254 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping options around Manitou Springs, Colorado range from established RV resorts to primitive dispersed sites on public lands. Garden of the Gods RV Resort and Pikes Peak RV Park provide full-hookup sites within city limits, while several dispersed camping areas exist along Rampart Range Road and Mount Herman Road for those seeking a more rustic experience. The region includes developed campgrounds with cabin rentals at Lone Duck Campground and tent camping at Mueller State Park, offering varying levels of amenities within a 30-minute drive of downtown Manitou Springs.
Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly by location and season in the Pikes Peak region. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round with paved access, while dispersed camping areas may require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain or snow. "This campground is very clean and well managed. Great location to visit Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Falls, Pike's Peak, Garden of the Gods, Cave of the Winds, or the Cliff Dwellings which are less than an hours drive away," noted one visitor about Colorado Springs KOA. Elevation changes dramatically in the area, with temperatures often 10-15 degrees cooler at higher elevations even during summer months. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly on summer weekends and holidays.
Proximity to attractions represents a significant advantage for campers in the Manitou Springs area. Several visitors highlighted the convenience of using local campgrounds as a base for exploring regional highlights. Campers frequently mention the ability to access Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the Manitou Incline from nearby camping areas. Dispersed camping along Rampart Range Road receives consistently high ratings for its combination of natural setting and reasonable proximity to town. A visitor described Cascade-Chipita Park as "a gorgeous spot right outside of Woodland Park and only 35 minutes from Manitou Springs," noting its free camping and mountain views. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide showers and laundry facilities, while dispersed sites offer more privacy and typically allow pets with proper management.
"This campground is a great central location for everything around Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs. It is very close to Garden of the gods park and red rock open space."
"Although the RV park is nice, you're more-so paying for the location."
"Pets are not allowed on the trails & they do have rangers hiking looking for rule breakers. "
"This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."
from $18 - $270 / night
Check Availability"It is in Cascade, CO right off of Highway 24. It is minutes away from Pike's Peak, Manitou Springs, Cave of the Winds, Red Rocks Open Space, and Colorado Springs."
"This campground will be rated as a Basecamp — grounds that offer a comfortable home base that you’re happy to return to after a day of exploring the surrounding area."
from $40 - $87 / night
Check Availability"** General: Small (47 site) RV park at the eastern edge of downtown Manitou Springs, next to Schryver Park."
"Camp spots are super close to one another, but you are right up to a stream, there is a dog park and you can walk to downtown manitou springs."
"I loved this site it was close to everything I wanted to do and had the remote feeling I was looking for."
"We stayed for 8 days and enjoyed the hiking and town close by. Manitou springs is only 20 minutes away. Co springs is 10 minutes away."
from $28 - $144 / night
Check Availability"It is close to the highway and right on the Fountain river. Great stopping point for one night or use it as your base like we did."
"Very Clean and convenient location to Colorado Springs. Thought highway traffic noice would be a problem but, could not tell rv park is next to the interstate."
"We booked 2 adjacent sites."
"We wanted to spend time in Colorado and Manitou Springs, but not be in town overnight. This is just off a main road, but is far enough away to not hear the noise."
from $39 - $77 / night
Check Availability"Rampart Range Road is the main dirt road that has plenty of smaller trails branching off of it to keep you busy exploring all summer."
"Tucked back in National Forest land."
"If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!"
"30 minutes and kick back and please crack a cold one for Colorado being the best place."
"Campground Review Note: This is a military campground only, on the grounds of the US Air Force Academy just north of Colorado Springs, CO. "
"Downtown Colorado Springs is minutes away and close to attractions. Plus you can take advantage of on base shopping and more."
LegendVery easy to get to even in a 2wd car its paved a long way and only a couple miles on dirt. Saw a moose out here and some amazing views of the mountain 1-2 bars lte cell maybe better depending on your spot. The apots are just pull offs from the road not a ton of space but amazong views
LegendClean place right in town but has a woodsy feel to it has decent amenities and feels really safe. Its close to town whixh is great if you need any supplies or just need to get something hot to eat. Great apot in Woodland park decent 5g cell signal
LegendIt looks like this place has turned into a tiny house community there are a couple small RV spots but mostly its been overtaken by what looks like long term tiny homes nice place tho
LegendThis is a small rv park with a great view of piles peak when you pull in. Its a little cozy in there with some lots being a squeeze but its clean safe and right in town. Great 5g cell signal close to everything you would want to do in Woodland park
LegendNice little campground, and the front desk lady was super friendly and welcoming. The location is really the key factor—very convenient to all the major hiking trails, most of which are about 15 minutes or less away. You can hear a little road noise, but it wasn’t too bad. The sites are fairly close together, and the showers and bathrooms were very clean.
