Glamping near Pike and San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, CO

Mueller State Park Campground features well-maintained hiking trails and camping facilities at 9,600 feet elevation, providing a high-altitude base for exploring the forests. The campground's level sites with electrical hookups accommodate tent and RV campers in separate designated areas, while vault toilets and coin-operated showers serve all visitors. Seasonal variations affect access, with early May through late October offering optimal conditions for glamping close to Pike and San Isabel National Forests.

What to do

Fly fishing access: 4 miles from Spillway Campground. The South Platte River running through the area provides exceptional fishing opportunities. "Located just below the spillway from Eleven Mile Reservoir, views of the river can be seen from the campground. The campground hosts are extremely helpful and sweet, and keep the campground clean and inviting!" notes Rea M. about Spillway Campground.

Mountain exploration: 10-minute drive to Cripple Creek. Historic mining towns near campgrounds offer cultural attractions alongside outdoor recreation. A visitor at Cripple Creek KOA reports, "Beautiful place to bring the family as They have activities for all ages we stayed in a couples cabin which was beautifully done log furniture comfortable bed Fire pit in front of Cabin. There is showers laundry and store. Casions just 5 min away."

Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk best times. Numerous camping areas provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We stayed in site 2, 4 and 6 - tent-only sites," explains Mindy R. at Spillway Campground, while another camper at Mueller State Park notes, "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!"

What campers like

Well-maintained facilities: Regularly serviced. Campground hosts keep facilities clean and functional even during peak season. "The camp hosts are wonderful! A simple and small Campground," writes Jenn S. about Happy Meadows. Another camper adds, "Bathrooms are very well maintained, the hosts are always friendly and accommodating with fire wood if needed."

Privacy between sites: Varies by campground. Some locations offer more secluded camping experiences than others. "We had a great site with two pads and plenty of space. There is a wonderful hike at the East end of camp that takes hikers up to amazing views," shares Amanda M. about the canyon setting at Spillway Campground.

Year-round access: Weather dependent. Several campgrounds remain open in winter, though services may be limited. Bruce K. at Mueller State Park Campground cautions, "Very nice quiet stay in the woods. All camp sites are very easy to get to and nicely groomed. Very pleasant stay. Got below freezing so be ready for the cold."

What you should know

High elevation challenges: 9,000-10,000 feet. Altitude sickness can affect visitors not accustomed to the elevation. "Nestled on the back side of the mountain very high altitude and short of breath but really enjoyed it," reports a camper at Cripple Creek KOA, which markets itself as "the WORLD'S HIGHEST KOA @ 10,000 ft."

Limited cell service: Varies by carrier. Connectivity differs significantly across the region. "The camp sites are well maintained and have vaulted toilets and water pumps conveniently located throughout the campgrounds. I was surprised that I had 1 or 2 bars (Verizon) throughout most of the park," shares Steve C. at Mueller State Park.

Water availability: Not at all sites. Some locations require campers to bring their own water or fill up before arrival. "There is a hand pump for the water spigot. You can fill up with water there, or search for a place to fill up before you come in," advises a visitor to Eleven Mile State Park.

Tips for camping with families

Book early: Reserve 3-6 months ahead. Popular family-friendly sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. At Lone Duck Campground and Cabins, one visitor shares, "The staff was super friendly and helpful! The facilities were always very clean. They had breakfast for you in the morning if you wanted for $5."

Recreation options: Pool and arcade access. Some campgrounds offer additional amenities that appeal to families with children. "All of the amenities. Pool, laundry room, gift shop/Grocery. Arcade, pond, clean bathrooms. Best place every. And surrounded by mountains!" enthuses Cody K. about Lone Duck.

Wildlife encounters: Dawn and dusk viewing. Many campsites provide opportunities to see native species. "The staff was super friendly and helpful! The facilities were always very clean...We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," reports Tessa S.

Tips from RVers

Site selection advice: Request specific numbers. Some RV sites offer better amenities and spacing than others. "Very beautiful campground! Great staff, clean restrooms. Beautiful views. Tent sites are awesome!" notes Diane R. about Turtle Rock Campground.

Road conditions: Some access roads require caution. Several campgrounds have unpaved or rough access roads. "Keep in mind, the road is pretty bumpy coming in. Be prepared to take your time. It's not dangerous. Just bumpy," advises Angela A. about Eleven Mile State Park.

Electrical connections: Limited 50-amp service. Many campgrounds offer electrical hookups, but availability of higher amperage may be limited. "Great well taken care of campground with electrical hook ups and gorgeous grounds. All sites looked well taken care of," reports Jim W. about Mueller State Park.