Best Campgrounds near Red Feather Lakes, CO

Red Feather Lakes, Colorado provides access to numerous camping options within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest. The area features established campgrounds like Dowdy Lake Campground with 70 sites including electric hookups, as well as dispersed camping opportunities such as Lost Lake Dispersed and Comanche Peak View. Camping styles range from developed sites with amenities to primitive backcountry locations. Bellaire Lake Campground offers 26 sites at 8,600 feet elevation with electric hookups, while West Lake Campground provides lakeside camping with drinking water and toilet facilities. Both tent and RV camping are supported throughout the region, with varying levels of accessibility.

Road conditions to some dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly in more remote locations. "The road to lost lake requires high clearance. It is located 30 min away from Red Feather Lakes. There are a lot of dispersed camp sites," noted one visitor on The Dyrt. Most campgrounds in the area are seasonal, typically operating from May through September, though some offer year-round access. Elevations around 8,000-10,000 feet mean cooler temperatures even in summer months. Many established campgrounds require reservations through Recreation.gov, especially during peak summer weekends. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should check current regulations before planning trips. Cell service is limited throughout the area, particularly at more remote sites.

Lakeside camping represents a significant draw in the Red Feather Lakes region, with several water bodies providing scenic backdrops for overnight stays. Campers frequently mention the unique rock formations typical of the area as highlights of their experience. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, sites at Lost Lake Dispersed camping are often "set back from the road, in a meadow, surrounded by boulders" with good access to water recreation. Wildlife viewing opportunities include various bird species and larger mammals. Campgrounds closer to the lakes tend to fill quickly during summer weekends, while more remote dispersed sites offer greater solitude but fewer amenities. The pine forests provide shade at many developed campgrounds, though beetle infestations have affected tree cover in some areas. Fishing is popular at Dowdy Lake, Bellaire Lake, and other water bodies throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Red Feather Lakes, Colorado (265)

    1. Dowdy Lake Campground

    23 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6700

    $30 - $81 / night

    "Clean bathrooms, sites spread out nicely and lake access for paddleboarding. Unique Colorado location."

    "First time there was around 1978. Been our favorite since. The lake is magnificent, complete with islands, giant boulders, and peaceful beyond belief."

    2. Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "We arrived on a Monday around 4pm and most of the spots were open, but it seemed like several others arrived at the same time as us and we actually snagged our spot right before someone pulled into it."

    "Our spot was a little on the hill away from everyone and only had a few cars drive by."

    3. Lost Lake Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "The road to lost lake requires high clearance. It is located 30 min away from Red Feather Lakes. There are a lot of dispersed camp sites."

    "Drove up early In the week to get a great spot by lost lake and was very successful."

    4. Upper and Lower Ansel Watrous Campgrounds

    25 Reviews
    Livermore, CO
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6700

    $20 / night

    "There is a hairpin switchback to get into the lower loop and the website states that it is not accessible to trailers longer than 20 feet."

    "Fees: $23.00 standard single $7.00 for 3rd vehicle  Reservations: 877-444-6777 or recreation.gov 

    Out of season: FCFS 

    Firewood for sale by camp host located at Upper Ansel Watrous Campground."

    5. Dutch George Campground

    16 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6700

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Beautifully placed right at the curve of the Poudre, there is a short walking trail next to it,a perfect hammock place in a shallow runoff, a spot to tether tubes or paddleboards in an eddy, a picnic table"

    "The drive into the Poudre Canyon is a beautiful one. We camped Thursday to Sunday. Spots are scarce and were full by Friday mid day. Some sights have shade, some do not."

    6. Mountain Park

    15 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6700

    $41 - $185 / night

    "Toilets are a reasonable distance. There is lots of shade and a great hiking trail up the ridge line. Staff is very friendly and it is very well maintained."

    "There are many places for multiple groups to be near each other, and reservations usually fill up."

