Best Tent Camping near Penrose, CO
Looking for the best options for tent camping near Penrose? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Penrose. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Colorado tent camping excursion.
Best Tent Sites Near Penrose, Colorado (29)
1. Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites
32 Reviews•130 Photos•914 SavesCañon City, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
2. Mueller State Park Campground
54 Reviews•155 Photos•621 SavesDivide, ColoradoMueller's campground has 136 campsites each with a picnic table and fire ring. There are 99 electric sites, many with tent pads and 22 basic walk-in sites in Prospector Ridge (sites 55-66) and Turkey Meadow (sites 100-109) Campgrounds. Sites 12 and 22 are handicapped designated sites. You must have a handicapped placard or license plate.
Campground Amenities The Comfort Station is open year-round. The Camper Services Building is open only in summer (Mid May - Mid October) Both buildings contain flush toilets. On-site accommodations include firewood for sale, a camper services building with coin-operated showers/laundry and modern restrooms, vault toilets, dump station and a playground.
Mueller offers three group campground opportunities nestled in the aspen and conifer forest, conveniently located near the Camper Services Building.
Winter Camping: Mid October - Mid May Mueller has 29 electrical sites available within the Peak View Campground and the Revenuers Ridge Campground (Sites 1 –9, 11-13, 15-22 and 81 – 89) during the winter. The Comfort Station, containing flush toilets, will remain open. Vault toilets will be open at Outlook Ridge, Peak View Campground and across from site #87. Water is available at the outside spigot at the Comfort Station; all other hydrants are closed, so we suggest bringing your own water. The dump station is dry dump only, which means you will not have water to rinse out your equipment.
$18.00 per night Mueller State Park has 4 backcountry campsites located in 2 separate groups. Both backcountry campsite groups require an approximate 1.5 mile hike from the Black Bear Trailhead to the sites. Sites are available to reserve from May 1 through October 31st.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$18 - $396 / night
3. Red Canyon Park
21 Reviews•88 Photos•718 SavesVictor, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
- Picnic Table
4. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins
32 Reviews•210 Photos•81 SavesGreen Mountain Falls, ColoradoWe have everything you need to have a great time in the Colorado Rockies. Tent sites, RV sites, and Camper Cabins! Relax in your shady site or take a dip in our heated outdoor pool. We also have a fishing pond, stocked with rainbow trout, a retro arcade, 24/7 lounge serving locally roasted coffee each morning, playground, and laundromat.
We’re outside the city lights at the base of Pikes Peak- 7600 feet elevation – yet our proximity to all the area’s many attractions makes us an ideal location for families looking for a summer adventure or folks just passing through for a couple of days. We strive to make every stay special. You will love it here at “the Duck”!
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$40 - $87 / night
5. Phantom Canyon
4 Reviews•25 Photos•141 SavesPenrose, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
6. Davenport Campground
7 Reviews•39 Photos•103 SavesBeulah, ColoradoOverview
Davenport Campground was one of the first Forest Service campgrounds, and is near the now-abandoned Squirrel Creek Campground, the very first Forest Service campground in the country. In 2010, Davenport was rebuilt to evoke the original 1920s design. Adirondack shelters and a common cooking shelter with stone fireplaces were built and old-style log picnic tables add to the historic character of this campground. The campground offers access to an array of hiking, mountain biking, motorcycle and off-road vehicle trails.
Recreation
The 4.5-mile Squirrel Creek Trail is open to hiking, biking, horseback riding and motorcycle riding. This trail meets the original Squirrel Creek Campground site where a major flood, in 1947, washed out the never-reopened road and campground. Silver Circle, Second Mace, and South Creek Trails can be accessed nearby, too. Anglers enjoy casting for brook trout in Squirrel Creek.
Natural Features
The campground sits in a grassy meadow surrounded by aspen and spruce trees at an elevation of 8,500 feet. Squirrel Creek runs alongside this scenic facility in the Wet Mountains of southern Colorado.
