Golden Gate Canyon State Park and nearby glamping destinations offer upscale cabin and yurt accommodations at elevations between 7,500-9,000 feet. These mountain lodging options provide electricity and comfort while maintaining the camping experience. Temperatures in this region typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than Denver, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and evening lows dropping to 45-55°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area around Glacier Basin Campground provides excellent chances to see elk, moose, and other Rocky Mountain wildlife. "Wildlfe is very abundant. Bear Lake and Fern Lake are amazing hikes for the fam," notes Troy C.
Mountain biking trails: Access numerous multi-use trails directly from campsites at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. "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," says Mike M.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Several stocked lakes within a 30-minute drive offer trout fishing opportunities. "We caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view," mentions Diana M., who stayed at Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Stargazing after dark: The higher elevation and distance from city lights create ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "The stars at night were superb," writes Daniel B. about his experience at Peaceful Valley.
What campers like
Proximity to nature with comfort: Estes Park KOA provides full amenities while keeping you close to wilderness areas. "The facilities are excellent. There are combo shower/bathroom stations throughout the campground so you never have to walk far to clean up," reports Joey C.
Spacious sites at certain campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer more room between sites. "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," explains Dennis G. about Denver West-Central City KOA.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers at established campgrounds. "Very nice and well-maintained campground. The views of the surrounding peaks were great from our site!" says Ryan L. about Glacier Basin.
Availability of firewood: Most campgrounds have firewood for sale from camp hosts. "You can buy firewood from the camp host, who I assume is also servicing the other nearby campsite," notes Daniel B. about his experience at Peaceful Valley.
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: Many campgrounds require proper food storage. "Had bears at our site and around the campground 2 out of 3 nights!" reports Skylar F. about Arapaho Bay Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "The first come first serve sites fill up by early Thursday. Get there earlier in the week and you will have a better chance of getting a spot," advises Kevin P. about Arapaho Bay.
Weather considerations: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. "At 8,500 ft above sea level no bugs!" notes Brian W. about Denver West-Central City KOA, highlighting one benefit of higher elevations.
Limited shade at some sites: Tree coverage varies significantly between campgrounds and individual sites. "No trees between us and the site on either side, but we did face the hill so the view was nice," mentions a camper about their glamping experience near Jamestown.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive activities for children. "The facility offered tons of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily to the point of falling asleep while eating dinner," shares Ashley L.
Choose sites near bathrooms: When glamping close to Jamestown, Colorado with kids, convenience matters. "Facilities within walking distance for restroom and dishes. Electricity and water were great for us semi-tent campers," recommends Diana M.
Pack for temperature swings: Mountain areas experience significant day-to-night temperature changes. "Be prepared to use your blocks," suggests Rich M. about setting up at Reverend's Ridge, indicating the terrain considerations.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. "Very busy but still feels spacious. Saw a lot of wild life," mentions Vanessa C. about Glacier Basin, noting the balance between crowds and experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Hermits Hollow Campground and other mountain sites require proper equipment. "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," cautions Chris E.
Site selection for larger rigs: When glamping with an RV near Jamestown, Colorado, choose appropriate sites. "A couple down falls, no shade trees for RV full hookup sites and lower sites are alittle crowded when filled up," notes Dary R. about Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake.
Elevation considerations: Higher campgrounds present unique challenges. "This is very close to the casinos. It has a nice dog area. Shower and laundry facilities are good, and it is convenient to Denver or Breckenridge," says Fadelle P. about Denver West-Central City KOA.
Hookup availability: Not all sites offer full hookups. "No shower, full hookups offered, beautiful scenery and right outside the entrance to the national park!" explains Marie P. about camping near Rocky Mountain National Park.
