State Forest State Park spans nearly 71,000 acres of wilderness at elevations around 9,000 feet near Gould, Colorado. Winter arrives early and departs late in this high-altitude region, with snowfall possible even during summer months. Temperatures often drop into the 40s at night throughout the camping season, requiring proper gear regardless of when you visit.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At North Michigan Campground, anglers can catch fresh trout right from their campsites. "We were able to paddle board and fish right from our campsite, and had a wonderful fresh trout dinner," reports camper B B. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for spotting fish.
Horseback adventures: Winding River Resort offers guided horseback rides through mountain terrain. "Horseback riding was fun, staff was friendly. Gumdrop is my buddy," shares Jona R. The resort sits near the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, providing access to both park systems.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Several trails lead to spectacular high-altitude lakes. "There are several good hikes off the road through the park, several lead to alpine lakes, anywhere from 6-10 miles round trip," notes Donella L. who stayed at Ranger Lakes Campground. Popular routes include American Lakes Trail and Lake Agnes Trail, both accessible from various campgrounds within the park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The Crags Campground offers consistent moose encounters. "We saw a smallish bull moose and lots of bucks!" reports Lauren P. Camp hosts recommend visiting at dawn or dusk for best wildlife viewing opportunities, especially around beaver ponds and wetland areas.
Lakeside recreation: Ranger Lakes Campground provides access to multiple high-altitude lakes. "The lake is perfect for canoe, paddle board, kayak, we tried swimming but the water is super cold. It's also very clear and clean," explains Donella L. Most water recreation areas are unguarded, so visitors should bring personal flotation devices.
Secluded camping: Chambers Lake offers more private sites away from crowds. "Great campsite that actually had some semblance of privacy. We were tucked into the trees far from other sites with a partial view of the lake," writes Sam D. Many sites require a short walk from parking areas, ranging from 60-200 feet.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Many campgrounds implement seasonal fire bans. At Chambers Lake, one camper noted, "No campfires allowed when we were there. Only fuel fires that you can turn off." Check current restrictions at visitor centers before planning campfires.
Weather variability: High elevation means unpredictable conditions. "Both visits we have had rain every day around 5-8 PM, temps in mid 40s at night, mornings are stunningly perfect usually," reports Greebly M. who camped at Timber Creek. Bring layers and rain gear even during summer months.
Limited services: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were a pit toilet, which was up the hill and farthest from our cabin so it was a chilly bathroom run in the middle of the night," shares Hayley K. about North Michigan cabins. Basic supplies are available at Walden, approximately 20-30 minutes away from most campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Dog friendly campgrounds near Gould: Timber Creek Campground allows pets within the campground. "Dogs ARE allowed in the Campground but because the Campground is in RMNP dogs ARE NOT allowed on any of the trails or hikes near the Campground," clarifies Caitlin D. Most State Forest State Park campgrounds are more accommodating for pets on trails.
Bug protection: Insects are prevalent, especially near water. "Bring bug spray! Also, there is no water directly in this loop of the campground so make sure you fill up near the cabins before driving up," advises Jen M. at North Michigan Campground. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk during summer months.
Family activities: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly amenities. "My 4 year olds threw rocks in the reservoir, they bikes on nearby trails. The bathrooms were clean too," reports Meghan H. about North Michigan Campground. Ranger Lakes also features flat, accessible trails around the lakes suitable for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Moraine Park Campground offers limited electric hookups. "Good family spot," notes Heather B., though this popular Rocky Mountain National Park campground fills quickly. Reservations are essential during summer months.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly between campgrounds. "We ended up here after the nearby state park was full, and we're SO glad. Had no trouble pulling our 16ft Scamp up with a minivan, but can see that if the road was wet it wouldn't have gone as well," shares Grant M. about The Crags Campground. Most access roads are unpaved and may become challenging after rainfall.
RV size restrictions: "There is a limit of 35 feet for RV/Trailer length," explains Judy B. about Glacier Basin Campground. Many of the dog-friendly camping options near Gould have similar length restrictions due to narrow access roads and limited turning radius at campsites.
