The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Camping near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands

2,353 Reviews

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands and user-submitted reviews.

Map showing campgrounds near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, ColoradoExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (414)

    1. Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park

    44 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 748-3401

    $28 / night

    "The campsites here are really cool, mixed in between really rugged rocks and lake shore."

    "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."

    2. Rocky Ridge Camground — Eleven Mile State Park

    25 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 748-3401

    $28 - $36 / night

    "Eleven mile is a large reservoir by Colorado standards and has tons of campsites, all around the lake from great walk-in tent sites, lake shore and small to large loops. "

    "Plenty of drive up tent sites and a few walk in campsites that feel a little more remote."

    3. Mueller State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    Divide, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 687-2366

    $28 - $270 / night

    "This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."

    "By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"

    4. Spillway Campground

    14 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    9 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "This is a wonderful campground at the end of the road near the dam and right next to the Platte. This is a wonderful spot for fly fishing, and can get busy sharing the river with day visitors."

    "There is a trail above the camp that will take you up to some beautiful views through a meadow. Right in the camp are over 5 established bouldering routes and even more in the hill above camp."

    5. Blue Mountain Campground

    11 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "There were lovely trees to provide lots of shade from the hot Colorado sun. Some fun hiking from the campsite, so you don't even have to drive to the trailhead!"

    "One of the highlights was walking to the campground entrance to watch the sunset each night. Spent a day fishing and hiking the 11 mile canyon overlook trail."

    6. Red Canyon Park

    21 Reviews
    Victor, CO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 269-9028

    "Fun to explore by day through the little canyon or along the rocks above, there's a walk for everyone here. Best enjoyed in fall and spring, summer is quite hot. The campsites are basic and roadside."

    "Some great spots close to red bluffs and seasonal river. Went in the autumn and hike along the river bed and climb the falls. Vaulted toilets, fire rings, covered tables and Flatish camp spots."

    7. Forest Service Road 250 Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 553-1400

    "Great camp near the lake away from everything. Good off-roading both sides of the road"

    "Great location, 2.5hrs from Denver and about an hour from the Springs. Had great space for our setup. Only a 5-10 min drive to the state park with great fishing."

    8. Cove Campground

    3 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    9 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "Quick access to the river . Only has 4 campsites so even full it’s still quiet and private compared to the other campgrounds"

    9. Crags Campground

    19 Reviews
    Midland, CO
    23 miles
    Website

    $25 / night

    "Beautiful 4 mile drive up a winding dirt and gravel road through the canyons with the stream next to you. Camp sites a little close but not so bad. The scenery is out of this world."

    "Close to the trailhead that will take you up. This is on the backside of the mountain if you are in Colorado Springs."

    10. Springer Gulch

    4 Reviews
    Lake George, CO
    11 miles
    Website

    $24 / night

    "An incredible location and setting!  On arrival, the road into the gulch is a total mess. It needs grading badly, but the site is so inviting. The drive up Eleven Mile Canyon is beautiful."

    "Gorgeous views and close to the river if you’d like to fly fish or tube. General store in Lake George is about 20 minutes away if you need something. Bear country, so be prepared."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 414 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands

1023 Photos of 414 Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands

2353 Reviews of 414 Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Campgrounds

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Co Rd 306 Dispersed Camping

    Head up the hill instead

    There are maybe 3 spots within a mile of the highway. The spots are spread out but right against the road. They sit under rocky ridges so some fun hiking but nothing special. The road is very good shape. If you have an suv or van the spots all the way up the road are better but there is a couple rough spots I wouldnt drive a normal car. Verizon signal is spotty here.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Buena Vista Dispersed

    Good views

    Head all the way up the road until you get to a brown sign and the road T's turn right and there are a few great spots with views. 2 bars verizon signal. The road is not ad bad as it looks. It has a rut in the middle in a few spots but just straddle the rut and you are fine. The last switchback is the only bad spot. It is steep and loose with a bit of wash out but stay to the right with your tires on the flat apot and ease up and around. Once you get to the sites its very peaceful and quite with alot of cool rock features to check out.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Divide, Colorado

    A little hard to find

    This place is a couple miles off the highway. The county roads getting here are no issue. Its a little hard to find in the dark. There is a green gate that says no parking, but thats actually the gate you drive through to get to the Forrest service road. So just open it up and close it behind you. The road is dirt and there are several spots before it may get bad. The first spot is a large pull through but it is covered in horse poop. Also the place gets very busy in the morning with people from town walking their dogs but they stay quiet and peaceful. 1 bar verizon signal. No bathrooms.

  • ncgirl 0.
    Oct. 22, 2025

    Monument Glamping

    Unforgettable Glamping Experience!

    Highly recommended! From the moment we arrived, everything was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully designed. The tent was spacious, clean, and cozy — with all the comforts of a hotel, but surrounded by nature. The hosts made sure we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Whether you’re looking to disconnect and unwind or just enjoy nature (we saw several deer right outside our tent) without sacrificing comfort, this is the place to do it.

  • MP M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Shavano Mountain

    So many spots!

