Best Camping near Shawnee, CO

Shawnee is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Shawnee is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Shawnee and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Shawnee, CO (453)

    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Chatfield State Park Campground

    1. Chatfield State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    141 Photos
    697 Saves
    Littleton, Colorado

    This recreation area is part of Chatfield Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Prospector Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prospector Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prospector Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prospector Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prospector Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Prospector Campground

    2. Prospector Campground

    48 Reviews
    181 Photos
    389 Saves
    Dillon, Colorado

    Overview

    At an elevation of 9,000 feet, Prospector Campground is in the heart of Summit County in the White River National Forest. The sites offer open views to Dillon Reservoir and several mountain ranges, an ideal setting for guests seeking recreation and relaxation. Due to the pine beetle infestation and removal of hazard trees, there is little or no shade in the campground.

    Recreation

    Dillon Reservoir, often referred to as Lake Dillon, is the greatest draw to this campground. At 3,233 acres and 26.8 miles of shoreline, Dillon Reservoir is an ideal spot for fishing, boating, and sailing. The reservoir supports a healthy population of rainbow trout and brown trout. Occasionally, a few cutthroat trout make their way into the lake from feeder streams. Opportunities for hiking and biking include more than 7 paved miles of the 50-mile Summit County trail system. From the reservoir, the Old Dillon Reservoir trail is a favorite. This short, easy trail has spectacular views of the Tenmile Range and the Continental Divide. The Old Dillon Reservoir was built in the 1930s to supply water to the original town of Dillon, which is now covered by the new Dillon Reservoir. For those wanting a bit more solitude, hiking in the Ptarmigan Wilderness area is a wonderful escape from the crowds.

    Natural Features

    In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is a place of serenity and adventure, boasting 8 wilderness areas, 4 defined seasons, and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate rocky ridges and bull elk bugle at dusk. Scenic rivers sustain populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Alpine regions provide habitat for pika and ptarmigan. These species, along with many others, depend on surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.

    Nearby Attractions

    Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, Breckenridge, and Copper Mountain ski resorts are all located within 10 miles from Dillon Reservoir. These resorts stay open year round.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $26 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping

    3. Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping

    37 Reviews
    102 Photos
    2098 Saves
    Blue River, Colorado

    This designated dispersed camping area along County Road 10 has 23 sites.

    **Please note: Camping is ONLY allowed in areas designated by a sign. ** Camping in undesignated spots could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service. Not adhering to camping duration maximums or using U.S. Forest land for residential purposes could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service.

    Please refer to special orders and contact the USFS Offices with questions: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd842796.pdf

    Regulations pertaining to designated dispersed camping are as follows:

    Camp only in designated sites.

    No camping at trailheads.

    Food and garbage must be properly secured in bear-resistant containers or inside vehicles in sealed containers.

    Pack out all waste: human, garbage, paper, organics, etc.

    There are many dispersed camping opportunities in the forest ranging from backpacking to car-camping along designated Forest Roads. Visitors are encouraged to minimize resource impacts by utilizing established sites rather than creating new ones. Dispersed camping sites along Forest Roads are shown on Motor Vehicle Use Maps, which are available free of charge at ranger district offices.At the start of the tour you immediately have spectacular views of the Blue River Valley and the majestic Tenmile Range. The road, managed by Summit County, follows the old South Park and Pacific Railroad bed, climbing on a gradual 3% grade. The road climbs past Bakers Tank to the summit of Boreas Pass at the Continental Divide. The road then continues down the other side of Boreas Pass for another 10.4 miles to the town of Como in Park County. From 1872 to 1938 the road was used as a narrow-gauge railroad and gained fame as the nation’s highest narrow-gauge railroad, running from Como to Breckenridge. This is a great road to view Fall colors. This road is open to highway legal vehicles only during May-October, and closed to motorized vehicle access seasonally at Summit County discretion, generally October to May.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    4. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    26 Reviews
    78 Photos
    1743 Saves
    Buffalo Creek, Colorado

    The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area contains over 50 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails that tie into the Colorado Trail in several places. There are numerous options available for riding or hiking. Some of the old logging roads provide two-track while connecting trails offer single track. It takes about an 1.5 hours to drive to this area from Denver. Please know and respect local area restrictions including; parking and camping in designated sites only. Developed camping is available at nearby Forest Service campgrounds including Buffalo, Green Mountain, Kelsey, and Meadows Group Campground.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake

    5. Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake

    24 Reviews
    73 Photos
    443 Saves
    Buffalo Creek, Colorado

    We provide year-round access for camping and day use. Whether you’re interested in an overnight stay or just plan to visit during the day, we offer a wide variety of activities: from camping to fishing, swimming and canoeing, mountain biking, hiking, and more. In winter, activities also include ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Wellington Lake, one of our greatest attractions, is a privately-owned natural wilderness area. The 167-acre lake is managed as a trophy fishery with an emphasis on conservation. Just a short drive’s distance from Denver and Colorado Springs, we welcome all visitors looking for a relaxing mountain getaway in the great outdoors.

