Ward, Colorado sits at 9,450 feet elevation in the Roosevelt National Forest, where camping temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months. The area experiences dramatic weather changes, with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September. Most glamping sites near Ward remain open from late May through early October, with limited winter operations requiring snow-ready vehicles and cold-weather equipment.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: At Arapaho Bay Campground, trails lead directly to Lake Granby with mountain views. "We had plenty of shade and camping lots seemed large. Kayaking and swimming in Lake Grandby and hiking nearby areas was a lot of fun," notes Amber Z.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Ward area supports diverse wildlife viewing year-round. One camper at Green Ridge Campground reported, "Access to the park from the west side was great and there were moose who wandered right into the campground to take a swim in the lake regularly which was awesome. We had a fox visit our site as well as a marmot."
Four-season activities: Winter glamping options include cross-country skiing on designated trails. Peaceful Valley campground offers "clean and peaceful" winter camping according to Jennifer C., who visited in October when temperatures dropped significantly after sunset.
What campers like
Convenient proximity: Reverend's Ridge Campground provides quick access to both wilderness and urban amenities. According to Steph A., "Golden Gate Canyon State Park is enormous. The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts... The park feels like it's far from the city, but the drive is easy for a weekend camping trip!"
Elevation advantages: The high elevation reduces insect populations substantially. As Brian W. notes about the Central City KOA, "Also, be sure to watch the weather and at 8,500 ft above sea level no bugs!"
Privacy between sites: Many glamping sites offer adequate separation between accommodations. At Hermit Park, "The sites aren't sitting on top of each other, and some spots feel relatively secluded," according to Erin K., who appreciated the natural spacing.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. Scott B. advises about Arapaho Bay: "The campground itself seemed very nice and well maintained but you pretty much need a reservation ahead of time to camp here so make sure you go online or call ahead to check availability."
Weather volatility: Prepare for rapid temperature changes regardless of season. Mark K. reported "Two feet of snow! This was on the summer solstice" at Green Ridge Campground.
Accessibility challenges: Some glamping sites require navigating difficult roads. As Chris E. warns about Glacier Basin Campground, "Be warned: road in across the dam is ROUGH to the point of hazard, and lacks guardrail. Significant safety concern for others or those with large or unwieldy vehicles."
Bear safety protocols: Many campgrounds enforce strict food storage requirements. Skylar F. notes, "They're not kidding when they say bear country—had bears at our site and around the campground 2 out of 3 nights!"
Tips for camping with families
Enclosed accommodations: Families appreciate glamping yurts during unpredictable weather. Jax B. shares, "I've stayed here twice; once via tenting and another with a yurt full of fun people. Both stays were wonderful."
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park provides structured activities for children. Ashley L. explains, "The facility offered tons of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily to the point of falling asleep while eating dinner. They made lots of friends and proclaimed it the best part of our 18 day trip."
Educational opportunities: Several glamping locations provide ranger-led programs. Troy C. recommends Glacier Basin stating, "Perfect Family Tent Campground. Wildlfe is very abundant. Bear Lake and Fern Lake are amazing hikes for the fam."
Noise considerations: Some sites enforce strict quiet hours. Jennifer S. noted about Golden Gate Canyon: "Such a beautiful place, trails are amazing, although the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake, select specific site numbers for better experiences. Hannah L. recommends, "Got there around 6 and we found a great spot (site M74) that was not super close to anyone else and had beautiful views of the mountains."
Electrical hookups: RVers should note that glamping in Ward offers limited electrical options. Dennis G. advises, "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at many glamping locations. Rich M. explains, "The sites are not very level so be prepared to use your blocks. When we where there, there were bear in the campground."
Weather preparation: RV glamping requires additional cold-weather preparation. Guests should ensure proper insulation and heating options as overnight temperatures can drop significantly, even during summer months.
