Best Tent Camping near Fraser, CO
Searching for a tent campsite near Fraser? The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Fraser with tent camping. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Fraser, Colorado's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Fraser, Colorado (103)
1. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
49 Reviews•96 Photos•1332 SavesNederland, ColoradoFive 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)
2. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping
15 Reviews•57 Photos•1206 SavesEmpire, Colorado- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail
15 Reviews•64 Photos•1035 SavesEmpire, ColoradoDispersed 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
4. Allenspark Dispersed Camping
21 Reviews•54 Photos•965 SavesAllenspark, ColoradoWith 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
5. Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir
21 Reviews•56 Photos•1162 SavesEldorado Springs, ColoradoCamping 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
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
6. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
37 Reviews•102 Photos•2100 SavesBlue River, ColoradoThis designated dispersed camping area along County Road 10 has 23 sites.
**Please note: Camping is ONLY allowed in areas designated by a sign. ** Camping in undesignated spots could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service. Not adhering to camping duration maximums or using U.S. Forest land for residential purposes could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service.
Please refer to special orders and contact the USFS Offices with questions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd842796.pdf
Regulations pertaining to designated dispersed camping are as follows:
Camp only in designated sites.
No camping at trailheads.
Food and garbage must be properly secured in bear-resistant containers or inside vehicles in sealed containers.
Pack out all waste: human, garbage, paper, organics, etc.
There are many dispersed camping opportunities in the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.At the start of the tour you immediately have spectacular views of the Blue River Valley and the majestic Tenmile Range. The road, managed by Summit County, follows the old South Park and Pacific Railroad bed, climbing on a gradual 3% grade. The road climbs past Bakers Tank to the summit of Boreas Pass at the Continental Divide. The road then continues down the other side of Boreas Pass for another 10.4 miles to the town of Como in Park County. From 1872 to 1938 the road was used as a narrow-gauge railroad and gained fame as the nation’s highest narrow-gauge railroad, running from Como to Breckenridge. This is a great road to view Fall colors. This road is open to highway legal vehicles only during May-October, and closed to motorized vehicle access seasonally at Summit County discretion, generally October to May.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
7. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
19 Reviews•37 Photos•1151 SavesNederland, ColoradoNOTE: 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
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite
14 Reviews•47 Photos•675 SavesGrand Lake, ColoradoFree camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Be sure to check for regulations in advance and look for signs in the area to indicate if camping is allowed.
Some areas allow camping in designated sites only.
Know Before You Go
Check the weather and road closures before heading up. Follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no facilities or trash receptacles. Pack out what you pack in. Make sure camping is allowed. Many lands within the national forest boundary are private or otherwise owned. Check that you’re on National Forest lands: maps. Don't stay too long. Camping is limited to 14 days.within any continuous 30-day period. at any location within the same 20-mile radius. see Order Plan on building a campfire? Campfire restrictions can occur any time of year. Check for fire restrictions and if you build a campfire, know how to extinguish it.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Brainard Lake Recreation Area
8 Reviews•53 Photos•515 SavesWard, ColoradoThe Brainard Lake Recreation Area is the most popular destination on the Boulder Ranger District. Because of the area's high elevation, the best time to visit is after the snow melts in July and August. For road status, check the Road Status Table. PLEASE NOTE: Visitors that hike trails leading west from the Long Lake or Mitchell Lake Trailheads are responsible for following all Indian Peaks Wilderness permit requirements and regulations including group size, camping and campfire restrictions. Late June through mid-October (summer operating season): Summer Season Map Motor vehicle access is available 24 hours a day To protect muddy and snowpacked trails, the Long Lake and Mitchell Lake Trailhead parking areas do not open typically until late June A fee applies. A self-service fee station is located beyond the entry booth Expect 1-2 hour traffic delays on weekends (there is no bypass route for campers with reservations) Camping is allowed at Pawnee Campground (open July through early September). Check summer trail conditions before your visit See "Restrictions" below for additional regulations Mid-October through late June (winter season): Winter Season Map The gate is closed and the area free of charge for winter recreationists Park at the Brainard Gateway Trailhead Between November 15 and April 30, dogs are only allowed on the Brainard Lake and Lefthand Park Reservoir Roads Check winter trail conditions before your visit See "Restrictions" below for additional regulations Recreational shooting closures exist year round in this area. Hunting is allowed in accordance with regulations set by the Colorado Parks & Wildlife. Moose are present in the area. Be considerate of all wildlife. Approaching closely can be threatening to the wildlife and their reactions are dangerously unpredictable.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
10. Longs Peak Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
14 Reviews•37 Photos•522 SavesAllenspark, ColoradoLongs Peak Campground is closed for the 2024 season. This campground opens in early July and closes each year in early September. Located about 20 minutes south of Estes Park on Hwy 7. This small, tents-only campground is located in a forested area that is 9,500 feet above sea level (3000 m). This campground has vault toilets and there is no water available. Campers must bring their own drinking water when camping at Longs Peak Campground.
