Best Campgrounds near Highlands Ranch, CO

Highlands Ranch is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Highlands Ranch, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Highlands Ranch camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Highlands Ranch, Colorado (322)

    1. Chatfield State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 791-7275

    $36 - $200 / night

    "Very near relatives in Highlands Ranch, CO. It is a cool place to visit and relax. Even better if you want to fish and/or boat!!! Very great for day visits."

    "Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."

    2. Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Centennial, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 690-1166

    $28 - $432 / night

    "I only gave it 4 stars because on the outskirts of the state park we have a lot of homeless camps popping up oblong Parker road and 225."

    "It is in the center of the city, but aside from the traffic on the dam in the distance you would not realize it. "

    3. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park

    34 Reviews
    Morrison, CO
    12 miles
    Website

    "This was our first time staying at Bear Creek Lake. The park is not part of the Colorado Wilds or CPW State Park system, but daily vehicle fees are included with your camping reservation."

    "Note: If the GPS takes you to a dirt road with a closed gate at the end, get back on the highway and take the next exit to the park entrance."

    4. Dakota Ridge RV Park

    41 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 279-1625

    "This park is kind of pricey even in the winter (we stayed Nov22-Jan23) but it’s Colorado and it’s all pretty pricey. Park staff is super friendly and accommodating."

    "Good site if you want to be close to Denver but still have a short drive to the foothills."

    5. Rampart Range Recreation Area

    16 Reviews
    Sedalia, CO
    14 miles
    Website

    "My 9 yr old son and I have been “jeeping” around Colorado for about 8 months now. We make it a point to wake up to a different view every day."

    "Fun place to camp lots of sites and pretty trails, however this is known for its off-road ATV riders. If you're staying for a night or you're ATV for the weekend this is your spot."

    6. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    20 miles

    "There's several creeks that run through the area and a network of trails that intersect the Colorado Trail and the road. The area is popular with mountain bikers."

    "The area was well kept and obviously beautiful, it's Colorado after all. There was no running water, however the camo host drives an ATV around offering water from giant containers. I loved it."

    7. Clear Creek RV Park

    28 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 278-1437

    $32 - $80 / night

    "Had a great spot right next to the Clear Creek walking path. The campground is clean and well looked after. Clean bathrooms and showers. Close to many hikes and mt trails."

    "**Campground Review: **

    Golden, CO is a super cute town on the outskirts of Denver. The city has a campground in a prime location, and we were lucky to book a site!"

    8. Chief Hosa Campground

    27 Reviews
    Kittredge, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (720) 913-0700

    $33 - $40 / night

    "They use a keycode system to restrict access to the centrally-located bathhouse (there is only one in the campground), which I thought was clever. "

    "The highway noise was very noticeable, but didn’t take away from the peaceful setting. It was a clean campground. The bathrooms and showers were clean and have a key code for entry."

    9. Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur

    19 Reviews
    Larkspur, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (720) 325-2393

    $50 - $170 / night

    "We’re a one night in each location maybe 2 as we tour the US in 4-6week chunks."

    "When we arrived we found out our spot was by the train we asked to be moved and they were extremely accommodating and put us in another spot up higher away from train."

    10. Indian Creek Equestrian Campground

    5 Reviews
    Louviers, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 275-5610

    $30 / night

    "Indian Creek is lush and wooded, while still being close to Denver. The drive in is easy, following a paved road most of the way. Great spot for car camping."

    "Water spigots next to the bathroom. There are a few trails here, some are horse trails. Overall a beautiful spot with some shade!"

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Recent Reviews near Highlands Ranch, CO

2116 Reviews of 322 Highlands Ranch Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Garden of the Gods RV Resort

    Clean but cramped

    This campground is centrally located. We arrived around 5pm and were given a tight space that was a challenge to level with hookups on the wrong side of our unit. The office closed at 4:59 with no after hours phone number to call to request an alternative site. This is a very communal campground.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    A-Lodge Boulder - Car Camping

    Quiet, cozy, very close to Boulder. Only 3 van/car spots

    Overall vibe and convenience to Boulder rate 4 stars. Although there was a wedding one evening, it was mellow & over, with folks dispersing, by around 8pm. Minimal bugs so we did not use screens for a good part of the time, the overall land the site is on, is long and narrow and so parking/car traffic can be a little tight. We did go out the exit on far side and drove down the hill back to the entrance which necessitated more than 180 degree turn, so try to avoid that. Three clean bathrooms, 1 men's with 2 toilet stalls and shower (toilet stall were very small--knees bumped against door), 2 co-ed bathrooms (one with toilet/sink/shower, one with toilet & sink only). One sink in co-ed had very hot water coming out of both faucets (no cold from this sink). Paper towel dispensers ran out and were empty for a day but then roll of paper towels appeared. 

    Wifi was spotty & disconnected regularly, no Verizon service. There is a small 'store' in office: A fridge with drinks and burritos, some shelves with some Mountain House dinners, and snack bars. There is a pool, dry sauna with great LARGE window looking at creek, and hot-tub (sauna worked great). Did not get a chance to see any of the rooms. Tent sites are up a VERY steep path and on platforms on side of hill (perhaps 50-60' up the hill?). There's an area with some slack lines set up, as well as electric vehicle charging stations.

