Glamping near Johnstown, Colorado offers convenient access to both mountain recreation and urban amenities within a 45-minute drive radius. The eastern edge of Roosevelt National Forest sits approximately 25 miles west of Johnstown at elevations ranging from 6,000-8,000 feet. Winter temperatures at nearby glamping sites typically drop to 20-30°F overnight, while summer daytime averages reach 75-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through August.
What to do
Fishing at Carter Lake: Carter Lake offers productive fishing with convenient waterfront camping at South Shore Campground. "We had a great spot right on the water and our kids were able to play in the water right from the campsite," shares Lacey N., who appreciated the family-friendly environment at South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir.
Hiking nearby trails: A 3-mile trail behind Carter Lake provides challenging terrain with rewarding views. "We took the 3 mile hike behind campground which is beautiful but rocky - wear shoes that can withstand rocks. Must return the same way so 6 miles total," advises Carol J. who stayed at South Shore Campground at Carter Lake.
Paddleboarding and kayaking: Horsetooth Reservoir provides calm waters for non-motorized activities. "The lake was great for paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking," notes Deanne B., who enjoyed the relaxing water activities during her stay at South Bay Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and dusk offer prime wildlife viewing times at several glamping locations. "Nearly every day a deer would come munch on the greenery right behind our rig," reports Glen C. who spotted regular wildlife during his week-long stay at Riverview RV Park.
What campers like
Lake access: Waterfront sites provide direct water access for swimming and fishing. "Some sites have shade. Nice tables and fire pits with grill," notes Michelle G. about Eagle Campground at Carter Lake, where sites include convenient amenities for water-focused camping.
Riverside locations: Campsites along the Big Thompson River offer natural white noise and fishing access. "We spent 4 days in a spot right next to the river. Close to Rocky Mountain National Park. Really enjoyed the river, dog park, live music on sat. night and laundry," shares Tyler D. about his experience at Riverview RV Park & Campground.
Modern shower facilities: Clean, updated shower facilities enhance the glamping experience at several locations. "Newer bathrooms. Huge park with playground for kids. Our site was very wide and open, but we might just have been lucky," writes Aaron who appreciated the amenities at Riverview RV Park.
Proximity to attractions: The strategic location between urban amenities and mountain recreation appeals to many campers. "About 35 minutes from Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Forest, two excellent destinations for anyone coming for a vacation," Glen C. mentions about Riverview RV Park's convenient location.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Most glamping sites are affected by strong winds at certain times of year. "The pine trees are beautiful. Upper level sites have few trees so could be hot in summer," reports Carol J. about Carter Lake's South Shore Campground, highlighting the importance of site selection for comfort.
Reservation requirements: Advance bookings are essential, especially for waterfront locations. "Maps not accurate!!! When I booked the site (Reservation America) it indicated a water source next to our site, but when we arrived NO WATER within 500' of site!" warns Suzanne M. about Hermits Hollow Campground — Hermit Park.
Extra fees: Many sites charge additional fees beyond the base camping rate. "We should have followed the GPS directions, since the way the KOA took us was through town & was completely nerve wracking," shares Cynthia K. about her Fort Collins Lakeside KOA experience, where logistics complicated their arrival.
Noise considerations: Road noise affects some glamping locations. "It can be suddenly and very windy here, so most campers did not use awnings," notes Glen C. about Riverview RV Park, where weather considerations impact camping comfort.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Fort Collins Lakeside KOA offers extensive family-friendly amenities beyond standard camping. "This KOA is like summer camp for the whole family. 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," explains Colorado C. about Fort Collins Lakeside KOA.
Swimming access: Lakes and pools provide cooling options during summer months. "We visited in the fall. It was a quiet, nicely spaced campground. We had a spot right by the water. The water was really low, so we didn't actually have water right in front of us," shares Donna S. about her experience at South Bay Campground.
Wildlife education opportunities: Several glamping locations offer wildlife viewing with educational opportunities. "We enjoyed seeing the kids playing in the playground and riding around the park on their bikes," reports Glen C. about the family-friendly atmosphere at Riverview RV Park.
Bear awareness: Most sites provide bear boxes for food storage. "Each campsite had a bear box, picnic table, and fire ring. There are plenty of trees for shade and some privacy, but you are still near other campers," notes Hannah F. about her stay at Hermits Hollow Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Carter Lake offers well-maintained RV sites with good separation. "Sites were well maintained and level. Good separation. Close proximity to lake and easy access. Wild turkey sitings," Larry E. mentions about South Shore Campground at Carter Lake.
Water fill stations: Water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. "No fresh water in campground in April. But available nearby. Dry dump station. Toilets clean and stocked," Larry E. notes about South Shore Campground, highlighting the importance of planning for water needs.
Site accessibility: Some glamping locations have challenging access for larger RVs. "The pull-through site is very rough and difficult to get your trailer level. We finally just did as good as we could and called it done," shares Vanessa L. about her experience at Eagle Campground at Carter Lake.
Electric hookups: Most glamping sites offer electric but not all provide full hookups. "Electric hookups worked, but no water at the site, and 'public water' in the area was a broken water fountain. We filled up at the dump station," Timothy N. mentions about his stay at South Bay Campground.
