Eastern Colorado campgrounds near Padroni sit on the high plains at approximately 4,000 feet elevation, featuring prairie landscapes with limited natural shade. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring brings high winds across the open terrain. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with occasional snow affecting access to more remote sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At North Sterling State Park, waterfront sites 117, 119, 121, and 123 provide direct fishing access. "The fish are jumping. 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. about North Sterling State Park Campground.
Stargazing sessions: The open prairie landscape around Pawnee Buttes offers exceptional night sky viewing. "This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars / Milky Way are phenomenal," reports J A. about Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping.
Bird watching excursions: Prewitt Reservoir provides excellent bird watching opportunities throughout the seasons. "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)," explains Robert C. about Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area.
What campers like
Well-spaced campsites: Campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at North Sterling State Park. "This campground is well laid out so you don't feel like you are right on top of your neighbors. Sites are decently level and the dirt doesn't get muddy in the rain, must have a lot of sand in it," says Lori E.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds in the area offer affordable or free camping. "It's a great spot off of i80. You can stay up to two weeks and it's free, though you should donate," notes G M. about Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area.
Water recreation: Despite being in a semi-arid region, several campgrounds offer water access. "We had a great swim, dinner and s'mores, and great sleep," reports Anne K. about Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area. At Prewitt Reservoir, "It's possible to SUP or kayak here, even as late as October with easy launching near the dam."
What you should know
Weather conditions: The eastern plains experience significant wind, particularly at exposed sites. "Very windy area but nice enough for a quick stop driving though," says Lydia N. about Pawnee Buttes. Similarly at Prewitt Reservoir: "Basic 'at large' camping here with vault toilets and dumpsters provided but NO POTABLE WATER."
Ground hazards: Some campgrounds have natural hazards that can damage equipment or hurt pets. "Had many many painful plant spurs imbedded on the tent floor and coming through," reports Juanita R. about Buffalo Hills Campground & RV Park.
Reservation systems: Campgrounds have varying reservation requirements. "Like all Colorado State Parks there is an entrance fee to pay at the gate. AND to camp you must make reservations online. They do not assign camp spaces or take camping payments at the Visitors Center," explains David L. about North Sterling State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming during summer months. At Brush Memorial Park, campers can "enjoy the community pool and the clean playground," according to Crystal R. about Brush Memorial Park Campground.
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds in the area include recreational facilities. "There is a city park, pool and a very cool little museum adjacent to the campground," notes Alan B. about Brush Memorial Park. Similarly, Danielle F. reports that Buffalo Hills has "a small play area for kids."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can observe various wildlife in these prairie campgrounds. "I captured a pic of 2 bucks making their way through the tall grass as I was heading out," shares Charyle C. about North Sterling State Park. For bird enthusiasts, "Lots of birds in this area for anyone who loves bird watching."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Padroni offer various hookup options. At Sterling RV Park - The Landing, "It's a new RV park. It was very well kept up and clean," according to Beverly M. about Sterling RV Park - The Landing.
Pull-through access: Several campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with easy-access sites. "This year the park opened a new section which provides this park with many more excellent pull through spaces," notes David L. about North Sterling State Park. At the Inlet Grove section, Alma L. mentions, "We stopped overnight and loved the pull-through sites of the inlet grove sites."
Dump station considerations: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. "The dump station was a dream with potable water at the end of the islands and totally separate from the sewage area," reports Alma L. about North Sterling State Park. Other campgrounds like Brush Memorial Park offer "electric and water hookups as well as a dump station."
