The Henderson area offers convenient access to multiple camping options within a 30-mile radius. Situated near the South Platte River at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, this region experiences temperature swings throughout the year with hot, dry summers and occasional intense thunderstorms. Camping sites around Henderson typically provide gravel or concrete pads with varying degrees of shade.
What to do
Fishing in stocked ponds: St. Vrain State Park Campground has numerous fishing ponds that attract anglers year-round. "My friends and I love this campground! Numerous ponds, stocked ponds, trails, biking, birds, paddle boarding. The view of the mountains is to die for!" shares Kate B.
Wildlife observation: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers extensive natural areas for spotting local wildlife. "Golden Gate Canyon SP is absolutely gorgeous! We loved the experience at the park, the trails are great and the views are wonderful," reports Minette and Ron G.
Biking on connecting trails: Ride between various camping areas using dedicated paths. "Chatfield is such a great park; I've spent so much time biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, spending time with family," explains Jenny P. about Chatfield State Park Campground.
Swimming and water activities: During summer months, several parks offer designated swimming areas. "We stayed here for one night before heading out on the road. This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained," notes Stephanie S. about Cherry Creek State Park.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: St. Vrain State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathroom areas. "Clean shower and rest room. Easy self check in," mentions Vanessa H., which matters for campers bringing pets that need washing after outdoor adventures.
Privacy between sites: Site layout at some campgrounds provides good separation. "Spacious sites, well kept. Nice campground, large spacious sites with a shade shelter and a fire pit. Lots of space to bike, walk and fish. Very clean bathrooms," explains Jacque U.
Convenient reservations: Standley Lake Regional Park offers flexible booking options for pet owners. "We had two vehicles we camped in and used one of the rv pull through spots. Trying to reserve online was a bit of a challenge (may have been user error) but I was able to call and the ranger I talked was very helpful in getting a reservation day of," recalls Brooke A.
Walking paths close to sites: Many campers appreciate easy access to walking routes. "The River area was well-developed and well-used by the community as well as campers. It was a little disconcerting to hear people walking and talking so close behind our campsite, but we got used to it," notes GP about Clear Creek RV Park.
What you should know
Fairgrounds proximity: Boulder County Fairgrounds provides basic camping with some limitations. "Well kept area to park with access to electricity. You are only allowed to stay 14 days in a calendar year, so not a long term place. The parking area is connected to a park with sidewalks and ponds," explains Lanie M.
Traffic congestion: Access challenges exist at certain times. "If you want to get into the Park, suggest you go EARLY, EARLY, EARLY in the day. Traffic backs up all the way from the Entrance on Parker Rd to the Entrance Booth on weekends and holidays. Plan on an hour OR MORE to just get to the booth," warns Kay S. about Cherry Creek State Park.
Highway noise levels: Consider site selection carefully to minimize road noise. "I-25. The interstate is so close as I type this I can hear in my travel trailer every truck, motorcycle, and car. Going to have to use earplugs tonight to sleep. It's F##king insane the noise," cautions Paul Z.
Mosquito activity: Insect repellent is essential during certain months. "Very clean, well kept sites. Beautiful views, great showers, not a ton of fish in late June. Took off a point for the exceptional amount of mosquitoes and lack of shaded area (for the love of God bring deet)," advises Justin G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some sites offer dedicated children's areas. "This campground was tiny and a little cramped but was very clean and had running showers that was a plus. It was surrounded by trees but they were small which didn't help block the wind. We would stay here again because the staff was very friendly and they had a nice little store and playground," shares Pam B. about Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Tent positioning: Select sites carefully for optimal comfort with pets and children. "We showed up without reservations and there were many open sites but the only ones available without a reservation were in the middle of a field and shared a driveway with the site next door. So, no privacy. Wind was pretty intense since we were in the middle of the field, make sure if you have a tent it is well tied in," advises Amy S.
Early arrival timing: Secure your preferred site by arriving in the morning. "Nice campground, well kept. Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites. As someone tent-camping this is no problem, just takes some time (site assigned ~1.5hours after arrival at 13:20)," explains sarah S.
Tips from RVers
Level concrete pads: Applewood RV Resort provides solid parking areas for vehicles. "Good location close to interstate to access all the cool towns and site seeing west of Denver. The sites are level concrete with either electric or full hook ups. Tons of fishing and trails," notes Paul Z.
Sewer connection positioning: Check hookup locations before selecting sites. "Only negatives were the internet was a snail pace. We couldn't keep anything logged in. The sewer is 6 inches above grade and slinky support wasn't tall enough. You might be lifting your hose to assist emptying," warns Love4travel T.
Laundry facility access: Multiple parks offer coin-operated machines. "Bathroom and shower were private with a personal key - pure luxury! And everything was very nice and clean," shares Maria M. about available facilities for extended stays with pets.
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