Best Glamping near Fort Collins, CO

Do you enjoy camping but don't want to rough it? Glamping is a great option. Glamping offers the perfect opportunity to explore Fort Collins and stay off the beaten path. You're sure to find glamping for your Colorado camping adventure.

Best Glamping Sites Near Fort Collins, Colorado (40)

    The Dyrt's photo of glamping accommodations at Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO

    1. Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    56 Reviews
    216 Photos
    703 Saves
    Estes Park, Colorado

    Overview

    Glacier Basin Campground is currently closed for the winter 2024/2025 season. Glacier Basin Campground will open for the summer 2025 camping season on Thursday, May 22. During the summer season, all campsites at Glacier Basin Campground are available by reservation only. Reservations must be made online at www.recreation.gov, through the Recreation.gov Mobile App, or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Glacier Basin Campground is located on the east side of RMNP at an elevation of 8,500 feet. There are 150 campsites available. To get to Glacier Basin Campground, drive up Bear Lake Road approximately 5 miles. The entrance to Glacier Basin Campground is across from the Park & Ride Parking Area. Any sites that are open are listed as "A" for available; this means those campsites are available to be reserved. Any campsite listed as _ NR _ has Not Yet Released; this means that those campsites are not yet available to be reserved. A number of campsites are available to be reserved up to 6-months in advance on a rolling window. Some campsites are available to be reserved 2-weeks prior to your desired camping date. Some campsites are available to be reserved 1-week prior to your desired camping date. Group campsites are available to be reserved 1-year in advance on a rolling window. Is a Timed Entry Reservation Included with my Camping Reservation? Yes. Campers with reservations for Glacier Basin Campground have a "Timed Entry+ Bear Lake Road" reservation included with your camping reservation. Your campground reservation will serve as your vehicle timed entry reservation. Campers can enter RMNP via the Grand Lake, Beaver Meadows or Fall River Entrances beginning at 1 p.m. on the first day of your camping reservation. Remember to print and bring a copy of your campground reservation with you and keep this in your vehicle. You will be asked to show your campground reservation confirmation at the park's entrance station upon arrival. When Can I Check into My Campsite? Check In begins at 1 p.m. for all campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park. What Time is Check Out? All campers must check out of their campsites in Rocky Mountain National Park by noon. How Many Nights Can I Stay at Glacier Basin Campground? In Rocky Mountain National Park, there is a 7-night limit for all campgrounds during the summer season. This means that campers can stay a total of 7 nights inside the park. This limit includes overnight stays at all campgrounds. For instance, a camper could spend 7 nights at Glacier Basin Campground or they could stay 3 nights at Glacier Basin Campground and 4 at Timber Creek Campground.

    Recreation

    Rocky Mountain National Park has over 350 miles of hiking trails that range from flat lakeside strolls to steep mountain climbs. One of the most popular activities in the park is wildlife viewing. There are excellent wildlife viewing opportunities to see elk, Mule deer, Bighorn sheep, hawks, a wide range of songbirds and more throughout the park. Rocky Mountain National Park offers some unforgettable scenic views along of the land above trees, over 1/3 of the park is alpine tundra. Enjoy incredible scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road.

    Natural Features

    A pleasant mix of Douglas fir, Lodgepole pine, Ponderosa pine and the occasional Engelmann spruce forests the campground, offering equal amounts of sun and shade. Grasses, shrubs and seasonal wildflowers fill the open meadows. Wildlife is plentiful in the park, and while mule deer and the majestic Rocky Mountain elk are the most commonly seen, black bear, coyote, bighorn sheep and moose inhabit the region as well.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Town of Estes Park is a short drive from the campground, located outside of RMNPs Beaver Meadows and Fall River Entrances. Dining, shopping, rafting, fly fishing, horseback riding, and golfing opportunities await. Lake Estes offers boating, sailboarding, and fishing.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 - $70 / night

    OAK M.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA near Laporte, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA near Laporte, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA near Laporte, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA near Laporte, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA near Laporte, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA near Laporte, CO