    *Jefferson County is in a Stage 1 FIRE BAN.

    **Due to extreme fire danger a Red Flag warning has been issued and NO CAMPFIRES are allowed in the park at this time.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $40 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon

    6. Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon

    48 Reviews
    105 Photos
    946 Saves
    Eldorado Springs, Colorado

    Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers multiple campgrounds, cabins, yurts, RV sites, group sites, and a guest house. From Memorial Day to early October, there are 132 campsites in two campgrounds: Reverend’s Ridge and Aspen Meadow. Reverend’s Ridge offers 38 tent sites and 59 sites with electrical hook-ups. Facilities at Reverend’s Ridge include flush toilets, shower, ice machine, laundry facilities, and a dump station. Aspen Meadow offers 35 tent sites and vault toilets. As of January 1, 2019 both campgrounds will be Reservation Only. Golden Gate also offers 20 backcountry tent sites and four backcountry shelters. Our backcountry sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis year-round. Please register for backcountry sites at the Visitor Center.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $90 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Guanella Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Guanella Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Guanella Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Guanella Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Guanella Pass
    Camper-submitted photo from Guanella Pass

    8. Guanella Pass

    19 Reviews
    69 Photos
    327 Saves
    Silver Plume, Colorado

    Overview

    Guanella Pass Campground is located about 7 miles south of Georgetown on the South Fork of Clear Creek on the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. Located at an elevation of 10,900 feet on the Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest, visitors to the campground can also enjoy hiking and fishing in the area. The Guanella Pass Scenic and Historic Byway follows an old wagon route that linked the mining towns of Georgetown and Grant, Colorado.

    Recreation

    Visitors can go trout fishing on the South Fork of Clear Creek. Silver Dollar Lake is nearby, but cannot be reached by car. Instead, the Silver Dollar Lake Trail leads hikers above treeline to the scenic lake.

    Natural Features

    The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland sit along the foothills and Rockies of Colorado. The forests and grassland cover 1.5 million acres and extend north to the Wyoming border, south to Mount Evans and west across the Continental Divide. The area includes mountains, lakes and five scenic byways, designated by Congress for their scenery, wildlife or history, including the highest road in North America. Mount Evans Road, also known as Colorado Highway 5, allows visitors to drive from 10,500' to 14,130' above sea level in just 14 miles.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visitors enjoy touring historic Georgetown, a former mining town of about 1,000 residents. Additional ghost towns dot the region.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 529-0578.

    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dakota Ridge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dakota Ridge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dakota Ridge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dakota Ridge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dakota Ridge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dakota Ridge RV Park

    9. Dakota Ridge RV Park

    37 Reviews
    83 Photos
    114 Saves
    Golden, Colorado

    Situated between the mountains of Summit County and the bustling excitement of Denver. 141 full-service and premium sites available year round are level and paved. Pull-through and back-in sites are both available.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
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Showing results 1-10 of 453 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Shawnee

Recent Reviews in Shawnee

2841 Reviews of 453 Shawnee Campgrounds


  • David H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite
    Jan. 11, 2025

    Redskin Creek Rd Dispersed Campsite

    Dispersed Camping

    I started camping this area a couple of years ago and have been coming back several times a year. Over 30 dispersed campsites along a moderately smooth dirt road. Sites are spaced well apart, some sites are covered in trees while others are wide open. I haven’t seen one there yet but it’s good to stay BEAR AWEAR. Sites are clean. I camped at sites 15, 18, 22(twice), 26 (twice ), and there’s two sites close to Wellington lake that I’ve stayed three times . Yes it’s a good place to camp and only about a hour from Denver. My visits were between May to October. Only a fire ring is provided,everything else you’ll need to bring……AND PACK OUT when you leave so the next camper can enjoy the site like you did.

