Camping near Jefferson, Colorado sits at approximately 8,100 feet elevation in the Pike National Forest region. The area features dense pine forests and rugged mountain terrain with temperatures that can drop into the low 30s even during summer months. Seasonal considerations are critical for glamping in this high-altitude destination where mosquitoes are minimal but weather conditions can change rapidly.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: The Colorado Trail runs alongside Kenosha East Campground, providing access to spectacular valley views. "A hiking trail that is frequented by backpackers. The trail is also surrounded by aspen grove with thick wildflowers and wild grasses. The reward on the short hike we did is the view of the South Park valley," notes a visitor at Kenosha East Campground.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple areas feature accessible waterfall hikes within short drives. At Burning Bear Campground, a camper mentions, "Sadly, the well water is non-potable, but there is a waterfall down the road where you can get water to filter."
Wildlife viewing: The area's forests host diverse wildlife throughout the camping season. One camper at Timberline Campground shared, "Camped September 24 - 27. First come first served sites. 31 sites, had the place to ourselves. Wild turkeys and Steller Jays. Well maintained."
What campers like
Quiet off-season camping: Many campgrounds offer excellent solitude during shoulder seasons. A visitor at Timberline Campground recommends, "Visit this campground in early spring! We practically had the campground to ourselves! Word of caution, it did unexpectedly hail for about 20 mins but we had our camper and could seek shelter."
Mountain top views: Elevated campsites provide exceptional vantage points. "Climbed to the top!" exclaimed one enthusiastic reviewer about Peak One Campground, while another mentioned, "Those sites on the lake seem primo but our site still had some good space and not too close to others."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the thoughtful site layout at various locations. At Staunton State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "Beautiful sites, lots of room between each other," while another explained, "Sites are stretched out along two short trails. Most far enough that it makes sense to treat it a bit like backpacking."
What you should know
Altitude considerations: The high elevation affects camping conditions year-round. At Denver West-Central City KOA, a camper noted, "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!!"
Limited cell service: Connectivity is minimal throughout the region. One camper at Burning Bear Campground reported, "There is no cellular service for the whole pass, so it was an excellent opportunity to disconnect and be present in the moment."
Possible weather extremes: Even summer nights can bring freezing temperatures. A Staunton State Park visitor advised, "Make sure you bring a heater or good sleeping bag because it can get pretty cool at night here in the summer time."
Tips for camping with families
Look for rocky play areas: Natural features provide built-in entertainment for children. At Staunton State Park Campground, a parent recommended site 19, saying, "Behind 19 are rocks and boulders. You could scramble up with or without kids (my kid was 2 and climbed with some help) and explore for about an hour just by the site."
Check campground noise levels: Some areas experience significant road or visitor noise. At Echo Lake Campground, a visitor warned, "The only draw back though, is its proximity to the main road. For being situated at a high elevation, it felt like I was much closer to the city. All night long cars went by."
Bring appropriate cold-weather gear: Night temperatures drop significantly, even in summer. A Chatfield State Park camper shared their winter experience: "My husband and I stayed in this beautiful campground in 2018 June. The wild life was beautiful, the facilities were clean, and the staff was friendly and helpful!"
Tips from RVers
Watch for road conditions: Access roads to many camping areas can be challenging. Regarding Selkirk Campground, a visitor warned, "The road leading to the actual campground can be tricky and requires at least an all-wheel or 4WD car as it's bumpy."
Check site dimensions carefully: Some locations have limited space for larger vehicles. A visitor at Kenosha East Campground noted, "Kenosha East is designed primarily for tent camping. A small trailer or camper van can be accommodated. Large fifth wheels or RVs can be accommodated at the disbursed sites located East and South of the campground."
Consider accessibility to amenities: Some glamping in Jefferson, Colorado requires planning for resource limitations. When staying at Burning Bear Campground, a camper pointed out, "The location is perfect. Not so many locations so come around 2p latest. Legal fire pits in designated locations. Each site has a fire pit, trees for hammocks, parking spaces picnic table near the fire pit."