    2. Fort Collins Lakeside KOA

    21 Reviews
    61 Photos
    138 Saves
    Laporte, Colorado

    Make us your base camp for touring the Front Range of Colorado. We are located in the NW corner of Fort Collins, just five minutes from Colorado State University, ten minutes from Poudre Canyon and within one hour of Laramie, Cheyenne, Boulder, Estes Park, Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park. Our big-rig-friendly RV sites have 50/30 amp, water, sewer, WiFi and cable. Tent sites, cabins, and deluxe cabins are available to accommodate any kind of camper. Schedule your next group outing or family reunion with us. We have two conference rooms, a large pavilion and a small gazebo for special events. Our onsite recreation will keep the whole family busy with mini golf, bumper boats, paddle boats and a jumping pad. We're also happy to serve you breakfast & pizza at our chuck wagon (Memorial Day- Labor Day). Don't miss our special activities on Saturdays during the summer!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake near Estes Park, CO

    3. Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake

    44 Reviews
    135 Photos
    425 Saves
    Estes Park, Colorado

    This campground with 89 RV sites and 28 tent sites is the perfect destination for all types of camping enthusiasts from retired big riggers to families who enjoy the simple comforts of tent camping.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Riverview RV Park & Campground near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Riverview RV Park & Campground near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Riverview RV Park & Campground near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Riverview RV Park & Campground near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Riverview RV Park & Campground near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Riverview RV Park & Campground near Masonville, CO

    4. Riverview RV Park & Campground

    17 Reviews
    25 Photos
    112 Saves
    Masonville, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Crystal C.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Estes Park KOA near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park KOA near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park KOA near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park KOA near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park KOA near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Estes Park KOA near Estes Park, CO

    5. Estes Park KOA

    24 Reviews
    44 Photos
    195 Saves
    Estes Park, Colorado

    At 7,500 feet, this campground is an ideal base camp for exploring the town of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.

    Tent and RV sites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Maureen A.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park, CO

    6. Hermit Park Open Space

    18 Reviews
    40 Photos
    332 Saves
    Estes Park, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $30 - $120 / night

    Danielle V.'s photo of glamping accommodations at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park near Estes Park, CO

    7. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Estes Park

    16 Reviews
    43 Photos
    163 Saves
    Estes Park, Colorado

    Our Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ of Estes Campground in Estes Park, CO, is the perfect campground and RV park for your family to explore nature! Jellystone Park is the ideal campground and RV park for your family vacation. You can take in awe-inspiring views surrounding this spectacular campground. Your family will settle for storytelling and s’mores by the campfire—a perfect pastime to end a day of fun activities. Our campground presents the best in camping for the family. We are excited to see you soon!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay near Masonville, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay near Masonville, CO

    8. Horsetooth Reservoir County Park South Bay

    8 Reviews
    23 Photos
    87 Saves
    Masonville, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo at South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake near Lyons, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake near Lyons, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake near Lyons, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake near Lyons, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake near Lyons, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake near Lyons, CO

    9. South Shore Campgrounds at Carter Lake

    8 Reviews
    15 Photos
    185 Saves
    Lyons, Colorado

    Larimer County Natural Resources has over 400 campsites in a variety of beautiful locations in northern Colorado. Our campsites vary from electric and full-hookup sites for your RV to walk-in and standard sites perfect for tent camping. Information about what types of sites are available at each campground, including the maximum RV length of a site, is available on our reservations website. Please keep in mind that our campgrounds fill spring, summer and fall weekends, so plan ahead – or come during the week! We hope you have a wonderful camping trip in Larimer County!

    March 1 - October 31: Sites can be reserved from 180 days to 1 day in advance of the arrival date at www.larimercamping.com or by calling the reservation call center at 1-800-397-7795. Sites that are not reserved in advance become available that day as first-come, first-served for people who are physically present at the parks. Same day reservations will ONLY be accepted at park visitor centers during regular business hours. These sites cannot be held over the phone, nor can their availability be guaranteed prior to arrival in-person.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow near Estes Park, CO
    Camper-submitted photo at Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow near Estes Park, CO

    10. Hermit Open Space County Park Hermits Hollow

    10 Reviews
    22 Photos
    156 Saves
    Estes Park, Colorado
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
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Showing results 1-10 of 40 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews near Fort Collins, Colorado

460 Reviews of 40 Fort Collins Campgrounds


  • Haley K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Estes Park KOA
    Jul. 5, 2019

    Estes Park KOA

    Decent

    Decent campground. Showers, bathrooms, laundry available. More “glamping” than camping

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Dispersed Camping at American Lakes

    This is one of my all-time favorite places to hike and camp in Colorado. I have not yet stayed in any of the campgrounds but have backpacked to the top of the American Lakes Trail. Not only is this hike fantasticly beautiful and full of wildlife (tons of moose especially) but there is great dispersed camping along the trails. You simply cannot find more scenic and free camping in Colorado. I would highly recommended camping anywhere in State Forest State Park!

