Mueller State Park Campground sits at approximately 10,000 feet elevation with 132 sites spread across 5,000 acres of forest and meadows. The campground features numerous hiking trails covering over 44 miles of terrain through aspen groves and pine forests. Sites at Mueller vary in size and privacy, with many accommodating both tents and RVs.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Mueller State Park Campground offers extensive hiking with varying difficulty levels. "Great location within Colorado's Mueller State Park. Easy access to trails, visitor center, and scenic drives," notes Amber J. The park features wildlife viewing opportunities along the trails. "The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring," says Alexis B.
Visit historic mining towns: From Cripple Creek KOA, campers can explore nearby mining history. "Great hiking nearby and the towns of Cripple Creek and Victor are full of old mining history!" says Sarah F. The campground sits at the highest elevation for a KOA at 10,000 feet. "We originally got a delux tent spot with water and electric but when a storm came through and blew our tent down... we were able to upgrade into a cabin," shares Tasha M.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Access Rampart Reservoir via Rainbow Gulch Trail from Rampart Range Road - Dispersed Camping. "Nearby is the Rampart Reservoir via Rainbow Gulch trail I recommend walking from the site due to limited parking at the trailhead," advises Heather C. The dispersed sites offer more flexibility for those seeking free camping with fewer restrictions.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Along Gold Camp Road/Forest Service Road 376 Dispersed, campers enjoy sites next to running water. "Found a good spot right next to the creek with a mini fire pit and enough flat ground to pitch a tent. The spot was gorgeous and the sound of the creek completely drowned out any noises or people," reports Emma H. Most sites are well separated for privacy.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at Lone Duck Campground and Cabins. "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," shares Tessa S. The campground provides amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "We only stayed two nights but we absolutely loved it! We tent camped right next to the little stream and saw so much wildlife! It was awesome!" says Lindsey M.
Cleanliness and maintenance: Many campers mention the well-kept facilities at Mueller State Park. "This is a beautiful state campground. 30 amp electrical hook ups. Along with fireplaces and picnic tables at each site," writes Kenneth F. The campground maintains clean shower houses and restrooms. "The camp sites are well maintained and have vaulted toilets and water pumps conveniently located throughout the campgrounds," notes Steve C.
What you should know
Elevation considerations: At 10,000 feet, weather can change rapidly and temperatures drop significantly at night, even in summer. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," advises Bruce K. about Mueller State Park. Altitude sickness is possible for those unaccustomed to high elevations.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: On Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping, campers should bring everything needed. "Beautiful views, ~50 minutes of rocky gravel road to reach the top but doable in any vehicle depending on the weather," reports Logan C. No facilities or water sources exist at these sites. "Looking for a quick spot to stay the night as we were traveling through. Easy drive up, found a pull out fairly close to the main road with established fire ring," explains BigRed Overlander.
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed camping areas requires navigating rough roads. "The road in is gravel and pretty choppy, but the weather was good and my car made it fine but I was going like 5 mph. If the weather wasn't good you would probably need 4x4," says Bailey H. about Rampart Range Road. The initial drive can be challenging but rewards with secluded camping spots.
Tips for camping with families
Arcade games and activities: Lone Duck Campground and Cabins offers entertainment options beyond camping. "All of the amenities. Pool, laundry room, gift shop/Grocery. Arcade, pond, clean bathrooms. Best place every," says Cody K. The campground features family-friendly activities. "They had a nice gift shop and provided a s'mores night for the campers for free," adds Tasha M.
Dog-friendly options: For pet owners seeking dog friendly campgrounds near Midland, dispersed sites offer more freedom. "The 'mountain stream' buts up against an apartment complex and the highway noise is awful," warns Lynnae C. about Lone Duck, suggesting dispersed options might be better for pets needing space. Many pet-friendly campgrounds require dogs to remain on leash at all times.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "We stayed in conifer 25. Close to comfort station and playground," says Lynnae C. about Mueller State Park. Diamond Campground also offers recreation spaces. "Paved roads throughout made for nice bike rides with the kids and larger than usual dog run area was nice (right next to the playground made it easy to run both the dog and the kids)," shares Sarah S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When choosing RV sites, consider utilities and access. "Some camp sites are very close to one another, but everybody was respectful of each other's space and quiet," notes Steve C. about Mueller State Park. Check site dimensions before booking. "Sites are super close together. The 'mountain stream' buts up against an apartment complex and the highway noise is awful," cautions Lynnae C.
Dump stations: Most established campgrounds provide sanitary dump stations, but capacity may be limited during peak times. "Full hook up. Helpful staff. Safe," reports Joana A., though noting "spots are TIGHT" at Pikes Peak RV Park. Plan dump station usage during off-peak hours to avoid waiting.
Water and supply access: "We stopped at a campground in Woodland park on the way in and were able to fill up with water before heading up the mountain for $10," shares Heather C. about preparing for dispersed camping near Woodland Park. For pet-friendly camping near Midland Colorado, bring sufficient water for both people and animals, especially at dispersed sites without amenities.