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Best Campgrounds near Golden, CO

2,887 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 (399)

    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

    26 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

    "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."

    "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."

    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

1010 Photos of 399 Golden Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Golden, CO

2887 Reviews of 399 Golden Campgrounds

  • E
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Denver East-Strasburg KOA

    Great location

    The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. Campground is clean and quiet.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Bear Creek Lake Campground

    Location, Location, Location

    The Good: Very clean. Diligently maintained. Super friendly staff.

    The Bad: Day use Denverite humans on bicycles who run their mouths as the peddle past. (Get a job, Chad).

    The Ugly: national home improvement retail outlet neon serves as a directional reference from every vantage point.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Ute Pass Dispersed Camping

    Nice spot by the river

    Really pretty spot on the Williams fork river. I’ve had really good service here with T-Mobile. Road is a bit rough and rocky but not far to get back to the sites by the river. There is sadly a ton of trash at some of the sites (beer cans and boxes and such), I will be removing as much as I can fit in one trash bag on my way out!

  • k
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Colorado Heights Resort

    Nice site, but very close to civilization

    We enjoyed are stay here. The site was well taken care of and the people were nice. The only cons for us were how loud the traffic sounds were and how close together the sites are.

  • Haley L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    Beautiful free camping outside of Idaho springs

    Wonderful free dispersed camping. The majority of the road isn’t that bad, but you’ll certainly want something high clearance and 4WD for the last stretch of road up to the reservoir. Was mostly quiet and there’s a nice little trail around the lake. Plenty of spots for tent camping too.

  • Pamela M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Columbine Landing Recreation Site

    Perfect for mountain therapy

    Spacious area, not over crowded. Can park right by the creek and it was phenomenal! Shady but not to the point you can enjoy the morning sun. Gravel lot and drive. Huge perk is the bathroom, no running water but super clean

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Cottonwood Campground — Boyd Lake State Park

    Good near city and lake access

    Clean, relatively quiet. During week not crowded. Look for a spot with a tree to park in shade. Nice path along lake. We like it while visiting Loveland with good cell coverage and close to town.

  • alicianlv The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Pull off with fire ring - Dispersed Site

    Dispersed Site, Pull off with fire ring

    Very near Idaho Springs and road to location easy. Site is off road on broken but semi level asphalt. Small green patch with pines & aspen trees. There is nice rock formation across the road. Only 1 rock fire-pit (didn't use because it started to rain). Nice place to stop if traveling through as we are. Kinda bummed that we didn't see a fox. 🦊

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Lost Park Road Dispersed Camping

    My fav spot close to home

    Just visit it, you’ll see. Far from 285, far from the city… you can’t beat it, amazing rolling hills and sunsets

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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