Best Camping near Monarch, CO

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.

Best Camping Sites Near Monarch, CO (280)

    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Rock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Browns Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade (colorado)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade (colorado)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade (colorado)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade (colorado)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade (colorado)
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade (colorado)

    3. Cascade (colorado)

    18 Reviews
    45 Photos
    196 Saves
    Nathrop, Colorado

    Overview

    Cascade Campground is located in beautiful Chaffee County,__Colorado. This popular facility sits near Cascade Falls and is within 5 miles of a private hot springs resort, making it an ideal location for rest and relaxation. "First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early as Thursday, so plan accordingly.

    Recreation

    Stream fishing is best above Cascade Falls, just accross the road from the campground. Nearby Chalk Lake is heralded as a great family fishing lake with rainbow, brook and brown trout. Plenty of off-road vehicle trails are a short distance away.__Recommended rides include Mount Antero, Baldwin Lake, Tincup Pass, Hancock Pass, Pomeroy Lakes, Hancock Lakes. Hiking in the area includes the Colorado Trail, The Narrow Gauge trail and the Cascade Loop Trail (Across from Chalk Lake Campground)

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated in a dense forest of Douglas fir and aspen at an elevation of 9,000 feet in Chalk Creek Canyon, which gets its name from the soft, white, chalk-like kaolinite canyon walls. Kaolinite is a clay mineral that was deposited by percolating hot springs. Chalk Creek is just across the road from the campground. It flows 27 miles eastward from the Collegiate Peaks before joining the Arkansas River. Chalk Lake is a mile east of the campground.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

    Nearby Attractions

    Take a day trip to the historic ghost town of St. Elmo, just 15 minutes from the campground. An old saloon, county courthouse and many other historic structures remain from the days of its mining glory. The city of Salida and Town of Buena Vista are only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of antique shops. The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak in. as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATVing, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping, swimming

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

    4. Ruby Mountain Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

    24 Reviews
    132 Photos
    384 Saves
    Nathrop, Colorado

    Part of Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Hecla Junction Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Salida North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Salida North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Salida North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Salida North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Salida North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Salida North BLM
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    7. Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    392 Saves
    Poncha Springs, Colorado
    • Electric Hookups
    • Dispersed
    • Market
    • Firewood Available
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Lake Campground

    8. Cottonwood Lake Campground

    16 Reviews
    54 Photos
    702 Saves
    Buena Vista, Colorado

    Overview

    This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    9. Raspberry Gulch Dispersed Site

    13 Reviews
    46 Photos
    559 Saves
    Nathrop, Colorado

    Don't want to camp in a developed campground? There are many places on the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands where you can pitch a tent and practice low impact camping techniques. Dispersed camping is primitive, undevleoped, frontcountry "car camping".

    Remember: when dispersed camping, no toilets, trash service, or potable water, are available. Store all food and trash securely, and pack out what you pack in. Practice Leave No Trace.

    Please observe the following requirements when dispersed camping:

    In some areas, dispersed camping and parking is allowed in designated sites only. Do not create resource damage by driving off-road, beyond designated parking locations, or behind barriers. Parking should be within 30' of site markers where posted. Developed sites, including trailheads and picnic areas, are closed to overnight camping and allow for day use activities only. Tread lightly, and avoid trampling sensitive vegetation. Locate your camp at least 100' from any water source. Use catholes to properly dispose of human and pet waste; bury waste in a cathole at least 6-8" deep and 200’ from any water source. Packing out human and pet waste using self-contained waste disposal systems is encouraged. Campfires are allowed at overnight sites as long as fire restrictions aren’t in place. You may gather small amounts of down, dead wood for a campfire. Use existing fire rings; keep your campfire small and always make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving. No campfires outside of designated overnight sites. BEARS and other wildlife When you go to the mountains and forest, you are in bear county. Do not leave ANY food, trash or other animal attractant unattended. Store all food and trash securely and pack out what you pack in. Failing to do so can result in a fine. Also be aware that; where not otherwise restricted, camping or leaving camping equipment at any location more than 14 days within a continuous 30 day period, and/or occupying any campsite within three miles of any prior camping or equipment location for a combined total of more than 28 days within any continuous 60 day period, is prohibited. Also, leaving camping equipment unattended for more than 24 hours is not allowed. In addition; discharging a firearm is prohibited within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge. Plan your trip; phone ahead for restrictions and special regulations. Contact your local Ranger District office for more information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks

    10. Collegiate Peaks

    16 Reviews
    56 Photos
    294 Saves
    Buena Vista, Colorado

    Overview

    Collegiate Peaks Campground is located 11 miles west of Buena Vista, Colorado, along Middle Cottonwood Creek near the top of Cottonwood Pass. The campground offers well-spaced campsites and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors enjoy fishing and exploring local trails. A commercial hot springs inn and spa is located about 5 miles east of the campground. "First come, first served" does not necessarily mean that the site will be available when you get there. Someone may get there before you. This is a popular campground and is normally full starting on Friday, sometimes as early as Thursday, so plan accordingly.

    Recreation

    Hiking and fishing are among the most popular activities. The Denny Creek Trailhead is less than a mile away and it take hikers through Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area to destinations such as Kroenke Lake and Mt. Yale. The Ptarmigan Lake Trailhead is less than 3 miles from the campground and boasts views of vivid wildflowers. Middle Cottonwood Creek is small but fairly well-stocked with brook trout. Determined anglers can often pull rainbow and cutthroat trout from the beaver ponds west of the campground.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits at an elevation of 9,800 feet, tucked in a dense stand of mixed conifers__and aspen. Some sites sit alongside the creek while others are tucked back in the woods. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420.

    Nearby Attractions

    Cottonwood Pass is a high mountain pass across the Continental Divide in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. The road reaches the divide at an elevation of 12,126 feet. The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness offers challenging trails and prime backcountry fishing lakes. The Town of Buena Vista is only a short drive away where visitors can enjoy distinctive restaurants, unique shops, incredible art galleries and a large selection of antique shops. The area boasts more than 100 miles of Arkansas River to raft, fish, float or kayak in, as well as fifteen 14,000 ft mountains. Visitors can choose from recreational activities like hiking, biking, ATV/UTV riding, kayaking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, zipping and swimming.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $25 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 280 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Monarch

Recent Reviews in Monarch

1299 Reviews of 280 Monarch Campgrounds


  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Portal Campground
    Dec. 15, 2024

    Portal Campground

    Aspen Escape by the Lake

    Nestled just outside of Aspen, Portal Campground offers a serene and scenic retreat in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With its proximity to the Roaring Fork River and sweeping views of surrounding peaks, it’s a perfect spot for campers seeking both tranquility and adventure.

    The campground features well-maintained sites surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, providing ample shade and privacy. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and nearby vault toilets, making it a comfortable, rustic camping experience. The sound of the river nearby adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

    Portal Campground is an excellent base for exploring the Aspen area, with plenty of hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities. The famous Maroon Bells are just a short drive away, and there are several trails nearby offering breathtaking views and alpine scenery.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping
    Dec. 7, 2024

    Forest Road 272 Dispersed Camping

    Spacious Mountain Views with a Few Cow Visitors

    Coordinates: 38.702830,-106.160280

    This dispersed camping area offers stunning mountain views, spacious sites perfect for large groups, and easy access to excellent hiking trails. The September weather was ideal—cool and crisp without being too cold. While the site feels fairly secluded, beware of grazing cows from local ranches that wander through; be sure to secure food and belongings you don’t want damaged. Dog owners should be mindful of cleanup, as cow and dog waste can be an issue. There are two porta-potties onsite that are cleaned weekly, but campers must pack out all their trash to maintain the area’s natural beauty. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a peaceful escape with plenty of room to spread out.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch
    Dec. 6, 2024

    Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch

    Amazing Campground, could use a refresh

    Located near Blue Mesa Reservoir, Thousand Trails Gunnison offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The campground features spacious sites, clean facilities, and a welcoming community vibe.

    While some amenities could use a refresh, the stunning location more than makes up for it. It’s a great spot for adventurers and nature lovers.

    Outdoor closes and activities die down after beginning of September.

    ASK other campers about the laundry facilities. Hopefully the dryers will be fixed by next season. They were taking more than 3 cycles to dry our clothes.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting

    Great location with easy access fishing

    Great location with full hookups for RVs. The description mentions back-in sites only, and while our electric hookup was conveniently on the same side, we had to run our water and sewage lines underneath the RV since those hookups were on the opposite side—this seems to be the case for all sites. The campground is perfectly situated at the intersection of the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers, making it ideal for fly fishing. They offer cabins, RV sites, and long-term housing options. There's a small store with basic items, beer, and merchandise, plus a fly shop in the same building. There's also a restaurant, though it was closed during our stay, and coin-operated laundry facilities. Overall, a great stay!

