Mueller State Park Campground offers exceptionally large campsites near Florissant at 7800 feet elevation. Most sites include electrical hookups with level gravel tent pads and fire pits. Winter camping is available year-round, though most glamping facilities near Florissant operate seasonally from May through October due to mountain conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Located just 6 miles from Woodland Park, Colorado Campground provides easy access to the 5-acre Manitou Lake. One visitor noted, "There's an easy path to Manitou Lake where lots of folks were fishing and boating." The lake is stocked with trout and permits non-motorized watercraft.
Hiking at Mueller State Park: With over 55 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, Mueller State Park Campground connects directly to numerous trailheads. "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring," shares Alexis B. The park maintains trails year-round with seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities.
Historic mining towns: Located at 10,000 feet elevation, Cripple Creek offers gambling, museums, and historic mine tours within 5 minutes of camp. A visitor mentioned, "Great hiking nearby and the towns of Cripple Creek and Victor are full of old mining history!" The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour descends 1,000 feet underground for $25 per adult.
What campers like
Mountain wildlife viewing: The campgrounds around Florissant regularly host wildlife visitors. At Diamond Campground & RV Park, campers report consistent wildlife encounters: "Wildlife right outside our door every morning." Deer frequently wander through campsites, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Trout fishing access: The Spillway Campground sits below Eleven Mile Reservoir dam with direct river access. "River is easy to access and the fishing is very good. This is a popular area, but the reservation system does not allow overcrowding," notes Ruth L. The area enforces catch-and-release, flies-only regulations.
Uncrowded trails: Campers appreciate the relative solitude on trails compared to busier Colorado destinations. "The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all," reports Steve C. about Mueller State Park, where hikers often spot deer, elk, and occasionally bears at safe distances.
What you should know
Altitude considerations: Most glamping locations around Florissant sit between 8,000-10,000 feet elevation. At Cripple Creek KOA, visitors should prepare for thin air: "The air is thin up here—real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it." Altitude sickness can affect unprepared visitors.
Weather patterns: Mountain weather changes rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns Bruce K. about Mueller State Park. Even summer nights drop into the 40s, requiring proper insulation and layered clothing.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season (June-August). "Reservations are a must during the season. Opens mid May - late October," advises Stephen K. about Spillway Campground. Book at least 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity-rich locations: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment for children. At Lone Duck Campground and Cabins, families find multiple amenities: "Pool, laundry room, gift shop/Grocery. Arcade, pond, clean bathrooms. Best place every. And surrounded by mountains!" These features keep children engaged between outdoor adventures.
Choose appropriate hiking distances: For families with young children, select shorter trails with interesting features. Colorado Campground provides "great hiking for little kids around the lake" according to Matthew J., offering a 1-mile loop suitable for beginners.
Plan for temperature swings: Pack extra blankets and warm clothing even in summer. Nights can drop below 40°F year-round. "We stayed in a delux tent spot with water and electric" but some campers find cabins more comfortable with unpredictable weather.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Diamond Campground & RV Park, "some sites are not very level, but others are quite level. Easy to book and pick your desired site." Bring leveling blocks and stabilizers.
Limited cell service: While some campgrounds offer wifi, connectivity varies widely. David W. notes about Diamond Campground: "Good cell reception and easy to work while on the road." Check in advance if connectivity matters for your trip.
Road access considerations: Mountain roads leading to glamping sites near Florissant can be challenging. The road to Spillway Campground has "archways through the rock on the road in make for a cool drive but limits what will make it down the road." Check height clearances and road conditions before arrival.
