Best Campgrounds near Erie, CO

Camping near Erie, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic trails around Rocky Mountain National Park. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters. We saw a weasel and a flock of turkeys." This makes it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Water Activities: Enjoy paddleboarding or fishing at places like Chatfield State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Loved the paddle board experience," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake shared, "We saw over 100 elk in RMNP," making it a fantastic area for spotting animals.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review for Glacier Basin Campground stated, "Nicest bathrooms anywhere I have stayed for camping."
• Beautiful Views: Many campgrounds offer stunning scenery. A visitor at Moraine Park Campground said, "Woke up to a lovely view and light snowfall," which adds to the camping experience.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. A review for Chatfield State Park Campground noted, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."

What you should know:

• Crowded Campgrounds: Some areas can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Moraine Park Campground remarked, "It's a bit overcrowded," so plan accordingly.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area lacks drinking water and toilets, which might not suit everyone.
• Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Glacier Basin Campground, are only open from late May to early September, so check availability before heading out.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at East Portal Campground mentioned, "Big playground and not crazy expensive," making it a great choice for families.
• Plan for Clean Facilities: Families appreciate clean bathrooms and showers. One camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake said, "Clean bathrooms with hot pay showers," which is a plus for parents.
• Pack for Weather Changes: Be prepared for changing weather. A camper at Moraine Park Campground noted, "Chilly, clear starry night," so bring layers for the kids.

Tips from RVers:

• Look for Big Rig-Friendly Sites: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A reviewer at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "Big rig friendly," which is essential for RV travelers.
• Check for Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park noted, "Full service with a very friendly staff," which can make your stay more comfortable.
• Be Mindful of Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "The spot we had was far from the lake," which can help avoid noise from busy areas.

Camping in Erie, CO, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to family-friendly fun. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer!