Camping near Peyton, Colorado offers sites ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 feet in elevation, where summer temperatures typically cool down to the 50s at night even after warm days. The area's eastern plains location provides a transition zone between mountain and prairie ecosystems, with many campgrounds reporting wildlife sightings including deer, squirrels, and occasional black bears.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Herman: Free dispersed camping with access to multiple trails. "Beautiful views, ~50 minutes of rocky gravel road to reach the top but doable in any vehicle depending on the weather. Tons of spots and easy to be secluded," shares Logan C. from Mount Herman Road Dispersed Camping.
Trout fishing: Pay-per-catch fishing at select campgrounds. "There is a private fishing pond where you pay $4.50 to fish, limit is two fish, no throw backs. You will need your own poll and bate," notes Craig & Linda L. from Colorado Heights Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or dusk offer best opportunities. "We had a walk in sight that was beautiful! Great view, private, and even saw some deer walk by at dusk," reports Ryan M. who stayed at Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
What campers like
Convenient shuttle access: Avoid parking hassles at popular attractions. "Another nice feature is the free shuttle for Manitou has a bus stop along the road just outside the entry," explains Mike P. from Pikes Peak RV Park.
Creek-side camping: Several parks offer water-adjacent sites. "We set up three tents on one site and had a great experience... Choose your spots wisely, the road can be noisy and the meadow side gets windy," advises Liam P. who camped at Falcon Meadow.
Base camp potential: Central location for regional exploration. "Love the ability to base from here in the Colorado Springs area and branch out for all adventures you can imagine," shares Jeffrey C. about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks affect several campgrounds. "Down side = the routinely travelled train tracks with mandatory horns. Regardless, we would return without question," notes Jeffrey C. about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Military base proximity: Some sites have unique sounds. "It is near a military base so you can faintly hear the firing range in the day time," mentions Emilie K. who stayed at Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
Weather changes rapidly: Be prepared for temperature swings. "One night we got snowed in and another night we slept with open windows!" recalls Megan R. about their March stay at Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location. "Verizon signal is excellent," reports Paul B. about Falcon Meadow, while other more remote sites have spotty coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several parks offer water recreation. "The heated pool. It was clean, comfortably warm, and a perfect way to relax after a day of hiking or exploring," shares Dustin M. who visited Garden of the Gods RV Resort.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "There is a new playground that is huge for the kids with a rubber floor in case kids fall. In addition to the park there is tetherballs and open fields for fun ball or frisbee activities," explains Anthony B. about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Dog-friendly trail options: Some paths accommodate pets while others don't. "The site had easy access to a walking trail which was great for the dog and I," notes Sheila D. from her stay at Pikes Peak RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: Bring necessary equipment. "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy," advises Anthony B. about Peregrine Pines FamCamp.
Size restrictions: Check access routes carefully. "Don't go up if you are pulling anything larger than a tear drop trailer," warns Jaymin B. about Mount Herman Road. "Very skinny switchbacks. About half way up looking for a way to turn around."
After-hours check-in: Some parks offer convenient late arrival options. "Late checkin forms in the box that was super convenient," mentions Paula R. who stayed at Falcon/Colorado Springs NE KOA Holiday.
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require equipment. "Our location is quite unlevel. It took four blocks under all tires on one side of our Class A to bring near level," reports Brenda A. about Colorado Heights Resort.