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Recent Tent Reviews near Fraser, Colorado
2358 Reviews of 103 Fraser Campgrounds
- Lyle R.
Scout
Gore Creek Campground
Great campground close to vail
Stayed at the tent camp site. Very nice. Close to the bike trail which was nice, rode up to vail pass. Beautiful. There is some noise from the freeway but if you are closer to the river it shouldn't be too bad. The tent sites are hike in but it is not far to walk.
Mackenzie B.
Guide
White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground
360 view right on the lake!
- 14 day/night stay max.
- $24 a night for tent or RV camping (there are way more hook-up sites over tent sites. Loop D is one of the two options for tent camping and I highly recommend any of the sites in that loop.)
Bring your fishing pole, SUP, kayak, or hammock to hang out by the lake. This is my favorite campground in Colorado for the accessibility to the lake and town nearby.
- Alice S.Guide
Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort
Views
This campground has a great view and is conveniently located to town. Tent camp sites are not fantastic or maintained very well.
- CCheryl S.
Traveler
Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
Great Campground
This Rocky Mountain National Park campground is fantastic. I tent camped with my husband for 3 nights in Loop B. We saw tents and all sizes of campers many with families. Our tent site included a nice tent pad, picnic table, fire ring, and a shared bear box. The fire ban had been lifted and we could buy fire wood each evening-and ice cream! Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. This campground is very close to a number of trails. We hiked the Sprague Lake Trail. It’s 2 miles round trip and pretty easy. Breathtaking views. If you don’t hike, you can drive all the way to the Trail Ridge gift shop and cafe at the top. This park fills up quickly-amost 3 million visitors a year-so plan to get started early. We love RMNP. We will be back this fall!
- Elyssa R.Scout
Arapaho National Forest Stillwater Campground
fantastic views
I stayed here in 2016 on a bicycle tour across America. It featured some fantastic views of the nearby lake and mountains and had very clean facilities. Only problem, from a camping in a tent perspective, is due to its location if a storm rolls in the wind can really hit from every angle. Otherwise the price is very reasonable.
Two SnoopsGuide
Kelly Dahl
Very open
Very open campground, we camped in a tent but probably better for an rv
- MMike S.Scout
Clear Creek RV Park
Very clean and quiet
I didn’t get to my tent site until almost 9pm so I really haven’t seen the place during the daytime. However, when driving around looking for the 3 tent sites I noticed how no one was out and with the truck headlights it seemed to look very nice.
- CC.B.Scout
Clear Creek RV Park
FYI - 3 day limit on tent camping
Note there's a 3 day limit on tent camping.
Crystal C.
Legend
Meeker Park Overflow Campground
No Frills First Come First Serve Alternative For RMNP
When traveling in this area and looking to explore Rocky Mountain National Park or the surrounding areas finding camping ahead of time is very important. During summer months campground fill quickly and overflow camps like this become your backup plan which sometimes can be difficult to squeeze into last minute.
