Camping near Loveland, Colorado ranges across elevation zones from 5,000 to 9,000 feet, with most sites experiencing afternoon temperature drops of 15-20 degrees once the sun sets. The camping season typically extends from April through October, with mid-week availability significantly better than weekends during summer months. Water levels at reservoir campgrounds fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and fishing conditions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cottonwood Campground at Boyd Lake State Park features pond fishing with multiple species. "Variety of fish in the ponds. They allow ice fishing as long as the ice is safe," notes Frank O. The area attracts numerous bird species year-round.
Mountain biking trails: Connect to paved paths from several campsites. "Bike trails for the city intersect this campground, so you can bike to Loveland or Fort Collins on paved, wide paths," according to a Boyd Lake visitor. Trail maps are available at most campground entrances.
Water recreation options: Inlet Bay Campground offers paddling access to Horsetooth Reservoir. "The sites are pretty well spaced, also half are waterfront. The other half are Waterview," explains Nancy C., who found it "still warm enough to paddleboard and kayak" in early October.
Stargazing at higher elevations: Pinewood Reservoir provides darker night skies than lower elevation sites. "The reservoir is pretty and visible from most sites, and the facilities are well maintained," reports Fleur F. Light pollution increases closer to Fort Collins and Loveland.
What campers like
Access to urban amenities: Riverview RV Park balances nature with city convenience. "Its in a beautiful spot, tree covered, and a river runs through it. About 10 mins outside of Loveland and 40 mins from Estes park," writes Miguel E. Campers appreciate quick access to grocery stores and laundromats.
Morning wildlife encounters: Early risers report frequent wildlife sightings. "Nearly every day a deer would come munch on the greenery right behind our rig," notes Glen C. at Riverview RV Park. The Big Thompson corridor serves as a natural wildlife pathway.
Quieter weekday experiences: Campsites near Loveland transform between weekends and weekdays. "During week not crowded. Look for a spot with a tree to park in shade," advises Michael at Boyd Lake State Park, where weekday campers report significantly more spacious experiences.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple reservoirs offer varied fishing. "I checked in. The wind was blowing. Too cold for tent camping. Will be back," wrote Heather A. about a late October visit to Boyd Lake, which remains open year-round for fishing. Winter ice fishing requires checking with rangers about ice thickness.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "I was unaware of this when pulling up to the park, so though they had open sites I could not reserve them without using the booking system, which consequently charges a service charge for booking," explains Crystal C. about Boyd Lake State Park.
Additional fee structures: Expect entrance fees beyond camping costs at county and state parks. At Flatiron Reservoir Campground, "Reservations are required and a 'Day Use Fee', so heads up when you go online to reserve," advises Lawrence P., who adds it's "a bit pricey for 'out of staters' but, to me, well worth it."
Cell coverage limitations: Service varies significantly between campgrounds and even between sites. "Verizon Cell is spotty… some days good, others..ehhh.. not so good. Not sure about the other carriers," notes a Flatiron Reservoir camper. Lower elevations generally maintain better connectivity.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The only downside is the road is fairly close and creates a bit of noise, even late at night as there is some local traffic to access the neighborhoods behind the reservoir," explains Eric M. about South Bay Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Fort Collins Lakeside KOA offers extensive activities. "Bounce house, jumping pillow, inflatable slide, basketball, shuffle board, pickleball, fishing, paddleboats in the shape of a swan/dragon/flamingo, a pool AND splashpad. There's a cute train that takes kids & parents through the campground," details Cynthia K.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "Great facilities (including the dump station), close enough to town for a quick adventures and a nice playground for the kids," says Cody J. about Boyd Lake State Park.
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger programs during summer months. "There is even a little herb garden managed by a local society. You can pick whatever you like and make your meals extra yummy!" mentions Cynthia I. at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA.
Safety considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Bears do come through the campground from time to time, so it's important not to leave food/coolers/water sitting outside or in your tent," warns one camper, noting increasing bear activity throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most campgrounds offer limited hookups. "Electric only on all sites," notes Lawrence P. about Flatiron Reservoir, adding "Water is located near the three restrooms and a spigot in-between sites."
Dump station locations: Many campgrounds lack onsite dump facilities. "The dump station is located at the South end of Carter Lake, about 6 miles away, at the Ranger Station booth," explains a Flatiron Reservoir camper who recommends planning accordingly.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain. "This campground has 'lay of the land' (not level) sites, so some extra bracing is required," warns Lawrence P. about Flatiron Reservoir. Experienced RVers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks.
Tree sap considerations: Some campgrounds have cottonwoods that drop sticky sap. "Our shoes, our floors, our dogs, our rig, our vehicles, it was a mess," reports Kimberly D. about Loveland RV Resort, suggesting parking strategies to avoid affected areas.
