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Best Campgrounds near Lyons, CO

2,579 Reviews

Campgrounds for various types of camping can be found in multiple areas near Lyons, Colorado. The region includes developed campgrounds like LaVern M. Johnson Park within city limits, as well as dispersed camping options in nearby national forest lands. Moraine Park and Glacier Basin campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park, approximately 20 miles northwest of Lyons, provide established sites with amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Several areas support both tent and RV camping, including Boulder County Fairgrounds in Longmont which offers electric hookups and water. Dispersed camping opportunities exist at locations like Allenspark Dispersed Camping and Hell Canyon Dispersed areas, where primitive sites accommodate self-sufficient campers seeking more remote experiences.

"This is one of my all-time favorite places to hike and camp in Colorado," noted one visitor about the dispersed camping options in the region. Many sites require advance reservations or permits, especially during the peak summer season from June through September. Road conditions vary significantly, with several dispersed camping areas requiring high-clearance 4WD vehicles. One camper mentioned that "plenty of sites [are available] if you have a high clearance vehicle and can make it up ski road." Elevation in the region ranges from approximately 5,000 feet in Lyons to over 8,000 feet at some dispersed sites, resulting in cooler temperatures even during summer months. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most remote camping locations, though coverage improves near established campgrounds and towns. Seasonal closures affect many campgrounds, with most high-elevation sites closed from October through May due to snow.

Campers report high satisfaction with sites near water features, particularly those along the St. Vrain Creek in Lyons and near mountain lakes. According to one visitor, "RV and tent camping options within a lovely manicured park with the beautiful St Vrain creek running through it" make LaVern M. Johnson Park appealing for families and those seeking amenities close to town. Wildlife viewing opportunities include moose, deer, and various bird species, especially in the higher elevation sites near Rocky Mountain National Park. Privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with dispersed sites offering more seclusion than developed campgrounds. Proximity to hiking trails represents a common highlight in visitor reviews, with several mentioning the convenience of trail access directly from campsites. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips that include campfires.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lyons, Colorado (372)

    1. Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    91 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    $35 - $70 / night

    "Took the kids camping in Colorado for the first time and we had a blast. It rained on us a lot but it didn't stop us. Took a great hike up deer mountain....stunning views. Can't wait to go back."

    "Very enjoyable spot, close access to trails and entrance and exit of the park."

    2. Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    60 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    $35 - $70 / night

    "Firewood sold next to the entrance by the same husband and wife that have been selling firewood there for 35 years. There is a shed full of firewood."

    "The spaces are large, but quite close to one another with few trees for privacy. Each site here is variable, with some open with no trees and others nestled in some mature trees."

    3. Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake

    46 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 964-7806

    $45 - $70 / night

    "There’s access to a small playground for kids. The pool looked nice, the lake is right across the road. Overall a good campsite."

    "Since there was construction going on at the national park campgrounds and none were available, we found Mary’s Lake to be a great alternative to take our chances at camping in the park."

    4. Hell Canyon Dispersed

    29 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "4x4 drive is a requirement. Good Verizon signal. Narrow road, however not busy at all. Stayed here for 4 days, no issue. The Google Maps directions is slightly wrong."

    "Driving down to town during the day, there were some people (probably from the adjacent campground) hiking the road.

    Overall quiet at night (other than some road noise from 36). Not a bad spot!"

    5. Boulder County Fairgrounds

    20 Reviews
    Longmont, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 682-6762

    $35 / night

    "Arrived in Colorado little after midnight, got a spot right away plenty of availability and close enough to some good hiking areas"

    "We couldn’t find anything near family in Highlands Ranch in July, but ran across this place- Tight spots for our 38 ft fifth wheel but, we made it."

    6. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    28 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "All of the sites are awesome and have room for you to move around. We stayed Thursday-Monday and there were plenty of people every night. Close to Lyons and closish to estes."

    "We found a spot with several fire rings close to the water and just a short walk from parking along the road."

    7. Beaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Ward, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."

    "The location is great, there’s about 10 designated camp sites to choose from and great hiking trails nearby. The drive in is easy."

