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Best Campgrounds near Golden, CO

2,899 Reviews

Golden, Colorado sits at the gateway to Rocky Mountain camping and Colorado River adventures. Dakota Ridge RV Park is just two miles from downtown Golden, giving campers easy access to local attractions. You'll find full hookups at this RV park, which makes it comfortable for people traveling in recreational vehicles. Clear Creek RV Park in Golden sits along the creek and welcomes both RV and tent campers. Modern restrooms and showers are available at this park for a more comfortable camping experience. The area often has fire restrictions because of dry conditions, so always check current rules before planning to have a campfire. It's smart to book ahead at busy places like Great Campground, which many families enjoy for its playgrounds and swimming pools. Great Sand Dunes are not far away and have some really unusual landscapes to check out while you're in the area. Golden has camping options that work for different needs, from developed campgrounds to more basic sites.

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Best Camping Sites Near Golden, Colorado (402)

    1. Chatfield State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 791-7275

    $36 - $200 / night

    "Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."

    "This is the first time I’ve found a state park so close to a major metro area!!

    Because of its proximity to Denver, Chatfield fills up quickly, so book well in advance."

    2. Dakota Ridge RV Park

    41 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 279-1625

    "This park is kind of pricey even in the winter (we stayed Nov22-Jan23) but it’s Colorado and it’s all pretty pricey. Park staff is super friendly and accommodating."

    "This campground allows easy access to Denver, Golden, and the foothills. Campers are close together, but there are some mature trees."

    3. Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon

    48 Reviews
    Eldorado Springs, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3707

    $18 / night

    "The drive from Golden up into the park is beautiful and you truly feel like you are leaving the noise of Denver and the metro behind."

    "We love to visit Golden Gate Canyon State Park early in the season because it is very busy all summer.  This is our second stay at the park in March, and we have had wonderful snow both times.  "

    4. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park

    34 Reviews
    Morrison, CO
    7 miles
    Website

    "This was our first time staying at Bear Creek Lake. The park is not part of the Colorado Wilds or CPW State Park system, but daily vehicle fees are included with your camping reservation."

    "Note: If the GPS takes you to a dirt road with a closed gate at the end, get back on the highway and take the next exit to the park entrance."

    5. Clear Creek RV Park

    28 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 278-1437

    $32 - $80 / night

    "Had a great spot right next to the Clear Creek walking path. The campground is clean and well looked after. Clean bathrooms and showers. Close to many hikes and mt trails."

    "Perfect for visiting the iconic Golden, Colorado!"

    6. Chief Hosa Campground

    27 Reviews
    Kittredge, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (720) 913-0700

    $33 - $40 / night

    "There is a bike path as well as some mountain biking nearby. Downtown Golden is a super cute town and it is only about 15 minutes away."

    "We had only a couple of days in the area and so we’re on the go all the time, saw the Buffalo, saw elk nearby and enjoyed the ride up to Golden gate Canyon State Park."

    7. Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon

    30 Reviews
    Rollinsville, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3707

    $28 - $90 / night

    "This spot is just a quick ride outside of Golden. The scenery is gorgeous with several trails to hike or mountain bike. The campsites are clean and easy to get to."

    "Stunning campground nestled right outside Golden and Boulder Colorado. We couldn’t believe it…so close but you feel incredibly removed once you get there."

    8. Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Centennial, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 690-1166

    $28 - $432 / night

    "I only gave it 4 stars because on the outskirts of the state park we have a lot of homeless camps popping up oblong Parker road and 225."

    "It is in the center of the city, but aside from the traffic on the dam in the distance you would not realize it. "

    9. Denver West-Central City KOA

    30 Reviews
    Central City, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3043

    "good location for cute old mountain towns! also close to Denver and other must sees in Colorado!"

    "8100’ high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don’t worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!"

    10. Applewood RV Resort by Rjourney

    13 Reviews
    Wheat Ridge, CO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 872-7544

    "If you want to be close to the city and have easy access to any kind of shopping imaginable, this will meet your needs."