  • sportzfytv A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge

    Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge

    The Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for sports enthusiasts. With its expansive facilities, it perfectly complements Sportzfy TV's mission to promote active lifestyles and engage audiences in diverse sporting events. Whether you’re looking to train or unwind, this destination provides an excellent backdrop for fitness and recreation. For More: https://www.sportzfytvapks.com/

  • sportzfytv A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge

    Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge

    The Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for sports enthusiasts. With its expansive facilities, it perfectly complements Sportzfy TV's mission to promote active lifestyles and engage audiences in diverse sporting events. Whether you’re looking to train or unwind, this destination provides an excellent backdrop for fitness and recreation. For More: https://www.sportzfytvapks.com/

  • Jordana P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Mount Shavano Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful views and great privacy

    I stayed here for 1 night of car camping and will definitely go back. I only went about 4 miles in on the rocky/rutted road (vs the 5 miles that the directions say) and thought the sites were great. I stayed at a big site on the right with beautiful views and a fire ring. Aside from hearing some (maybe - not sure) coyotes at night, I wasn't aware of any other wildlife. I was in a 4Runner and my friend that I was with was driving a Highlander. As another poster commented, I saw a small sedan in one of the sites but wouldn't drive way out in anything but an SUV or truck. I have AT&T and had 2 bars of service.

  • Leah K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Great Camping Spot

    This was a great camping spot. There are several campsites by the water and other campsites, not by the water. The campsites are kind of close together, but not terrible. I went early on a Friday and got a beautiful spot by the water. By the end of the day, all the sites around the water were full. So if that's important to you, be sure to get there early. There were still plenty of other gorgeous campsites, not by the water available all weekend. There are also hiking trails located here. One of which is called "Interlaken Trail." It's about a 5 mile hike total and takes you to a "Ghost Resort" called "Inter-Laken" that was abandoned around WW1. You can even go inside one of the buildings, and there are Historical Marker plaques that talk about the abandoned resort. The signal is great so I had cell service and data the entire time. Highly recommend!

  • Wendy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Mt. Shavano Wildlife Area

    Great views

    Lots of open spots in mid October. Slow going on rocky and bumpy dirt road but Chevy express 2wd did fine. Low clearance vehicles take extreme caution. Stayed in loop A, also a B&C.

  • Chad H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Cottonwood Lake
    Oct. 15, 2024

    South Cottonwood Lake

    South Cottonwood Creek

    Boondocking. South of Cottonwood lake campgrounds. Must travel one mile past the FS campground. On road 344. I would recommend to stop at the lake and scout the area. You cannot turn around on the road with a long rig. The road will turn into a high clearance FS unmaintained.

  • Angela E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cotton Creek Trailhead
    Oct. 7, 2024

    Cotton Creek Trailhead

    Beautiful and peaceful 💚

    The sky is GORGEOUS. The road is very rocky & very rough, so you'll want to have decent clearance and be prepared to take it slow. I've never seen so many stars!

  • Alice S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West
    Oct. 3, 2024

    Twin Lakes Dispersed Camping - Site 1 West

    Not Bad

    The road up to the campground is pretty rough for the first 100 ft or so but then it gets a lot better. Quite a bit of space but no privacy. I would definitely not suggest for large rvs. I’m in a van and didn’t have much problems at all.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley Mobile RV Park
    Oct. 2, 2024

    Valley Mobile RV Park

    Great Management campground

    The host, Margaret and her husband and few others working very hard to maintains this campsite.

    Shower room have heat and hot water, environments are so peacefully and pretty,  shops are close by, hot springs, rafting, nearby, my favorites is cottonwood lake!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunnison KOA
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Gunnison KOA

    Good Location

    Great location for area activities, nice pretty green grass for dogs, bathroom and showers are clean but definitely need an over haul. Positive and negatives are livestock are cute walking around, down sides are poop paddies every where gets annoying.

  • pThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Joyful Journey Hot Springs
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Joyful Journey Hot Springs

    Costs a lot more than listed

    We were charged $170 for a site in the middle of a gravel parking lot. It included dinner, breakfast and use of the hot springs. The WiFi didn’t reach us, but worked in the buffet style cafeteria-like dining area. Way overpriced for the experience!

