Tent camping near Golden, Colorado provides access to the lower Rocky Mountains at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature drops at night, often 30-40 degrees cooler than daytime highs, even during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area are open May through October, though higher elevation sites might have shorter seasons due to snow conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fall River Reservoir offers quick fishing success for anglers visiting the dispersed camping area. One camper reported, "With perfect views of the mountains and streams in all directions. Our tent was literally right next to a stream of water which was good fishing as me and my friend caught our daily limit of fish very quickly."
Reservoir exploration: Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir provides excellent paddleboarding and kayaking options. A visitor noted, "Gross Reservoir is not gross! It is an awesome SUPing, kayaking, or canoeing option close to Denver and Boulder... There are a lot of inlets to paddle into and trails to explore." Remember that swimming is prohibited, and rangers strictly enforce rules about life vests and whistles.
Wildlife watching: Early morning and evening hours at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. According to a review, "Moose visitors at dawn and evening, and hungry bears scavenging for food at night is a common occurrence." Proper food storage is essential when camping in this area.
What campers like
Nearby waterways: Many tent campers appreciate camping near streams and lakes. At Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail, campers enjoy the sounds of running water. One reviewer shared, "There is a beautiful creek right across the road that is great for filtering water and cooling off. The reservoir itself is gorgeous. There are a few falls that flow in and some good bouldering routes towards the back."
Overnight mountain views: The elevated positions of many campsites provide nighttime views of both natural and urban landscapes. A camper at Staunton State Park Campground explained, "This park was incredible for just getting away with my pup for a night... In the Fall this park is just stunning with aspen leaves all different colors so it brings a bit of solitude in nature too even with all the people in the park."
Tent-specific amenities: Some campgrounds offer features designed specifically for tent campers. Aspen Meadows Campground in Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides designated tent pads. According to a review, "Tent pad was big enough to squeeze two 3-person tents and a 6-person tent (barely)." These level spots make for more comfortable tent sleeping compared to uneven dispersed sites.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles to access. For Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, a camper advised, "Recommend a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach some of the spots, especially if there is poor weather." Similarly, for Fall River Reservoir, one reviewer warned, "This road is no joke. We did see a few brave drivers in Subaru's, but most campers had high clearance 4x4 vehicles."
Temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights can be extremely cold at higher elevations. A camper at Staunton State Park suggested, "Make sure you bring a heater or good sleeping bag because it can get pretty cool at night here in the summer time." Another camper reported temperatures dropping into the 30s in July.
Campsite availability patterns: Many areas fill quickly during peak season. A Gordon Gulch visitor noted, "There are fifteen 'marked' campsites. Throughout the summer they are all frequently occupied so it may be hard to find a spot at times." Arriving on weekdays or early in the day improves your chances of securing a site.
Tips for camping with families
Short backpacking experience: Sawmill Hiker Campground offers an entry-level backpacking experience suitable for families with young children. A parent shared, "My husband went to this campsite with a group of Scouts and took me and our 1 year old a few weeks later. I had never been backpacking up until this point because I was always intimidated by the experience. This was an excellent 'beginner' foray into backpacking!"
Pack-in assistance: For families with small children and camping gear, consider bringing help. One family at Staunton State Park recommended, "Since hiking in, some backpacking items would be helpful in order to make the haul easier. Though, taking trips could be an option, if necessary. When camping with a whole posse of kids, we used a wagon to haul all that crap up."
Kid-friendly exploration: Some campsites offer natural entertainment for children. At Winiger Ridge, one camper noted, "Our campsite was huge—plenty of space for our whole group, multiple tents, and a couple of cars. With a picnic table and fire pit included, it made for the perfect outdoorsy hangout spot."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Golden have restrictions on RV size. At Bear Creek Lake Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Nice big sites, open space without a lot of trees, beautiful views, clean restrooms, showers (pay for) water fill stations, dump station, several restrooms." However, the campground is not rated as big-rig friendly.
Hookup availability: Electrical hookups are available at some established campgrounds in the area. A Bear Creek Lake camper noted, "The sites are for tent/RV and have electric hookups. Beautiful area. There's a few playgrounds within the campground and park area, with access to trails to the lake, a boat launch and boat rental, equestrian stables, and archery."
Road conditions: RVers should be particularly careful about road conditions. A visitor to Winiger Ridge warned, "Gnarly ass road, not for trailers/sedans... 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."
