Best Campgrounds near Gardner, CO

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Gardner, CO is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Gardner is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Gardner, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Gardner, Colorado (133)

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Recent Reviews near Gardner, CO

896 Reviews of 133 Gardner Campgrounds



Guide to Gardner

Camping near Gardner, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or just relax by the campfire, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking the Dunes: The Pinon Flats Campground is a great spot for hiking. One camper mentioned, "From the campground, you can easily hike up to the creek and the east face of the dunes within 15-30 minutes." This makes it perfect for those who want to conquer the Great Sand Dunes.
  • Exploring Waterfalls: At Zapata Falls Campground, you can hike to the falls, which is a short but rewarding trek. A reviewer said, "The hike to the falls is short and worth it," making it a must-do for nature lovers.
  • Stargazing: The area is known for its dark skies. One visitor at Zapata Falls Campground noted, "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Piñon Campground. One happy camper shared, "We love to come here to get great views of the Spanish Peaks."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Pinon Flats Campground mentioned, "Busy campground with clean toilets. Well maintained and clean camping spots."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the friendly vibe. A visitor at Rabbit Hole Ranch said, "Everyone was super friendly!"

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. A camper at Pinon Flats Campground warned, "In July, there were a ton of mosquitoes everywhere except over the sand."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Zapata Falls Campground, have basic facilities. A reviewer noted, "There are no frills at Zapata Falls—no hook-ups, no hosts, and only vault toilets."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. One camper at Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned, "We booked here last minute on a holiday weekend and we were thankful they had a spot for us!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Great Sand Dunes Oasis, which has amenities like a store and restaurant. A family reviewer said, "The property was well-maintained and clean."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Zapata Falls Campground suggested, "Bring a flashlight for the hike to the falls."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra gear for comfort. A visitor at Piñon Campground noted, "The park is accommodating with toilets and showers at the campgrounds."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Not all sites can accommodate large RVs. A reviewer at Mosca Campground mentioned, "A lot of RVs like to peep on tent campers and make snide comments."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Great Sand Dunes Oasis offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A camper said, "Our RV spot had full hookups but the sites were so closely spaced."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA noted, "Although placed next to the highway, the campground is relatively quiet."

Camping around Gardner, CO, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

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