From May until September this campground opens its doors to the masses for only$12 per night. Clearly a lot less expensive than some of the campgrounds offered in the area, this camp is quite appealing for those who wish to find inexpensive camping and can enjoy their time in nature without all the frills of an improved campground. This campground is first come first serve which is very important to know if you are wanting to stay in the area and will be arriving later in the day or near a weekend.
When I visited the season had just opened, literally the day of and there was no one on a weekday at the campground early in the day. I took a stroll around the campground and noticed there is an honor box for paying camp fees and that rangers were in the area driving through the various properties placing kiosk signage up and checking sites.
This campground offers no running water for those camping here. There are toilets but they are primitive and non-flushing. The sites looked comfortable and like they would be great for camping in a tent or mid-sized RV however they could become a little cramped if visiting in larger units.
The floor of the campground is blanketed with pine needles which give a fragrant welcome.
Each campsite has a picnic table and bear box on the site in addition to a fire ring with a small grill on top. You are encouraged to bring your own fire wood and not collect the fallen and absolutely cannot cut firewood in this area.
Just across from the campground is a pull off and picnic area for Roosevelt National Park which does not offer camping but does have additional areas for hiking and enjoying the nature of the area. There is also another restroom in this area.
One of the things I found to be very helpful about this campground for controlling traffic and also for accommodating groups was the placement of a few larger sites with additional parking toward the front of the campground. I noticed when I pulled in that in the front portion of the loop there were wider areas which made navigating a bit easier for RVs and also near the dumpsters in this area there seemed to be additional parking. Again during the first part of the season with no traffic passing through this might have been deceiving but it looked to be a great option.
TIPS:
- Check out Lucy Lake and the Camp Church in the area. The lake is an amazing location to see some of the picturesque views of Long’s Peak and hike without having to actually go into the park. The church is an actual Catholic Church build originally for a summer camp, its unique design and location are worth a pull off.
- Bring everything you might need with you. The closest store is more than 15 miles away so you will not be able to pick up last minute supplies without running into the larger community. Make sure you bring plenty of water for everyone and anything you might need for your stay.
- Check the reports for the area before you tent camp. This area has bear and upon occasion they have a few rogue bears visiting camps. You can find information in advance by checking out tourism centers in Estes Park or by looking at the Rocky Mountain National Park site.
- Sharayah H.Traveler
Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort
Great Stay
We had a great stay at a tent site here. Our site was number 8, had a tree, and was by the bathrooms. The bathrooms were clean, and had a nice shower as well. Everyone was friendly, the staff and the other people staying there. Lots of RVs, but only three of the regular tent sites were taken and we had the most amazing view!
- HHeatherScout
Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground
Loved it!
Great tent camping nice space. Beautiful area! The camp host was very nice made us feel welcome.
Patty F.Guide
Estes Park KOA
Clean and staff was great
The campground was clean and well maintained. We lucked out and got the best tent site - it was huge. The other sites were a little small but nice. Only drawback was that the tent sites were close to the road so you get some road noise. The staff was awesome and when we had to check out a day early, the cheerfully refunded our money. We definitely will stay there again.
- Heather C.Traveler
Ranger Lakes Campground — State Forest State Park
Nice, peaceful place
I tent camped at Ranger Lakes. I was the only one tent camping among all the RV’s. I didn’t mind that the spaces were visible from each other since I was camping alone. The pads were very spacious and flat. The lakes are very pretty and are a short walk from the campground. The trails around the lakes were nice to walk around. I wish there were facilities since there really aren’t any within most of the campgrounds of State Forest State Park. But Ranger Lakes is just a short drive from Cameron Pass as well as several beautiful trails. I’d definitely stay here again.
- Alice S.Guide
Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort
Views
Great view. Pretty expensive for a BARE minimum tent site. But facilities are well kept and convenient.
- ppaul R.Guide
Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
campsite view was ridiculous!!!
if you pick a tent site it’s your best bet the electric sites are too close to RV’s
- Anna R.Guide
Guanella Pass Scenic Byway Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
One of my favorite spots we camped at during our Colorado trip!
Limited number of tent sites, which is wonderful, for privacy and enjoying peace and nature! Camp hosts were wonderful.