    Also, there are quite a few huts, cabins and yurts that can be rented year round in SFSP!

  • Karen
    Camper-submitted photo from Arapaho Valley Ranch
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Arapaho Valley Ranch

    Dump

    $90 for dry camping!!?? Rip off. And YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO USE THE SHOWERS. They are for glamping sites only! The only thing good was we had a nice view. It's very difficult to get into though.

  • Laura K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Collins Lakeside KOA
    May. 15, 2020

    Fort Collins Lakeside KOA

    Clean, beautiful and fun place to stay

    Came here for two days and loved it.  Nice staff, clean campground and facilities and a nice set of scenery to match.  Fort Collins is a nice college town and has restaurants, shopping and a nice downtown.  The campground has a ton of activities for families to do on site.  A nice store and everything you need right there.  A great place to hang out.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from CanyonSide Campground
    Jul. 21, 2020

    CanyonSide Campground

    Love it

    Loved it, Went on an adventure with my husband, we booked a tent site here because it is cannabis friendly. Which it is. The Hosts are very nice and Accommodating. The views were amazing, met some great people, and chipmunks.
    The drive to Fort Collins is about an hour, however it's a beautiful trip. You are a short time away from Chambers Lake, and the Reservoir. Highly recommend this area.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Longs Peak Lantern
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Longs Peak Lantern

    Escape from the city in style

    Jake from the Dyrt here!  The Longs Peak Lantern Glamping Tent is a great spot to escape from the city without going too far, and its a great jumping off point to visit Rocky Mountain National Park!  Check them out and share some pictures you take on your trip!

  • Becky S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Arapaho Valley Ranch
    Jun. 20, 2018

    Arapaho Valley Ranch

    We love Arapaho Valley Ranch!

    There are community fire pits, stocked trout pond, access to the river, acres of woodland, and Colorado’s smallest bar! We love the vibe at AVR and the owners are amazing. Occassionally you can catch live music and there are several historic buildings they are restoring. We have a few friends that don’t camp which is okay because they also offering glamping, tipis, cabins, and a lodge. Trust me... one stay and you’ll be booking another one soon after!

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Collins Lakeside KOA
    Jul. 8, 2021

    Fort Collins Lakeside KOA

    Great KOA!

    We had the good fortune to stay at the Lakeside KOA during our recent trip to Fort Collins. The sites are spacious, and the campground is run well.

    Talk about luck! We had one of two RV sites up near the lake. They were incredibly roomy, level, and shaded! There is a fantastic walking trail around the lake and saw a good number of fellow campers fishing off of the pier.

    The staff was very friendly and attentive, and the restrooms were clean and private. The only issue that we ran into was the Cottonwood trees were blowing their seeds when we were there (second week in June). Definitely felt like it was snowing but having the trees and shade was well-worth the annoyance of shaking off the cotton seeds.

    We highly recommend this well-run and spacious KOA if visiting the Fort Collins area. Oh... as of June 2021, you do need to have reservations to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. Highly recommend booking well in advance, but if you forget or didn't know, the NPS does release 25% (or 33%... can't remember exactly) of the next day's passes the night before precisely at 5pm. We had three of us online at 5pm, and all three of us were able to access passes (only one of us actually got the passes for the group). By 5:03pm though, they were all gone.

    Cheers!

  • Zann R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Jul. 12, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Crags campground, camping (mostly) as it should be

    This is not 'glamping'. This is a pitch your tent, start a fire, watch the deer walk thru type campground. Beautiful views of the Rockies, trails for all levels of hiking. My only tip--bring your own TP, they kept running out. And a jacket, nights are chilly at this altitude. No trailers, RVS allowed as tiny, winding dirt road to get there.

  • Karen B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Estes Park KOA
    Jul. 13, 2017

    Estes Park KOA

    Clean but a bit too close for comfort

    I can't give any KOA a 5 star. It's the extreme of glamping. The only reason we stayed here cause my husband was running a marathon and hotels were booked and other camp grounds were booked. This was our last option. The people were amazing, the bathrooms super clean, lots to do for families with kids. But like I said it's just about too close to other campers. But you can see the mountains, enjoy the fresh air and go else where to have your mountain outdoor fun! :)

  • Teresa M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Arapaho Valley Ranch
    Jan. 20, 2021

    Arapaho Valley Ranch

    A must do!

