Best Tent Camping near Granite, CO
Looking for tent camping near Granite? The Dyrt helps you find campsites with tent camping near Granite. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your Colorado camping adventure.
Best Tent Sites Near Granite, CO (59)
1. Turtle Rock Campground
Buena Vista, Colorado35 Reviews•91 Photos•835 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
2. Portal Campground
Aspen, Colorado25 Reviews•143 Photos•1873 SavesPortal Campground is located eleven miles southeast of Aspen on Independence Pass Road and seven miles south on Lincoln Creek Road at an elevation of 9,400'. Campers can access some wonderful day hikes from this location as well as terrain for motorcycle riding, mountain biking, ATV riding, fishing and horseback riding, among other recreation activities. Portal Campground has 5 campsites with limited spurs. 5 day stay limit. High clearance vehicles are required and 4x4 recommended.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
3. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Blue River, Colorado37 Reviews•102 Photos•2097 SavesThis designated dispersed camping area along County Road 10 has 23 sites.
**Please note: Camping is ONLY allowed in areas designated by a sign. ** Camping in undesignated spots could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service. Not adhering to camping duration maximums or using U.S. Forest land for residential purposes could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service.
Please refer to special orders and contact the USFS Offices with questions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd842796.pdf
Regulations pertaining to designated dispersed camping are as follows:
Camp only in designated sites.
No camping at trailheads.
Food and garbage must be properly secured in bear-resistant containers or inside vehicles in sealed containers.
Pack out all waste: human, garbage, paper, organics, etc.
There are many dispersed camping opportunities in the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.At the start of the tour you immediately have spectacular views of the Blue River Valley and the majestic Tenmile Range. The road, managed by Summit County, follows the old South Park and Pacific Railroad bed, climbing on a gradual 3% grade. The road climbs past Bakers Tank to the summit of Boreas Pass at the Continental Divide. The road then continues down the other side of Boreas Pass for another 10.4 miles to the town of Como in Park County. From 1872 to 1938 the road was used as a narrow-gauge railroad and gained fame as the nation’s highest narrow-gauge railroad, running from Como to Breckenridge. This is a great road to view Fall colors. This road is open to highway legal vehicles only during May-October, and closed to motorized vehicle access seasonally at Summit County discretion, generally October to May.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
4. Kite Lake
Fairplay, Colorado13 Reviews•47 Photos•283 SavesKite Lake Campground is located 5.5 miles NW of Alma on CR 8. It has five campsites and none are recommended for trailers; camping season begins in May and continues until the road is snowed in. The camping fee is $12.00 per night with a $3.00 day-use parking fee. Facilities include fire ring, tables, and outhouse toilets, but there is no water and no trash service at this campground. Campsites at Kite Lake are first-come, first-serve.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Picnic Table
$5 - $15 / night
5. Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Granite, Colorado10 Reviews•40 Photos•1078 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping
Buena Vista, Colorado8 Reviews•33 Photos•962 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. CR 306 -Dispersed Site
Buena Vista, Colorado4 Reviews•7 Photos•233 SavesDon't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".
Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/responsible-recreation
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
8. Browns Creek (South) Dispersed Camping
Nathrop, Colorado8 Reviews•73 Photos•601 SavesThe Browns Creek trail offers beautiful scenery with changing vistas and vegetation. The trail follows the stream and small waterfalls can be found along the way. The lower portion of the trail begins in primarily a Ponderosa pine environment and gradually moves into spruce/fir forest. At higher elevations the trail travels through pristine meadows that end at Brown's Lake. Camping is not permitted at the trailhead, in order to prevent erosion of the banks along Little Browns Creek. Campers are encouraged to find camp sites further south on County Road 272.
- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. Road 240 - Dispersed
Monarch, Colorado9 Reviews•51 Photos•576 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. Homestake Reservoir Rd Milemarker 3 - Dispersed
Red Cliff, Colorado7 Reviews•28 Photos•315 SavesThere are many dispersed camping opportunities on the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.
Visitors are permitted to drive vehicles up to 300 feet from designated routes for purposes of dispersed camping as long as no resource damage is incurred in the process. Dispersed camping within 100 feet of lakes, streams, and forest system trails is prohibited unless otherwise designated. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days. Some areas may have additional special restrictions.