    7. West Lake

    8 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6700

    $28 - $81 / night

    "West Lake campground is a beautiful spot off 74. The lake is great for fishing, and the tent campsites are super private. Your pass includes access to other lakes in the surrounding area as well."

    "Great view of the lake. Very quiet. Paths and fishing. Nearby local amenities."

    8. Kelly Flats Campground

    11 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    10 miles
    Website

    "Big picnic table, bear-proof food box, close to river."

    "The spots were well spaced, so I didn't feel like we were uncomfortably close to our neighbors. The campgrounds were well kept, and the guests were pretty quiet. I would definitely make a trip back!"

    9. Bellaire Lake Campground

    6 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6700

    $30 - $121 / night

    "Bellaire Lake Campground, located in the Red Feather Lakes region, is a hidden gem. With only 26 sites and situated at an elevation of 8,600 ft, it is serene and secluded."

    "This lakeside campground is a gem. With 2 loops, one close to the river, and one a short walk away, it's a nice smaller alternative to other campgrounds in Red Feather."

    10. Comanche Peak View Campground

    6 Reviews
    Red Feather Lakes, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 365-2267

    "Great spot near Red Feather Lakes and probably the only dispersed spot around that has AT&T service. Nobody else was here while I was camping and hardly anyone drove by, it’s pretty far out here."

    "This campground is an especially good option for those wanting to avoid the summer crowds of the close by and popular campgrounds of Red Feather Lakes and Lost Lake."

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Recent Reviews near Red Feather Lakes, CO

1800 Reviews of 265 Red Feather Lakes Campgrounds


  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Meeboer Lake

    Best cell signal

    Of the 3 or 4 spots out here this has by far the best cell over by the boat ramp I get 4 bars of 5g on verizon. This is similar to all the other spots in the area. Gravel area. Some picnic tables and a vault toilet seems to be the standard load out in this area. This one does have a large pull through spot where a guy had a very large pull behind and a truck so if you have a bigger rig check thus one out. Not as many waterfront spots here tho

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Gelatt Lake Park

    Smallest of the area

    This is the smallest of the lakes in the 5 mile radius. Its also closest to town. It seems like maybe a couple people are staying long term here but seem to keep to themselves. Had a vault toilet like the othet spots and a little better verizon signal 2 -3 bars. The gravel lot and turn around area is alot smaller and not as big rig friendly. Their is a small pier to fish off of and a small picnic area. None of the " spot" seem to have a fire ring or table. Maybe skip this spot and go down the road to one of the bigger spots

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Lake Hattie Public Access Area

    Not a campground

    On dyrt this is green icon as if it were a campground. It really isnt. There are only a few spots and they are really just random picnic tables in a field. No designated spots or numbers, just kind of a gravel lot with some places thrown around. Their is a vault toilet and 2 bars verizon cell. The little lake has a boat ramp but in october it is currently snowing and the water appears very shallow. This place will work but is not a destination. A few bad apples in close proximity could make this a really annoying place

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Twin Butte Lake

    Area around lake

    When you first pull in there is a vault toilet and a gravel lot. That is NOT this camp. Take the road down and around the lake. Their is a second vault toilet and many spots right on the waters edge. This is a great spot for fishing as you can camp all along the edge of the lake. The road is okay not great a 4x4 is required for a couple spots but you can access many with a normal car. Cell signal all depends on if you are on a hill or not anywhere from 0-3 verizon bars but you need to face backward to town. Just know its a windy and exposed spot

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2025

    Twin Buttes Reservoir

    Season matters here

    A nice place in the summer but brutal past October. The wind absolutely ravages this place. Your van or RV will rock. There isnt a tree in sight just open land so you feel really exposed. There is a large gravel lot and a couple picnic table and fire pit spots. You can park a big rig in here in the gravel lot. There is also a pit toilet. If you face back to town you can get okay not great verizon signal. If you gave the water the signal is very poor. Overall this is just a 1 night place.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Spruce Lake RV Park

    Nice location

    There are a few of these campgrounds in estes park. They are all about the same. All close to the park and to restaurants and shops in town. This one, spruce lake rv is a little better because it had a pond you can fish in. But its not amazing just a gravel lot with a pond in the middle. Has a playground for the kids. Verizon 5g signal is good. But you are packed in tight here and overpaying

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2025

    Hell Canyon Dispersed

    Good dispersed road

    Good spot for dispersed camping. Maybe 6 spots total going all the way up the road. 4x4 recommended. Fires allowed in established rings only, always check with Roosevelt National Forest website to see if fires are allowed during your stay as this varies by season.