    This place is one of my favorites. The campsites are very well taken care of. Camp host is nearby and helpful if you have any questions or concerns. Perfect location for paddle boarding, kayaks and fishing. Sites range from tent camping, Trailer, on-site Tee Pee's, cabins to glamping. They generally have resident moose that love to hang out in and around the property. Well kept playground for your Littles as well as complimentary canoes that can be used on their on-site pond. The owners are awesome and super friendly.

  • Daisee Mae S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North Fork Poudre Campground
    Oct. 21, 2022

    North Fork Poudre Campground

    Dispersed, Poudre Park

    If you drive about 9 miles or so down the road you’ll come to a sign that points you towards the University (Poudre Park Road).

    More of a dirt road than anything but wide for large vehicles. Semis and trucks with large trailers and campers up and down the mountain all day and night.

    It’s a road that dead ends at the University, so a lot of student traffic all day.

    We seen maybe one ranger patrol the whole 3 weeks we were there. You can camp here all year long. No stay limit.

    No bathrooms, water or trash disposal. Nearest town besides Fort Collins is about 13 miles away.

    Not quiet at all. Most camp spots are entirely too close together, so close it’s like a huge party spot. The day we left was because there was a fire ban and somewhere around 10 people showed up with chainsaws and were going to have a fire. They weren’t the nicest people and had a lot of dogs as well. No privacy.

    The road was so steep that our transmission overflowed and left us stranded for a few days past what we wanted to be there for (when we took a trip into town and back).

    Nowhere near water. We walked 3 miles to get to the closest creek (they call them rivers there).

    Wildlife was there but not abundant because of the traffic.

    Very beautiful and i would definitely give it another go if we had a more updated camper.

    Absolutely zero cell service!

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Collins Lakeside KOA
    Jun. 21, 2022

    Fort Collins Lakeside KOA

    Holiday KOA

         This is a KOA you come to stay a while. There's LOADS of stuff to do for kids & there are a LOT of kids who visit with their parents. Bounce house, jumping pillow, inflatable slide, basketball, shuffle board, pickleball, fishing, paddleboats in the shape of a swan/dragon/flamingo, a pool AND splashpad. There's a cute train that takes kids & parents through the campground. This is kid paradise & there's a lot of them on bikes & running around the campground.

           There was just my husband & I camping here. My husband enjoyed the catch & release fishing. Fishing was good according to him. I liked the hiking trail around the pond. We were able to have a fire. Our site was on the end, close to the bathroom. It was the site I had talked to the reservation line lady, so I was happy. Two of the sites actually had hot tubs! For more money of course.  

        The problems- I received a text the morning of our arrival saying if we needed anything to text& they'd get back to us. I had a question about directions to the KOA, since they said on the email not to use GPS. I texted around 9am & NEVER got a response. EVER! They continued to text me throughout the stay for this & that.

        We should have followed the GPS directions, since the way the KOA took us was through town & was completely nerve wracking.

        The staff was courteous, but not really friendly. Asked for some area info. Staff member said they had a rack with info. A small table top one with restaurants. She also had a tear off map of Fort Collins which was helpful. Seemed put out that I asked. 

         The bathrooms turned out to be 5 unisex toilet/shower combos, which are pretty inconvenient when you need to poop  & all of them are taken by people showering. There are 3 other restrooms in the KOA, but we only used the one by site 84. The bathrooms seemed to always need attention. I think the employees needed to visit more than once a day. Not really KOA clean.

  • Isabelle K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Collins Lakeside KOA
    May. 9, 2018

    Fort Collins Lakeside KOA

    Resort style amenities just outside of town!

    This was my first time staying at a KOA campground and I was blown away by the amenities offered here. Upon first pulling up to the campground, I was met by a security checkpoint and was directed to the main office to register and obtain a car pass. The attention to detail and security measures were another surprise to me, as I have always been more accustomed to primitive campgrounds. As previously mentioned, I was astounded by the variety of amenities offered to guests including wifi, a pool, mini golf, a massive playground, arcade, volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits and more. This all in addition to the usual premium campground amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, RV dump station, camp sinks, an office store with basic goods and snacks, etc. 

