Best Campgrounds near Johnstown, CO

Johnstown, Colorado lies near multiple established campgrounds that cater to both RV travelers and tent campers. Prominent facilities include Boyd Lake State Park's Cottonwood Campground and Loveland RV Resort, both within 15 miles of Johnstown. The area features a mix of state park campgrounds with water access and privately operated RV resorts with full hookups. Most developed campgrounds in this region provide electric service, water connections, and shower facilities, with several also offering cabin accommodations and glamping options for those seeking more comfortable overnight experiences.

Weather patterns in the area typically allow for year-round camping at many established sites, with summer being the peak season when facilities operate at full capacity. State park campgrounds like Boyd Lake feature designated swimming areas and recreational facilities that attract families during warmer months. Most private RV parks remain open throughout winter, though visitors should verify seasonal amenities availability. Campground reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when occupancy rates are highest. As one visitor noted about Boyd Lake State Park, "There are a lot of spots for RVs so you are a little bit packed. The view from campsites are neither beautiful neither ugly."

Campground experiences vary significantly between the more urban-adjacent private RV parks and the state park facilities. Several visitors highlighted the amenities at Loveland RV Resort, noting its convenient location near shopping and restaurants. "This place is expensive ($440 a week) but very nice... They also have an art night, and a farmers market and other weekly meetups here," reported one camper. Proximity to Interstate 25 provides easy access to most developed campgrounds in the area, though this occasionally results in road noise at certain locations. Sites with water views tend to book first, particularly at Boyd Lake State Park where campers appreciate the lake access and adjacent trails. Most developed campgrounds near Johnstown provide designated picnic areas, fire rings, and access to potable water, creating comfortable base camps for exploring northern Colorado.

Best Camping Sites Near Johnstown, Colorado (265)

    1. Cottonwood Campground — Boyd Lake State Park

    45 Reviews
    Loveland, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 669-1739

    $36 - $41 / night

    "All sites have great access and close to the ponds. Variety of fish in the ponds. They allow ice fishing as long as the ice is safe."

    "Boyd Lake State Park is situated near the city of Fort Collins with distant views of the mountains. It has a large lake that is used by boaters, fishermen and sandcastle builders all summer."

    2. St. Vrain State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    Firestone, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 678-9402

    $36 - $41 / night

    "Very convenient campground with great access to North Denver/Boulder area. Only downside is proximity to I-25 and traffic noise. But there are many nice trails and lakes to fish from."

    "It is near I-25 highway so there is road traffic noise but becomes background noise after a day or so. But if that bothers you you won’t like it."

    3. Riverview RV Park & Campground

    19 Reviews
    Masonville, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 667-9910

    "Campground is situated along the Big Thompson River. Big cottonwood trees. Easy accessibility for big rigs. Some items … water valves leak in lakes around entire park and many are leaking."

    "Right next to the river. Close to some easy MTB trails. Would definitely stay here again."

    4. Loveland RV Resort

    8 Reviews
    Loveland, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 667-1204

    "Plenty of shops and restaurants that are within walking distance. Only negative is that we were extremely close to our neighbors.  We would stay here again."

    "We only stayed one night while traveling through Colorado. It was convenient and easy. The grounds were nice and clean, very pretty, they had good amenities."

    5. South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir

    19 Reviews
    Masonville, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 619-4570

    $25 - $45 / night

    "We have camped in Colorado for over 15 years. By far the campsites with the best views! And you can rent cabins too. Just love this place. Lake gets busy In the summer."

    "The sites are picked up but not manicured by any means and there is road noise due to the proximity of the roads around the region."

    6. Boulder County Fairgrounds

    20 Reviews
    Longmont, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 682-6762

    $35 / night

    "Arrived in Colorado little after midnight, got a spot right away plenty of availability and close enough to some good hiking areas"

    "We couldn’t find anything near family in Highlands Ranch in July, but ran across this place- Tight spots for our 38 ft fifth wheel but, we made it."