  • johny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort

    Nothing special

    This place is right outside the national park. Thats about the main feature. Its a huge open gravel lot where if its busy, 100s of rv are packed in as tight as they can get them. Standard hookups and cabins available. Nice mountain views and full verizon 5g signal. But this is just a sardine can. The plus side is you will probally see or hear elk

  • Haley B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Walden Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    Great place for one night, confusing if you show up at night!

    We ended up driving too far and just parking next to the lake for the night to camp. Lots of dirt trails near the lake, maybe not for camping but we showed up after driving 6 hours. The gps takes you past the 2 visible pulloffs that would be great for campers


Guide to Red Feather Lakes

Red Feather Lakes is located in northern Colorado with most campgrounds situated at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet. The area features granite rock formations typical of the Roosevelt National Forest region, which creates distinctive camping environments with natural windbreaks and climbing opportunities. Summer temperatures average 75°F during daytime with nighttime temperatures often dropping to 40-45°F even in July and August.

What to do

Hiking from your campsite: Mountain Park Campground connects directly to the Mt. McConnel Trail. "This campground shares a parking lot with the Mt. McConnel trailhead. This is one of my favorite trails along the Poudre, mostly because it is rarely crowded and offers beautiful views," notes a visitor to Mountain Park.

Fly fishing: The Cache la Poudre River provides excellent trout fishing opportunities. "Caught trout 20 yards from my tent from the Cache La Poudre," reports a camper at Ansel Watrous Campground.

Paddleboarding and kayaking: Several lakes in the area offer calm waters for paddlesports. "Beautiful lake. Very nice camping not far from Fort Collins. Great lake for non-motorized boats," states a visitor to Dowdy Lake Campground.

Rock scrambling: The distinctive rock formations provide natural climbing opportunities. "Our spot was set back from the road, in a meadow, surrounded by boulders. Loved it!" shares a camper from Lost Lake Dispersed.

What campers like

Quiet lakeside sites: West Lake offers peaceful waterside camping. "We love that this campground is quiet, spaced out and fairly small. It's perfect for our young family," notes a visitor to West Lake.

River sounds: Several campgrounds along the Poudre River feature the soothing background of flowing water. "This campsite is right on the river in a small cluster of 3 tent only walk in sites. The site is right on the banks of the large rushing river that will lull you to sleep at night," describes a camper at Ansel Watrous Campground.

Dark skies for stargazing: Remote locations provide excellent night sky viewing. "The sky was filled with stars after sunset. Beautiful place!" shares a visitor to Dutch George Campground.

Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal species. "Got to see a young bull moose. Unfortunately witnessed young kids drive their dirt bikes all the way on to the beach area during twilight hour," reports a camper at Lost Lake Dispersed, highlighting both the wildlife opportunities and concerns.

What you should know

Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. "The road to get here is graded gravel & really not too bad. We saw some larger rigs, so people do manage it," notes a visitor to Bellaire Lake Campground.

Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. "Verizon cell service was a major bonus," reports a camper at Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping, while another camper at Mountain Park states, "No cell service from any of the carriers."

Reservation requirements: For established campgrounds, early booking is essential. "It's hard to get a spot here unless you reserve a spot 6 months ahead," advises a visitor to West Lake.