    8. Cottonwood Campground — Boyd Lake State Park

    45 Reviews
    Loveland, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 669-1739

    $36 - $41 / night

    "All sites have great access and close to the ponds. Variety of fish in the ponds. They allow ice fishing as long as the ice is safe."

    "Boyd Lake State Park is situated near the city of Fort Collins with distant views of the mountains. It has a large lake that is used by boaters, fishermen and sandcastle builders all summer."

    9. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    54 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    19 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Getting here is easy, only a few miles away from Nederland and I had cell service (verizon) the entire time."

    10. Hermits Hollow Campground — Hermit Park

    25 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 577-2090

    $35 / night

    "Best place to camp in Estes Park/Northern Colorado! Wooded sites mean privacy from your neighbors and shade during the day. Vault toilets are very clean, well kept."

    "This campground has all the privacy you would expect yet provides easy access to Estes Park and the Rocky Mountian National Forest. The Laramie County Staff that were on site were kind and helpful."

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Recent Camping Photos near Lyons, CO

900 Photos of 372 Lyons Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lyons, CO

2579 Reviews of 372 Lyons Campgrounds

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Pingree Road Dispersed Camping

    Enjoyable Camp Site

    I stayed here for a couple of nights on a road trip through Colorado and I found it to be a nice place to relax. The views themselves weren’t spectacular (by Colorado standards) but it was quiet (on weekday, can’t speak for the weekend). The forest itself was pretty though.

    The one thing I did notice was that there were more black flies than I expected. It wasn’t overwhelming but they definitely buzzed the campsite a fair amount. I didn’t mind too much but my dog took great personal offense to the interlopers.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    A-Lodge Boulder - Car Camping

    Quiet, cozy, very close to Boulder. Only 3 van/car spots

    Overall vibe and convenience to Boulder rate 4 stars. Although there was a wedding one evening, it was mellow & over, with folks dispersing, by around 8pm. Minimal bugs so we did not use screens for a good part of the time, the overall land the site is on, is long and narrow and so parking/car traffic can be a little tight. We did go out the exit on far side and drove down the hill back to the entrance which necessitated more than 180 degree turn, so try to avoid that. Three clean bathrooms, 1 men's with 2 toilet stalls and shower (toilet stall were very small--knees bumped against door), 2 co-ed bathrooms (one with toilet/sink/shower, one with toilet & sink only). One sink in co-ed had very hot water coming out of both faucets (no cold from this sink). Paper towel dispensers ran out and were empty for a day but then roll of paper towels appeared. 

    Wifi was spotty & disconnected regularly, no Verizon service. There is a small 'store' in office: A fridge with drinks and burritos, some shelves with some Mountain House dinners, and snack bars. There is a pool, dry sauna with great LARGE window looking at creek, and hot-tub (sauna worked great). Did not get a chance to see any of the rooms. Tent sites are up a VERY steep path and on platforms on side of hill (perhaps 50-60' up the hill?). There's an area with some slack lines set up, as well as electric vehicle charging stations.

  • B S.
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Idlewild Campground

    Fall stay

    Stayed two nights with my sons. Grabbed one of the walk-in sites Friday at 1pm.

    Pros: Availability (one of the only sites in Winter Park), beautiful surroundings

    Cons: Right next to the highway so traffic (trains at times) can be heard at all hours of the night, most walk-in sites don't have a tent pad

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Stillwater Pass Dispersed Campsite

    Great view of the Lake + porta-potty

    We took a left at the fork and found a site with the best view and a porta-john at the end of the driveway. The site appears to have been freshly cleared. There were lots of twigs and rocks and no grass, so it became a muddy mess as soon as the rain began. Site had plenty of space and a good amount was flat. No fire ring, but there was a burn ban anyways. Nice and secluded but could still hear the neighbors a bit but it wasn’t bothersome. Gunfire and ATVs were much louder but stopped around sundown. Would go back to this site.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    Camp camp camp

    Went on a bit of a rainy weekend so it got super cold at night. The roads are super rocky as you get up to the reservoir and with the rain there were some large puddles but with the right vehicle should be all good. The views were amazing and the hike up is so pretty. So many great sites all the way up to the reservoir as well.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great spot, right on the water

    High clearance 4x4 recommended but could be doable without if you’re an experienced driver. Beautiful lakes and some campsites are right on the water. Only one other person camping on a Wednesday night. There is currently a fire ban so be sure to respect our forests and be updated.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Chief Hosa Campground

    I-70 off-ramp camping

    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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake

    Camping near Rocky Mtn NP

    What a wonderful campground! Friendly hosts, full hookups offered, beautiful scenery and right outside the entrance to the national park!

