Indian Paintbrush Campground at Bear Creek Lake Park offers glamping accommodations including climate-controlled yurts and cabins approximately 15 miles west of Denver. The park extends across 2,600 acres between 5,600-5,800 feet elevation, providing a transitional ecosystem between the plains and foothills. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-45°F, while summer temperatures average 55-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common from May through August.
What to do
Horseback riding access: Bear Creek Lake Park features stables where visitors can experience guided trail rides. According to one camper, "Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding" at the park's extensive equestrian facilities.
Mountain biking trails: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers numerous trails for mountain biking enthusiasts just 30 minutes from Morrison. "This park has great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide," notes one visitor.
Paddleboarding opportunities: Wellington Lake at Castle Mountain Recreation Area prohibits motorized boats, creating ideal conditions for paddle sports. A reviewer observed: "Great for paddleboarding (rentals available), kayaking, canoeing & kid's floats."
Fishing options: Several lakes near Morrison accommodate anglers of various skill levels. However, some have specific regulations, as one visitor to Wellington Lake noted: "It's catch and release. So, if you want fish for supper you better bring your own."
What campers like
Lake access campsites: Waterfront sites at several parks provide direct water access. At Wellington Lake, "There are great sites right on the water with plenty of tree shade and privacy. Great for kayaking or SUP. This campground is located a short distance from downtown Denver but makes you feel hours away."
Mountain views: Campsites with views of the Continental Divide and surrounding peaks remain popular. At Bear Creek Lake Park, one camper praised the "beautiful views of the mountains. Has trash and recycling areas. Would stay here again!"
Proximity to Red Rocks: Indian Paintbrush Campground is located just minutes from Red Rocks Amphitheater. A camper stated, "While this campground is minutes from the city and seconds from a highway, at night you feel like you are in a quiet, mountain campsite with stars to gaze for days. Proximity to Red Rocks amphitheater, Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and a genuine braying donkey were a huge plus."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds throughout the Morrison area maintain well-kept facilities. A visitor to Bear Creek Lake Park noted that it "Got a little grungy for a couple of years, but it's been cleaned up and looking great!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Morrison require advance booking, particularly during peak season. For Chatfield State Park: "Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites. As someone tent-camping this is no problem, just takes some time (site assigned ~1.5hours after arrival at 13:20)."
Park entrance fees: State and county parks charge daily entrance fees in addition to camping fees. For Chatfield State Park, "You will need to pay the $9 day fee in addition to the camping fee."
Shower costs: Many campgrounds require payment for showers. At Chatfield, "Showers are coin-operated" with specific rates per minute.
Weather variability: Despite its proximity to Denver, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations. For glamping near Morrison, Colorado, visitors should note that even summer nights can become quite cool at elevation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Standley Lake Regional Park offers large campsites suitable for families. One visitor reported: "The campsites are very large. There's no hook ups for water, electric or dump sites although there are water spigots that can be used to fill fresh water."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Bear Creek Lake Park, a visitor mentioned, "There's a few playgrounds within the campground and park area, with access to trails to the lake, a boat launch and boat rental, equestrian stables, and archery."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer ranger programs throughout summer months. Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides educational programming focused on local ecosystems and wildlife.
Site selection for privacy: When glamping with children near Morrison, consider which sites offer more separation. As one camper at Golden Gate Canyon noted, "If you pick a tent site it's your best bet the electric sites are too close to RV's."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Chatfield State Park provides various hookup options. "There are 3 different areas - each has multiple bathhouses, which have coin-laundry available. Showers are coin-operated as well."
Dump station access: Bear Creek Lake Campground offers a dump station but lacks sewer hookups at sites. A recent visitor confirmed: "Only drawback might be the bathrooms have no night lighting and you have a dumping station instead of sewage hookups."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional preparation for RVs. At Standley Lake, a visitor cautioned: "We got site 47, which is labeled as an RV site, but it is NOT suitable for pop up campers. The site doesn't have even a hint of a levelable spot."
Loop selection: Choosing the right camping loop can significantly impact your experience. At Golden Gate Canyon's Reverend Ridge, "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables."
