State Forest State Park offers dispersed camping across 71,000 acres near Rand, Colorado with elevations ranging from 8,000 to 11,400 feet. Located in the Medicine Bow Mountains, the area experiences dramatic temperature swings with summer days reaching 80°F while nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in July and August. Primitive camping sites cost $18 per night with minimal facilities.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at The Crags Campground: Located in State Forest State Park, this primitive campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Small campground with potable water and vault toilet. Most camp sites have mountain views. Moose frequent the area," reports Lynn O. The campground's remote location makes it particularly good for spotting wildlife at dusk and dawn.
Fishing at Ranger Lakes: The clear, cold mountain lakes within Ranger Lakes Campground provide excellent fishing opportunities. "Had so much fun! Camp site was very clean, level, and well kept. The highlight was fishing. BEAUTIFUL clear waters, PLENTY of trout, and great trails through the woods to explore," shares Gary E. The fishing is best in early morning or evening hours.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Several trails from campgrounds lead to stunning alpine lakes. "If you love real bathrooms and showers, this is your place! It's a little more expensive that some, but has lots of amenities that make it totally worth it," notes Mary D. about Winding River Resort. The nearby trails provide access to some of the area's most beautiful natural features.
What campers like
Moose watching opportunities: The Crags Campground provides reliable moose sightings. "Your neighbors will be moose at this campground. It is remote and the sites are near, but I still found it peaceful. Noobs will fall prey to the moose. Seriously, many meals were stolen," warns Joshua D. The area's reputation as the "moose capital" is well-earned, though campers must maintain proper food storage.
Lake access for paddling: North Michigan Campground offers direct water access. "We had site 221 which is right above the water with it's own little trail going down to the reservoir. From what I've seen, I think this is one of the best sites available," recommends Jen M. Paddleboarding and fishing from your campsite are popular activities.
Mountain views and stargazing: The lack of tree cover from beetle kill has a silver lining for stargazing. "Although this was a busy campground, the sites are well spaced. Clean toilets, both flush and vault. Great walks/hikes or bike rides into the Rocky Mountains from the campground. Situated at Shadow Mountain Lake," writes Ingrid about Green Ridge Campground. The open skies provide exceptional night views.
What you should know
Limited shade and privacy: Due to pine beetle infestation, many campgrounds have lost tree cover. "I tent camped at Ranger Lakes. I was the only one tent camping among all the RV's. I didn't mind that the spaces were visible from each other since I was camping alone. The pads were very spacious and flat," reports Heather C. Bringing shade structures is recommended for summer camping.
Extreme weather changes: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "Still some snow on the ground in late May," notes Megan B. about Moraine Park Campground. Pack for all conditions regardless of season, including rain gear, warm layers, and sun protection.
Limited services nearby: Stock up before arrival as services are minimal. "Grab groceries before bc you're in the middle of no where. About 2-3 miles of gravel to get to sites but well maintained," advises Callie C. about Bockman Campground. The nearest full-service town is Walden, approximately 20 miles from most campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Dog friendly campgrounds near Rand: Most State Forest campgrounds welcome pets. "Amazing views and something for everyone. My 4 year olds threw rocks in the reservoir, they bikes on nearby trails. The bathrooms were clean too. My dog was able to cool off in the reservoir on a hike," shares Meghan H. about North Michigan Campground. Remember that dogs must remain leashed throughout all park areas.
Spacious tent pads for family setups: Many campgrounds feature large, level tent platforms. "Large tent pads 15'x15'. Level sites," mentions Michael at Ranger Lakes. These generous spaces accommodate larger family tents with room for gear.
Kid-friendly activities: Bockman Campground offers easy access to family-appropriate recreation. "Beautiful spot to rest before a long day of hiking. My dogs and I loved our stay," writes Holly S. The relatively flat terrain around the campground provides manageable hiking for children.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "We ended up here after the nearby state park was full, and we're SO glad. Had no trouble pulling our 16ft Scamp up with a minivan, but can see that if the road was wet it wouldn't have gone as well," shares Grant M. about The Crags Campground. Check road conditions before arrival, especially after rain.
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electric sites. "This campground is beautiful and clean. Sites are nice and level and potable water available. If you have an RV make sure to fill your tank and the maintenance center 6 miles up the road," advises Sarah S. about Ranger Lakes. Electric sites cost $36 compared to $18 for primitive sites.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "Only has electric and water hookup and the dump station was not convenient," notes Alan G. about Ranger Lakes. The nearest dump stations are at the visitor center and at North Michigan Campground.
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