Reduce Resource Damage
Avoid making new impacts. Whenever possible, use an existing campsite rather than creating a new one. Dispose of human waste, including toilet paper, carefully. Use self-contained waste disposal systems whenever possible. When unavailable, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 – 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp sites, and roads or trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Properly manage sanitation. Dispose of waste, gray water, sewage, and sewage treatment chemicals from self-contained toilets at authorized facilities provided for that purpose. Pack it in, pack it out. Do not leave behind any waste or litter. Leave no trace. Leave established sites in better condition than you found them. Leave new sites in as natural condition as you found them. Don’t move firewood. Moving firewood long distances can help spread harmful pests. Use only locally sourced or dead or downed firewood. Be bear aware. You are in bear country. Leave food, trash, and all items with fragrance (e.g., toothpaste, deodorant) in vehicle, bear-proof canisters, or suspended in bear bags. Do not eat in your tent. Visit the Colorado Division of Wildlife's web site for more information.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
Recent Tent Reviews in Granite
1875 Reviews of 59 Granite Campgrounds
Paulina B.
Ranger
White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground
Lakeside Bliss at Heaton Bay
Heaton Bay Campground, located near Dillon Reservoir in Colorado, offers a stunning lakeside camping experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The campground is set in a picturesque location, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water activities, hiking, and enjoying the serenity of nature.
The sites at Heaton Bay are spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, providing a comfortable setting for both tent campers and RV travelers. There are flush toilets and potable water, but no hookups for RVs, so keep that in mind when planning your stay. The campground is nestled among tall pines, providing some shade and a peaceful atmosphere, though there are few trees at some sites, so be prepared for full exposure to the sun.
One of the biggest highlights of Heaton Bay is its proximity to Dillon Reservoir, where you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The campground is also just a short drive from the popular town of Dillon and the many hiking opportunities in the area, including access to the nearby Swan Mountain Trail and many 14ers.
The only downside is that during peak summer months, the campground can be busy, as it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. The nights can also get chilly, so it’s essential to pack warm layers, even in the summer.
Overall, Heaton Bay Campground offers an excellent lakeside camping experience with a perfect balance of nature, water activities, and mountain views, making it an ideal spot for a Colorado getaway.
- Paulina B.Ranger
Portal Campground
Aspen Escape by the Lake
Nestled just outside of Aspen, Portal Campground offers a serene and scenic retreat in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With its proximity to the Roaring Fork River and sweeping views of surrounding peaks, it’s a perfect spot for campers seeking both tranquility and adventure.
The campground features well-maintained sites surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, providing ample shade and privacy. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and nearby vault toilets, making it a comfortable, rustic camping experience. The sound of the river nearby adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Portal Campground is an excellent base for exploring the Aspen area, with plenty of hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities. The famous Maroon Bells are just a short drive away, and there are several trails nearby offering breathtaking views and alpine scenery.
- Paulina B.Ranger
Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping
Spacious Mountain Views with a Few Cow Visitors
Coordinates: 38.702830,-106.160280
This dispersed camping area offers stunning mountain views, spacious sites perfect for large groups, and easy access to excellent hiking trails. The September weather was ideal—cool and crisp without being too cold. While the site feels fairly secluded, beware of grazing cows from local ranches that wander through; be sure to secure food and belongings you don’t want damaged. Dog owners should be mindful of cleanup, as cow and dog waste can be an issue. There are two porta-potties onsite that are cleaned weekly, but campers must pack out all their trash to maintain the area’s natural beauty. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of room to spread out.
- GGreg P.
Traveler
Bear Lake Backpack Site
Belle of Colorado @ Tourquoise Lake
Originally quite nice, tent camping, clean area, nice sites, water available, bathrooms, and access to fishing. Weekends tend now to religious services... :( Been 4 times but now prefer less commercial/church interuptions. RV crud makes for noisy generators, bouncy houses, karaoke... :( Some people swim. Boating. Good perimeter trail, biking allowed.
- cchris R.Traveler
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Nice little spot
Drove straight to the back, not many others camping. Can hear a few cars passing in the distance and not a ton of tree coverage but a great spot nonetheless
- FFred E.Traveler
Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting
Great location with easy access fishing
Great location with full hookups for RVs. The description mentions back-in sites only, and while our electric hookup was conveniently on the same side, we had to run our water and sewage lines underneath the RV since those hookups were on the opposite side—this seems to be the case for all sites. The campground is perfectly situated at the intersection of the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers, making it ideal for fly fishing. They offer cabins, RV sites, and long-term housing options. There's a small store with basic items, beer, and merchandise, plus a fly shop in the same building. There's also a restaurant, though it was closed during our stay, and coin-operated laundry facilities. Overall, a great stay!
