Golden Gate Canyon State Park and the surrounding area near Idaho Springs, Colorado, offers glamping accommodations at elevations between 8,000 and 9,700 feet. The mountain climate typically features cool nights even in summer months, with temperatures often dropping into the 30s after sunset. Winter camping is available at select locations, with snow possible from October through May.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: At Golden Gate Canyon State Park, visitors can explore numerous hiking paths. "This park has great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide," notes Mike M. The trails vary in difficulty, making them accessible for different skill levels.
Mountain biking: The park offers dedicated routes for cyclists seeking mountain terrain. "The bike trails are awesome and a sweet pond tucked in the meadow to fish at," according to a visitor at Frazer Meadow Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife watching opportunities. "Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view," shares Diana M. from Reverend's Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "The clubhouse is spotless," reports Brian W. about Denver West-Central City KOA. "The bathrooms are clean and park rangers monitored the area often," adds Meghan H.
Food options: Some campgrounds offer convenient dining options. "The lodge is within walking distance of all sites and had GREAT food. Pulling the trailer up to the campsites was easy and we took a ride up Mt Evans (scary road but beautiful views!)," says Jennifer S. about Echo Lake Campground.
Weather considerations: The high altitude creates distinct camping conditions. "We went in June and July. Check the weather. We had very cold weather in both June and July, weather hit the low 30's," warns one camper at Staunton State Park.
What you should know
Altitude adjustment: Most glamping sites sit at elevations above 8,000 feet. "Yes Mountain High!! 8100' high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don't worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!" mentions shari at Denver West-Central City KOA.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in summer. "If you go any time outside of the busy summer time it's quiet and not packed," advises Sheridan B. about Frazer Meadow Campground.
Bear awareness: Proper food storage is essential in this area. "When we where there, there were bear in the campground," notes Rich M. about camping at Reverend's Ridge, where bear boxes are provided at many sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. "This spot is just a quick ride outside of Golden. The scenery is gorgeous with several trails to hike or mountain bike. The campsites are clean and easy to get to. Great for families with little ones," recommends Meghan H. about Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Space considerations: Choose sites with adequate room for family activities. "The sites were very clean, had a bear box and close to parking," reports Maggie S. about Aspen Meadow Campground.
Proximity to amenities: For families with younger children, consider locations with convenient facilities. "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 Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Several campgrounds provide powered sites suitable for RVs. "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. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room," reports Dennis G. about Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Site leveling: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "If you have a tent, depending on what sites are left, it can be very tricky to find level ground. Half the sites are on a slope," notes Michelle F. about Robbers Roost Campground.
Site spacing: Proximity to neighboring campers varies by location. "Sites are stretched out along two short trails. Most far enough that it makes sense to treat it a bit like backpacking so you have fewer trips to make," explains laura S. about the glamping setup at Staunton State Park.