    This campground is super family friendly and seems to be much more focused on offering RV sites and cabin type lodging. As I am a tent camper, my review will be focused on what is offered for those at a tent site. There are 5 tent sites, which are only available from May 1stto September 30th. The sites are rather close together but in a lovely location right along the lake. The sites cost $45/night on week days and $50/night on weekends for one or two people with a single vehicle, additional guests cost $10/night, additional car $5/night and fire ring rentals are $5/night. Tent sites include a parking spot, a raised and level tent platform, picnic table and grill. Open fires, hammocks and clotheslines are not allowed even at the tent sites. 

    Overall, this campground provides a very family oriented environment with luxurious amenities. This campground would be a great option for those wanting a camping experience without having to “rough it” whatsoever. The RV sites and cabin lodging also provide unique options for those not wanting to sleep in a tent. The price for tent camping seemed a bit steep for me, but made sense considering all of the facilities offered. The location just outside of Fort Collins provides easy access to town while still allowing for a more rural experience.

  • Amanda M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Aug. 7, 2018

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Gorgeous Rocky Mountain Camping - North Michigan Campground

    We found State Forest State Park on a whim this past July 2018. We were on a road trip from California to Colorado for a wedding in Granby, CO. We were camping in Utah at Dinosaur National Monument, but due to the smoke from a nearby wildfire and the high heat of the summer, we decided to cut our stay one day short, and head over to the Rockies a day early. We wanted to be fairly close to our final destinations, Granby then RMNP, but wanted to go somewhere we hadn’t been before. My boyfriend and I are both animal lovers, and our dream was to finally see a moose on this trip out to Colorado. In researching moosey areas on the internet, we found the Moose Visitor Center at State Forest State Park. We figured that a place with a Moose Visitors Center was as moosey as it comes, so we reserved a site online and headed out to Colorado.

    It was late afternoon when we arrived, but since we had already eaten, we didn’t have much to do besides set up our tent and sleeping pads for the night. Getting to the campground and visitors center is easy as they are both right off the highways 41 and 14, but it is quite a drive to get to, in general. The scenery is so pretty, that we did not mind the drive to or from SFSP. North Michigan Campground is right by a lake, it is pretty.

    The sites are primitive - each site had picnic benches and a firepit, but at the time we visited there was a Stage 2 fire ban in place, so we couldn’t have a campfire. The fire ban included the burning of wood and charcoal - using a propane stove was OK.

    There were pit toilets, and they were well maintained. The sites appeared to have once had more in the way of trees and shade, but it looks as though SFSP was hit by the pine beetles, like so much of Colorado. It’s sad to see the destruction the beetles left in their wake, and fewer trees mean less privacy and less shade for tent campers. We would have had a hard time setting up extra tarps in case it had rained that evening. Bringing an easy-up or canopy would be smart in the summer to protect against sun and heat, or a passing thunderstorm.

    WARNING: You ARE in bear country and there were no bear bins in the campground - be bear safe and bear smart, lock all of your food and toiletries inside your car at night. I was once told by a ranger in Yosemite NP that bears can recognize coolers when peering into car windows, so we always put a towel and gear over our coolers when keeping them in the car overnight.

    We packed up early and arrived at the Moose Visitors Center when they opened. The visitors center was educational and interesting, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. After studying some maps of the area with the rangers, we decided to try our luck driving along Highway 14 towards Fort Collins.

    We stopped at various spots along the highway, and ended up walking around the Joe Wright Reservoir for a while. Thunderheads were rolling in, and some rain and thunder started, so we decided to start making our way back towards SFSP then head down to Granby, our next stop. We were around Cameron Pass and had given up on seeing any moose when we saw traffic slowing and cars stopped alongside the road - there were two young bull moose snacking by a small river on the side of the road! We pulled over, turned our hazard lights on, grabbed the camera, and jumped out to see our first moose. The moose seemed unconcerned by their growing audience, and continued to chomp away on their lunch - there was a small ravine between the moose and their human audience, so neither moose nor humans felt threatened.

    According to the staff at the Moose Visitor Center, there are only about 1,000 moose in the entire state of Colorado - and here we stumbled across two moose at once! We were ecstatic, and so happy we made the impromptu, unplanned trip out to State Forest State Park! We returned to the Moose Visitors Center to share the experience with the rangers (they record the specifics of moose sightings in the area on a board), and the ranger gave us a high five for spotting our first ever moose.