  • David H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake
    Jan. 11, 2025

    Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake

    Snow in April 2022

    My first experience was a couple of years ago (2022) I paid for three days camping . It snowed and was unable to camp….no refunds… The following year I bought 6 day passes to go fishing and only used 3. They said no refunds….. told them to keep the money and give the passes to the next three people who came in and wanted one….they said that they couldn’t do that.. So, I still tell people about how beautiful the place is…..and I also tell them that they WILL keep your money no matter what happens…. I’ll camp in the dispersed camping sites on the road that takes you to the private over priced campground….. Oh by the way…it’s catch and release. So, if you want fish for supper you better bring your own.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Robbers Roost Campground
    Dec. 20, 2024

    Robbers Roost Campground

    Secluded Mountain Camping

    Robbers Roost dispersed camping area near Fraser, Colorado, is an excellent spot for campers seeking a peaceful retreat close to nature. Located just outside Winter Park, this camping area offers easy access to the Rockies while still being relatively convenient to town for supplies or activities.

    The campsites are well spread out, providing plenty of privacy and space to enjoy the outdoors. The views are breathtaking, with towering pines and a mountain backdrop that’s hard to beat. It’s a great base for hiking, mountain biking, mushroom foraging or simply relaxing and soaking in the fresh air.

    Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so campers need to come prepared with everything they need and pack out all trash. The dirt road leading to the camping area is manageable for most vehicles, though a higher-clearance option is recommended if conditions are wet or snowy.

    One of the highlights of Robbers Roost is the proximity to Winter Park and stream access. You can explore the local trails by day and head into town for dining or entertainment in the evening. At night, the stargazing is spectacular, thanks to the minimal light pollution in the area.

    If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and love the outdoors, Robbers Roost is a hidden gem worth discovering. Just be sure to practice leave-no-trace principles to help preserve the beauty of this spot. Finally beware of the busy nearby road, especially if you are traveling with off leash pets.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kirby Gulch
    Dec. 20, 2024

    Kirby Gulch

    Worth the Rough Drive

    Kirby Gulch is a fantastic spot for anyone seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid camping experience near Grant, Colorado. Situated off Route 1038, this dispersed camping area offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching.

    The campsites are well-spaced, providing plenty of privacy, and the area is generally clean, thanks to considerate campers. Since it’s a dispersed site, there are no amenities like water or toilets, so make sure to come prepared. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing some of the sites, especially after rain or snow.

    What makes Kirby Gulch truly special is its tranquility. You can enjoy the sound of the wind through the trees, the crisp mountain air, and dazzling stargazing at night. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby trails or simply soaking in the serene environment.

    If you’re comfortable with primitive camping and leave-no-trace principles, Kirby Gulch is a hidden gem worth checking out.

  • Kay S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Creek State Park Campground
    Dec. 17, 2024

    Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    Easy Access GO EARLY IN AM

    If you want to get into the Park, suggest you go EARLY, EARLY, EARLY in the day. Traffic backs up all the way from the Entrance on Parker Rd to the Entrance Booth on weekends and holidays. Plan on an hour OR MORE to just get to the booth. Once the capacity for the Park is reached, you will not be allowed in.

    Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one.

    Please plan to pack your trash out. Seems to be a severe shortage of dumpsters or trash cans and people leave behind huge bags of trash - or, sadly, just trash strewn around. Please respect our space!

    Campground is usually fully booked all season. Reservations can be made six months out. Two week limit.

    I live close to the Park and visit every month of the year.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground
    Dec. 15, 2024

    White River National Forest Heaton Bay Campground

    Lakeside Bliss at Heaton Bay

    Heaton Bay Campground, located near Dillon Reservoir in Colorado, offers a stunning lakeside camping experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The campground is set in a picturesque location, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy water activities, hiking, and enjoying the serenity of nature.

    The sites at Heaton Bay are spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, providing a comfortable setting for both tent campers and RV travelers. There are flush toilets and potable water, but no hookups for RVs, so keep that in mind when planning your stay. The campground is nestled among tall pines, providing some shade and a peaceful atmosphere, though there are few trees at some sites, so be prepared for full exposure to the sun.

    One of the biggest highlights of Heaton Bay is its proximity to Dillon Reservoir, where you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The campground is also just a short drive from the popular town of Dillon and the many hiking opportunities in the area, including access to the nearby Swan Mountain Trail and many 14ers.

    The only downside is that during peak summer months, the campground can be busy, as it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends. The nights can also get chilly, so it’s essential to pack warm layers, even in the summer.