- SSarahGuide
Robbers Roost Campground
Great place to stop
Right off the road! Super neat with walk in tent sites. Has a bear box for each site and a bathroom.
- IIngridTraveler
Williams Fork Reservoir
Beautiful lake setting
Another peaceful setting, quite a few spots along the lake, RV friendly and some tent sites plus some vault toilets and fire pits
Teresa D.Traveler
Vasquez Ridge
Amazing dispersed camping
Great place to car/tent camp or for small trailer. Accessible with places on the river. Mosquitoes can be bad though. Nice biking, hiking and views. Close to Winter Park and access to Grand County.
- HHannah R.Scout
Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake
Nice family campground with strict rules
This was a very nice, clean campground with lots of amenities. We stayed in a tent site and all tent sites have a fire ring, table and bear box. The bathrooms and showers were very clean and well maintained. Our site was on the very edge of the campground so we had some great views and saw plenty of deer and an elk.
The one criticism is their very strict 2 tent max policy. We had a group of 5 people (under the 6 person max) and set up our three 2-person tents but were told to take one down. We didn't understand why we couldn't have three tents since we were under the 6-person maximum. There were sites with a single tent that was much larger than our three small tents combined!
- Jason K.Scout
Cold Springs - Arapaho Roosevelt Nf (CO)
First time camping with the family
We had a blast and thanks to this site we plan on doing much more camping. Good tent sites, clean bathrooms, fire pits, and fun trails.
Kelsey L.
Ranger
Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon
Small campground close to city
Small campground with tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Main building has camp store with a variety of items available for purchase. Nice bathrooms including showers available.
Ann E.GuideEstes Park KOA
Very well taken care of, yet not super outdoorsy feeling due to location
The main building has a little of everything you need - from camping supplies to s'more making supplies. The tent camping sites are kind of close to one another, but you get your picnic table and fire ring.
Jesse B.ScoutVasquez Ridge
Few spots in winter
The road is closed so there's just a few spots off the road in the beginning. Okay for car camping not so much for tent camping. Very muddy so having a fire is very optional. Alright if you're on the go
Amy N.Scout
Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed
Great spot on the creek
Found a great spot on the creek. Level and had a turn around for a larger rig. Many tent sites around. Road is in good shape.
- Anna R.Guide
Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Tent camping with beautiful views if you get the right spot!
There are RV, Tent and Yurt camping sites. Bathrooms, showers, dishwashing area and laundry facilities but still in nature and beautiful views and trails, especially in the non-electric tent sites. Great staff at the check in area.
- KKyle T.Scout
Frazer Meadow Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
Well kept
Site #7 was clean, maintained. One official tent site and a good spot for another two person tent. Partial sun depending on time of day. Between two other campsites so possibly noisy in the evening depending on your neighbors.
Guide to Fraser
Fraser, Colorado, offers a variety of tent camping options that immerse you in the stunning natural beauty of the Rockies. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, there's a spot for you.
Tent campers should check out Allenspark Dispersed Camping
- This site provides a peaceful atmosphere right by a creek, perfect for those who enjoy the sound of running water while they sleep.
- Located just a short drive from Estes Park, Allenspark Dispersed Camping is ideal for those looking to explore the nearby trails.
- With no reservations required, you can enjoy the flexibility of spontaneous camping trips.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, you can hike through scenic trails and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding forest.
- Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping, where you can cast a line in a serene alpine setting.
- For those seeking a bit of adventure, Dream Canyon Campsites offers access to climbing routes and stunning rock formations.
Some prices for tent camping range from free to $20
- Many dispersed camping areas, like Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail, are free, making them a budget-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts.
- If you're looking for a more structured experience, Aspen Meadows Campground offers amenities for around $20 per night.
- For a unique experience, consider Diamond Lake, where you can enjoy a beautiful hike and camp for free, but be prepared for a hike-in experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fraser, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fraser, 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 Fraser, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 103 tent camping locations near Fraser, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
- Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG
- White River National Forest
- Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands
- Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland
- Medicine Bow-Routt NFs & Thunder Basin NG
- Gunnison National Forest