Buffalo Creek Recreation Area provides dispersed camping near Lone Tree with 35 free designated sites spread across forested terrain. Located at 39.34° N longitude and 105.25° W latitude, the area sits at approximately 8,000 feet elevation in the Pike National Forest. The sites typically remain snow-free from late April through October, though summer weekends fill quickly, often by Thursday afternoons.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area offers extensive trail networks popular with bikers. "Great camping spot, esp, if you like mountain biking. Not whistler in terms of terrain but plenty of trails for various ability levels," notes andrew B. at Buffalo Creek Recreation Area.
Day hikes with reservoir views: The 12-mile perimeter trail at Cherry Creek provides scenic hiking with reservoir views. "We hiked out to the 96 burn area to explore and we ended up doing a nice 7 mile loop to get down to the creek for a cool down," shares Hayley K., describing the natural recovery process at Buffalo Creek.
Tubing and fishing: Clear Creek offers water activities within walking distance from camping areas. "There is so much to do at this location; aside from the sectioned off RV area, there are lots of paths and locals parks to adventure around. Tubing & swimming in the creek is wonderful especially in summertime. Our favorite is the fishing," writes Dea D. from Clear Creek RV Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities and amenities: Campground bathhouses are well-maintained at many locations. "The bathrooms were very clean and seemed to be pretty new - plenty of bathroom stalls, sinks, and large showers. They were quarter showers for 2 minutes of hot water, so basically less than $1 per shower, which is great," notes Danielle V. at Chief Hosa Campground.
Proximity to Denver metro area: Most campgrounds sit within 30-45 minutes of downtown. "This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained. There is also an $11 day pass fee not included in your camping stay," explains Stephanie S. about Cherry Creek State Park Campground, noting its convenience for city visitors.
Site spacing and privacy: Campers appreciate the separation between sites at certain campgrounds. "We arrived early Friday morning and most spots were already claimed. There are a total of 35 free camp sites but if you continue down 550 there are some paid camp sites as well. Sites were big and far enough away from neighbors," reports Ben B. about Buffalo Creek.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by location: Fire policies differ significantly between campgrounds. "There is an active fire ban in the area and the neighbors were lighting 5ft tall fires with gasoline which put us at risk. If you are going to be camping in BLM or Wildlife Areas please follow the restrictions," warns Hayley K.
Highway noise at some locations: Several campgrounds sit near major roads. "The campground is unfortunately too close to the highway and the noise makes it difficult to sleep or relax. Nice parking spot if you need to see the sights for a day or two," explains Theresa G. about Chief Hosa Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially in summer. "Campers are close together, but there are some mature trees. This campground is nicer than most that provide access to Denver. The campground has a pool and hot tub," notes Colorado C. from Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Several parks offer water recreation options. "If you're looking for a get away from the city but aren't quite able to make it to the mountains...this is the spot for you! Fishing, biking, hiking, and even a dog park!" shares Hayley K. about Chatfield State Park.
Dedicated family campgrounds: Certain campgrounds specifically cater to families with children. "What a place. Hundreds of spots- a water park, a bounce pad, cabins, golf carts, putt-putt oh my! This place is a campers with kids dream," describes Sarah F. about Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Lone Tree: Many parks welcome pets with specific amenities. "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!" reports Cassandra T. about Chatfield State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extensive leveling equipment. "We are a Class C++ Leisure Travel Van Unity Model at 25'. The A3 site chosen is gravel with a hole or two and significantly tilted low to the front left....requiring a 4 high stack," warns David M. about Dakota Ridge.
Laundry availability: Several campgrounds offer coin-operated laundry facilities. "They have extremely clean bath houses cleaned daily and coin-op laundry (office has quarters available). Along a gorgeous walking path to the mountains, within immediate walking distance to multiple breweries and restaurants," explains Janine R. about Clear Creek RV Park.
City convenience with full hookups: Sites with full services allow longer stays near urban areas. "Spots are a little close, beautiful area w/lots of Hiking, biking, walking trails. Golden is an awesome area to explore & very close to Denver," recommends Cynthia H. about Clear Creek RV Park.
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