    I would like to return to the area someday to hike, I imagine the nearby trails must be goregous!

    CAMPSITE SPECS

    Fees: $18/night

    Plumbed Toilets: NO - pit

    Drinking Water: Yes

    Showers: NO

    Picnic Table: Yes

    Firepit: Yes

    Cooking Grates: Yes

    Shade: Limited!

    Cell Service: NO

    Animal Bins/Food Lockers: NO

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park
    Oct. 18, 2021

    Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park

    Activities Galore

    Fee box at entrance with all current information.

    "Reservation Only" 800-244-5613 or cpwshop.com or come to the Moose Visitor Center Campground is very open. Gravel sites with picnic table 

    Electric $36.00 plus reservation fees Basic and tent $28.00 plus reservation fees Dispersed $18.00 plus reservation fees Small cabins $90.00 Large cabin $120.00 Yurts & Huts $80.00-$275.00 Backcountry no charge 

    The park encompasses almost 71,000 acres. You will find a visitor center 187 campsites for RV and tent and over 60 dispersed sites, 15 cabins and yurts, boat ramps and 94 miles of hiking trails. There are all types or recreation throughout the year.  The park forest is being decimated by the Mountain pine beetle so the dead trees are being removed. This leaves a very stark deserted look. It is very difficult to observe the devastation that the state of Colorado is dealing with.

    LNT 

    Better than when you found it 

    Stay safe and happy travels

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Site 459 - State Forest State Park
    Mar. 17, 2017

    Site 459 - State Forest State Park

    Beautiful Hidden Gem

    I stayed a week here for a backpacking trip in July last year. It was absolutely beautiful! I especially enjoyed the American Lakes trail up to Michigan and Snowy Lakes. That amazing landscape will forever be a special place to me. They were doing a lot of work while I was there, preparing for a potential fire and recreating a trailhead. I saw more heavy equipment along the Kelly Lake trail than I would have liked but such is life. The staff at the info desk are really helpful and local. They helped me plan my trip and answered a lot of questions for me. You are allowed to camp off trail (.25 mi) so you can pick your campsite really well. I unfortunately found a few old fire pits along the way but I didn't have to pick up garbage after anyone. I'm considering going back with my family to stay in one of the yurts or cabins scattered throughout the park. Highly recommended!

  • Daniel  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from CanyonSide Campground
    Jun. 6, 2019

    CanyonSide Campground

    Ranger Review: Morsel Spork XL at CanyonSide Campground

    Campground Review

    This campground is located in the Poudre Canyon area of Colorado. This is a private, 420-friendly campground. While many will be drawn to that allure, there is a lot of other features this campground offers that makes it a lovely place to stay. There’s communal fire pits, a jungle gym for kids, and hiking trails into and up the Poudre Canyon. It’s also a good place to bunk if you like to fish, with access into the rivers just across the road and so many other spots just a short drive away. Across the road is a general store for any last-minute camping supplies, munchies, booze, and ice. There’s also the Poudre Canyon Grille – a tiny, well-kept trailer serving up burgers, fries, and other fast food sandwiches. Near the office, there’s a large covered patio that has a cell and WiFi booster and in the summertime is a lounge area with a TV. There are two areas that have a bathroom with shower – both single use. When there are nearby music festivals, Canyonside has been known to shuttle festival goers to and from areas of greater access to help you enjoy the show. Speaking of shows, there are sometimes laser light shows where the hosts reflect their displays off the rocky canyon walls, and up the canyon there is also a small ampitheatre.

    To learn more about what may be going on near the time of your stay, just call the campground. Which is also what I suggest you do before you book, especially if you’re interested in renting one of their really cool themed cabins (there’s a few, are different sizes, and each have a unique décor theme and were all incredibly clean). There are a few factors like the day of the week, amount of people, and amount of dogs you have that will affect your nightly rate. Ask about the dog policy when you call too, as not all sites allow for pets – like the tent sites – and there is a pet waiver that should be read.

    One thing I noticed that was neat for tent dwellers was that one area of the tent sites (there are two sent site locations on either side of the park) had a hammock or swing chair and access to water to do dishes (there is also communal dishware) in addition to your typical flat plot, fire pit, and picnic table. There is also poured concrete sites for RVs with electric and water hookups, but I don’t remember seeing a dump station.

