Camping spots near Orchard, Colorado range from dispersed sites in the Pawnee National Grasslands to developed campgrounds with lakefront views. Eastern Colorado's plains average 4,500 feet in elevation with temperature swings of up to 30 degrees between day and night, even in summer months. The camping season typically runs April through October, with most facilities closing during winter when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Stargazing on the plains: The Pawnee Buttes area offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars/Milky Way are phenomenal," notes one Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping visitor.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Multiple fishing opportunities exist throughout the region, particularly at St. Vrain State Park. "There are several water bodies one even had a nest of eagles," shares a camper at St. Vrain State Park Campground, which maintains stocked ponds accessible to campers.
Bird watching trails: The Pawnee National Grasslands contain designated birding trails and viewing areas. "We came out here to do the birding tour and enjoyed the camping just as much. It's amazing how empty the prairie seems until you take a closer look," explains a visitor to Crow Valley.
Swimming and water recreation: Several campgrounds offer swimming access during summer months. "The swim beach is lots of fun too. Everytime we go we meet new friends! The amphitheater always has fun family type activities which is cool," reports a Jackson Lake State Park camper.
What campers like
Sunrise and sunset views: The open plains landscape creates dramatic lighting conditions. "Perfect spot to catch sunrise and sunset. This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars/Milky Way are phenomenal," writes a camper at Pawnee Buttes.
Wildlife watching opportunities: The grasslands host diverse wildlife species. "Tons of birds! Campsites were clean, nice big fire pit and bbq. Lots of room to spread out," shares a visitor at Crow Valley, who appreciated the adjacent wildlife walk.
Quiet weekday camping: Many campers note the tranquility of mid-week stays. "We went during off season and the campground was very isolated until the weekends so we had lots of room to explore and play without having others around," mentions a Jackson Lake State Park visitor.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Nice, heated restrooms and showers, picnic shelters, playground, and disc golf. There was also a fishing pond across the street," notes a visitor to Brush Memorial Park Campground.
What you should know
Wind conditions: The eastern plains experience significant wind, especially at exposed sites. "Wind can be an issue. Be sure to check the forecast because it can get very windy at times," cautions a camper at Pawnee Buttes. Another adds, "My van rocked me to sleep every night."
Insect populations: Depending on season and moisture levels, insects can be prevalent. "The bugs were very horrible. While I know that it's part of camping, they were swarming so bad you heard a constant loud buzzing," reports a visitor to Jackson Lake State Park.
Road access limitations: Many camping areas require travel on unpaved roads. "You have to drive for several miles on some bumpy roads, but my Ford transit handled it fine," mentions a Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping visitor regarding access routes.
Water level fluctuations: Lake and pond water levels vary significantly based on seasonal conditions. "The lake must be very low, looked about halfway full. Looked a little sad with how little water there was in it," notes a camper at Jackson Lake in September.
Tips for camping with families
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The interstate is so close as I type this I can hear in my travel trailer every truck, motorcycle, and car. Going to have to use earplugs tonight to sleep," warns a visitor at St. Vrain State Park.
Look for recreational programming: Some parks offer organized activities. "The amphitheater always has fun family type activities which is cool," mentions a Jackson Lake State Park Campground camper who visited with children.
Select shaded sites carefully: Limited tree cover means strategic site selection for shade. "Some sites are well shaded, others are zero shade. Check google satellite images to find sites that are good for shade," advises a camper at Jackson Lake.
Verify bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms with hot water and relatively clean. Toilet paper was well stocked," notes one camper, while another at a different location warns, "There is a bathroom, but with no plumbing and no mirrors (bring your own TP!)."
Tips from RVers
Electrical reliability: Some campsites have reported electrical issues. "We had to run and buy a new surge protector as soon as we realized we had no power," cautions one RVer about specific sites at Jackson Lake State Park.
Free overnight options: Some local parks offer initial night camping at no cost. "Great place to stay for a night. Free electric, water and dump station," notes a visitor to Brush Memorial Park Campground.
Reservations required: Most campgrounds now use reservation systems. "The park, like many in the state moved to a reservation only system," explains a camper, noting that on-site booking may not be available even when talking to staff in person.
