Gateway, Colorado camping options range from high elevation sites above 8,000 feet to lower canyon locations near the 4,500-foot mark. Temperature variations between day and night can exceed 40 degrees even in summer months, requiring campers to pack accordingly. Most dispersed camping sites in the area require high-clearance vehicles due to unmaintained forest roads that become particularly challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access: 1/2 mile from sites: Osprey Campground provides direct access to the South Platte River. According to Mike E., "The river is only a couple hundred feet away and was peaceful to hear in the night when it was quiet. There is road traffic noise and the parking is barred off from being able to pull an rv or van into the actual spot."
Hiking with mountain views: Staunton State Park Campground features well-maintained trails that connect directly to campsites. As Doug C. notes, "If you're looking for a quick easy weekend camping trip with well maintained trails, you should check this park out. Campsites are a quick walk from the parking lot and vault toilets."
Rock formations exploration: At Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, visitors can explore unique geological features. Dian G. reports, "I spent multiple days at this site due to its remote beauty. Campsites far apart, and it was quiet other than the occasional atv. Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers."
What campers like
Bear protection measures: Idylease Campground provides bear boxes between sites. Alex M. notes, "Campsites were nice and well established but pretty close to one another. Campsites 2/3/4 are all pretty close to each-other and you can hear the other sites. It's a 0.5 mile hike in to the campsite, so plan and pack accordingly."
Fishing opportunities year-round: Platte River Campground attracts anglers in all seasons. Steph A. explains, "If you're looking to fly fish and don't care where you sleep, then this campground works. Great access to world class fly fishing so you can get started early in the morning. Expect the campground to be crowded!"
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites near Gateway offer chances to see native wildlife. At Gordon Gulch, campers report, "Lots of chipmunks and hummingbirds due to the many wild flowers." At Idylease Campground, "A signed noted moose sightings."
What you should know
High elevation temperature changes: The temperature can drop dramatically at night in the Gateway area. According to a camper at Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, "Stayed at campsite 18, had great views and nice weather, no water though but there is a lake down the road. 4x4 Required as roads were rough."
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Many camping areas require specialized vehicles. As Graham S. explains about Winiger Ridge, "Camp sites are nice, but except for a few (~5) the rest require a serious climb (drive) up a gnarly hill with deep ruts. I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
Cell service limitations: Most Gateway area campgrounds have limited or no cell reception. A camper at Osprey Campground notes: "Cell service - none (t-mobile). Firewood - none. Camp host - none. Water - none. Toilets - port a potty. Fire ring - yes. No leveled tent sites - generally flat land."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Families should pack for variable conditions. At Staunton State Park, Hayley K. advises, "The bathrooms near the parking lot are in great shape but out near the walk in sites there is only a portapotty but it is well maintained. All the sites are walk-in so expect to carry your gear for a little while or bring a wagon."
Transportation for gear: When camping with children, consider equipment transportation needs. Stacy O. from Osprey Campground shares: "When camping with a whole posse of kids, we used a wagon to haul all that crap up. No problems with the wagon getting stuck. Trails are very clear."
Activity planning for children: Lone Duck Campground and Cabins provides family-friendly amenities. Amanda M. reports, "Lone Duck also had a small pond/lake to fish in, a jungle gym, a game room and a basketball court. We did not partake in any of those amenities, but they make Lone Duck a very family friendly campground where kids can stay entertained!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection constraints: Many dispersed camping areas near Gateway have limited RV access. Graham S. notes about Winiger Ridge, "I wouldn't try this with a camper/RV, or anything that doesn't have high clearance and power."
Alternative camping styles: At Osprey Campground, CC C. suggests: "Can car/van/roof top tent camp in the parking lot, for the same nightly fee as listed on the notice board. However, no trailers."
Hookup considerations: Limited services are available at most sites. Kevin M. from Bear Creek Lake Campground explains: "Only drawback might be the bathrooms have no night lighting and you have a dumping station instead of sewage hookups. Also water is available but not at the site."