    Not sure you want to go all the way in on a cabin but don’t want a tent site and you don’t own an RV? That’s OK as there’s also a pop up trailer on site that can be rented as a “glamping” option. It was a pretty neat little place, but due to the size and chance of trapping pet dander, dogs aren’t allowed in there either.

    The hosts are very accommodating and want to help you enjoy your stay. They are approachable and can point you to resources to help you make your stay a 420-featured one, if that’s your thing. I understand they’re looking to add more tent sites and shaded areas and continue to tweak their internet to help it cover more of the grounds. I look forward to returning to see how the place evolves. I do like that there’s so many ways the hosts are there to accommodate you, and one thing that I would love to hear about is that they’ve added drinkable water access. Water is there for you but bring your own drinking water on site.

    I want to give this place a 5 out of 5 because of how nice the hosts are, how well kept the grounds are, how many camping options there are, and how many activity options you have, but it gets a 4 out of 5 from me because of the water access, pet restrictions, and add-on fees (pet, extra guest), plus possible fines for any ‘dog infractions’. If you plan your trip ahead, you will have a great time here and really enjoy the atmosphere. 

    Product Review

    As part of the Dyrt Ranger program I am given camping gear to test from time to time, and today I was reviewing a new kind of spork, the Morsel Spork XL. This company makes 3 kinds: The regular sized spork, then the XL, and a spoon XL. I have the morsel XL spork. No better place to review a munchie-curing tool like a 420-friendly campground! I’ve used a lot of sporks over time, and there were three things about this one that I really liked. 

    • it is long. At first I was like, “Why do I want a spork this big?” until I started using it with my rehydrated meals. I eat those right out of the bag and when you get near the bottom, with other sporks being shorter your hand starts picking up the juices/sauces from the dish when you start to really dig deep into the bag. This spork kept the pasta sauce on the food and away from my hands. 
    • It had a flat edge end on the spoon side. I’ve seen this feature before and it’s an important one because it helps you dig down into the bottom of those bag meals better than a rounded spoon. May not seem like a big deal, but when you’re backpacking and those foods are your fuel, every morsel (see what I did there?) of food counts and a utensil that’s doing a better job than another is the one I’ll want to pack. 
    • The rubberized outer coating. This creates a spatula-like effect and – again – helps with getting the most food on your spork, but also now has an argument as to why it could be used when cooking. I wouldn’t want a plastic spork stirring my eggs in case that thing melts into my food, but I’ve been using this morsel one on the stove top to mix simple meals and it does the job better than my JetBoil folding spatula because its rubberized and not as flimsy. 

    These sporks are nowhere near the lightest sporks on the market, but their added weight gives them more durability. They aren’t indestructible, but they won’t snap when they get shoved in your pack either. It is technically also a knife because of the ribbed edges of the fork, but I didn’t have a lot of success cutting with this. I love how it’s dishwasher safe and BPA free! Their versatility for camping makes them a better all-around solution for satisfying your hunger than what you’re using now. 4.75/5 because of the whole knife thing not really working super great.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Arapaho Bay Campground
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Arapaho Bay Campground

    Arapahoe Bay Campground

    Nice sized spaces, many sites close to the water, good wildlife sittings (moose, bald eagles, bear) beautiful large lake with Colorado River headwaters, near town of Grand Lake and entrance to Rocky Mt. Natl Park. Only thing missing is some hook-ups.  We love it,

  • Jill R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Arapaho Bay Campground
    Aug. 1, 2016

    Arapaho Bay Campground

    Beautiful rocky mountains

    This place is such a beautiful and pristine wilderness with many lakes, There is pretty good fishing, some areas are fly fishing only, so be sure to check signs or check with the rangers, This place is just so gorgeous it is one of my favorite places in colorado to visit

  • Rylan B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Arapaho Bay Campground
    May. 15, 2017

    Arapaho Bay Campground

    Car camping never felt so good!

    This is true wilderness camping at its best overlooking beautiful Colorado waters with the Mountains peaking down upon you is where you will find yourself camping with great amenities and water available with just short walk away from your camp. You have to purchase parking pass in the park but it is totally worth it!

