Are you in need of a campground near Nederland, CO? Nederland is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Nederland, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"Getting here is easy, only a few miles away from Nederland and I had cell service (verizon) the entire time."
"So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."
$18 / night
"area was plowed open to exactly the width of our trailer, so with more than three feet of snow on the ground we needed to get some exercise and do a bit of shoveling so we could back in and be able to walk"
"Late October is very unpredictable in Colorado for a camper who is primarily a tent camper."
$28 - $90 / night
"but far enough away from neighbors. We were able to explore easily from our site and my daughter had a great time checking out the campsite."
"Great trails and mountain biking around and only 20 a minute drive to Nederland. We had some AT&T cell coverage."
"Not only is this pretty easy to reach, but Peak to Peak highway is great to drive. Just take P to P south from Nederland and turn right on HWY 132… Campsites and trailhead are about 1/2 mile down. "
"Great (free) Forrest Service campground west of Boulder, CO near a cute little town Nederland."
"You are pinned up against private property around the lake, the camp sites are in the dirt area when you get to the lake down to the left."
"The location is great, there’s about 10 designated camp sites to choose from and great hiking trails nearby. The drive in is easy."
"It was nice to be tucked away in the corner with no groups behind us or next to us. There were other campers near by but it felt pretty private. The weather was great."
"The Gross Resevoir outside Boulder is a great place for people to go for some recreation just outside the city. People commonly drop in a paddleboard or kayak."
"However, proximity to Boulder is a huge plus if you are looking for a quick and easy get away."
"This si the place my friends and I go to just for a night away from everything. It is just out of reach of the city and far enough away where we can find some peace and quiet."
"good location for cute old mountain towns! also close to Denver and other must sees in Colorado!"
"8100’ high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don’t worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!"
$29 / night
"Kelly Dahl is a nice campground to get away from the heat of summer and be near Nederland and Blackhawk Colorado. It is quiet during the week and busy on the weekends."
"Mountain biking and hiking are nearby. Nederland Colorado town is nearby (population about 8k) for supplies."
"Rainbow Lakes is a very well kept campground nestled in the hills just a short drive outside of Nederland, CO."
"The lake is lovely, and with hiking trail access to more than one trail, it offers fishing, hiking, and of course relaxing."
TravelerThe campground is unfortunately too close to the highway and the noise makes it difficult to sleep or relax. Nice parking spot if you need to see the sights for a day or two.
ScoutWhat a wonderful campground! Friendly hosts, full hookups offered, beautiful scenery and right outside the entrance to the national park!
GuideMy husband and I are addicted to dispersed camping 🏕 and every weekend, we try to go somewhere different. This place was beautiful beyond words! The road getting there really wasn't bad, but you do need a little ground clearance. We got in around 9 pm, so it was dark, and we didn't know where we were, so there was a spot open right as you get to the top that we parked in. The moon was so bright we could see the mountains around us and could even see the like big of snow up there. Woke up the next morning and fell in love with our spot, so we stayed. We decided to take a walk around the lake and check out the upper lake. Definitely loved it here. Will be back for sure.
RangerBeautiful camp site setup. Huge Rock fire pit. Piled firewood. At a high point with views of gold's Lake roads to site have been deactivated so it would be necessary to walk in. AT&t cell service a little bit spotty. Nice open areas up there. Roads in sight. Very secluded
RangerAdjacent to boundary fence line between the private Lake and the national Roosevelt Forest. Nice high spot. Well shaded. Very large fire pit for fires when they're allowed. Weak AT&T.
GuideI stayed at the first pull out up the road. It’s quite bumpy road but was quite at night and conveniently off of i70. It’s a busy road during the day though. I didn’t go past the first pull out so idk how many spots there are.
TravelerThe Good: Very clean. Diligently maintained. Super friendly staff.
The Bad: Day use Denverite humans on bicycles who run their mouths as the peddle past. (Get a job, Chad).
The Ugly: national home improvement retail outlet neon serves as a directional reference from every vantage point.
ScoutFull disclosure: I crashed here after driving straight through eastern Wyoming so my standards may have been a little low at the time. I would have preferred to stay at Pingree but it wasn’t an option so I snagged a site here for a few nights and explored the canyon during the day. Overall I found it comfortable and quiet. The sites are spaced far enough apart for privacy. The view of the canyon isn’t spectacular; the opposing hillside is a little scruffy looking. But there are still trees and vegetation around the site so I wouldn’t call it ugly by any means. It just depends where you look I guess.
There were a handful of flies buzzing through the campsite which my dog took great personal offense to. But otherwise it was a very mellow, low-key site. I would describe it as a serviceable alternative if your first choice is full and you are tired of driving.
TravelerReally pretty spot on the Williams fork river. I’ve had really good service here with T-Mobile. Road is a bit rough and rocky but not far to get back to the sites by the river. There is sadly a ton of trash at some of the sites (beer cans and boxes and such), I will be removing as much as I can fit in one trash bag on my way out!
Camping near Nederland, Colorado, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Nederland, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it's good to know what to expect. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to go camping in Nederland, Colorado?
Summer is the prime camping season in Nederland, typically from June through early September when weather is most stable and wildflowers bloom in abundance. N Boulder Creek Dispersed Camping offers beautiful summer experiences with mountain views, aspen forests, and wildflower displays. The Nederland area experiences pleasant daytime temperatures during summer months, though nights can still be cool at elevation. Early fall (mid-September) brings stunning foliage changes but cooler temperatures. Late spring (May) can offer good camping but with potential for lingering snow at higher elevations. Winter camping is possible for experienced campers but requires proper cold-weather gear and vehicles capable of handling snowy conditions.
Is there free camping available in Nederland, CO?
Yes, Nederland offers excellent free dispersed camping options on national forest land. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area is just a few miles from Nederland with approximately 15 numbered sites, plus additional unnumbered sites further down Forest Road 233.1, some offering spectacular views. West Magnolia Campground provides another free dispersed option easily accessible from Nederland via Peak to Peak Highway. These dispersed areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees. Sites typically lack amenities like water or toilets, so come prepared with supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles. During peak season (summer weekends), arrive early to secure a spot.
What activities can you do while camping near Nederland, CO?
The Nederland area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail provides access to fishing and shoreline exploration. Hiking is exceptional throughout the region, with Primitive Sites — State Forest State Park offering some of Colorado's most beautiful trails with abundant wildlife viewing, especially moose. Mountain biking enthusiasts will find extensive trail networks, particularly around West Magnolia. Wildlife watching opportunities abound—elk, moose, and various bird species are commonly spotted. Photography is rewarding with stunning mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, and aspen groves. Nearby towns offer unique experiences: Nederland's quirky shops and restaurants, mining history tours, and seasonal festivals. Winter visitors can enjoy nearby snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing at Eldora Mountain Resort.
Where are the best campgrounds near Nederland, Colorado?
Nederland is surrounded by excellent camping options. Reverend's Ridge Campground in Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers developed sites with flush toilets, perfect for families less than an hour from Nederland. Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground provides the quintessential Colorado experience with well-maintained fire pits, stunning views, and a flowing river. For those seeking a more primitive experience, nearby dispersed options include Five Points Dispersed Area and Dream Canyon. Rainbow Lakes Campground offers scenic beauty at higher elevation. Kelly Dahl Campground on the Peak to Peak Highway provides a balance of amenities and natural setting. Most developed campgrounds fill quickly during summer, so reservations are recommended when possible.
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