    Overall, Heaton Bay Campground offers an excellent lakeside camping experience with a perfect balance of nature, water activities, and mountain views, making it an ideal spot for a Colorado getaway.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rainbow Trout Ranch and Campground
    Dec. 6, 2024

    Rainbow Trout Ranch and Campground

    Peaceful Riverside Retreat

    A hidden gem in the Colorado Rockies, Rainbow Trout Ranch offers a serene mountain retreat. With its riverside setting and towering trees, this campground is perfect for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The sites are rustic but well-kept, and the peaceful environment is ideal for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of Denver. Nearby hiking trails and wildlife add to the charm.

    AIM for a site along the creek. And beware of the rules. No wildfires nor swimming in the creek.

  • G
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Lake Backpack Site
    Nov. 24, 2024

    Bear Lake Backpack Site

    Belle of Colorado @ Tourquoise Lake

    Originally quite nice, tent camping, clean area, nice sites, water available, bathrooms, and access to fishing. Weekends tend now to religious services... :( Been 4 times but now prefer less commercial/church interuptions. RV crud makes for noisy generators, bouncy houses, karaoke... :( Some people swim. Boating. Good perimeter trail, biking allowed.

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Fun in the snow

    There were a lot of options for us to pull off and camp. We had gone the day after a snow storm and the road was decent. I guess snow plows go through often since there’s nearby residential. Each campsite was decently spaced and far enough from the road so that you can U turn it and it doesn’t feel like you’re just pulling off to the side (accommodated out RTT nicely) There were great views and the pups enjoyed it.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chandler Dispersed
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Camp Chandler Dispersed

    Beautiful Place.

    Bumpy ride up, but we were able to do it in our car SLOWLY. Absolutely beautiful place. Lots of campsite options. I was under the impression fires were allowed, as there were fire pits, but signs everywhere stating no campfires. Columbine Lake is a pretty hefty hike from the trailhead, but so worth the view. Had the entire place to ourselves pretty much all Friday. Beautiful beautiful beautiful

  • Landon C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bailey Area Dispersed
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Bailey Area Dispersed

    Difficult road to get to but beautiful views

    The road here has some gnarly washboards. I had to slow down to a crawl at points because it was thrashing my rig around so much. There is also one turn on the road where if you’re not careful, I could imagine getting stuck. However, the views are incredible and it was well worth the effort. Cell signal from Verizon is extremely good, I am getting 5G UWB and download speeds of 180mbps. There’s some cool hills to climb and many great views.

  • Leah K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Twin Lakes Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Great Camping Spot

    This was a great camping spot. There are several campsites by the water and other campsites, not by the water. The campsites are kind of close together, but not terrible. I went early on a Friday and got a beautiful spot by the water. By the end of the day, all the sites around the water were full. So if that's important to you, be sure to get there early. There were still plenty of other gorgeous campsites, not by the water available all weekend. There are also hiking trails located here. One of which is called "Interlaken Trail." It's about a 5 mile hike total and takes you to a "Ghost Resort" called "Inter-Laken" that was abandoned around WW1. You can even go inside one of the buildings, and there are Historical Marker plaques that talk about the abandoned resort. The signal is great so I had cell service and data the entire time. Highly recommend!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Denver West-Central City KOA
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Denver West-Central City KOA

    Nicest KOA we've been to

    And in fact I believe they were KOA of the year 2023 or 2024. More expensive than we're used to, but has nice amenities. Sites level with concrete pads, fairly large. Some space between with trees. Nice metal patio furniture provided at each site(chairs, table, fire pit). Has decent showers, hot tubs, and off leash dog park. Inexpensive pancake breakfast and pizza/wings to your site are available, also an onsite store. Kind of at the top of a rise, so good views but also kind of chilly for July (60s/40s). Massive thunderstorms with hail and heavy rain two evengings (CO mountains tend to get afternoon t-storms). Communicate via text to let you know about goings on. Good radio station out of Idaho Springs KYGT 102.7 and 103.9

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chief Hosa Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Chief Hosa Campground

    Good proximity to Evergreen CO/EZ I-70 on/off

    Stayed in spot RV24. Easy access right off freeway and convenient to TPB start. Some nice small trails in area for easy walking. Mostly pine trees. Orderly, camp hosts seem inclined to enforce rules. Quiet.No campfire pits so no burning allowed at all and most folks seem to knock off early. Showers are available for.25/2 min with a 4 min max. Appeared old, clean.

    For road cyclists: Good place to stay for Triple Bypass

    Food aside: Cooked Hatch green chile sausage and added to Sprouts Hatch mac and cheese and put into burritos. Ate leftovers for breakfast. Low FQ (fart quotient).

