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Best Campgrounds in Colorado

10,000
Reviews

Colorado encompasses a wide spectrum of camping experiences, from remote dispersed sites on Bureau of Land Management land to well-developed facilities in national parks. Several prominent campgrounds such as Mesa Verde National Park's Morefield Campground and Rocky Mountain National Park's Moraine Park Campground provide established amenities for tent and RV campers. The state's public lands support diverse accommodation types, with many locations like Mueller State Park offering both traditional campground options and cabin rentals. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping represents numerous primitive camping opportunities on public land throughout the region, where campers can experience more solitude away from developed campground settings.

Seasonal considerations vary dramatically across Colorado's diverse elevations. Many campgrounds like Saddlehorn in Colorado National Monument operate only from spring through fall (March to October), while others such as Chatfield State Park remain accessible year-round. Road conditions in dispersed camping areas can present challenges, particularly after rain or snow events. Permits and reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, especially during peak summer months when popular sites fill quickly. Visitors should be prepared for significant temperature variations, even during summer months, particularly at higher elevations where overnight temperatures can drop considerably. A camper noted, "Lots of dispersed camping throughout this area. At this spot we found a nice area for a tent that had a fire pit."

Several visitors highlight the appeal of waterside locations, with creek and riverside sites receiving particularly positive reviews. Campers frequently mention the combination of natural settings and basic amenities as key factors in their satisfaction. Campgrounds with electrical hookups like Moraine Park provide a middle ground between rustic and comfortable camping experiences. Public lands offer the greatest flexibility for those seeking solitude, though they typically lack facilities like running water or maintained restrooms. Primitive sites on BLM land provide cost-effective alternatives to developed campgrounds, with one reviewer stating they "Got lucky and found a perfect site right by the creek with a fire ring. Easy to get to in our camper van, no 4 x 4 required." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping represent the majority of established options throughout the state.

Campground Showdown in Colorado

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Round 1 of 5

Best Camping Sites in Colorado (2,214)

    1. Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park

    108 Reviews
    Mancos, CO
    Website
    +1 (800) 449-2288

    "Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"

    "I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."

    2. Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park

    96 Reviews
    Gardner, CO
    Website
    +1 (877) 444-6777

    $20 - $80 / night

    "It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."

    "Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."

    3. Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    94 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    $35 - $70 / night

    "Took the kids camping in Colorado for the first time and we had a blast. It rained on us a lot but it didn't stop us. Took a great hike up deer mountain....stunning views. Can't wait to go back."

    "Very enjoyable spot, close access to trails and entrance and exit of the park."

    4. Chatfield State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    Website
    +1 (303) 791-7275

    $36 - $200 / night

    "Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."

    "We were on the outskirts of D Loop. The western views of the mountains were beautiful. Better views in other sites but a walk about gave way to the front range."

    5. Saddlehorn Campground — Colorado National Monument

    72 Reviews
    Fruita, CO
    Website
    +1 (970) 858-3617

    $22 / night

    "This is one of my favorite campgrounds, because Colorado National Monument is so stunning."

    "Colorado National Monument is one of the treasures of the National Parks system."

    6. South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

    68 Reviews
    Montrose, CO
    Website
    +1 (970) 249-1914

    $20 - $34 / night

    "The South Rim Campground is similar to other national park campground in that it provides convenient access to park activities and trails, but it stands apart due to the fact that the camping fees are"

    "Most of the outer sites are tucked into the forest so there is a decent level of privacy. Lots of deer frequent the area, we saw several on each trip."

    7. Zapata Falls Campground

    70 Reviews
    Blanca, CO
    Website
    +1 (719) 852-7074

    $20 / night

    "This was our last night camping in Colorado and it was beautiful!"

    "This area in Colorado is one of the most unique places I've seen in a while."

    8. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping

    67 Reviews
    Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, CO
    Website

    "Great location right next to the park! There are plenty of sites and the views are beautiful. Entrance was slightly rutted so make sure you can off-road just a bit!"