  • B S.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Idlewild Campground

    Fall stay

    Stayed two nights with my sons. Grabbed one of the walk-in sites Friday at 1pm.

    Pros: Availability (one of the only sites in Winter Park), beautiful surroundings

    Cons: Right next to the highway so traffic (trains at times) can be heard at all hours of the night, most walk-in sites don't have a tent pad

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    Camp camp camp

    Went on a bit of a rainy weekend so it got super cold at night. The roads are super rocky as you get up to the reservoir and with the rain there were some large puddles but with the right vehicle should be all good. The views were amazing and the hike up is so pretty. So many great sites all the way up to the reservoir as well.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great spot, right on the water

    High clearance 4x4 recommended but could be doable without if you’re an experienced driver. Beautiful lakes and some campsites are right on the water. Only one other person camping on a Wednesday night. There is currently a fire ban so be sure to respect our forests and be updated.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Chief Hosa Campground

    I-70 off-ramp camping

    The campground is unfortunately too close to the highway and the noise makes it difficult to sleep or relax. Nice parking spot if you need to see the sights for a day or two.

  • Kevin C.
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Nice Campground but Terrible Neighbors

    It is a nice spot to make camp.  We had plenty of spots to choose from.  We thought it was perfect at first.  Then the people with the ATVs started showing up and it got loud.  And stayed loud all night long.  Loud, with massive lights that would light up our tent every time they drove by all night long.  We will not be going back, purely because of the other people.

  • k
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Pikes Peak RV Park

    Older and close.

    Sites are very close together. Friendly helpful staff. Bathrooms clean well maintained.


Guide to Highlands Ranch

Camping near Highlands Ranch, CO, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Paddleboarding and Water Activities: Many campers enjoy paddleboarding at Chatfield State Park Campground. One visitor said, "Loved the paddle board experience," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Golden Gate Canyon State Park. A reviewer mentioned, "Great biking, hiking right from the campsite," making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Relaxing by the Water: At Bear Creek Lake Park, you can fish and enjoy the beautiful sunsets. One camper noted, "Big campsites... close to the reservoir for swimming and fishing."

What campers like:

  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate the helpful staff at places like Denver West-Central City KOA. One guest said, "Every staff member was so helpful and nice," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A visitor at Cherry Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the views at Reverend's Ridge Campground. One review stated, "Stunning campground nestled right outside Golden and Boulder Colorado."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park reported, "Noise from the bar goes till around 11 and construction sounds begin around 6 am."
  • Site Availability: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Buffalo Creek Recreation Area shared, "It is very difficult to find a spot on a weekend."
  • Coin-Operated Showers: Be prepared for coin-operated showers at some campgrounds. A reviewer at Golden Gate Canyon State Park mentioned, "Showers take quarters so come prepared if you plan to shower."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that allow pets and have activities for kids. Chatfield State Park Campground is noted for being "big rig friendly" and has plenty of space for families.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to plan activities like fishing or hiking. A family at Bear Creek Lake Park enjoyed the "great biking and hiking right from the campsite."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with amenities like laundry and showers. A camper at Denver West-Central City KOA appreciated the "nice hot shower, laundry, and a hot tub."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Make sure to choose level sites for a comfortable stay. A reviewer at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, "The site was really bad... so uneven that no matter how much we tried we couldn't get level."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A visitor at Clear Creek RV Park noted, "The RV park is beautiful and there is a major city park within 200 yards."
  • Be Mindful of Surroundings: Some RV parks may have issues with noise or safety. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park warned about theft, saying, "One vehicle stolen and several cars rummaged through."

Camping near Highlands Ranch, CO, has something for everyone. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fire pits allowed at campgrounds near Highlands Ranch?

Most campgrounds near Highlands Ranch do allow fires in designated fire pits, though regulations can change based on seasonal fire restrictions. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground features well-maintained fire pits and provides the authentic Colorado camping experience with stunning views. Colorado Campground near Woodland Park also offers fire pits at their sites. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as Colorado frequently implements fire bans during dry periods, especially in summer and fall. When fire bans are in effect, alternatives like propane fire pits may be permitted at some locations.

Where can I find camping sites near Highlands Ranch, CO?

Several excellent camping options exist near Highlands Ranch. Cherry Creek State Park Campground is one of the closest options, offering drive-in sites with reservations available and amenities suitable for both tent and RV campers. For families seeking organized activities, Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur provides a developed camping experience with easy highway access and convenient proximity to both Denver and Colorado Springs attractions. Those seeking more traditional outdoor experiences might consider Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park near Littleton, which offers a good balance of accessibility and natural surroundings.

Are there any reservoirs with camping facilities near Highlands Ranch?

Yes, several reservoirs with camping facilities are available near Highlands Ranch. Chatfield State Park Campground offers camping close to Chatfield Reservoir, making it ideal for fishing and boating enthusiasts while being very near to Highlands Ranch. For those willing to drive a bit farther, Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir provides more secluded camping experiences with site #5 being particularly good for larger groups. This area offers a more peaceful setting while still providing reservoir access. Both locations typically require reservations, especially during peak summer months.