Rockvale sits in south-central Colorado between the Rocky Mountains and the high plains, at approximately 5,500 feet elevation. The surrounding landscape features rugged terrain with sagebrush flats and juniper-dotted foothills that transition to higher pine forests. Camping options range from developed campgrounds with full hookups to primitive dispersed sites on public lands, with varying accessibility depending on vehicle type.
What to do
Fishing for brook trout: Visit Grape Creek - Temple Canyon Park for small stream fishing. "It's a small stream but it's sure as hells got some trout in it! I've been fishing this stream since I was a kid, and I still have a good time there," shares Bryan P., who notes the creek contains brookies and offers "decent little camp spots too."
Trail riding for equestrians: While specific equestrian camping near Rockvale, Colorado is limited, Alvarado Campground provides access to trails suitable for day rides. Camper Steph C. notes, "This was a gorgeous place to stay. The sites were widely spaced on the lower level... It was just a quick trip into Westcliffe to pick up any forgotten supplies."
Mountain biking on maintained trails: The area's varied terrain offers trail experiences for riders. Mueller State Park Campground maintains well-marked routes as noted by Steve C.: "The trails were beautiful, well maintained, and not crowded at all." Most trails require intermediate skills, with rocky sections common throughout the region.
What campers like
Proximity to Royal Gorge: Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA provides convenient access to this famous attraction. "This KOA journey has a friendly and helpful staff, and offers all of the bare essentials so you can get ready for your next stop. The campground is 8 miles from Cañon City and 4 miles from Royal Gorge," reports Jason F.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's varied ecosystems support diverse wildlife. Tavita P. at Temple Canyon Park observed "beautiful views and the ability to get offline and out in serenity's." Similarly, Ryan J. at Cheyenne Mountain State Park reports, "Beautiful and well groomed hiking trails. Can get a little hot in the summers."
Dark skies for stargazing: Rural camping areas offer excellent night sky viewing. At Alvarado Campground, Glenna L. experienced "The night sky was amazing after the rain passed through and the clouds cleared." Areas further from Colorado Springs provide the darkest skies for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
High-clearance vehicles required: Some dispersed sites have challenging access. Sadie S. warns about Temple Canyon Park: "There is no warning on how these roads are!! Please do not bring any trailers or rvs out here as they will not fit/fall off of the windy roads. Roads are super rocky and full of deep holes, not many options to turn around once you've started."
Altitude considerations: Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 5,000-10,000 feet. Cripple Creek KOA, at 10,000 feet, prompts Papa T. to note it's "Nestled on the back side of the mountain very high altitude and short of breath but really enjoyed it." Acclimatization is essential when moving from lower elevations.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have well water that may require filtering. Joel G. at Haggards RV Campground notes: "Water system needs work; well water has rust and sediment, be prepared!" Bringing additional water or filtration systems is advisable for horseback riders and others needing larger quantities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Cripple Creek KOA offers organized events for children. Tasha M. shares, "They gave us information on a good fishing spot where my 7 yr old son caught his first trout... They had a nice gift shop and provided a s'mores night for the campers for free. They have pancake breakfast for $3 on Saturday and Sunday (not always)."
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play spaces. Anthony B. describes Peregrine Pines FamCamp: "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."
Weather preparation: Mountain areas experience rapid weather changes, even in summer. Laura S. at Alvarado Campground warns, "We've seen folks try to squat on reserved sites (only to be kicked out by the arriving reservation)... On our last visit, meadow voles spent the night climbing up and down our tent poles while some played a radio loudly and late into the night."
Tips from RVers
Leveling and site selection: Haggards RV Campground receives high marks for RV-friendly sites. TJ H. reports, "My grandson and I stayed there in June for 4 days in a 34ft travel trailer in a pull thru long enough not to have to unhook. The sites were large and plenty of room for my slideout and not too close to next site."
Water pressure considerations: Bring regulators for campgrounds with municipal water. Anthony B. notes, "Water pressure here is really strong so make sure you have a water pressure regulator handy." This applies to multiple campgrounds in the region, especially those with newer infrastructure.
Wind protection strategies: Several reviewers mention strong winds in canyon areas. Stephen K. observed at Spillway Campground: "The only issue was the wind coming down the canyon over the dam. Can get windy but usually dies down at night." Positioning RVs with the smallest profile facing prevailing winds helps reduce rocking.
