Searching for the best camping near Nathrop, CO? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Nathrop, reviewed by campers like you.
$20 - $40 / night
"This place is so easy to get to and is very close to the city of Buena Vista. Any type of car can make it to the campsites and there are bathroom facilities available."
"Over 50 sites available, some grouped together, others you can just drive in and have plenty of privacy. There are even public vault toilets available."
$28 / night
"Nestled just south of Buena Vista and right next to Nathrop, this campsite has stunning views and is just a walk away from some great Brown's Canyon trails."
"Here are the positives:
- Great access to the Arkansas River (fishing, put-in/ - take/out access)
- Very well-maintained spaces and clean bathrooms
- Minutes from rafting outfitters (we always go through"
"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."
$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.)"
$40 - $180 / night
"Location is great and is close by to Mt Princeton Hot Springs, rafting on the Arkansas River, hiking, and the town of Buena Vista."
"It’s a great location, has hiking and biking trails and some amazing views of the mountains. It is close to all the things Buena Vista has to offer."
"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."
$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. "
"We attended and stayed here for a off road group event in September and was perfect for our large group. The meadow campground area has sites right on the creek!"
"Great location between Buena Vista and Salida. We had a site right on the creek. Easy access to Arkansas River off the highway for fishing and we drove up to St."
"Kinda busy with good access to Browns creek and the Colorado trail, but otherwise quiet if you can squeeze in. Easy for trailers too."
"Close to hiking at browns which is really pretty hike and lots of options. We found a place on Memorial Day without a reservation which never happens in Colorado. It is near the co trail too!"
$22 / night
"Cottonwood creek and Cottonwood lake are close by. The first come first serve sites are spacious and well laid out. There is a very nice day use picnic and fishing docks on the lake."
"Cottonwood Lake campground near Buena Vista is my favorite campground on this particular road (my other favorite campground in the vicinity is Cascade)."
TravelerOpen spots Memorial Day Weekend. Well labeled from Highway 50 just before entering Salida. About or greater than 20 camping spots (but we didn't venture to the last site). Initial road was more rough but evens out as you go further back (we don't have 4-wheel but made it no problem). Porta-potties when you enter the road but no toilets for the campsites further back. Built in fire pits at each established campsite.
TravelerOnly about 10-15 campsites in the section but good area to camp. They've added portapotties to help with the toilet issue but they're only at the entrance. Get there early if you want to reserve a site!
ScoutLots of dispersed camping throughout this area. At this spot we found a nice area for a tent that had a fire pit.
GuideNot bad close to river. Ideal for tenting or small RV. Hiking nearby. 2025.05.24
GuideNice easily accesable spot There are 2 ways in. It is mostly open but there are areas that have more trees and therefore more privacy. 2025.05.24
ScoutJust a dirt spot, not very level, fire ring next to the rocky drop off. Extra dusty, people have dumped trash in the area be careful.
TravelerThis is a lovely, well maintained campground next to the Arkansas River. There is a boat launch and vault toilets (clean). There are no frills, but it is a peaceful setting. The only real downside to us is the close proximity to the highway, which didn’t bother me but may annoy some. The tent sites are nice and picnic tables are clean and useable.
TravelerGreat views, better stars. Do not route via Apple Maps, it will try to take you through a private road. Don’t follow the “major trail” signs, just find the side road this spot is on and drive up and you’ll find it. You will have to travel like 5-10mph for the last like mile. High clearance not required
TravelerWake up to a breath taking view of Twin Lakes and surrounding mountains.
Careful with wild life - a fox visited the campsite.
***Requires a high clearance vehicle to access campsite.
Camping near Nathrop, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to unwind in nature. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Camping near Nathrop, Colorado, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Nathrop, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 375 campgrounds and RV parks near Nathrop, CO and 132 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Nathrop, CO is Turtle Rock Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 37 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 132 free dispersed camping spots near Nathrop, CO.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Nathrop, CO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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