C
Clayton O.
Scout
ScoutCabela's RV Park & Campground
Decent campground
Nice bathroom facilities. Reasonably priced for full hook up. Was here on a 100 degree day. Only a few sites with good shade.
Camping near Padroni, CO
24 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The northeastern plains of Colorado surrounding Padroni offer several camping options ranging from established state parks to dispersed sites on public lands. North Sterling State Park Campground provides developed camping with electric hookups, showers, and reservable sites approximately 20 miles southwest of Padroni. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Pawnee Buttes Dispersed Camping area offers free camping with basic amenities in the Pawnee National Grasslands region. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several locations like Sterling RV Park and Buffalo Hills Campground specifically catering to recreational vehicles.
Road conditions in the region vary significantly between paved highways and unpaved county roads, particularly when accessing dispersed camping areas. Many sites require a Colorado State Parks pass or wildlife area permit for overnight stays. "Loved this spot! Stopped on my way east through NE Colorado for the night and watched the sun set over the buttes," noted one visitor about Pawnee Buttes. The climate presents challenges with strong winds common across the open plains and limited natural shade at many campgrounds. Summer temperatures can reach into the 90s while winter brings freezing conditions and occasional snow. Cell service remains spotty in remote areas, particularly at wildlife management areas like Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area.
Campers consistently rate waterfront locations among the highest in the region. North Sterling State Park receives positive reviews for its reservoir access and newer facilities, with one camper noting it's "a nice location away from mass population." The Pawnee Buttes area draws visitors for its distinctive landscape and stargazing opportunities. A visitor described it as having "plenty of spots within walking distance of a bathroom" and being "great distance from Denver/Fort Collins if you wanna get away for a couple nights." Wildlife viewing opportunities include grassland species at Pawnee Buttes and waterfowl at the reservoirs. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while RV parks typically offer full hookups with water and electric connections.
Best Campgrounds near Padroni (24)
1. North Sterling State Park Campground
"We were in site #140 - on the outer edge and away from the reservoir. For a Friday night in July, it was surprisingly quiet."
"Located in northeast Colorado, it is a nice “stop-off” for the road-weary traveller. Water, showers, flush toilets and power hook-ups are provided."
from $36 / night
Check Availability2. Buffalo Hills Campground & RV Park
from $40 - $50 / night
Check Availability3. Cabela's RV Park & Campground
"Right next to the Cabela’s store, within walking distance to food, coffee, Walmart. It is, however, right next to a major highway, so it is very loud."
"Tired of driving-take a break here. We stumbled across this campground when returning from Colorado and needing a place to stay over."
4. Sterling RV Park - The Landing
5. Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area
"It was very busy and took a lot of driving around to find a potential spot. But I eventually found a very good spot that was away from many of the other campers."
"Must have a valid fishing license or hunting license in Colorado to access. There were vault toilets available. CPW consistently drove around. This is a big place for RVs."
6. Logan County Fairgrounds
7. Sterling RV Park
from $22 - $50 / night
Check Availability8. Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping
"Stopped on my way east through NE Colorado for the night and watched the sun set over the buttes. Absolutely lovely. Can see the windmills in the distance but I don’t mind that."
"Good stopover if you’re stretching from Missouri or Nebraska to/from Colorado."
9. Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area
"Was able to find a spot in the dark and get set up away from people and close to the lake. Camping was peaceful but the best part was the pictures I got of the lake and the night sky."
"This is a large, well maintained, campground situated on a beautiful lake. It is a short hop off from I-80 on state route 30 and could not seem further from the interstate!"
10. Jumbo (Julesburg Reservoir) State Wildlife Area
"This is the perfect place to go to stay close to our home and not a long road home. You are able to schedule time with friends and head down and save your camping spot a day or two in advance."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 1 hr 46 min from Greeley, CO
- 1 hr 55 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 1 hr 56 min from Denver, CO
Recent Camping Photos near Padroni, CO
23 Photos of 24 Padroni Campgrounds
Recent Reviews near Padroni, CO
157 Reviews of 24 Padroni Campgrounds
- ssusan F.
RangerNorth Sterling State Park Campground
Great views, water sports and hiking
We were in site #140 - on the outer edge and away from the reservoir. For a Friday night in July, it was surprisingly quiet. In contrast, the sites along the reservoir and on top of the hill, near the bathroom and shower facility, had larger groups, families and more activity.
The facilities and campsites were clean and well Maintained. It was in the high 80s when we were there, but it was pleasant. There was a breeze and each campsite has a shelter structure - we moved our camp chairs around to also be in the shade.
There are lots of hiking trails and the reservoir is great for water activities. There are lots of water fowl and birds, as well as rabbits, chipmunks, and prairie dogs.
- mmichael B.Scout
Sterling RV Park - The Landing
Quite
We stayed three nights and were left to ourselves, nobody looking over our shoulder. 10/10
- SShannon S.
TravelerPrewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area
First of the season
Limited spaces,looks like people hold spots, got lucky to find one on a Thursday morning net to the lake watch for Ticks with your pets
- HHope H.
GuideCabela's RV Park & Campground
Lifesaver in NE
Cabela's Sydney Good Sam. June 12. Got in late and was so thankful to find this place as dusk was waning and the Lake Ogallala area was requiring two nights at every campground. The parking lot was full of refrigerated rigs, no thanks, and then I turned the corner and found the campground. Self service check in was well lit and signed. I stayed in the tent camping area and did not check out the facilities.,20% discount for Cabelas members and 10% for AAA.