  • Irene L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crow Valley
    Oct. 1, 2017

    Crow Valley

    Way out on the Prairie

    When you think Colorado you think endless mountains, but a good chunk of CO is prairie and grasslands. We enjoyed exploring this part of the state, complete with pronghorn antelopes, deer, birds, burrowing owls, sunsets, crazy thunderstorms, buttes, and rolling hills. Yes there are some windmills, oil rigs, cattle farms, etc. here, but the beauty of this landscape surpassed all of that development. Crow Valley campground is lushly wooded along a river with some pavilions and ball fields, plus short little hiking trails. We came out here to do the birding tour and enjoyed the camping just as much. It’s amazing how empty the prairie seems until you take a closer look.

  • Aliy L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hermit Park Open Space
    Aug. 13, 2019

    Hermit Park Open Space

    Awesome Quiet Getaway

    Best place to camp in Estes Park/Northern Colorado! Wooded sites mean privacy from your neighbors and shade during the day. Vault toilets are very clean, well kept. Staff and Rangers are very friendly and helpful, very knowledgeable about the area. Other reviews mention only 3.2 alcohol, but that rule has changed! ;) Great Hiking and Views, we watched the fireworks for 4th of July in Estes from one of the trails. Large bear boxes fit 2+ coolers. It was full for the holiday week/end, but staff mentioned that there's usually a lot of availability during the week. Have stayed in the cabins in years past, they are nice with gas fireplace for heat, and gas cookers in the cabin. No bedding, but beds are large and soft. 

    Gorgeous sunsets, so close to Estes and Rocky Mountain National Park. Hidden Gem in a busy tourist town!!

  • Landon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Winding River Resort

    Campsite with good amenities and activities

    This is a really well run campground. They have tons and tons of activities on site and you could honestly spend your entire trip just at the campsite. They have horseback rides, ATV rentals, an animal farm, social events, pickle ball court, volleyball court, a nice general store, clean showers, bathrooms, laundry rooms, really everything you could ever want. The only downside is that it’s quite pricey, basically double what I would normally expect. But given the amount of amenities they have, it’s not surprising.

    A cool fact is that you’ll be right next to the Colorado River. This is not far from where the river begins so its journey starts around here as a fairly unassuming creek.

  • Diane D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Jul. 6, 2020

    Winding River Resort

    We loved it and already plan to return

    A lovely wooded campground literally on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park - we even saw moose from the back window of our RV!  Options for everyone from cabins, to FHU RV sites (limited and not the ideal locations, but still nice), water/electric sites and tenting areas.  Even Conestoga wagons!  There is horseback riding on site and we loved watching the horses run in and out each morning/evening and you just have to cross the road for a pretty hike along the Colorado River in RMNP (no dogs on the trails).  We camped with our Great Dane - very dog friendly with bag stations around the park.  Friendly and helpful staff, a small shop with supplies and souvenirs, a cute little petting zoo with goats, sheep, and pigs.

  • Jason W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Winding River Resort
    Jun. 18, 2021

    Winding River Resort

    CO river access, nearby access to RMNP, zoo, & access to nearby lakes

    This is a beautiful campground with lots of family-friendly activities to do.  They have direct access to the headwaters of the Colorado River.  We visited a little late in the season (August) to catch many fish, but we still had fun.  We found some tailwaters below the big lakes and caught some trout on the fly rods.  

    This site is minutes away from an entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.  We got up early and hiked a trail in RMNP and had a few moose walk right past us.  It is also close by to the major lakes of the area.  

    They rent ATVs and lots of people bring their own horses to this campground to enjoy the many back-country trails that begin at the back of the property and go high up into the mountains.  

    Facilities were well kept and clean.

  • Joey C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Estes Park KOA
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Estes Park KOA

    Friendly, Clean, and Accomodating

    This was our first stay in Estes Park, and we couldn't be happier with the KOA facilities and staff. 

    The staff were *extremely* helpful and welcoming. We didn't feel the "Oh, God... another tourist" vibes we got from basically everyone else in Colorado. On the contrary, they couldn't have been happier to see us and welcome us to their little city. They even gave us personal directions and recommendations for what to do in Estes Park. Moreover, we decided to leave a night early, and they completely refunded our last night's stay without hesitation. 

    The facilities are excellent. There are combo shower/bathroom stations throughout the campground so you never have to walk far to clean up. These stations also have dish washing sinks, and the the campground provided free dish soap and one of those nice soaping-dispensing sponges. The fire rings are dual purpose, as well--with space for a regular bonfire and then an attached 1' x 2' section with a grill for cooking. 

    The only thing I didn't like about the campground was how close it was to one of the main thoroughfares, but that's not uncommon with KOA's, so it didn't bother me that much.


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