Weather variability: Mountain conditions can change rapidly. "We had one night the moon was so bright it was daylight and the next night the fog settled and you couldn't see your hand in front of you," shares a camper at Bellaire Lake Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "They have done a lot of work on the sites and surroundings. Family oriented and nice playground for them to play on," notes a visitor to Mountain Park.

Safe water play: Look for sites with gentle water access. "Site 10 is very wide but doesn't have much shade BUT if the river is high this is the best spot for kids as there is a large rock in the middle of the river that creates a gentle pool/gulley right in front of this spot," advises a camper at Dutch George Campground.

Camping at elevation: Prepare for temperature swings. "Winter camping is FCFS and is a really nice if you get a 'warm' winter weekend. The power at the sites is a plus, even for tent camping," shares a visitor to Dowdy Lake Campground.

Rock exploration: Many sites feature natural climbing features for children. "Great views and great beginner rock piles for the kids to climb on," notes a camper at Comanche Peak View Campground.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for larger vehicles: Some campgrounds accommodate various RV sizes. "We stayed here over a weekend and wanted to stay longer. Pulled our 33' travel trailer and there were good spots off the road," shares an RVer at Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest Dispersed Camping.

Electric hookup locations: Several campgrounds offer powered sites. "At 8,000 feet. A great small wakeless canoe and kayak lake. Most sites have electric," notes a visitor to Dowdy Lake Campground.

Leveling considerations: Terrain can be challenging at some sites. "Except site 7 you have to back straight uphill and would be hard to hitch or unhitch anything over 20' let alone leveling," warns a camper at Bellaire Lake Campground.

Water access planning: Limited water sources require preparation. "There is water but no threaded attachment to fill tanks so you must bring buckets or water jugs," advises an RVer at Bellaire Lake Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado?

Red Feather Lakes offers several excellent campgrounds. Bellaire Lake Campground is a hidden gem with only 26 sites at 8,600 ft elevation, featuring interesting rock formations and a serene, secluded setting. For water access, Dowdy Lake Campground provides 70 sites, including 10 walk-in tent spots, with options for both tent and RV camping with electric hookups. Other excellent options include Mountain Park Campground with well-spaced sites and maintained tent areas, and Comanche Peak View Campground for those wanting to avoid crowds. The area also offers dispersed camping opportunities for a more primitive experience.

Do I need reservations for camping at Red Feather Lakes?

Reservations are highly recommended for most developed campgrounds around Red Feather Lakes, especially during peak season (May-September) and weekends. Dowdy Lake Campground requires reservations through Recreation.gov from mid-spring through September for its 70 sites, with weekend bookings particularly important. Some campgrounds like West Lake also operate on the reservation system. Dispersed camping areas such as Lost Lake and Comanche Peak View operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For private options like Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch, advance reservations are essential, especially during summer weekends and holidays when availability can be limited.

When is the best time of year to camp at Red Feather Lakes?

The prime camping season at Red Feather Lakes runs from late May through September when temperatures are mild and facilities are fully operational. Lost Lake Dispersed area is popular during summer months, offering meadow camping surrounded by boulders about 30 minutes from Red Feather Lakes. Late spring brings beautiful wildflowers while early fall offers spectacular foliage with fewer crowds. Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch has reported pleasant camping conditions in late May with good hiking opportunities. Winter camping is possible at some year-round sites, including some at Dowdy Lake, but requires proper cold-weather gear and preparation for potential snow conditions.

What camping sites are available at Red Feather Lakes?

Red Feather Lakes offers diverse camping options. Comanche Peak View Campground provides primitive sites with fire pits and flat tent spots, accessible with high-clearance vehicles. For developed camping, Mountain Park features well-spaced sites with level tent spots, nearby toilets, and a ridge line hiking trail. The area also offers dispersed camping in Roosevelt National Forest, private resort camping at Beaver Meadows with riverside sites, and established campgrounds at Dowdy and Bellaire Lakes with amenities like vault toilets and seasonal water. Additionally, State Forest State Park offers primitive sites popular with backpackers and those seeking moose viewing opportunities.