Anne K.TravelerPrewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area
Pelican’s Drift
We arrived from Iowa, after a long drive it was a fun place to climb around. We set up tent just in time before e huge storm rolled in. Woke up to a beautiful morning!
Liesel G.TravelerPony Express Park Chappell
Good overnight stop for long haul
We're on a long treck across country. This is a good place to stay just off the freeway for an overnight rest. Plenty of room for the dogs and kids to play. One bathroom, unisex. Running water in sink but no showers. Flushing toilets. The sound of the Freeway is nearby but again, its great for an overnight stay while passing through. There is a $15 camping fee. Total 3 nights stay allowed.
- GGenna B.Guide
Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area
Memorial Weekend
Overall the camping was nice! We pulled the pontoon in and tent camped. Must have a valid fishing license or hunting license in Colorado to access. There were vault toilets available. CPW consistently drove around. This is a big place for RVs. Generators running all night. It is a wildlife sanctuary. Was great for three nights and four days!
- DDan W.Scout
Gotte Park
Gotte Park in Kimball NE
The sign on site specifically says ‘no overnight’ camping allowed
Guide to Padroni
Camping options near Padroni, Colorado include both established campgrounds and primitive sites on public lands. Located in the northeastern plains at approximately 4,150 feet elevation, this area experiences temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night. The landscape consists primarily of shortgrass prairie with limited natural shade, making wind protection a critical consideration for tent campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area, visitors can fish for various species including walleye, trout, and catfish. "2,431-acre lake open to wakeless boating. The lake is situated on 3.400 acres of wetlands," notes Laura H. The reservoir provides both shore fishing and boat access with a dedicated ramp.
Hiking trails: The Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping area features distinctive geological formations accessible via marked trails. "We did the hikes to both of the 'buttes'. From the second one you can get nice areal views if you climb a bit. It took us 3h in a very easy pace, lots of photo and views stops," shares Wild Berries B. The main trail is approximately 4 miles round-trip with moderate terrain.
Stargazing: The open grasslands provide excellent night sky viewing conditions. "This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars / Milky Way are phenomenal," reports J A. about the Pawnee Buttes area. The remote location minimizes light pollution, though some campers note visibility of distant town lights.
What campers like
Reservoir access: Many campers appreciate waterfront locations at North Sterling State Park Campground. "Inlet Grove campground has lots of water spigots throughout the campground (every four or five sites) and a dump station with water at the entrance," notes Lori E. The park offers both bluff-top sites with panoramic views and water-adjacent spots.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching stands out as a popular activity. "Birding is good here most of the year even during goose season which opens the first Saturday in October (Herons, grebes, white pelicans, ducks and peeps)," Robert C. mentions about Prewitt Reservoir. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife sightings.
Affordable options: Free camping at Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area makes it a budget-friendly choice. "Free but ask for a donation to help with upkeep. Lots of trees an of course a reservoir, not to many level spots but worked for our 30 ft trailer," writes Jeff R. The area operates on a donation system with a 14-day maximum stay.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Strong winds are common throughout the region. "Very windy with little cover," Erin T. warns about North Sterling State Park. Wind conditions can intensify overnight, making proper tent staking essential and potentially creating uncomfortable conditions for light sleepers.
Road conditions: Many camping areas require driving on unpaved roads. "There were a couple spots on the road you might want higher clearance, but mostly smooth and all easily passable in a stock Outback," Kris M. notes about accessing the Pawnee Buttes area. Road quality typically deteriorates after rain or snow.
Permit requirements: Colorado wildlife areas require specific permits. "Visitors age 19 through 64 must possess an Annual Jumbo SWA/Prewitt SWA access permit, or a valid hunting or fishing license," explains Laura H. about Prewitt Reservoir. These permits can be purchased online or from authorized retailers.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Jumbo Reservoir State Wildlife Area offers family-friendly areas away from traffic. "They recently restricted up by the water camping which is awesome for parties that have lots of kids! They aren't running into traffic unknowingly!" says Cassandra W. The shoreline provides space for water play during warmer months.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include recreational amenities for children. "There was a playground and a building which had laundry and maybe showers," Mike A. mentions about Cabela's RV Park. Buffalo Hills Campground also features "a small play area for kids," according to Danielle F.
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential during warmer months. "Very buggy but other than that it's very pretty," notes Hoody S. about Prewitt Reservoir. Ticks have been reported in spring and early summer, particularly in grassy areas near water.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Sterling RV Park - The Landing provides full service connections. "It's a new RV park. It was very well kept up and clean," reports Beverly M. The park features 19 sites with electric, water, and sewer hookups, though advance reservations are recommended.
Leveling considerations: Many sites require adjustments for larger vehicles. "Not to many level spots but worked for our 30 ft trailer," Jeff R. notes about Oliver Reservoir. Carrying leveling blocks is recommended as most campsites are on natural terrain rather than engineered pads.
Overnight convenience: Several locations serve as practical stopover points for travelers. "Secluded camping area... For an overnight stay this suited its purpose just fine. Clean restrooms and sites," reports Caryl D. about North Sterling State Park, which provides easy access from major highways with pull-through sites available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Padroni, CO?
What camping is available near Padroni, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Padroni, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 24 campgrounds and RV parks near Padroni, CO and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Padroni, CO?
Which is the most popular campground near Padroni, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Padroni, CO is North Sterling State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Padroni, CO?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Padroni, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Padroni, CO.
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