Camping sites near Highlands Ranch, Colorado range from small tent-only campgrounds to full-service RV parks, with elevations between 5,300 and 8,200 feet. The area experiences significant temperature shifts between day and night, often dropping 30°F after sunset even in summer months. Most campgrounds in this region require advanced reservations during peak season from May through September.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks popular with mountain bikers of all skill levels. "Great camping spot, esp, if you like mountain biking. Not whistler in terms of terrain but plenty of trails for various ability levels," notes one visitor to Buffalo Creek Recreation Area.
Water recreation: Clear Creek provides tubing, kayaking, and fishing opportunities within walking distance of camping areas. A camper at Clear Creek RV Park shared: "There is so much to do at this location; aside from the sectioned off RV area, there are lots of paths and locals parks to adventure around. Tubing & swimming in the creek is wonderful especially in summertime."
Archery range access: Several campgrounds feature specialized recreational facilities beyond standard amenities. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," reports a camper who stayed at Indian Paintbrush Campground.
Hiking connections: Many campgrounds connect directly to regional trail systems. "The Indian Creek trail system is ideal for mountain biking or running, with access to the Colorado Trail running through it as well," mentions a visitor to Indian Creek Equestrian Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While many campgrounds near Highlands Ranch have closely spaced sites, some offer more seclusion. "This site and a couple others were downset from the road so we had a little privacy and the sites are large and far apart from each other," notes a camper at Rampart Range Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower facilities receive consistent praise at established campgrounds. "The bathrooms were in excellent condition. There are hot showers (that take quarters), running water, and even a laundry room. The shower house itself was heated, which was appreciated in the middle of the 30 degree night," reports one camper who stayed at Chatfield State Park.
Proximity to Denver: Many campers appreciate the balance of natural settings with urban accessibility. A visitor to Dakota Ridge RV Park shared: "This campground allows easy access to Denver, Golden, and the foothills. Campers are close together, but there are some mature trees. This campground is nicer than most that provide access to Denver."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to see local wildlife even at campgrounds close to urban areas. "We stayed in spot RV24. Easy access right off freeway and convenient to TPB start. Some nice small trails in area for easy walking. Mostly pine trees," notes a camper at Chief Hosa Campground.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common in this area, especially during summer and fall. "There is an active fire ban in the area and the neighbors were lighting 5ft tall fires with gasoline which put us at risk. If you are going to be camping in BLM or Wildlife Areas please follow the restrictions," warns a camper at Buffalo Creek.
Weekend crowds: Most camping areas near Highlands Ranch fill quickly on weekends. "Way to many people and the boat traffic was awful," reports a camper at Cherry Creek State Park Campground about weekend conditions.
Noise considerations: Highway and train noise affects several campgrounds in the area. "This campground is very easy to get too right off of Interstate 70. It was nice but the sites are very close and you can hear the traffic on the interstate really well," notes a visitor to Chief Hosa Campground.
Seasonal weather changes: The area experiences rapid weather shifts even during summer months. "Higher forest sites can experience sudden thunderstorms and cooler temperatures even in summer," with temperature swings of 30°F common between day and night.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. A visitor to Jellystone Park at Larkspur shared: "What a place. Hundreds of spots- a water park, a bounce pad, cabins, golf carts, putt-putt oh my! This place is a campers with kids dream."
Hidden treasures: Some trails feature special attractions for children. At Indian Creek Equestrian Campground, one camper reported: "The trail heading North out of the parking lot is great, well maintained and also has hidden 7 dwarfs along the trail to try and find. We did it four times just to make sure we found all 7."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas specifically designed for families. "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one," advises a regular visitor to Cherry Creek State Park.
Dog-friendly areas: Chatfield State Park features extensive off-leash areas for dogs. "Chatfield is such a great park; I've spent so much time biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, spending time with family. The dog park is by far the best. Off leash- so much room; well taken care of and big lake for the dogs to swim."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "The A3 site chosen is gravel with a hole or two and significantly tilted low to the front left....requiring a 4 high stack," notes an RVer at Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Early arrival recommended: Popular RV parks fill quickly, especially during summer months. "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," advises a camper familiar with Cherry Creek State Park.
Dump station access: Not all camping areas near Highlands Ranch offer dump stations. "Great pricing with only about a $20 premium to dump/fill at Love's and electric/water hookups with dump station included," mentions an RVer who stayed at Chief Hosa Campground.
Site selection tips: RVers recommend researching specific sites before booking. "Sites 8 & 9 are extremely unlevel, but the other sites are pretty fine," advises a long-term camper at Clear Creek RV Park.
