Camping areas near Green Mountain Falls sit in the foothills of Pikes Peak at elevations between 7,800 and 9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 75°F during day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Most forest service roads in this area become difficult or impassable after heavy rainfall, with high-clearance vehicles recommended for dispersed sites.
What to do
Pike's Peak hiking access: Camp at Crags Campground for direct trail access to Pikes Peak via Devil's Playground trail. "Great place to stay if you are wanting to hike pikes peak. Close to the trailhead that will take you up. This is on the backside of the mountain if you are in Colorado Springs," explains camper Brent L.
Fish at Manitou Lake: From Colorado Campground, take the short trail to Manitou Lake. "There's an easy path to Manitou Lake where lots of folks were fishing and boating," reports Mary D. The 5-acre lake provides trout fishing opportunities with day-use areas for picnicking.
Mountain biking trails: Access numerous mountain biking trails from dispersed sites along Rampart Range Road. "Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer," notes Doug C. Most trails are moderate to difficult and best suited for intermediate riders.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Campers value sites near water features. At Lone Duck Campground and Cabins, one camper shared, "We have stayed here twice once in campsite 46 very nice 47 even nicer two best lots here for us cuz we like being the by the water. The rush go by all night let's just sleep so good."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer chances to spot local wildlife. "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" notes Brian F. about Mueller State Park. Other campers report seeing marmots, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Privacy at high-elevation sites: More secluded camping can be found at Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping areas. "Beautiful views, ~50 minutes of rocky gravel road to reach the top but doable in any vehicle depending on the weather. Tons of spots and easy to be secluded. Very few other campers up there at the time we visited," reports Logan C.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest service roads require careful navigation. "Access was challenging, even with our 4x4 Jeep seeing as there was pretty deep snowfall accumulation, steep grades, and hairpin switchbacks heading up," explains Monte P. about Mount Herman Road.
Weekend crowds vs. weekday solitude: Campgrounds fill quickly on weekends but often empty mid-week. At Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping, one camper noted: "Ended up a parking lot by the end of the night. Too busy with inconsiderate neighbors. Beautiful views though. I think it's luck of the draw depending what night you go."
Fire restrictions change frequently: Summer fire bans are common. "Firepit: Yes" is listed for most campgrounds, but restrictions often apply. Check current fire regulations with Pike National Forest before your trip as violations carry heavy fines.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies widely by location. Near town, service remains reliable but diminishes in remote areas. "No mobile signal once turning off the paved highway," reports Timothy N. about the Crags Campground area.
Tips for camping with families
Clean bathrooms matter: At Mueller State Park Campground, facilities receive high marks: "Clean, level campsites. We stayed in conifer 25. Close to comfort station and playground. Coin showers but are super clean," notes Lynnae C.
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Multiple short, accessible trails work well for children. "The Crags trail was super low key, about 2.5 hours round trip with great views at the top," shares Hannah B., making it suitable for families with younger kids.
Weather preparation essential: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecast, as afternoon thunderstorms develop quickly at these elevations.
Wildlife awareness: Keep food secure in hard-sided containers. "We woke up one morning at our site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," one camper experienced, which creates great viewing opportunities but requires proper food storage.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and accessibility: For larger RVs, choose established campgrounds with proper facilities. At Garden of the Gods RV Resort, campers note limitations: "Sites very close together and most utilities in the back. The sites were really tight, but we spent most of our time out exploring the parks and historic Manitou Springs so we made it work during our stay," explains Candace.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most area campgrounds. "Sites are not level, bring proper equipment for leveling," advises Cheryl W. Even at established RV parks, bring adequate leveling blocks.
Water and dump station availability: Most dispersed camping areas lack facilities, so plan accordingly. At Diamond Campground & RV Park, "Everything on our 50 amp site worked perfectly. The site was ample for our toy hauler and truck," notes a reviewer, but many sites share water connections or have limited hookup options.
Watch road grades: Steep mountain roads challenge larger vehicles. Routes to the best places to camp near Green Mountain Falls often include 7-8% grades and tight turns, requiring engine power management both uphill and when descending.
