The Fraser Valley area sits at elevations between 8,500-9,500 feet, creating distinct alpine camping conditions with dramatic temperature drops after sunset, even in summer months. Glamping options in the area have expanded beyond traditional canvas tents, with luxury cabins and specialized accommodations now available at several locations around Fraser. The surrounding Arapaho National Forest provides both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Stillwater Campground provides excellent lake access for anglers. A camper noted, "Great view of Granby Lake from most of the camp sites. Not a lot of tree cover but it was very pretty." The beach areas are perfect for fishing from shore.
Trail exploration: At Robbers Roost Campground near Fraser, visitors can enjoy several trail systems. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a stream as well as a few trails branching off from the campsites. Would highly recommend." The campground sits at approximately 9,700 feet elevation, offering cooler summer temperatures.
Boat access: Green Ridge Campground provides boat-in camping options with direct access to Shadow Mountain Lake. A camper shared, "Great walks/hikes or bike rides into the Rocky Mountains from the campground. Situated at Shadow Mountain Lake." The campground serves as an excellent base for water activities.
Stargazing: The higher elevation at Denver West-Central City KOA provides excellent night sky viewing. According to one visitor, the location sits at "8100' high," providing clear mountain air for stellar observation. The campground offers both tent sites and cabin options for those seeking more comfort.
What campers like
Secluded lake access: Sunset Point Campground offers private lake access directly from the campground. A reviewer shared, "We were lucky enough to snag one of the tent camping sites at Sunset Point, which had direct access to the lake and awesome views! It was great to be able to launch our paddle boards directly from out site and hang out on the shore during the day."
Wildlife viewing: Arapaho Bay Campground delivers frequent animal sightings. One camper reported, "We loved camping here. There was plenty of shade and camping lots seemed large. We had many moose sightings in the campground during our stay." Bear activity is also common, with another visitor mentioning, "They're not kidding when they say bear country- had bears at our site and around the campground 2 out of 3 nights!"
Amenities: Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain in Granby provides exceptional facilities. A camper described it as having "an amazing pool, hot tubs, super clean facilities, full hookups" plus entertainment options including "bowling, an arcade, restaurant, bars (yes more than one!)." The resort offers both traditional campsites and luxury glamping accommodations.
Mountain views: Diamond Lake provides spectacular alpine scenery. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful place to go backpacking. It was pretty busy but not too busy. The lake was a great spot to fly fish and chill." The lake requires a 5-mile hike to access, creating a more remote glamping experience in Fraser.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-September), campgrounds fill quickly. A reviewer at Arapaho Bay noted, "The first come first serve sites fill up by early Thursday. Get there earlier in the week and you will have a better chance of getting a spot." Some campgrounds require permits during summer months.
Limited shade: Many campgrounds in the area lost trees to pine beetle infestations. A camper at Reverend's Ridge Campground observed, "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." The lack of trees means less privacy between sites at most locations.
Weather patterns: Afternoon storms are common. A visitor to Green Ridge Campground mentioned, "We got hit with some crazy wind/rain but it passed fast." The wind typically picks up in the afternoon but calms by early evening at most locations. Always secure tents and awnings properly.
Road conditions: Some access roads require higher clearance vehicles. A reviewer at Arapaho Bay warned, "Road in across the dam is ROUGH to the point of hazard, and lacks guardrail. Significant safety concern for others or those with large or unwieldy vehicles."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beach: Stillwater Campground offers excellent shoreline for children. A family mentioned, "The beach is amazing our kiddo threw rocks and explored all day!" Consider booking sites on the "B" loop for better lake access and less morning traffic noise.
Affordable activities: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers accessible family programming. A visitor noted, "This campground was tiny and a little cramped but was very clean and had running showers that was a plus. It was surrounded by trees but they were small which didn't help block the wind. We would stay here again because the staff was very friendly and they had a nice little store and playground."
Wildlife education: Green Ridge Campground provides opportunities to view animals safely. According to a camper, "We had a fox visit our site as well as a marmot & many other creatures. A great experience." Teach children about safe wildlife viewing from appropriate distances.
Bathroom accessibility: When glamping in Fraser with small children, consider campground bathroom proximity. A reviewer at Denver West-Central City KOA mentioned, "Beautiful views! Quiet campground, only complaint is the bathrooms were far away!" Check campground maps before booking to ensure your site is near facilities.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Some National Forest campgrounds offer partial hookups. At Reverend's Ridge, "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."
Elevation considerations: The higher elevations require engine power awareness. A visitor to Denver West-Central City KOA noted, "Yes Mountain High!! 8100' high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. Don't worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!" Larger RVs may struggle on steeper roads in the area.
Water connections: At many campgrounds, water hookups require special attention. A camper at Stillwater Campground reported, "It was still reaching freezing at night and so we didn't hook up our water." Bring heated hoses or water tanks for early/late season camping to prevent freezing issues.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations year-round. A reviewer at Stillwater mentioned, "There is a dump station but it was closed due to freezing temps when we left." Plan accordingly for longer stays or shoulder season camping.