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon

    Way too expensive

    I spent the night at Base Camp because the campgrounds North and South of Ned were full and it was dark and getting late. You have to be lucky with those ones to get one of the few good spots that are there. I have been to the convenience store at BC before and it was closer to Idaho Springs (I was going there the next day to meet a friend). $39 per night for a tent site is INSANE. I could have stealth camped and there was another spot I could’ve gone too but BC was close and I was tired. I guess that’s how they make their business. Begrudgingly it worked for what I needed.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    Trash+long term campers

    The place fills up on the weekend. I drove through most of the trail system and did not find a spot. Came back during the week and took a closer spot so as not to risk it. Trash is everywhere. Multiple poop spots are within 100ft of the fire pit with copious amounts of used tp lying around. Trees are slashed, cut, and the forest is not doing well. There are multiple long term campsites here so watch out for squatters. I stayed near the start and then a bit deeper, which prompted me to take photos. I forget the site numbers but honestly it’s not looking good in most places. At the very back are what look like a few nicer spots because they are hard to get to with a non off-road vehicle. It breaks my heart how this campground exists.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from West Magnolia Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    West Magnolia Campground

    ‘Long term’ campsites&trash

    Couldn’t find any spots over the weekend. Drove through the whole campground. There is an absurd amount of trash everywhere, especially at closer campsites. There are multiple ‘long term’ campsites by the looks of the trash, gear, and supplies left out. The forest is not in good shape either.

    Came back mid week and stayed at site #4 because it was close and I did not want to roll the dice on not securing a spot again.

    Keeping it brief: -I thought someone had been through my campsite when I was sleeping due to things moved -I might have met the squatter at the site. Couldn’t be sure, but determined there were red flags after talking to the guy and did not want to stick around to find out -so much trash it breaks my heart

    The county needs to do something about this campsite and the similar one North of Ned.

  • Lori L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from West Magnolia Campground
    Oct. 13, 2024

    West Magnolia Campground

    Fall camping

    Great location with single tracks for hiking and mountain biking. Camping spots are well-marked. WiFi was decent. The sad part was the trash left behind from former encampments in some of the camping spots.

  • Andria R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Dream Canyon Campsites - Dispersed Camping

    4x4 and tents only

    Beautiful, but really need a compact 4x4 to get into and out of parking lot and there are tent sites only. We almost didn’t make it out with our 24 ft van (checked it out but didn’t stay overnight). Very crowded on a Saturday at 4:30pm.


Drive Time


Guide to Shawnee

Camping near Shawnee, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Paddleboarding and Water Activities: Chatfield State Park Campground is a great spot for water fun. One visitor mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it perfect for those who love being on the water.
  • Hiking: The trails around Prospector Campground provide access to beautiful hikes. A reviewer noted, "The campground has standard hole in the ground toilets/out houses, but it was obvious they were well maintained and clean," highlighting the convenience of the facilities after a long day of hiking.
  • Wildlife Watching: At Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. One camper shared, "Loved this drive and these views," emphasizing the area's natural beauty.

What campers like:

  • Friendly Staff: Campers at Chatfield State Park Campground appreciate the helpfulness of the staff. One review stated, "The staff is really nice and you have all the services that you need."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Golden Gate Canyon State Park remarked, "Very well kept with nice clean bathrooms."
  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Peak One Campground. One reviewer said, "Our site was also a short walk down to Lake Dillon which was perfect for the kids and dogs to splash around in."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Prospector Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "There is no water, no electric, no sewer," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Noise Levels: Campers at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned noise from nearby activities. One camper said, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7AM to the sound of model airplanes."
  • Seasonal Access: Some sites, like Vasquez Ridge, are only open during certain months. A review pointed out, "Figured out this place is closed in the winter, only open June 15-Nov 15."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Sites Wisely: At Reverend's Ridge Campground, some loops are better for families. A camper advised, "Your experience will vary with your chosen loop and site."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to bring gear for activities like paddleboarding or hiking. One family enjoyed the paddleboard experience at Chatfield State Park Campground, saying, "Loved the paddle board experience."
  • Bring Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, "It is pricey and there are many rules but it is full service with a very friendly staff."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Peak One Campground said, "We had no trouble fitting our 29' Class C, tow dolly, and towed vehicle in the site."
  • Be Prepared for No Hookups: Some campgrounds, like Prospector Campground, lack electric and water hookups. One camper noted, "There are vault toilets, water to fill jugs but none to hook up to."
  • Watch for Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially at places like Boreas Pass. A camper shared, "Saw a lot of wildlife!"

Exploring the campgrounds around Shawnee, CO, can lead to memorable adventures, whether you're camping in a tent or an RV.

Frequently Asked Questions