    "Good location close to interstate to access all the cool towns and site seeing west of Denver."

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Recent Camping Photos near Golden, CO

1012 Photos of 402 Golden Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Golden, CO

2899 Reviews of 402 Golden Campgrounds

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    A-Lodge Boulder - Car Camping

    Quiet, cozy, very close to Boulder. Only 3 van/car spots

    Although there was a wedding in evening one night, it was over and folks dispersed by around 8pm, minimal bugs so we did not use screens for a good part of the time, the overall site is long and narrow and so parking/car traffic can be a little tight. We did go out the exit on far side to come back in to the entrance and that was >180 degree turn so try to avoid that. Three clean bathrooms, 1 mens with 2 toilet stalls and shower (toilet stall were very small--knees bumped against door), 2 co-ed bathrooms (one with toilet/sink/shower, one with toilet & sink only). One sink in co-ed had very hot water coming out of both faucets (no cold from this sink). Paper towel dispensers ran out and were empty for a day but then roll of paper towels appeared. 

    Wifi was spotty & disconnected regularly, no Verizon service. There is a small 'store': A fridge with drinks and burritos, shelves with some Mountain House dinners, and snack bars. There is a pool, dry sauna with great LARGE window looking at creek, and hot-tub (sauna worked great). Did get chance to see any of the rooms. Tent sites are up a VERY steep path and on platforms on side of hill (perhaps 50-60' up the hill?). There's an area with some slack lines set up, as well as electric vehicle charging stations.

  • B S.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Idlewild Campground

    Fall stay

    Stayed two nights with my sons. Grabbed one of the walk-in sites Friday at 1pm.

    Pros: Availability (one of the only sites in Winter Park), beautiful surroundings

    Cons: Right next to the highway so traffic (trains at times) can be heard at all hours of the night, most walk-in sites don't have a tent pad

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite

    Great view of the Lake + porta-potty

    We took a left at the fork and found a site with the best view and a porta-john at the end of the driveway. The site appears to have been freshly cleared. There were lots of twigs and rocks and no grass, so it became a muddy mess as soon as the rain began. Site had plenty of space and a good amount was flat. No fire ring, but there was a burn ban anyways. Nice and secluded but could still hear the neighbors a bit but it wasn’t bothersome. Gunfire and ATVs were much louder but stopped around sundown. Would go back to this site.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    Camp camp camp

    Went on a bit of a rainy weekend so it got super cold at night. The roads are super rocky as you get up to the reservoir and with the rain there were some large puddles but with the right vehicle should be all good. The views were amazing and the hike up is so pretty. So many great sites all the way up to the reservoir as well.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great spot, right on the water

    High clearance 4x4 recommended but could be doable without if you’re an experienced driver. Beautiful lakes and some campsites are right on the water. Only one other person camping on a Wednesday night. There is currently a fire ban so be sure to respect our forests and be updated.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Chief Hosa Campground

    I-70 off-ramp camping

    The campground is unfortunately too close to the highway and the noise makes it difficult to sleep or relax. Nice parking spot if you need to see the sights for a day or two.

  • Kevin C.
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Nice Campground but Terrible Neighbors

    It is a nice spot to make camp.  We had plenty of spots to choose from.  We thought it was perfect at first.  Then the people with the ATVs started showing up and it got loud.  And stayed loud all night long.  Loud, with massive lights that would light up our tent every time they drove by all night long.  We will not be going back, purely because of the other people.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake

    Camping near Rocky Mtn NP

    What a wonderful campground! Friendly hosts, full hookups offered, beautiful scenery and right outside the entrance to the national park!