    Great access, up to 100 spots?! Largest dispersed I’ve seen.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    Round Mountain

    Free site 200 yards down road

    Hard to stomach a paid site with no hookups when a free blm campground is within site. This place has picnic tables and bathrooms that is about thenonly difference. They do have a water pump but no hook ups at site. Low verizon signal. Sites are close together and open. Just save some cash and gondownnthe road 1/4 mile

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 21, 2025

    North Round Mountain

    Cool rocks, can see Pikes peak

    This is a nice little dispersed campground. The main road is pretty good. You can see Pikes peak off in the distance behind the trees. The area is covered by these big rocks and boulders which makes walking around fun. There is atleast 1 very large site for a medium size rig when you first pull in on the left. Other than fire pit no real amenities. Was literally no one around for miles in october. 1-2 verizon bars depending.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Dan's Land Free Camp

    Small circle cool spot

    This is just like a 20 yard circle right off a dirt road. Cool idea from Dan to offer this. Its a great off the highway spot. Only a mile down an easy dirt road. No amenities just a place to park and sleep. Dont be suprised if someone else pulls in close and parks. Not a ton of space but a great location with good views and 2 bars verizon cell

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Salida North BLM

    Cool location close to highway

    Right off the highway. Cool place with a little canyon. Reminds me of a state park campground. Very close and open sites with campfire rings and picnic tables. The road gets pretty bumpy going to the back half but I bet they fix that soon. Some easy family friendly hiking. Verizon cell is 1-2 bars. No bathrooms!

Guide to Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands

Camping near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands offers a fantastic escape into nature. With stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers rave about the short walks to scenic spots. One reviewer mentioned, "Short walk to Grouse Peak" at Mueller State Park Campground.
  • Fishing: The Arkansas River is nearby, making it perfect for fishing. A camper at Ruby Mountain Campground noted, "Fishing is also an option," highlighting the recreational opportunities.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Turtle Rock Campground shared, "Lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery," making it a great spot for nature lovers.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. One reviewer at Mueller State Park Campground said, "Campsites 8 and 9 offer stunning views of Sentinel Point."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are praised for their cleanliness. A visitor at Lone Duck Campground and Cabins mentioned, "The shower room had a vent that is so DIRTY that it is no ventilation," but others appreciated the overall cleanliness.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. A reviewer at Phantom Canyon Road BLM Sites noted, "No signal, no restroom, no water, no trash cans, no light, no noise, just nature," which many find appealing.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Stoll Mountain Campground — Eleven Mile State Park, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "No hookups, trashy," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly in the mountains. A visitor at East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge advised, "If you can’t handle a little wind, this isn’t for you."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. A camper at Ruby Mountain Campground said, "You’re meant to make reservations," which is wise to ensure a spot.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or nearby hiking trails. A parent at Lone Duck Campground and Cabins mentioned, "Playground for kiddos," making it a great choice for families.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Browns Creek noted, "This isn’t one of those horribly loud OHV spots," which can be safer for little ones.
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy during hikes. A camper at Mueller State Park Campground suggested, "Very quiet," which is perfect for family bonding time.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Garden of the Gods RV Resort mentioned, "Our site consisted of a narrow dirt pad," which can be tricky for larger rigs.
  • Water Access: Some campgrounds may not have water hookups. A reviewer at Eleven Mile State Park pointed out, "No water at site but several drinking water stations," so plan accordingly.
  • Be Prepared for Wind: Wind can be an issue in some areas. A camper at East Ridge Campground in Royal Gorge warned, "Winds in the evening almost made me leave site," so secure your gear well.

Camping near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, Colorado, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Pike and San Isabel National Forests?

Pike and San Isabel National Forests offer excellent dispersed camping opportunities. Road 240 - Dispersed is considered one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for dispersed camping, with numerous wooded sites along the road leading to a lake, and some spots situated right along the river. For those seeking higher elevation camping with stunning views, Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground provides peaceful surroundings with great hiking access and beach areas. Most dispersed sites in the forests require visitors to camp at least 100 feet from water sources and 150 feet from roads. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and check local fire restrictions before your trip, as they frequently change throughout the season.

What should visitors know about the Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands portions of the forest?

The Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands offer a different experience from the forested areas, featuring vast open prairies that provide unique wildlife viewing and stargazing opportunities. Unlike the more developed mountain regions, these grasslands have fewer facilities but offer more solitude. Blue Mountain Campground near Branson West provides drive-in access with reservable sites, water, toilets, and can accommodate larger RVs. The grasslands are typically less crowded than the forest areas, even during peak seasons. Visitors should be prepared for extreme weather conditions including strong winds, intense sun, and occasional severe thunderstorms. Cell service is limited, so downloading maps and bringing sufficient supplies is essential.

What campgrounds are available in San Isabel National Forest and do they require reservations?

San Isabel National Forest offers diverse camping options, with many requiring reservations during peak season (May-September). Ohaver Lake Campground is a popular high-altitude lakeside option near Salida with approximately 35 sites and excellent trout fishing. Most sites can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Horn Fork Basin provides dispersed camping in the Collegiate Peak Wilderness Area, ideal for those seeking a more primitive experience without reservations. For those wanting amenities, developed campgrounds like Crags, Cove, and Spillway offer toilets and water. Reservations are highly recommended for summer weekends and holidays, while weekdays and shoulder seasons often have first-come, first-served availability.

Keep Exploring