Larkspur sits at 6,680 feet elevation in Douglas County, nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day but dropping significantly at night. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing, with occasional snow accumulation complicating access to some campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking at Spruce Mountain: Only 10 minutes from town, this trail system offers moderate difficulty paths with multiple lookout points. "The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all," notes a visitor to Mueller State Park Campground, which has similar terrain.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access within walking distance. At Lone Rock Campground, "We were at site 7 along the river and it was perfect. Shade, river access, bathroom and trash drop off nearby," explains a camper, though they caution the river is "constantly fished so it's pretty but tough to catch anything."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best animal sighting opportunities. "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," shares a visitor at Lone Duck Campground. The areas around Woodland Park also offer more remote wildlife encounters, with one camper noting they "even spotted a bear" during their explorations.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Several campgrounds feature sites along moving water. "We stayed right on the river so it almost felt to have some privacy away from everyone else," explains a camper at Lone Rock Campground. Water features add both ambiance and recreational options.
Convenient location: The central position between major cities makes Larkspur camping practical for weekend trips. "It's a great campground for introducing little ones to car camping. The campground is clean and well-maintained, the sites are good-sized," shares a visitor to Colorado Campground, adding that "Woodland Park is also a short drive away, in case you forget anything."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternative accommodations beyond traditional tent sites, yurt camping near Larkspur, Colorado provides comfort with natural immersion. "The campsites are amazing and the activities are so much fun. I love the proximity to Denver," explains a visitor to Jellystone Park. Multiple campgrounds in the region offer yurt rentals with varying amenity levels.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Chatfield State Park Campground, "Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites. As someone tent-camping this is no problem, just takes some time." However, RV campers should reserve well ahead.
Noise considerations: Train tracks run near several campgrounds, creating potential sleep disruption. "The downside = the routinely travelled train tracks with mandatory horns. Regardless, we would return without question," notes a visitor to Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Weather patterns: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer months. "Make sure you have proper equipment for leveling," advises a camper at Diamond Campground, noting that weather can quickly change site conditions. Even summer nights require warm sleeping gear due to elevation.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve water activities: During hot days, water features become extremely popular. "The water slides were packed even with COVID," notes one visitor about Jellystone Park. Consider scheduling water activities for weekdays when crowds are lighter.
Pack for temperature swings: The 30°F day-to-night temperature difference surprises many families. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns a Mueller State Park camper, emphasizing that even summer camping requires warm clothing for evenings.
Consider location within campgrounds: Site selection affects overall experience. At Diamond Campground & RV Park, "Site 56 fit our 23' camper and truck with room to spare and provided wide expanse of campsite for the kids and dogs to play away from other campsites. Road noise on this side of the campground can be heard from the 67, but it would have been worse in a tent."
Tips from RVers
Water pressure awareness: Multiple campgrounds report unusually high water pressure. "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy," advises a visitor to Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have variable site quality. At Garden of the Gods RV Resort, a camper notes: "I paid $63/night for a Deluxe Plus Back-In spot. I was given D18 which was not only incredibly narrow, but very difficult to get into. Other, cheaper sites around the campground were much more spacious."
Campground navigation: Some facilities require additional transportation. "It's very hilly so if you want to get around to explore, make sure you rent a golf cart," advises an RVer about camping options in the Larkspur area, noting that the terrain can make full exploration difficult without supplemental transportation.