    "A few minutes outside the south gate of the park. Multiple sites, most of which are on dirt. Paths to and from can be a bit rough for most passenger vehicles. But it’s quite and close to the park."

    9. Mueller State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    Divide, CO
    Website
    +1 (719) 687-2366

    $28 - $270 / night

    "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."

    "By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"

    10. Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    60 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    $35 - $70 / night

    "Firewood sold next to the entrance by the same husband and wife that have been selling firewood there for 35 years. There is a shed full of firewood."

    "The spaces are large, but quite close to one another with few trees for privacy. Each site here is variable, with some open with no trees and others nestled in some mature trees."

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  • Christopher K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Shepherds Rim Campground

    Remote, but gorgeous!

    Site: #5 is a short drive from the entrance on the right with a short drive thru for RVs. Starting from parking space is path with some steps down accessing the site and is very close to a water spigot and about equal distance to both bathrooms. There is one "mostly" level spot big enough for 2 normal tents or one big tent where we were able to pitch our 10x14 with room around it. Large picnic table and bear vault you can see in pictures and decent fire pit which is on a slight grade which does limit placement of chairs but great amazing view from the North all the way to the South East.

    Campgrounds: This is the only reservable loop of 4 other loops in the immediate area set back from Trappers Lake where you can't quite see it but is a short drive/walk away to Scott's Bay Trailhead. 2 Water spigots and 2 pairs of very well maintained vault toilets. The host was welcoming and very knowledgeable about the area. He had firewood for sale.

    Area: Numerous of trailheads branching off of the main road and around the main lake.

    Trappers Lake Lodge has a tiny convenient store a bar and restaurant. From what the host said was good food and friendly people. Recently graded very smooth dirt road with many aspen groves visible on the drive in. About equal distance to either Meeker or Yampa. Meeker is a much quicker drive vs Yampa due to less dirt roads.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    90 Rd Dispersed

    Messy, but Quiet and Good Views

    Lots of spots along this road, some 2WD accessible, some not. Chose a spot I could get to with my small car - a few fire pits around evidenced past campers. Unfortunately there was quite a bit of trash around. Smoky because of fires, but good views and not many other campers around.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great spot right on the lake

    The drive in was pretty rugged. Drove a stock Tacoma with big tires and was totally fine. Tons of spots around the lake, some you have to walk into. Got there on a Saturday morning and it was busy but we still got a sweet spot right on the water. Tight small campsite with not a lot of flat land. Small tent would’ve been great. Would recommend high clearance. Tons of fish.

  • Dana D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Ramble at Mesa Verde

    Lovely campground, awesome hosts!

    This is a beautiful, well kept and immaculately clean campground. Very quiet with awesome views of Mesa Verde. The sunsets up here are beautiful. The camp hosts are wonderful. They treat you like you are relatives that have come into town! I can't say enough about it. I tent camp, the tent pads are large. The amenities are awesome. You have everything you need. You'll have to look it up because what they offer here is too much to list! I highly recommend this place.

  • Grace O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Priest Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    Over night at Priest

    Perfect little spot with really nicely spaced out sites with metal fire rings and nice metal tables. The lake was nice and serene! Great tree coverage incase of wind. Still spaces available at 7:30pm on Saturday. Saving to come back soon!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Drake Campground

    Drake campground

    Quiet campground. Beautiful scenery next to a stream. They also have a toilet without shower and a potable water

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Farnham Spur

    Historical site with great view

    Several sites here: a large one in front and others sheltered in woods. Minor difficulty in getting in, but AWD vehicles can get up small rise. Many fire rings. At 11k’ elevation it’s cold at night. Remnants of old short-lived mining town, including the base of an aerial tramway.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Pikes Peak RV Park

    Small but mighty

    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.

