Best Campgrounds near Hillside, CO

Camping near Hillside, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax under the stars, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails around the Pinon Flats Campground. "From the campground, you can easily hike up to the creek and the east face of the dunes within 15-30 minutes," says a happy camper. The area is perfect for both short walks and longer hikes.
• Stargazing: The Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites are known for their clear night skies. One visitor shared, "You MUST take a walk down into the dunes after dark… simply breathtaking."
• Fishing and Water Activities: The Hecla Junction Campground is right by the Arkansas River, making it a great spot for fishing. A long-time visitor noted, "It's a sweet place to camp right on the Arkansas River, just a bit north of Salida."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms at Pinon Flats Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Busy campground with clean toilets. Well maintained and clean camping spots."
• Scenic Views: Many enjoy the beautiful surroundings at East Ridge Campground - Royal Gorge. A camper remarked, "There are mule deer wandering through at dusk. The sounds of crickets and gentle breezes will help you sleep soundly."
• Quiet Atmosphere: The Red Canyon Park is loved for its peacefulness. A visitor shared, "I might have been the only person at the park and it was quite peaceful!"

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Pinon Flats Campground warned, "In July, there were a ton of mosquitoes everywhere except over the sand."
• Limited Amenities: Many campgrounds, like Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, do not have drinking water or electric hookups. A visitor noted, "No signal, no restroom, no water, no trash cans, no light, no noise, just nature."
• Tight Campsites: Some sites can be close together, especially at places like Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA. A reviewer mentioned, "The spots are a little close together and you don’t get to choose your spot."

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby attractions. The Sand Dunes Recreation has heated pools and hot tubs, making it a fun spot for families. One parent said, "Enjoyed our time in The Greenhouse which has 4 hot tubs and a bar."
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at Hecla Junction Campground advised, "If the river is low enough to wade across… use caution."
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy during hikes. A visitor at East Ridge Campground - Royal Gorge mentioned, "Restaurants are nearby about 10 minutes."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Alvarado Campground noted, "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and RV up to 30 or so."
• Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites can be uneven. A camper at Salida North BLM suggested, "Bring extra leveling blocks!"
• Plan for No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Red Canyon Park, don’t have electric or water hookups. A visitor shared, "No water or electrical hookups. Lots of wildlife in the area."

Camping near Hillside, Colorado, has something for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.