Camping near Franktown, Colorado offers a mix of wooded mountain sites and open prairie campgrounds ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 feet elevation. The region sits in a transitional zone between the Colorado Front Range and eastern plains, creating varied camping environments. Temperatures can drop significantly after sunset even in summer months, often falling 20-30 degrees from daytime highs.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cherry Creek State Park Campground provides access to a large reservoir popular with local anglers. "It's a beautiful park just wasn't expecting a lot of people to be here," notes camper Lamarcus S., highlighting the popularity of this water recreation area.
Mountain biking trails: Forest roads around Rampart Range Recreation Area offer extensive trail systems for riders of all skill levels. According to one visitor, "If you have ATV's you really need to discover this area. If you have toys to drive on the trails you will fall in love with this place."
Wildlife viewing: The transitional ecosystem around Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping creates habitat for diverse wildlife. "Beautiful views, ~50 minutes of rocky gravel road to reach the top but doable in any vehicle depending on the weather," reports Logan C., who found the journey worthwhile for nature observation.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Campers appreciate how camping near Franktown positions them between major Colorado destinations. "Great location downtown Denver, near the hospital we needed to go to, it served its purpose, then we headed to the mountains," explains Bill S. about Cherry Creek State Park Campground.
Space between sites: At Rampart Range, campers value the privacy compared to developed campgrounds. "We researched the spots in this area, and were surprised at how far spread the sites actually are," notes Taylor V., who discovered site 33 offered excellent seclusion despite proximity to the road.
Concrete pads: Chatfield State Park Campground receives praise for its level sites. "Clean bathrooms. Very friendly attendant. Level primitive spots," writes Christa C., appreciating the maintained facilities despite the $26 fee for primitive camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping requires planning for rough terrain. "Access was challenging, even with our 4x4 Jeep seeing as there was pretty deep snowfall accumulation, steep grades, and hairpin switchbacks heading up," explains Monte P. about Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping.
Weekend crowds: Summer weekends bring significant traffic to popular areas. "We came up Sunday and drove around for an hour trying to find a spot. It was so busy with campers and there were dirt bikers everywhere! Sunday evening it cleared up and we were the only ones there mon-tues," reports Halee E. about Rampart Range.
Train noise: Jellystone Park at Larkspur sits near active train tracks. "Cute campground, we camped back by the little lake. It was quiet as there were few campers at the time. The train was expected, so it didn't bother me too much," notes Emily S.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple reservoirs provide swimming and boating opportunities during summer months. "Chatfield is popular for fishing and boating. So many people come out for the weekend so they can get up early with the fish," explains Hayley K.
Kid-focused amenities: Jellystone Park features extensive children's activities. "So much to do for the littles! Recently completely redone the entire park and it is all so wonderful! The campsites are amazing and the activities are so much fun," shares Stacy M.
Seasonal activities: Programming varies throughout the year at many campgrounds. "From flag raising in the morning to hay rides, all day activities to the camp fire story times there is something for every kids to keep busy," reports Deanna M. about the structured activities at Jellystone.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Casey Jones RV Hideaway requires preparation for uneven terrain. "The campsite that I had was very uneven. It was practically a downhill slope. I had a hard time getting my camper level," warns Kohl.
Campground access: Some areas have restrictions for larger rigs. "I recently purchased a 26ft sustainable travel trailer and decided to take it out for the first time. Well the road up is very tight. Very skinny switchbacks," cautions Jaymin B. about Mount Herman Road, recommending nothing larger than teardrop trailers.
Hookup availability: State parks offer varying levels of services. "Nice campground, well kept. Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites. But be wary if you need certain hookups," advises Sarah S. at Chatfield, noting the minimum has electric for $26.
