Mueller State Park Campground offers cabins and glamping sites at 10,000 feet elevation, just 28 miles from Guffey, Colorado. The campground maintains clean facilities with level sites that can accommodate various camping styles, from tents to RVs to cabin stays. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing, requiring adequate preparation for cold-weather glamping near Guffey.
What to do
Hiking near camp: Mueller State Park Campground provides direct access to numerous trails from the campground itself. "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring," notes Alexis B., who appreciated the well-maintained trail system.
Fishing opportunities: Spillway Campground offers excellent fly fishing on the South Platte River with catch and release regulations. "The fishing is very good," shares Ruth L. "This is a popular area, but the reservation system does not allow overcrowding."
Wildlife viewing: Cove Campground provides unique wildlife watching opportunities with its riverside location and cliff backdrop. The small size (only 4-5 sites) means less human disturbance. According to Kyle K., the campground offers "quiet and great scenery" with "quick access to the river."
Stargazing sessions: Several campsites around Guffey provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. At Mueller State Park, campers enjoy minimal light pollution. "I was surprised that I had 1 or 2 bars (Verizon) throughout most of the park, even 3 bars on parts of the Cheeseman Ranch Bike Loop," noted Steve C., highlighting the unexpected connectivity in an otherwise natural setting.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Happy Meadows offers sites with good separation. "The sites are a good size. Beautiful scenery," notes Melissa J. This smaller campground provides a more intimate camping experience than larger facilities.
Clean facilities: Mueller State Park maintains high cleanliness standards. "Super nice facility and clean. Very busy park as a lot of sites are on the main road. If you can choose to stay off the main road areas you will enjoy more," explains Brian F., who gave the campground a 5-star rating.
Campground hosts: Multiple reviewers mention helpful hosts at campgrounds around Guffey. At Spillway Campground, Stephen K. shared that "The camp hosts, Neal & Patty were very friendly and keep a nice campground." This personal touch enhances the camping experience.
Riverside locations: Several campgrounds offer sites adjacent to rivers. Cove Campground provides access to the Platte River. "The pictures of this campground does not do it justice! It's breathtaking!" exclaims Katelyn M. about the riverside setting and cliff views.
What you should know
High elevation considerations: Most glamping options near Guffey sit at high elevations. At Cripple Creek KOA, "The air is thin up here- real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen," cautions Sarah F. Visitors should acclimatize and stay hydrated.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have restricted amenities. Five Points Campground has "no shade, or water available and no trash service so you have to pack it all out," according to Jackie G., making preparation crucial.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking. Spillway Campground fills quickly during peak season. "Reservations are a must during the season. Opens mid May - late October," advises Stephen K.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. Reaching Spillway Campground requires navigating "a long bumpy 11 mile dirt road ride," according to Jenn H., who still found it "worth it" but recommends tent camping over bringing campers due to the difficult access.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Lone Duck Campground and Cabins offers numerous family activities. "Pool, laundry room, gift shop/Grocery. Arcade, pond, clean bathrooms. Best place ever," raves Cody K. The campground provides entertainment options for various age groups.
Wildlife encounters: Mueller State Park provides opportunities to see local fauna. Brian F. reports, "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" These wildlife sightings create memorable experiences for children.
Water play options: Happy Meadows has become a tradition for some families. Courtney M. shares, "Been camping every year at Happy Meadows campground for over 30 years. I absolutely love it here. The river is ABSOLUTELY perfect for tubing!"
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, even in summer. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns Bruce K. about Mueller State Park. Families should pack extra layers, even when glamping in Guffey during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA has varied site quality. According to Shelby S., "The site we got had our door facing another camper's door and our picnic tables were next to each other, so we didn't spend much time hanging out outside." Requesting specific sites can improve your stay.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups. At Cripple Creek KOA, sites feature "full hookups, fire rings with grills, picnic tables. Level sites with many pull thrus," according to Judy F., making it suitable for larger rigs.
Parking constraints: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. At Garden of the Gods RV Resort, Jason F. noted his deluxe site was "not only incredibly narrow, but very difficult to get into," suggesting RVers should inquire about site dimensions before booking glamping accommodations near Guffey.
Elevation impacts: Higher elevations affect RV systems and personal comfort. Papa T. at Cripple Creek KOA mentions being "very high altitude and short of breath but really enjoyed it," a common experience when glamping at elevation in central Colorado.
