Best Campgrounds near Laporte, CO
The region surrounding Laporte, Colorado features a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping areas scattered throughout national forest land and near reservoirs. Established sites like Fort Collins Lakeside KOA offer full-service camping with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and sewer connections, while primitive camping is available in the nearby Roosevelt National Forest. Horsetooth Reservoir provides multiple camping areas with water access, including South Bay and Inlet Bay campgrounds that accommodate tents, RVs, and even cabins in some locations. The proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park adds additional options within a reasonable drive.
Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly across camping areas near Laporte, with many dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though facilities may be limited during winter months. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, while afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Reservations are essential for developed campgrounds, particularly during peak season from May through September, while dispersed camping follows different regulations based on land management agency. Cell service is generally reliable near established campgrounds but becomes spotty in more remote forest locations. A review noted that "You simply cannot find more scenic and free camping in Colorado. I would highly recommended camping anywhere in State Forest State Park!"
Waterfront camping ranks consistently high among visitor reviews, with Horsetooth Reservoir sites attracting particular praise. One camper described South Bay Campground as having "the best view! We have camped in Colorado for over 15 years. By far the campsites with the best views!" Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with moose sightings common in higher elevations. Campers frequently mention the contrast between developed sites with amenities and the more rugged, primitive options in the surrounding forest. The mixed-use campgrounds near water features tend to fill quickest, especially those offering both tent and RV sites. Several campgrounds in the area feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while more remote dispersed sites operate on a pack-in, pack-out basis with minimal infrastructure.