Nearby Attractions
Bishop's Castle, a replica of a medieval castle, is about 2 miles from the campground, just off Highway 165. The always-in-progress structure is an interesting display of labor-intensive masonry and intricate wrought ironwork. Beautiful Lake Isabel is less than 10 miles away. Visitors enjoy canoeing, kayaking and fishing in the stocked lake. Several mountain trails weave through the area. Pueblo Mountain Park in Beulah Valley is about 7 miles east. This scenic park offers hiking trails, educational programs and a stone labyrinth.
Charges & Cancellations
Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee including tax and applicable add-on for a campsite. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. No-Shows A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Refunds Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Refunds will not be issued after the 7 days has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
$25 / night
7. Grape Creek - Temple Canyon Park
3 Reviews•1 Photo•77 SavesCañon City, ColoradoLocated adjacent to the Temple Canyon trail that takes you to delightful Grape Creek and beyond The Temple. Operated by the City of Cañon City. Vault toilets, fire rings, some picnic tables, no water. Four different campsites spread apart to allow you to enjoy the solitude of this area located 8 miles southwest of Cañon City. Open year-round. (Free)
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
8. Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off
1 Review•31 Photos•44 SavesCañon City, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Oil Well Flats
2 Reviews•20 SavesCañon City, Colorado- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
10. Shelf Road Sites
2 Reviews•8 Photos•39 SavesVictor, ColoradoShelf Road is home to many quality sport routes, vertical limestone. A sport climber's mecca with nearly 1000 routes on bombproof pocketed limestone. Routes vary from 5.7- 5.13 mostly bolted routes. There are two camping locations at Shelf Road. The lower area, Sand Gulch has 14 campsites and 1 group camping site. The upper area at The Banks has 11 campsites and 1 group camping site. Just before you arrive at Shelf Road, you will pass Sand Gulch campground on your left. This is quality, spacious camping and access to the Sand Gulch area, home to many moderates about a 15 minute walk from the campground. There is day use parking at the northwest end of the campground, and overflow parking at the north end, where the Free form trail begins. Shelf Road also has ample-sized trailhead parking for equestrians with corrals. Adventurous anglers can hike to Fourmile creek for fishing. Hiking and hunting are popular in the area as well as a short drive on a 4X4 loop. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office. ACTIVITIES Climbing Camping
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Recent Tent Reviews near Penrose, Colorado
1030 Reviews of 29 Penrose Campgrounds
- Becca C.
Guide
Rocky Top Motel & Campground
Not for tent campers or overlanding
Not a place for overlanding or tent camping, this site is strictly catered to RV’s. We had a “primitive tent” spot reserved for one night, but the site was not what we expected. You are not far at all from I-24, I mean maybe 200 yards? There is a house right beside the tent sites with a deck that overlooks the site, and they have a few (understandably) excitable large dogs who were watching our every move. We were tired and trying to make the best of it, so we started setting up our overland tent for the night, when I made the hike up to the restrooms and decided this wasn’t a place I wanted to stay. I don’t understand why the people who do not have restrooms readily available (tent campers) are positioned the furthest away from them. I won’t even get in to the motel crowd. For an RV lot, it’s crowded but convenient so if that’s what you need, this may work for you. For tent or overland campers, you can 100% do better than this place.
Donna A.
Scout
Spillway Campground
Absolutely beautiful especially when the sun is out!
We had a great time in Site #24, camping in a tent. This site is inadequate for an RV or even a camper, as the parking spot is just a widening in the road. But the site was very private and had beautiful views. I left a day early as a new neighbor came to the site across the road and was running his generator a lot….so I just decided to leave….
- CCurtis K.Guide
Colorado Springs KOA
Great Location
Very Clean and convenient location to Colorado Springs. Thought highway traffic noice would be a problem but, could not tell rv park is next to the interstate. Tent camped here and they have special raised beds with pavilions for tent camping.
Sarah F.
Ranger
Colorado Campground
Great place to unwind
Awesome little campground for both RVs and tent campers. This time we chose to tent camp and it couldn’t have been more relaxing.
There are some great little lakes nearby to walk around and the bathrooms are clean. The camp host was friendly and the trees provide ample shade.
Do keep in mind if you are tent camping, it can be cold here at night- even in the summer!
