if you have a purifier or filter system.

  • Levi S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Ridge Campground
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Green Ridge Campground

    Spacious and shaded

    Some of these spots have a decent shade parts of the day. Decent privacy on a few spots. Maybe 10% full on a Wednesday night in September.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Larkspur
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Larkspur

    Nice but pricey

    Overall Nice site. Stayed one night. Too pricey for a stopover. Propane fire pit looks nice but could not use. Must have a 20 pound tank. Store was closed as we arrived at 5 pm.
    Train and traffic noise as expected for location. Lot of stuff for kids. Nice facilities. Clean park.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gross Reservoir Dispersed
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Gross Reservoir Dispersed

    Road Closed Mid-September

    There is no discernible reason that the road is closed 2 miles before where this app says the site is. Internet search says it should be open til middle of November unless there is some weather or other issue. Lovely weather, locked gate.

  • Matthew L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Granby
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Lake Granby

    Awesome Primitive Beach Campsite

    There are tons of options along the shore of the lake in this area. We kayaked into our campsite from Sunset Point campground on Labor day weekend and didn't have any issues finding a spot. There was lots of boat activity during the day but it slowed down in the evening.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Chatfield State Park Campground

    Greast Spot

    Stayed the last night with a rental RV that we needed to return to Denver by 10;30 AM.  Campground has an unusual lay out with "loops" being 3 rings of sites.  Sites are spread out well.  Lots of privacy,  Within an hour's drive of the RV rental return location (with a Costco on the way to fill the gas tank).  Some sites have elec/water/sewer at the sites.  Some have just electrical - this was our site.  A communal water/sewer was available with ability to handle two vehicles at the same time.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    Everything We Hoped For!

    We loved this campground for the stunning views, super clean bathrooms, and the easy access to hiking in RMNP. So many trails to choose from, either directly from the campground, or across the Bear Lake Road to the Park N Ride. Can't say enough about the views, especially if your site is in the open center area like ours was at C119.  There are lots of sites with shade as well. Sites are pretty close together but since we did not take our pups (they can't go on the park trails) we didn't mind. 

    Very difficult to snag a reservation but daily persistence paid off and we got one night which was the last night of their season. So glad we did. Will try again for next year!



Guide to Federal Heights

Camping near Federal Heights, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters. We saw a weasel and a flock of turkeys."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers, perfect for fishing. A review noted, "We saw over 100 elk in RMNP," indicating the wildlife you might encounter while fishing.
  • Paddleboarding: Chatfield State Park is great for water sports. One visitor said, "Loved the paddle board experience," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.

What campers like:

  • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Glacier Basin Campground offer stunning mountain views. A reviewer shared, "Great campground with beautiful views of the mountains!"
  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake said, "Clean bathrooms with hot pay showers which are $2 for 6 minutes."
  • Wildlife sightings: Many campgrounds are home to various wildlife. A camper at East Portal Campground mentioned, "We saw elk and mule deer in the campground on multiple occasions."

What you should know:

  • Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Moraine Park Campground noted, "It's a bit overcrowded. Lots of beetle damage."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A camper at Prospector Campground mentioned, "There is no water, no electric, no sewer, but they do have pit toilets."
  • Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close during certain months. A review for Glacier Basin Campground stated, "Closed for construction from May 23 to June 24 so check website."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One camper at East Portal Campground said, "Big playground and not crazy expensive."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."
  • Keep an eye on the weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake noted, "It gets windy in the afternoon so might want to skip the awning/canopy."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Chatfield State Park Campground said, "We had plenty of room to center our rig while leaving room for our tow dolly and SUV."
  • Be ready for noise: Some campgrounds may have noise from nearby activities. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7AM to the sound of model airplanes."
  • Plan for amenities: Look for campgrounds with showers and laundry facilities. A camper at Cherry Creek State Park Campground noted, "The building closest to the campground office also has a laundry that works via coins or pay via app."

Camping near Federal Heights, Colorado, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Federal Heights, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Federal Heights, CO is Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area with a 3.6-star rating from 49 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Federal Heights, CO?

    TheDyrt.com has all 73 tent camping locations near Federal Heights, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.