  • C L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 28, 2026

    Zapata Falls

    Dispersed Camping Close to Dunes

    There’s pull out / turns ours off the side of the road leading up to Zapata Falls. No fire pits. Not really a camping area, but the closest free camping to Zapata Falls and the Dunes that there is. About 8-10 miles, 15 mins to the Dunes. Great views, but not really private. Works for me though for just a quick rest.

Guide to Colorado

Camping in Colorado offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Centennial State.

What to do

  • Explore the Outdoors: Colorado is known for its beautiful parks. For instance, at Chatfield State Park Campground, you can enjoy paddle boarding and hiking. One camper mentioned, “Loved the paddle board experience.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Mueller State Park Campground, are home to diverse wildlife. A visitor noted, “Lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery.”
  • Fishing and Boating: At Eleven Mile State Park, you can fish or take a canoe out on the water. One camper said, “Take a canoe, kayak, or fishing poles and enjoy a day on the lake.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Cherry Creek State Park Campground stated, “Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. At Mueller State Park Campground, a camper remarked, “Park staff are very friendly.”
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. One visitor at Turtle Rock Campground said, “This place is beautiful. Easy to get to.”

What you should know

  • Weather Variability: Colorado weather can change quickly. A camper at Eleven Mile State Park warned, “Winds in the evening almost made me leave site.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, lack basic facilities. A review mentioned, “There’s huge piles of trash everywhere.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Prospector Campground noted, “If you have one of the US Park lifetime senior lifetime whatever’s then it’s only $13.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. Cherry Creek State Park Campground offers various activities, making it great for families.
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and games for the kids. One camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, “The staff was great and managed to get us a site at short notice.”
  • Plan Activities: Have a list of fun things to do. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground said, “The state park is enjoyable.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Mueller State Park Campground noted, “Our site was a pull through with a tight radius for a 25ft trailer.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A review for Prospector Campground mentioned, “There is no water, no electric, no sewer.”
  • Stay Vigilant About Security: Some areas have reported theft. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park warned, “One vehicle stolen and several cars rummaged through.”

Camping in Colorado can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of activities, it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for scenic views?

Colorado offers breathtaking vistas at numerous campgrounds. South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir is renowned for having some of the best views in the state after 15+ years of camping comparisons. For mountain panoramas, Oh Be Joyful Campground delivers amazing vistas with a convenient honor system for fees. The high-elevation sites at Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground provide killer views with great hiking opportunities. For unique landscapes, consider the South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park where dramatic cliff views create an unforgettable experience.

When is the best time of year to camp in Colorado?

Summer (June-August) is prime camping season in Colorado with warm days and cool nights. At Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll enjoy stunning summer hiking opportunities, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Early fall (September-early October) offers spectacular aspen color changes with fewer crowds at places like Freeman Reservoir Campground, which is praised as a 10/10 camping destination with perfect fall weather. Late spring (late May-June) brings wildflowers but potential lingering snow at higher elevations. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, but requires proper cold-weather gear. For high mountain camping, the season is shortest, typically July-September due to snow conditions.

Where can I find free camping in Colorado?

Colorado offers excellent free dispersed camping options. Road 240 - Dispersed is described as one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for free camping, with numerous wooded sites along a river. Buffalo Pass Campground provides free camping in wide-open spaces away from weekend crowds. The Black Canyon Dispersed Camping area offers free sites on BLM land. Throughout Colorado, National Forests provide abundant dispersed camping on Forest Service roads - just look for existing fire rings and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and be prepared with your own water and waste disposal systems.

What are the most popular camping areas in Southern Colorado?

Southern Colorado features several remarkable camping destinations. Zapata Falls Campground near the Great Sand Dunes offers beautiful high-desert camping with access to a scenic waterfall. Great Sand Dunes Oasis provides spacious tent sites with dune views and clean facilities, perfect for first-time Colorado campers. The Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins is praised as one of the most beautiful RV parks in the region. For history enthusiasts, Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park offers convenient access to ancient cliff dwellings. Pinon Flats Campground at Great Sand Dunes National Park is another popular option with its unique landscape.

Keep Exploring

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