Nathrop, Colorado sits at 7,766 feet elevation in the Arkansas River Valley between the Sawatch and Mosquito mountain ranges. Summer temperatures range between 40-80°F with winter lows often dipping below freezing. Camping near Nathrop offers access to natural hot springs, high-mountain lakes, and extensive trail systems connecting directly to several campgrounds.
What to do
Mountain biking from camp: Access trails directly from BV Overlook, where you can ride straight onto the Midland Hills trail system without loading bikes into vehicles. "We visited Buena Vista mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," notes a visitor who appreciated the direct trail access.
River activities: Camp within walking distance of the Arkansas River at Railroad Bridge Campground for fishing and rafting opportunities. "Immediate access to the Arkansas river" makes this location convenient for water activities, according to campers. Sites with river views provide both scenery and recreation options.
Rock climbing: Visit Turtle Rock Campground where climbing opportunities exist near camp. "Turtle rock is a bit difficult to get to in an RV, but is a great spot with climbing mountain bike and hiking trails," shares one camper who enjoyed the multiple recreation options within walking distance.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution around Nathrop creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are amazing here," notes one camper at Monarch Spur RV Park, where the 8,000+ foot elevation provides clearer atmosphere for astronomy enthusiasts.
Creek-side camping: Sites along water features provide both ambiance and practical benefits. At Wilderness Expeditions RV Park, campers appreciate the riverside location: "We were lucky enough to get a spot to park our 27ft trailer parallel to the creek - so we have a perfectly private front yard with a view."
Digital work capability: Several campgrounds accommodate remote workers with internet options. "We needed a place with WiFi or strong cell reception so we could work remotely on Friday before hitting the trails. BV Overlook has both! AT&T had strong 5G coverage and the starlink internet reached all the way to our campsite," reports a digital nomad.
What you should know
Dispersed camping regulations: Free camping options exist but come with restrictions. At Buena Vista Dispersed camping, one camper noted enforcement issues: "I was accused of being here for more than 2 weeks while I have only been here for 8 days. And then was told I wasn't allowed to camp at free sites unless I had proof of a physical address in Colorado."
Weather fluctuations: Mountain elevation means significant temperature variations. "Tent camped in August and woke up one morning at 38 degrees," reported a camper at BV Overlook, highlighting the need for proper cold-weather gear even in summer months.
Campground transitions: Some areas have changed status from dispersed to established camping. "Turtle Rock used to be free dispersed camping but not anymore. See Recreation.gov for sites and reservations," warns a visitor, emphasizing the importance of checking current status before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Arrowhead Point Resort offers family-friendly amenities on-site. "A nice playground and on Saturday night we had a ice cream social," mentions a visitor, noting how these facilities kept children entertained without leaving camp.
Temperature preparation: Pack layers for all seasons, especially for glamping close to Nathrop, Colorado in shoulder seasons. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," advises a camper who stayed at Mueller State Park, where winter camping requires additional insulation for tents and sleeping systems.
Contained camp options: Choose facilities with clear boundaries for young explorers. "The kids didn't want to go anywhere they were happy just to hang out here at the campground," notes a family staying at Monarch Spur RV Park, who appreciated having entertainment options within a defined area.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access to some glamping sites near Nathrop requires careful driving. "The road in is rocky, and has big potholes, but should be passable if there's no rain," notes a reviewer at Buena Vista Dispersed, highlighting that conditions deteriorate during wet weather.
Hookup variations: Verify utilities before booking. "Full hookup sites are a good distance away from the picnic area," reports a visitor at Railroad Bridge Campground, noting the tradeoff between amenities and location within the park.
Winter precautions: Protect water lines in cold weather at higher elevations. One camper at Taylor Park Trading Post warns: "The temps were getting below freezing at night...The morning we left it was 23 degrees so protect your water lines."