    7. Fort Collins Lakeside KOA

    23 Reviews
    Laporte, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 484-9880

    "It’s not your run of the mill KOA by a highway. The lake is beautiful with a walking path all of the way around and paddle boats. The pool is nice. The miniature golf is pretty with mature trees."

    "Lake, boats, water cannon boats, fishing, bikes, peewee golf, jumping thing. Walking path around lake."

    8. Pinewood Reservoir Campground

    16 Reviews
    Drake, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 619-4570

    $25 / night

    "This was our second visit to Pinewood Lake and while some things stayed the same others were much the same.  Our first visit last fall was during the final stages of a blizzard. "

    "Even with the snow and us being novices we set up without a hitch and were soon enjoying the magical panorama of the lake below us and the hills and mountain tops around us."

    9. South Shore Campground at Carter Lake

    10 Reviews
    Lyons, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 619-4570

    $25 / night

    "Tucked away at the South Marina. You're close to paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming. Wildlife walks thru usually daily, shaded spots go quickly!!"

    "This was a campground located right on Carter Lake. We drove to the small swimming beach but could have easily brought our chairs and hung out on the lake at our campground."

    10. Inlet Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir

    12 Reviews
    Masonville, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 619-4570

    $25 / night

    "Sites are fairly close together strung out along the lake edge. In September, lake level is purposefully lowered about 20 feet from summer levels."

    "Vault toilets with electric lights and a shower facility at each location. Located close to marina/boat ramp."

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Recent Reviews near Johnstown, CO

2010 Reviews of 265 Johnstown Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Manor RV Park

    Location Excellent - Campground and showers OK

    The campground is extremely conveniently located and in a pretty area. The campground itself is just ok. Super close together spaces and zero privacy at sites. Nice concrete pads to park beside to help with mud and tracking so that was nice. Each site has its own picnic table. The shower house was centrally located within the grounds. The women's side entrance wasn't very well lit at night. There are no private changing areas in the shower house, except the handicap stall, which I am not a fan of. Water wasn't very hot even on straight hot.

    Men's side was even less private my husband said.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Applewood RV Resort by Rjourney

    Great hiking and biking trails

    The park was okay if you are looking for something overnight. And very expensive and very crowded and no room between rigs. Looks like fulltime living in some spaces. It does have laundry service. And it has a great park just beside it. And there are beautiful hiking and biking trails right next to the facility. And it is very dog friendly.

  • Vinny D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 3, 2025

    Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    Great spot, quiet

    Good spot, this is my second time staying here. You have to drive through a neighborhood to get to the serving road. Follow the directions on Google and you’ll be fine. The best spots are a little further back. The road will come to a Y go left. Once you go left down be hill you’ll go back up a hill and go around the curve to the right. There’s a creek on the left and great spots.

  • Adam  B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir

    Eh… it’s ok

    For what you’re paying for it could be better. Vault bathrooms are not clean and smell awful. Look I know they smell and are dirty but people do your part to close the lid and clean up afterwards. Showers are good but you have to pay $2 per shower Dump is $15 too! Good cycling around here Cell service is ok. Sometimes drops. Verizon and att People working here are very friendly and helpful. Leave it better than you found it.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    ESTES PARK / ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK KOA HOLIDAY

    Great Views

    This is a really nice KOA. It doesn't seem like there are any bad sites, but there are a few premium sites that would totally be worth the extra money if you are here a few days and spending evenings at camp. Amazing views from a private deck. We were next to these, and still had great views and a nice fire pit and table area.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    2x winner

    Have now camped here twice, in June & late September, both on Friday nights, and it has been perfect. Loads of well spaced spots, secluded, gorgeous views.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    Good overnight spot

    Stayed here overnight and car camped before going into Estes Park. There are some more private wooded spots on the way in, but these were full so we stayed in an open area further down the road where there was not much/any privacy from neighbors. Super windy in early August. Pretty good views. Moderately busy. Road in was not too bad.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Gold Lake Area Dispersed

    Great dispersed camping

    I stayed at a small spot maybe a mile further down the road from where these coordinates lead you to. There was a fire ring and it was right on the lake. My spot was just before the large spot with the uphill drive that overlooks the lake. Perfect balance of solitude and presence of distant neighbors. Road to get in is a little rough but not the worst and I even saw some sedans doing fine. Easy one hour drive into RMNP in the morning.

  • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    North Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping

    Gorgeous, spacious

    Surprising amount of availability for a Friday night after work, big well spaced sites, beautiful views, quiet, and private!


Guide to Johnstown

Camping near Johnstown, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Moraine Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "I took the road up to Bear Lake where the snow was a lot heavier," highlighting the great hiking opportunities nearby.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Glacier Basin Campground, you can spot local wildlife. A visitor shared, "You can drive to see elk, coyotes, pika, marmots and more."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Cottonwood Campground. One reviewer noted, "Caught about ten rainbow trout in a couple of hours," making it a great spot for anglers.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake. One visitor said, "Each well-appointed site fits the camper's needs, from basic tent pads up to full water and electric connections for RVs."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at East Portal Campground mentioned, "Clean bathrooms, hot showers, friendly hosts."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment at Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground. One camper noted, "Very beautiful, nice and peaceful, not too busy."

What you should know:

  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds, like Glacier Basin Campground, are only open from May 23 to September 11. Be sure to check the dates before planning your trip.
  • Crowded Conditions: Popular spots can get busy. A visitor at Moraine Park Campground mentioned, "It's a bit overcrowded," so plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Beaver Park Reservoir, are dispersed and lack facilities. A camper noted, "There are no toilets or trash services," so be prepared to pack out what you bring in.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. East Portal Campground has a big playground, making it a great choice for families.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Kids will love spotting wildlife. A camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake mentioned, "Every day I had mule deer visitors."
  • Activities for Kids: Many campgrounds offer organized activities. At Estes Park KOA, one reviewer said, "Organized activities, s'mores, karaoke, games," which can keep the little ones entertained.

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: If you're traveling in a larger RV, check for campgrounds that accommodate big rigs. Glacier Basin Campground is noted as "big rig friendly."
  • Reservations: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Cottonwood Campground advised, "Book 6 months ahead!"
  • Connectivity: Be aware that cell service can be spotty. A camper at Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground mentioned, "Weak/spotty cell service," so plan for offline activities.

Camping near Johnstown, Colorado, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or an action-packed adventure, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available in and around Johnstown?

Johnstown offers diverse camping options within driving distance. Falcon's Landing RV Park in Johnstown provides family-owned RV accommodations with ongoing site improvements. For those willing to venture a bit further, Horsetooth Reservoir South Bay Campground offers stunning lakeside views and cabin rentals. The surrounding area also features dispersed camping in national forests, developed campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park, and private RV resorts in neighboring communities like Loveland and Fort Collins. Options range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV parks, accommodating various camping preferences and budgets.

Where are the best campgrounds in Johnstown, Colorado?

While Johnstown proper has limited camping options, the surrounding area offers exceptional campgrounds. Winding River Resort stands out with beautiful grounds, family-friendly activities, and direct access to the Colorado River headwaters. Camp Dick Campground in Roosevelt National Forest delivers the quintessential Colorado experience with stunning mountain views, well-maintained fire pits, and streamside sites with adjacent hiking trails. For dispersed camping enthusiasts, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area offers numbered sites and additional unnumbered spots with impressive views if you venture further down forest road 233.1.

How much does it cost to rent a camper in Johnstown?

Camper rental prices in the Johnstown area typically range from $100-250 per night depending on the RV size, age, and amenities. Smaller trailers and older models fall on the lower end, while luxury or larger Class A motorhomes command premium rates. For budget options, consider Dakota Ridge RV Park, which offers competitive rates even during winter months, though prices throughout Colorado tend to be higher than national averages. Most rentals require a minimum 2-3 night stay and may have additional fees for mileage, generator use, cleaning, and insurance. Book well in advance during peak summer season (May-September) when prices typically increase by 15-25%.