Guide to Lyons

Camping near Lyons, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. One camper mentioned, “The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters. We saw a weasel and a flock of turkeys.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for moose and elk. A visitor at Timber Creek Campground shared, “Wonderful place. Moose in campground, and elk calling at night.”
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in nearby lakes. One camper at Arapaho Bay Campground said, “We saw a moose in the morning drinking from the lake.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Glacier Basin Campground noted, “Great campground with beautiful views of the mountains!”
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the well-maintained restrooms. A visitor at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake mentioned, “Clean bathrooms with hot pay showers which are $2 for 6 minutes.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One reviewer at Moraine Park Campground said, “Just beautiful and in the park so don’t deal with timed entry.”

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some areas can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Cottonwood Campground noted, “There are a lot of spots for RVs so you are a little bit packed.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have showers or electric hookups. A visitor at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area pointed out, “No toilets, no trash, no water hookups.”
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Glacier Basin Campground is open from May 23 to September 11.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A camper at East Portal Campground said, “Big playground and not crazy expensive.”
  • Plan for Wildlife: Keep an eye on kids and pets around wildlife. One camper at Timber Creek Campground mentioned, “The elk never bothered us but it was a bit nerve-wracking in the moment.”
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers. A visitor at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake noted, “It gets windy in the afternoon so might want to skip the awning/canopy.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dakota Ridge RV Park said, “Pull-through sites are very practical to accommodate longer RVs.”
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or bars. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park shared, “Noise from the bar goes till around 11 and construction sounds begin around 6 am.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A visitor at Golden Gate Canyon State Park mentioned, “Showers take quarters so come prepared if you plan to shower.”

Camping near Lyons, Colorado, has something for everyone, from breathtaking views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Lyons, CO?

Lyons offers several excellent camping options with the most popular being LaVern M. Johnson Park, located right on the edge of town with easy access to Main Street. For a true Colorado mountain experience, Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground is a nearby gem featuring stunning views, a rolling river, well-maintained fire pits, and hiking trailheads within walking distance. Both locations offer beautiful settings along water, with Camp Dick providing a more immersive forest experience while LaVern M. Johnson Park offers convenient access to town amenities and family-friendly facilities including playgrounds and tubing.

Can I camp at LaVern M. Johnson Park in Lyons?

Yes, camping is available at LaVern M. Johnson Park in Lyons. The park offers both RV and tent camping options within a beautifully maintained setting along the St. Vrain Creek. Campers enjoy access to walking trails, river recreation, playgrounds, and a soccer field. The park's location on the edge of Lyons means you're within easy walking or biking distance to various restaurants and shops in town, making it convenient for supplies or dining out. This campground is especially popular during the Lyons Outdoor Games, which features running races, biking, kayaking, beer, food, and music events within a short walk from the camping area.

What RV camping options are available in Lyons, CO?

Lyons offers several RV-friendly camping options. St. Louis Creek Campground is well-maintained with clean pit toilets and some longer RV sites, though it's best suited for RVs 25 feet or less. For larger rigs, Winding River Resort is a beautiful family-friendly option with direct access to the Colorado River headwaters and various activities. Both campgrounds offer different experiences - St. Louis Creek provides a more rustic setting with fewer amenities but good access to outdoor activities, while Winding River Resort offers more facilities and organized activities. Most RV sites in the area require reservations, especially during peak summer months.

Is dispersed camping available near Lyons, Colorado?

Yes, several dispersed camping options exist near Lyons. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area offers approximately 15 numbered sites, with additional unnumbered campsites further down road 233.1 that feature excellent views. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail is another popular option, though it requires 4x4 capability to navigate the rocky, bumpy terrain to reach the best spots. Both areas provide free camping opportunities in beautiful natural settings, but come prepared with your own water and supplies, and remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.

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