Guide to Golden

Camping near Golden, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options that cater to different camping styles.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer from Moraine Park Campground mentioning, "The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters."
  • Fishing: The lakes around Golden are great for fishing. A visitor at Stoll Mountain Campground shared, "Take a canoe, kayak, or fishing poles and enjoy a day on the lake with a great view of the mountains."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake noted, "Every day I had mule deer visitors."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "Very well kept with nice clean bathrooms."
  • Scenic Views: Many campgrounds offer breathtaking views. A visitor at Glacier Basin Campground said, "Great campground with beautiful views of the mountains!"
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One reviewer at Mueller State Park Campground stated, "Park staff are very friendly."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campsites: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Moraine Park Campground noted, "It's a bit overcrowded."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A camper at Prospector Campground mentioned, "There is no water, no electric, no sewer."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Glacier Basin Campground is open from May 23 to September 11.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like playgrounds or pools. A reviewer at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake mentioned, "Well-stocked camp store with ice, wood, laundry, and all the essentials, and a pool for the kids."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One camper at Chatfield State Park Campground said, "Loved the paddle board experience."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Cherry Creek State Park Campground noted, "Great Campground, Incredible Dog Park," which suggests a family-friendly atmosphere.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Big Rig-Friendly Sites: Some campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A reviewer at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "The group campsite was spacious."
  • Check for Hookups: Ensure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Mueller State Park Campground noted, "Sites have electric. Water is available in the campground."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Mountain weather can change quickly. A visitor at Eleven Mile State Park warned, "Winds in the evening almost made me leave site."

Camping in Golden, CO, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. From stunning views to family-friendly activities, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Golden, Colorado?

Clear Creek RV Park stands out as a top choice in Golden with its prime location along the Clear Creek walking path. Visitors praise its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and ideal proximity to downtown Golden - all within walking distance to restaurants and stores. For a more rustic experience, Reverend's Ridge Campground in Golden Gate Canyon offers a secluded setting with clean facilities, though finding it requires some navigation. Those seeking dispersed camping should explore Gordon Gulch, where unnumbered sites offer spectacular views. For the true Colorado mountain experience, Camp Dick Campground delivers stunning scenery, river access, and hiking trails accessible directly from the campground. Each offers distinct advantages depending on whether you prioritize convenience, amenities, or natural surroundings.

What amenities are available at Golden, Colorado campsites?

Golden area campgrounds offer varying amenities based on their type. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground provides well-maintained fire pits, hiking trailheads, and a beautiful rolling river. For more developed options, Moraine Park Campground in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park offers scenic mountain views and access to extensive hiking trails. RV parks in Golden typically provide full hookups, clean restrooms and showers, with some offering additional amenities like pools and hot tubs. Clear Creek RV Park includes access to walking paths and is within walking distance to downtown Golden. Dispersed camping areas like Fall River Reservoir and Gordon Gulch provide minimal to no amenities but offer more privacy and natural settings. Most established campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets at minimum.

How much does camping cost near Golden, CO?

Camping costs near Golden vary by type and amenities. Dakota Ridge RV Park is on the higher end, with winter rates still described as pricey for Colorado standards. More affordable options include public campgrounds like Deer Creek Campground in Golden Gate Canyon, where you'll find reasonable rates with beautiful surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere away from Denver's noise. For budget-conscious campers, dispersed camping areas like Gordon Gulch offer free camping options, though these lack facilities. RV parks in Golden typically range from $45-85 per night, while state park campgrounds run $20-35 per night. National Forest campgrounds are often $15-25 nightly. Remember that holiday weekends and summer months command premium rates at most established campgrounds.

When is the best season for camping in Golden, Colorado?

The ideal camping season in Golden runs from late May through early October when weather conditions are most favorable. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail is particularly popular during summer months, though accessing it requires 4x4 capabilities due to rocks, bumps, and water crossings. Early June at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area offers a perfect escape from Denver's noise while avoiding summer crowds. While summer provides reliable weather, early fall brings stunning colors and fewer visitors. Winter camping is possible at some locations like Dakota Ridge RV Park, which offers on-site propane for cold-weather stays, but many campgrounds close seasonally. Spring camping can be unpredictable with rain and occasional snow, as experienced by visitors to Moraine Park Campground. Always check road conditions and campground closures before planning early or late-season trips.

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