Best Campgrounds near Morrison, CO
The foothills surrounding Morrison, Colorado feature a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites within a 30-minute drive of Red Rocks Amphitheater. Bear Creek Lake Park's Indian Paintbrush Campground serves as a popular base for concert-goers, offering electric hookups and coin-operated showers just minutes from the venue. State parks dominate the developed camping landscape, with Chatfield State Park providing year-round access to full-hookup sites for RVs and tent camping areas. Golden Gate Canyon State Park, located northwest in the mountains, offers a more remote experience with both Reverend's Ridge and Deer Creek campgrounds featuring cabins and yurts alongside traditional campsites. Private RV parks like Dakota Ridge in Golden and Clear Creek RV Park provide additional options for those seeking amenities closer to town.
High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of the dispersed camping areas in the surrounding national forests. According to camper Jason F., "Bear Creek Lake is a great place to camp if you want to explore Morrison, Golden, or catch a show at Red Rocks." The park entrance closes at 9:30 pm, but a back gate accessible from I-470 allows campground access after hours. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F at night to 90°F during the day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Reservations are essential during concert season, particularly for campgrounds within 10 miles of Red Rocks. Fire restrictions frequently impact the area during dry periods, and campers should check county websites for current regulations before planning campfires.
Proximity to Red Rocks Amphitheater drives much of the camping demand in the immediate Morrison area. Campers report high satisfaction with Bear Creek Lake Park's facilities, noting the convenience of coin-operated showers ($2 for 10 minutes) and the ability to arrange rideshare services to concerts. Sites with electrical hookups are prevalent in the region's established campgrounds, though most lack full sewer connections. For those seeking more seclusion, dispersed camping options become available in the mountains west of town, requiring longer drives but offering more privacy and natural settings. Cell service remains reliable at most established campgrounds near Morrison but becomes spotty in the higher elevation dispersed areas. Winter camping is limited primarily to Chatfield and Cherry Creek State Parks, which maintain year-round operations.
