Best Tent Camping near Gateway, CO

Public lands surrounding Gateway, Colorado offer several tent camping options within the rugged canyon landscapes of western Colorado. Osprey Campground near Sedalia provides walk-in tent sites along the Platte River with basic amenities including portable toilets and fire rings. Idylease Campground in Reynolds Park requires a half-mile hike to reach its five numbered tent pads, making it ideal for those seeking a more secluded tent camping experience. Staunton State Park, located about 40 miles from Gateway, features walk-in tent sites with designated tent pads that can accommodate multiple tents.

Most tent campsites in the region have minimal amenities, requiring campers to bring their own water and pack out trash. Tent pads vary from gravel surfaces at Idylease to natural forest floor at dispersed sites. High-clearance vehicles are often necessary to access more remote tent camping areas, particularly after rain or during spring snowmelt. Vault toilets are available at established campgrounds but absent at dispersed sites. Bear activity is common throughout the region, with bear boxes provided at some locations like Idylease Campground. Seasonal fire bans frequently restrict campfires, particularly during summer and fall months, so campers should check current regulations before arrival.

Tent-only sites offer unique advantages over developed campgrounds. According to one camper at Staunton State Park, "Sites are very clean, and there are no cars or traffic, which makes a big difference." The walk-in nature of many sites creates natural separation between campers. At Idylease Campground, a visitor noted that "bear boxes sit between each campsite" and "there's plenty of shade" at the tent sites. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, with one camper reporting temperatures in the low 30s during June and July at Staunton State Park. Early arrivals are recommended for popular backcountry tent camping areas, as parking lots at trailheads fill quickly, especially on weekends during peak summer months.

Best Tent Sites Near Gateway, Colorado (58)

    1. Idylease Campground

    2 Reviews
    Conifer, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    $12 / night

    "Make reservations in person at Jeffco Open Space in Golden - those ladies are the best! Easy drive and a half-mile hike with moderate increase in elevation from parking to tent pads, numbered 1-5."

    2. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    53 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    44 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes. After a quick clean up, the site was fine for my purposes."

    3. Jefferson County Reynolds Park Idylease Campground

    1 Review
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 271-5925

    $12 / night

    4. Dutch Fred Trailhead #679

    1 Review
    Larkspur, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 275-5610

    5. Staunton State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Conifer, CO
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 816-0912

    $28 / night

    "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."

    "I brought stoves no bigger than a jetboil/MSR dragonfly. Headlamps are a must. Also, we went in June and July. Check the weather."

    6. Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir

    23 Reviews
    Eldorado Springs, CO
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 541-2500

    "Came here for my birthday a few years ago, and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking—mountains, lake views, the whole deal!"

    "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"

    7. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

    33 Reviews
    Green Mountain Falls, CO
    44 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 684-9907

    $40 - $87 / night

    "Our site had grass, shade, a picnic table, and a fire ring - everything you need for a basic campsite."

    "Lone Duck Campground was a good home base for us during our visit to Colorado Springs. The campground is several miles down from Woodland Park and about the same down to Manitou and the Springs."

    8. Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    41 miles
    Website

    "However, proximity to Boulder is a huge plus if you are looking for a quick and easy get away."

    "Was desperate to find "something" after driving 11 hours that day, and normal paid camp grounds were full. HOWEVER I was pulling a smaller trailer, and that turned out to be a real issue."

    9. Sawmill Hiker Campground

    2 Reviews
    Arvada, CO
    27 miles
    Website

    $12 / night

    "This semi-primitive campsite requires a permit from the Open Space Office of Jefferson County, CO. The permit is free, however you must pick up the permit in person at their offices."

    "Great hike in campground. It was our first hike in and we loved it! Spots aren’t too close to each other and there’s great views!"

    10. South Platte River Corridor

    2 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    27 miles

    "great campsite near the river with lots of space and trees"

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Showing results 1-10 of 58 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Gateway, CO

1591 Reviews of 58 Gateway Campgrounds



Guide to Gateway

Tent camping near Gateway, Colorado offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the region.

Local Activities for Tent Campers

  • Experience the beauty of the outdoors at the South Platte Ranger District - Recreation, where you can spot wildlife like deer while exploring the area.
  • Hike the scenic trails at Idylease Campground, which is accessible via a short uphill trek, providing a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Sawmill Hiker Campground, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still being close to hiking trails.

Tent Campers Appreciate These Amenities

Tent Campers Should Check Out Unique Features

  • The South Platte River Corridor is a great spot for fishing and enjoying the river, making it ideal for those who love water activities.
  • Cub Creek Campground is nestled in a serene environment, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
  • The Wigwam offers a picturesque setting for day hikes, although overnight camping is not permitted, making it a great spot for a daytime adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gateway, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gateway, CO is Idylease Campground with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Gateway, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 58 tent camping locations near Gateway, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.