- KKelly P.Scout
Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
Family & pet friendly, good location, and lots of fun activities
Campground had lots of RV sites and fewer tent sites but nice tent sites. Beautiful views of the mountains and close to many of the rafting companies and other local attractions as well as to the Royal Gorge bridge ans hiking. Staff were very friendly. We were there for a few, big, afternoon thunderstorms, one of which caused a little flooding around the office. Tent sites are on slight hill so no flooding but lots of little rivers running through our campsite. We would stay here again- the kids loved thr go-karting, mini-golf and giant slide. There is also a pool onsight which we did not use.
.! E !.Guide
Aspen Acres Campground
Perfect Spot
Stayed One night for Tent Camping, came with everything needed. Clean bathroom and showers. Great scenery and amazing night sky view.
Cameryn C.Scout
Garden of the Gods RV Resort
Nice campsite close to attractions
Enjoyed my site! Felt secluded enough in the tent sites.
- DDiane R.
Traveler
Cripple Creek KOA
Serene
Very beautiful campground! Great staff, clean restrooms. Beautiful views. Tent sites are awesome!
- CCarlos H.Guide
Smith Creek Campground
Great area for camping and hiking
There are several spots for tent camping in the Smith Creek Campground. Great area to hike and climb. Great stream that runs most of the year.
- MMadilyn H.Scout
Cheyenne Mountain State Park Campground
👍🏽
Stayed a couple nights at a tent site and it was really nice set up.
- b
brandon W.Guide
Red Canyon Park
Great stay very close to Canon City
This was my first time solo tent camping. It went well. The space had a fire ring and picnic table. I might have been the only person at the park and it was quite peaceful!
- Caryl D.Traveler
Mueller State Park Campground
Exceptional Fall Scenery
Wonderful walk-in tent camping site in the Turkey Meadow loop. Could view the Aspen trees in full color with Pikes Peak in the background. Peaceful and relatively private the week I was there.
- JJenn H.Traveler
Spillway Campground
Narrow paradise
This place is great. Quiet. Fun, and beautiful. Short steep hikes. Fly fishing mecca. Long bumpy 11 mile dirt road ride. But worth it. Recommend tent camping. No long or big campers = tough trek in.
- Katie D.Scout
Cotopaxi-Arkansas River KOA - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Better options out there
In my opinion this place is kind of rundown and dumpy. Maybe it hasn’t been maintained bc of covid closures? Idk either way I wasn’t impressed. We had a tent site. The tent sites were small and along a cliff with the Arkansas below. Our “large” tent site barely fit our big cabin tent, with enough room to park our vehicle. Our tent was literally a foot away from the road you pull in on. We had 2 young kids with us and I would not call it very kid friendly. We were Constantly having to keep an eye on them. Either they fall off a cliff into the river or worry about them getting into the main 2 way camp road that huge rvs and trucks drive by on. It was very hard to “relax” while kids were trying to play. The sound of the river at night was nice that’s about it. The encounters I had with staff weren’t great. A bit rude and unhelpful. I feel the prices are high considering you can’t use any amenities advertised due to covid restrictions. There were a lot of “rules” they had I haven’t encountered in other campgrounds. There are much prettier/nicer campgrounds along the Arkansas River I would stay at.
- CCurtis B.Guide
Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park
High Plateau Peace
Another great Colorado State Park, it sits above Eleven Mile Reservoir. The sites offer everything from tent sites to full hook up. There is limited shade, but most sites are exposed.
Theres beautiful hikes around the lake and the fishing is awesome between the reservoir and Spinny Lake, and 11 Mile Canyon below the dam.
Zahru A.Ranger
Lone Duck Campground and Cabins
Nice little stop of
On our way down from 100-mile overlook one Colorado. We stopped off and got a spot at lone duck.
Very quiet & very clean 🧼 camp. I definitely recommend stopping here. Reservation only. And it seems to be always full. I was there on Thursday Friday and we were the last tent site to set up.
jbishop ..GuideCheyenne Mountain State Park Campground
True authentic camping
Amazing view and location. The walk in tent sites offer a fire pit, lockout food box for bears, picnic table and camp tent area. The bathrooms were not up kept well and very cold. Showers are coin operated.
Brick M.Scout
Rincon Campground — Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Beautiful location but...
We tent camped here in late September. Beautiful location with well-kept sites and bathrooms. However sites are close to the road and we could hear the traffic all night. Probably best suited for RVs and quick spot to camp.
