Glamping options near Lyons, Colorado range from mountainside tent sites with panoramic views to lakeside accommodations situated at elevations between 5,000 and 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F during the day but drop to 45-55°F at night, requiring proper bedding even for luxury camping. Fire restrictions are common from June through September, affecting many luxury camping experiences in the area.
What to do
Hike to spectacular viewpoints: At Glacier Basin Campground, trails lead directly from the campground to some of Rocky Mountain National Park's most popular attractions. "Bear Lake and Fern Lake are amazing hikes for the fam," notes Troy C., while another visitor mentions "absolutely stunning and can hike to bear lake from there."
Experience mountainside mini golf: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers activities beyond standard camping with "pool, mini golf, jump pad, camp store and golf cart rentals," as Kaylene H. points out. The campground literally sits on the mountainside, with Adam G. noting, "They literally built this campground on the side of the mountain. Be prepared to have to walk up steep incline to get to your campsite."
Paddle board or kayak: Water activities are plentiful at Carter Lake, where visitors can enjoy "paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and hiking the nearby 3-mile trail that offers scenic mountain views." Carol J. shares her experience: "We took the 3 mile hike behind campground which is beautiful but rocky - wear shoes that can withstand rocks. Must return the same way so 6 miles total."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the natural animal sightings near their accommodations. At Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake, one camper recounts, "Woke up to elk outside of the tent! Such a cool experience." At Hermits Hollow Campground, "Moose and black bear apparently frequent but haven't caused any problems," according to Wade R.
Mountain and water views: The combination of mountains and water creates sought-after camping spots. At South Bay Campground, Jenn H. emphasizes, "This camp ground has the best view! We have camped in Colorado for over 15 years. By far the campsites with the best views!" Similarly, visitors at Carter Lake enjoy "beautiful views of the lake and we spotted an eagle amongst other wildlife," as Russell T. describes.
Proximity to attractions: Location between major destinations makes luxury glamping in this area practical. "About 30 to 40mins off I-70 depending on how you drive," says one visitor about Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Another camper notes that Riverview RV Park is "close enough to Estes and Rocky Mountain National Park," with the "drive in from RMNP was fantastic."
What you should know
Campground elevation affects comfort: Most glamping locations sit between 5,000-8,000 feet elevation, meaning significant temperature drops at night. At Eagle Campground at Carter Lake, Christine S. advises, "Very limited cell service, but better on top of the hill by the bath house."
Reservation requirements vary: Many glamping sites require early booking, especially during peak season (June-August). One camper at Riverview RV Park notes, "We booked a water/electric online, but got bumped up to full hookups," showing reservation system flexibility at some locations.
Additional fees may apply: Some glamping locations charge fees beyond the base rate. At Horsetooth Reservoir, a camper mentions, "We did not see anywhere in the booking process that there would be additional fees once we arrive at the campground." Hermits Hollow adds "an entrance fee to the park for each day on top of the fee."
Tips for camping with families
Consider campgrounds with dedicated activities: Kids thrive at campgrounds with built-in entertainment. Kevin F. shares about Jellystone: "We stayed a week at Jellystone Estes Park and had a great visit. Our boys (7 & 10) had plenty to do while we were at camp." Another family noted, "They made lots of friends and proclaimed it the best part of our 18 day trip."
Select sites for privacy and comfort: At Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Jennifer S. points out it's "such a beautiful place. trails are amazing," though she notes "the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience." For better family camping, Paul R. advises, "if you pick a tent site it's your best bet the electric sites are too close to RV's."
Budget for shower costs: Unlike hotel-style glamping, many campground showers require quarters. At Carter Lake, one camper notes "showers are coin operated & out of order," while another mentions at a different location that they "have to pay for showers." Bring quarters if shower facilities are important to your family glamping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers report varying experiences with site conditions. At Riverview RV Park, a visitor observed, "The roads and campsites are dirt, and a little messy after a rain storm." At Eagle Campground, Suzanne M. warns, "The sites are also old and very sloped," adding that "the trees are not maintained to pull a 5er."
Electrical hookup quality: For luxury glamping in RVs, electrical service is essential. Miguel E. reports at Riverview RV Park, "Its in a beautiful spot, tree covered, and a river runs through it," but notes "free WiFi is worse than dialup, and was told it wasn't worth paying for the premium cuz it wasn't much better."
Size limitations exist: Not all glamping spots accommodate larger RVs. At Estes Park KOA, a camper cautions, "My only complaint is that it is tight. It would be hard to get a camper over 35ft in." Before booking luxury glamping with large RVs, verify size restrictions and access conditions.