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 130
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Forest Road 130

    Beautiful open campsites

    We loved this campsite — still open in late September and already had a fire ring waiting for us. There were lots of dispersed spots right off the road and it was quiet and peaceful!

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Collegiate Peaks
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Collegiate Peaks

    Out there but not too far

    Went with the family and had a great time. We got a site because of a cancellation and, unfortunately it was next to the bathroom. Didn't bother us though. It was our first trip using our new popup and it was def a learning experience. That all being said we were able to hit up Mount Princeton hot springs AND visit the St. Elmo ghost town. By the end of the trip the kids were begging to go back asap.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Cutty’s Resort - Hayden Creek

    Great All Around

    We had a great time. Our family and another reserved two sites next to each other. The pools on site were perfect for the kids. On site mini golf was a blast. The views in the campground were awesome. Aside from the aforementioned, there was a small store on site with ice and wood (can't bring your own wood) and the food they served at the mess hall was fire.

  • Silouan A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Slate River Dispersed Sites
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Slate River Dispersed Sites

    Great area, lots of available sites

    This is the go to place in this area. Just past Oh Be Joyful campground, there are a few miles of posted sites, fist come first serve.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FourMile Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 16, 2024

    FourMile Dispersed Camping

    Tiny But Convenient

    This dispersed camping area was extremely small but a convenient place to camp the night before summiting Sherman. It was a bit tricky to find/decipher what was dispersed and what was the intentional campground. Honestly not even sure if the place I found was the actual dispersed area. By other reviews left, it felt right to me. My friend and I car camped here, we had a quiet night. The neighbors were all very quiet and respectful of quiet hours and personal space. The vault toilet was extremely clean with no odor. I enjoyed the washboard road! During our time there were advisories for bear activity in the area.

  • Brittany R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Valley View Hot Springs—Orient Land Trust

    Came for the daily soak - stayed for the camping

    This place was great! We originally planned just to do a daily soak before heading to our next campsite but ended up just staying here because we enjoyed it so much. The camp sites were simple but great and you have total access to all hot springs, bathrooms, showers, sauna, AND a communal outdoor kitchen. We participated in the clothing optional experience but didn’t feel like we had to. Great people all around from guests to staff. Highly recommend!



Guide to Monarch

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.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes nearby. One reviewer mentioned, "There are plenty of places to hike and explore and close to BV as well," highlighting the accessibility of trails from places like Turtle Rock Campground.
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes in the area are great for fishing. A visitor at Hecla Junction Campground noted, "It's a sweet place to camp right on the Arkansas River, just a bit north of Salida, CO, and is known for its river access for whitewater enthusiasts and anglers alike."
  • Mountain Biking: Many campgrounds are close to biking trails. One camper at Ruby Mountain Campground shared, "It also has cell service and wonderful for mountain biking."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Cottonwood Lake Campground states, "A beautiful campground nestled in an aspen grove and evergreens."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Cascade Campground remarked, "Super clean restrooms, and a friendly but not intrusive campground host."
  • Free Camping Options: Several campgrounds offer free sites, which is a big plus. A camper at Browns Creek mentioned, "This BLM campground has free sites and pit toilets that are kept clean."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack basic amenities like drinking water and showers. A camper at Turtle Rock Campground noted, "NO drinking_water, NO showers," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy. A reviewer at Clear Creek Reservoir said, "This is a free dispersed campground... super crowded on weekends."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be cautious of wildlife. One camper at Hecla Junction Campground advised, "Store food wisely, lots of wildlife!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A family at BV Overlook enjoyed, "Each site is quite spacious and each has a picnic table and fire pit with a grill top."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring gear for fishing or hiking. One camper at Cottonwood Lake Campground mentioned, "The restroom were clean and the lake is amazing! Tons of fish."
  • Safety First: Keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at Cascade Campground warned, "We almost lost our dog who got out of her harness."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Ruby Mountain Campground noted, "Most importantly the address is incorrect while trying to find your way here use the coordinates they are correct."
  • Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some campgrounds have bumpy access roads. A camper at Salida North BLM mentioned, "The road going in was a little bumpy but any car should be able to make it."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds lack amenities, stock up on essentials. A visitor at Browns Creek said, "NO trash, NO water hookups," so plan accordingly.

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