Unfortunately, I did have one negative experience the evening before we left.
I went to use the bathroom, and as I was exiting, I was approached by a man who lives in the camper directly next to the bathhouse. His first words to me were, “If I see you go back into the bathhouse with those wipes in your hand, I’m going to boot and ban you.”
I apologized and explained that I didn’t realize the wipes were not allowed. There were no signs indicating this policy, it isn’t listed on the website, and no one at the office had mentioned it. I even showed him the package, which states that the wipes are biodegradable and septic/sewer safe. He responded that people should use common sense and again told me that if I used them, I would be booted and banned. He also said he had just done the same thing to another camper two days earlier.
I completely understand the need to protect a campground’s septic and sewer systems, and I would have respected the rule if I had been made aware of it. My issue was the way the situation was handled. Instead of simply and politely saying, “Please don’t use those wipes because they can cause problems with our system,” I was immediately threatened with being booted and banned.
The interaction felt unnecessarily hostile and unfriendly. It also left me feeling uncomfortable, as though campers are being watched closely rather than simply being approached respectfully when there is an issue.
That was especially disappointing because, aside from this encounter, our stay was pleasant. A little communication and a more courteous approach would have made a big difference in the overall experience.
ScoutI really enjoyed this spot. I visited towards the end of September 2026 during the start of the changing of the leaves and there were a lot of motorcyclists trying to get in a final ride before the season ends. Most of the spots off the main road were taken but I found a nice secluded spot right off one of the turn-offs. I arrived on a Saturday morning, and most everyone was gone by Sunday afternoon. I plan on staying for 14 days so that should take me to October 2026. Leveling was a little tricky using LevelMateMax, so I always recommend having back-up methods. Wal-Mart is a quick 30-minute trip away if you need groceries or supplies. Colorado Springs is about 45 minutes away. Cell service and internet can be spotty at times, but Starlink worked perfectly.
GuideAfter months on the road this is what I would consider a real campground , as opposed to an open field or RV parking lot. I would have rated 5 stars except that sites on the street can have road noise, also sites on the fence line are looking at a warehouse. Also leveling is needed so bring blocks. Good spacing between sites and lots of mature trees. Sites are irregularly spaced and at different levels (it’s hilly) which adds to the campground look and feel. No problems with placement of hook ups. Bathroom and showers very clean, laundry available. Wi-Fi was very inconsistent. Office staff nice and had everything ready when we arrived. Had an interior pull thru site. Daily visits by various wildlife, magpies, mule deer. Groceries and restaurants nearby if needed. Easy enough to get to Manitou Springs , Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and other cool Places. I’m keeping this on my list for next time.
GuideI found a favorite site empty and stayed three days. Lots of hikers, hunters, dog walkers and even horseback riders passing by on the road. Lots of trails out here.
ScoutPull thru site easy to maneuver, lots of space between sites. Hookups easy to use. Maintained nice, lake was beautiful. Seemed like bikers heaven.
Camping sites near Manitou Springs, Colorado range from 6,000 to 9,000 feet in elevation, creating significant temperature variations between campgrounds. Summer nights at higher elevation campsites like Mueller State Park can drop below 40°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Winter camping is limited to lower elevations, with many mountain roads closed from November through April.
Fishing at Rainbow Gulch: The Rampart Range Road dispersed camping area provides access to Rainbow Gulch trail leading to Rampart Reservoir. "We took this hike and it was absolutely fantastic, a majestic walk through the woods brings you to flowing creek that you follow all the way down to the reservoir," notes one Rampart Range Road camper.
Wildlife viewing at Mueller State Park: The park offers excellent opportunities for animal spotting throughout the day. "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" shares a Mueller State Park visitor. The park maintains over 30 miles of trails with regular wildlife sightings.
Visit the May Tropical Museum: Golden Eagle Campground features an unexpected attraction on-site. "Cool bug museum in the registration building," mentions one camper, while another notes it's worth seeing: "Also, be sure to see the May Tropical Museum while you are there."
Mountain views from elevated sites: Mount Herman Road dispersed camping offers panoramic vistas from several established sites. "If you enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, drive in dispersed camping and putting your off-roading skills to the test, this dispersed campsite is a must visit!" reports one Mount Herman Road camper. Most sites sit at elevations between 7,500-8,500 feet.
