Looking for the best campgrounds near Monarch, CO? Monarch is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Monarch and user-submitted reviews.
"If you ever been to any of the BLM camping locations around Salida, Mt. Shavano is not anything different."
"It was easy to find and close to the highway.
The road was pretty good but got a bit bumpy as we got closer but still not a problem with our trailer."
"This spot is one of the best kept secrets for dispersed camping in Colorado. The road has plenty of camping spots all the way up to the lake. Most spots are wooded and offer plenty of shade."
"And do not drive up that section to the 3rd if it is already taken (scout ahead here, trust me). You won't be able to turn around and the road gets worse with no where to turn around and no spots."
$25 / night
"This is probably my family's favorite area to camp in Colorado. Off the beaten path enough that traffic is minimal. But nice and close to some great four wheel and off roading areas."
"This place is beautifully positioned in the trees. Clean facilities, a wonderful camp host and fellow campers were great. 15 minutes from Buena Vista and 30 to Salida. "
"The hiking is good with several trailheads and easy access to the Colorado Trail."
"Recommend the hike to browns lake nearby. Vault toilets at the trailhead if needed.
Our spot was right off the Colorado trail, lots of thru hikers going by."
"Within 20 minutes of driving you have multiple Colorado 14ers to hike, amazing fishing, miles of mountain biking trails and 2 amazing towns with great places to eat or grab a beer. "
"Beautiful surroundings, picnic tables, fire rings. I gave it a 4 because of annoying rig running generator and a little highway noise."
$145 / night
"The Colorado trail runs right next to campground and offered amazing hiking. Tons of Aspen trees!"
"Quiet, fairly secluded, has its own fishing pond and nearby beaver ponds, N. Fk. S. Arkansas flows past, and it is right on the Colorado Trail."
"Wide variety of campsites here close to the Colorado trail and two 14ers. Where we camped was a cow field and they came and went so would be careful with dogs."
"I’ve camped next to the creek and further out away from the water. Honestly, it’s hard to find a bad campsite here!
If you want a site close to the creek, you have to get there early."
$24 / night
"I made a stop knowing there was to much snow in the area to actually stay but I wanted to see what Monarch had to offer when it wasn't ski season and I was so pleased with the campground itself."
"According to the forest service website, Monarch Park campground is closed for 2024 season to make renovations. Too bad."
$28 - $56 / night
"This is one of my favorites from this summer trip to Colorado. O’Haver Campground is a high altitude lakeside campground outside of Salida Colorado."
"Sweet campsites on a nice small lake up at around 9000 feet surrounded by mountains. Weekend summer use is heavy so plan to reserve in advance if possible. can be chilly at night."
$28 / night
"The campground is north of Salida Colorado on the Arkansas River. This is the busy spot at the end of the commercial river rafting run."
"Beautiful in its location, there were site improvements several years ago, which are nice and still hold true in 2023. (level tent pads, delineated sites, etc.)"
GuideFirst off this is mainly a 4x4 and mtb park. If you have those 2 you will love it. There are some 2wd accessible spots but it is a maze and you could very easily get turned up and tear your 2wd vehicle up, especially if low clearance. Study Google maps sat images, stay to the main road and NEVER rush in at dusk, you will be sorry. Good verizon signal. Buggy and dusty. Some cool rock formations to camp and hike around. Also a few vault toilets here and there.
ScoutThe site is very clean and the campground is well maintained. Bathrooms are clean and location is close to town. We were at a site in the middle of the loop which had no trees or privacy. I think a site by the river would be much better. I don’t foresee us staying at this location again. We prefer a little more privacy and an option for shade.
Ranger2 Great nights spent here while we explored the region a great site by the water. A little noisy with the road traffic but at night all you hear is the river.
GuideI’ve camped several times at this campground, both in a tent and in an RV. Close to Taylor Reservoir, so fishing is easy. Very quiet campground with lots for all to do. The surrounding areas are fun to go and explore. Nearby Tincup offers a lot of neat local history!
TravelerThe sunset was incredible. I absolutely loved my time here. The host was so sweet too.
ScoutStayed by the entrance and got some good views. The road getting down was a rough but I made it in a campervan just fine. Beware of a big black bug that could sneak up on you at any moment!!!
ScoutThis place was an absolute GEM. The camping spots are massive. We had room for our 10 person tent, mini van, and PLENTY of room to spare. You could put 2-3 of the massive tents where we were. The creek was directly behind us and made beautiful sounds all night. There were a ton of mosquitos, but I never saw any animals or signs of animals. The people at the site before us left their trash bag and a bunch of trash in the fire pit which is really disappointing. Overall, excellent place to stay and not super busy. Our mini van did bottom out at one part of the road, but it worked out okay.
ScoutWe had such a relaxing stay at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch! One of the major highlights for us was the amazing pool setup—both indoor and outdoor pools were clean, well-maintained, and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The outdoor pool offered beautiful views and plenty of space to lounge in the sun, while the indoor pool was a great option for cooler days or a quiet swim. Whether you're traveling with kids or just looking to kick back and enjoy some peaceful water time, these pools are a total win. Highly recommend this spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy a mix of nature and comfort!
GuideLots of sites at the campground. Road has some rocks and bumps but I saw some sedans doing just fine. Close to the lake.
Camping near Monarch, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Monarch, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful scenery and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect spot for your next adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Monarch, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 278 campgrounds and RV parks near Monarch, CO and 102 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Monarch, CO is Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area with a 4.5-star rating from 16 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 102 free dispersed camping spots near Monarch, CO.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Monarch, CO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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