Jordana P.Traveler
Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
Beautiful views and great privacy
I stayed here for 1 night of car camping and will definitely go back. I only went about 4 miles in on the rocky/rutted road (vs the 5 miles that the directions say) and thought the sites were great. I stayed at a big site on the right with beautiful views and a fire ring. Aside from hearing some (maybe - not sure) coyotes at night, I wasn't aware of any other wildlife. I was in a 4Runner and my friend that I was with was driving a Highlander. As another poster commented, I saw a small sedan in one of the sites but wouldn't drive way out in anything but an SUV or truck. I have AT&T and had 2 bars of service.
Leah K.Traveler
Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping
Great Camping Spot
This was a great camping spot. There are several campsites by the water and other campsites, not by the water. The campsites are kind of close together, but not terrible. I went early on a Friday and got a beautiful spot by the water. By the end of the day, all the sites around the water were full. So if that's important to you, be sure to get there early. There were still plenty of other gorgeous campsites, not by the water available all weekend. There are also hiking trails located here. One of which is called "Interlaken Trail." It's about a 5 mile hike total and takes you to a "Ghost Resort" called "Inter-Laken" that was abandoned around WW1. You can even go inside one of the buildings, and there are Historical Marker plaques that talk about the abandoned resort. The signal is great so I had cell service and data the entire time. Highly recommend!
- eelizabeth M.
Scout
Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Stunning views and close to town
I came on a Sunday afternoon before Columbus Day and there were plenty of spots open. Super close to town and stunning views.
Courtney D.Scout
Bruno Gulch Dispersed
Loved it!
Not super busy! Lots of open spaces when we arrived around 6pm.
Conner
GuideBoreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
<15 min from town, great views, 2WD just fine
I came in October when the aspens and birch still had some leaves . Beautiful colors on bareus pass
- ConnerGuide
Breckenridge Overlook
Sleep in car only - park on the edge of a cliff with breathtaking views
Just one mile further up the road or so you will reach Destinated camp sites which I prefer.
Although I saw 5 camp cars parked on the side of the road (this is a Monday night) facing the cliff that night and like 2 the next morning when I left for work. I was jealous a little bit of their views
Alice S.
Legend
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West
Not Bad
The road up to the campground is pretty rough for the first 100 ft or so but then it gets a lot better. Quite a bit of space but no privacy. I would definitely not suggest for large rvs. I’m in a van and didn’t have much problems at all.
- ZZu Y.Guide
Valley Mobile RV Park
Great Management campground
The host, Margaret and her husband and few others working very hard to maintains this campsite.
Shower room have heat and hot water, environments are so peacefully and pretty, shops are close by, hot springs, rafting, nearby, my favorites is cottonwood lake!
Dwight R.TravelerPennsylvania/India Creek
Hard to get to, beautiful valley
The FR611 is narrow and requires a high clearance vehicle. I had to go to 4LO multiple times. I went up Boreas Pass and turned down FR611 which made it down hill most the way. The spot it self is open enough for multiple vehicles had three old fire pits. Very pretty spot but no fall colors all pines in this valley.
- Dwight R.Traveler
Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West
Late Sept Fall colors
We had a blast with this spot, arrived late at night and woke up inside an aspen grove. There is a lot of hiking trails and some cool spots to visit down by the lakes.
jsbeezgGuide
FR 48 Dispersed Camping
Road is CLOSED!
The road has been closed and there is no longer access to this camp area.
- ttommy S.Scout
Spruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Autumnal leaf-peeping and star-gazing
Site 4 featured 3 well established campfire rings, one with a lean-to. The three spots are separated enough to enjoy with seclusion, also had plenty of parking. There are a number of easily accessible trails nearby. Surrounded by pines there weren't a lot of Aspens turning for the season visible from camp, but the hikes in the area led to some beautiful vistas and meadows that afforded opportunities to see seas of leaves turning. This site required AWD and good clearance to get to, but well worth it and offered a good out of the way camping experience and great star gazing opportunity as there was a new moon when we went, so saw plenty of shooting stars and the milky way!
