Best Campgrounds near Lyons, CO

Lyons, Colorado sits just north of Boulder, serving as a doorway to the Rocky Mountains. Several good campgrounds dot the area, including Moraine Park and Glacier Basin inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Both places have tent and RV spots with flush toilets and drinking water available. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area gives you a more basic camping option where you'll find plenty of wildlife and trees for shade. Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake works well for families with its playgrounds, activities, electric hookups, and clean bathrooms. You can also reach the Colorado River and Great Sand Dunes for more outdoor fun. You should make reservations ahead of time during busy seasons since these places fill up fast. It's smart to book early, especially for summer visits and holiday weekends. Be ready for changing weather - nights can get pretty cold. Late spring and early fall typically have the best weather for camping here. Lyons has camping options for short trips or longer stays. While you're there, check out the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park for great views and outdoor activities.

Best Camping Sites Near Lyons, Colorado (349)

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Recent Reviews near Lyons, CO

2371 Reviews of 349 Lyons Campgrounds



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