Creek-side camping: Pikes Peak RV Park features premium sites along Fountain Creek. "This RV campground is along the creek that runs through Manitou Springs. We specifically asked for a creekside spot. I slept great listening to the creek," shares a visitor to Pikes Peak RV Park. Creek sites typically cost $5-10 more per night.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds near Manitou Springs feature facilities specifically for children. "The heated pool is awesome (and pretty darn warm!), the little trout pond is nice for the kids (you have to pay $6 for each fish that you catch, though, and there is no catch and release), and they have a really great arcade in the main office game room," reports a Lone Duck camper about the facilities.
Fire restrictions: Bans are common during dry summer months, particularly at dispersed sites. "Sadly no campfires, so early to bed," notes one Cascade-Chipita Park camper. Call the Pike National Forest office (719-636-1602) for current regulations before your trip.
Limited privacy at popular RV parks: Many established campgrounds feature closely spaced sites. "Sites are super close together. The 'mountain stream' buts up against an apartment complex and the highway noise is awful," warns a Lone Duck Campground visitor about site spacing expectations.
Weekend crowds at dispersed sites: Free camping areas fill quickly on summer weekends. "Ended up a parking lot by the end of the night. Too busy with inconsiderate neighbors," reports a Rampart Range Road camper. Thursday arrival is recommended for weekend camping at popular dispersed areas.
Budget-friendly cabin options: Colorado Springs KOA offers affordable cabin rentals when tent camping isn't ideal. "Me along with four other friends spent several days tent camping around the Colorado Springs area. On our last night of travel, our camping plans fell through and we needed to find a convenient place late at night to rest. We ended up at the KOA and took advantage of one of their adorable little cabins. All five of us spent the night, actually pretty comfortably," shares a Colorado Springs KOA visitor.
Morning wildlife encounters: Lone Duck Campground offers reliable wildlife viewing opportunities. "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," recalls a camper. Early morning (5-7am) provides the best viewing opportunities.
Shower facilities: Cheyenne Mountain State Park provides clean bathroom facilities. "Excellent, new bathrooms with pay showers and a laundry facility," notes one visitor to the park. Showers cost $2 for 4 minutes, with quarters required.
Site selection for larger rigs: Garden of the Gods RV Resort requires careful site selection for bigger RVs. "I paid $63/night for a Deluxe Plus Back-In spot. I was given D18 which was not only incredibly narrow, but very difficult to get into. Other, cheaper sites around the campground were much more spacious and didn't require removing my sway bars to back in to," cautions a Garden of the Gods RV Resort visitor.
Shared utilities setup: Several RV parks in the area have unusual utility arrangements. "After getting setup I found out that I'd need to climb up the short retaining wall into my neighbors site to hookup our water hose. The spigot was shared between our sites," notes another Garden of the Gods visitor. Call ahead to confirm your specific site's utility layout.
Limited pull-through availability: Lone Duck Campground has few options for RVs needing pull-through access. "Could be a bit tough for fifth wheelers or people that need to pull through they only have a few of those," warns a camper. Reservations for pull-through sites should be made 4-6 months in advance during peak summer season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping near Manitou Springs?
For free dispersed camping near Manitou Springs, Cascade-Chipita Park/Woodland Park is an excellent option. Located just west of Manitou Springs, this area offers well-maintained gravel roads with spots about 250 feet from your car. The sites are accessible for all mobility levels and provide a peaceful setting despite occasional passing cars. For additional dispersed options, Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping provides free camping opportunities in the Pike National Forest. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check current fire restrictions before your trip.
Are there RV parks or RV-friendly campgrounds in Manitou Springs?
Pikes Peak RV Park is located right in Manitou Springs along the creek that runs through town. This smaller park (47 sites) is better suited for smaller RVs, offers creekside spots, shade trees, and clean facilities. A free shuttle stop for Manitou Springs provides convenient access to town. Garden of the Gods RV Resort is another excellent option nearby, offering a central location for exploring both Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs. While spaces can be tight, the prime location near Garden of the Gods park and easy access to local attractions makes it worth considering.
What campgrounds are available in Manitou Springs, Colorado?
While Manitou Springs itself has limited camping options, several great campgrounds are available nearby. Cheyenne Mountain State Park is about 20 minutes from Manitou Springs, offering simple sites with a remote feel while remaining accessible to attractions. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins in Cascade is minutes away from Manitou Springs, Pike's Peak, and Cave of the Winds, providing convenience while maintaining a secluded atmosphere. Both options serve as excellent bases for exploring the area's natural wonders and tourist attractions.
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