- Kara U.Scout
Colorado Campground
Great car camping spot!
Very wooded area, lots of vaulted toilet and water access. If you are tent camping you can set up your tent anywhere in your space (not restricted to just a pad) Can easily camp 2 families (limit of 2 tents and 8 people) Close walk to a lovely little pond for fishing and plenty of beautiful trails and hikes nearby.
- Kara D.Traveler
Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
Beautiful location
Tent sites are on the hill and have lovely views. The tent pads are pretty small though. They are great for 1-2 people, but we are a family traveling with pets, so we have a larger tent. Nice community feel. Lots for kids to do. Close to rafting, Royal Gorge and other attractions.
- TroyScout
Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA
KOA
I've got a slide in camper was given a tent site in the far back corner of the campground. Staff was AMAZING...they'de give my wife rides to the pool and were extremely courteous and friendly. Going back next weekend.
Ashley F.RangerColorado Springs KOA
Grabbing a quick cabin
Me along with four other friends spent several days tent camping around the Colorado Springs area. On our last night of travel, our camping plans fell through and we needed to find a convenient place late at night to rest. We ended up at the KOA and took advantage of one of their adorable little cabins. All five of us spent the night, actually pretty comfortably, and got a great night's sleep. All and all a very positive experience at the KOA's wonderful, clean facilities.
Stoney P.GuideRocky Top Motel & Campground
Loved it here
$25 a night for tent camping. That’s a small price to pay for all of the amenities that rocky top offers! The staff is great! The location is amazing! Woodland park is literally a 2 minute drive away. Strong cell service. Friendly neighbors. Everything about this site is good! You’ll love it!
Dee D.ScoutMueller State Park Campground
Great Place to Camp and Hike
We camped for several nights in our Airstream, and our family camped at a tent site close by. The campground itself it beautiful. You cannot imagine the scenery that this campground gives you. It is quiet, with beautiful trails for hiking.
Whitney J.Scout
Sand Gulch Campground
Sleep at the Base of the Crag
Located right off Shelf Road climbing area, this is the best spot to stay for a weekend on the rocks. Spots are open to multiple tent sites and are relatively cheap. Even better, there's a vault toilet...but you can expect a line.
- JJane U.Traveler
Crags Campground
Perfect solitude!
This is a place my husband often hiked growing up. We were one of the last campers of the season. It was a chilly 25 degrees at night, but with good gear our tent camping experience was amazing! We had a great hike and a great chat with the camp host. We will be back!!!
- KKathi K.Traveler
Lone Duck Campground and Cabins
Family friendly
RV full hookup sites available, as well as cabin and tent sites. Dump station and outdoor sinks if needed. Pool, fishing lake and kids play area. Video game room. Free WiFi. No cable hookup. Just off highway, so slightly noisy without A/C.
Guide to Penrose
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Colorado, Penrose offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.
Tips for tent camping near Penrose
- For a scenic experience, consider the Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites, where you can enjoy breathtaking views along a well-maintained gravel road.
- If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Red Canyon Park provides basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great spot for solo campers.
- Be prepared for limited cell service at Phantom Canyon, ensuring a true escape into nature without distractions.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- Enjoy hiking and exploring the rugged terrain at Grape Creek - Temple Canyon Park, where you can also fish in the local streams.
- For climbing enthusiasts, Shelf Road Sites offers direct access to climbing walls, allowing you to hike from your campsite to the crags.
- Experience the thrill of off-roading and scenic drives at Oil Well Flats, where the rugged roads lead to beautiful camping spots.
Unique features of local campgrounds
- At Tricki's (Travis and Vicki) Glamping under the stars, you can enjoy a glamping experience with amenities like drinking water and firewood, perfect for those who want a touch of comfort.
- The Phantom Canyon Road Pull-Off is a stunning spot for those who appreciate nature's beauty, with ample opportunities for photography and relaxation.
- Wye offers a secluded atmosphere with picnic tables and fire rings, ideal for a quiet camping experience away from the crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Penrose, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Penrose, CO is Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites with a 4.5-star rating from 32 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Penrose, CO?
TheDyrt.com has all 29 tent camping locations near Penrose, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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