- JJordyn B.Scout
Hoosier Pass Dispersed Camping
Overall nice spots
We stayed one Saturday on Hoosier and we were able to find a spot. Not super private and lots of off leash dogs but beautiful walking trails!
- hhercules N.Scout
Red Sandstone - Primitive Dispersed
Beautiful, but a little busy
Went out late on a Friday night. My timing was wrong to get a good spot, but I was hoping there would be at least one spot left, unfortunately all the established sites I could reach were taken! I couldn't get more than a few miles up the road, the first few were manageable in my Impreza but having a higher clearance vehicle is definitely ideal. I was able to find a spot to pitch my tent for the night, but it was far from level or smooth. Still, incredible views of the stars and absolutely gorgeous to see the Aspen leaves changing!
Leah S.TravelerBoreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Beautiful & Easy
We stayed on site 21, arrived around 5pm on a Thursday night and it was amazing! We were shocked the site was still available, a couple other sites also had great views but 21 was definitely impressive. We read the previous reviews which made it easy for us to find. Sunset was beautiful, it was quiet and peaceful, and the moon lit up the entire area. Each site had a stoned fire pit and there are marked site numbers. The road up was busy with people leaf peeping so drive carefully, as of Sept 19th aspens were bright yellow and leaves were changing beautifully.
- Stacy T.Scout
Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Easy to get to, beautiful scenery
Easy to get to from metro Denver and it's super close to Silverthorne. Dispersed camping sites are still somewhat close together. We could definitely hear other campers around us talking and such. The road to get up was easy (we stayed in #9 - not sure about the ones farther up the road). I had to come in later as I had a work appointment, so I drove up in my Jetta to meet up with my husband. If my little Jetta can make it, almost any car can! Timing wise, we were up Sept 21 & 22 (2024) and the fall colors were GORGEOUS.
- TTarryn T.Traveler
Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Busy AF
Hard to find a spot. Even in shoulder season. Was busy 3 weeks ago too. Nearly no privacy. Nice view, but hardly worth it.
Tyler S.GuideSpruce Creek/Crystal Creek Designated Dispersed Camping
Spruce Creek Camping
Great campsite overall! You park and then walk to your site which is set back and surrounded by gorgeous trees. Lots of flat ground. It did get very chilly here, so beware! Also, lots of moisture in the air. The fire pit was fantastic!!
- SSam W.Guide
Collegiate Peaks
Out there but not too far
Went with the family and had a great time. We got a site because of a cancellation and, unfortunately it was next to the bathroom. Didn't bother us though. It was our first trip using our new popup and it was def a learning experience. That all being said we were able to hit up Mount Princeton hot springs AND visit the St. Elmo ghost town. By the end of the trip the kids were begging to go back asap.
Silouan A.Traveler
Slate River Dispersed Sites
Great area, lots of available sites
This is the go to place in this area. Just past Oh Be Joyful campground, there are a few miles of posted sites, fist come first serve.
Kaydi R.TravelerBoreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
Tent Camping
This campsite was gorgeous and fairly easy to get to. We drove a 2WD SUV with average clearance up and as long as you go slow and avoid the divots you’ll be fine. We got our campsite on a Friday morning, most/all campsites were gone by Saturday so it’s definitely a good idea to get there early. Our campsite was a short walk down the hill from the road and it did a good job and keeping our site private.
Guide to Granite
Granite, Colorado, offers a variety of tent camping options that immerse you in the stunning natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for well-reviewed campgrounds or unique dispersed sites, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Enjoy the clean and well-maintained facilities at Turtle Rock Campground, where even the pit toilets are stocked with toilet paper.
- Kite Lake provides picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great spot for cooking and gathering around the campfire.
- At North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, you'll find spacious sites along a beautiful creek, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- Experience fantastic hiking trails right from Portal Campground, with stunning views and access to fishing spots.
- The area around Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 2 West is ideal for exploring numerous hiking trails and enjoying the fall colors.
- For mountain biking enthusiasts, Turtle Rock Campground offers easy access to trails and great cell service for navigation.
Tips for tent camping near Granite
- Arrive early at Kite Lake to secure one of the limited official sites, especially during peak season.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions at Granite Rock Camp, as it can get chilly at night, even in summer.
- Bring your own toilet paper and supplies when camping at North Cottonwood Trailhead Dispersed Camping, as amenities can be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Granite, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Granite, CO is Turtle Rock Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 35 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Granite, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 59 tent camping locations near Granite, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.