Wellington Lake is the centerpiece of glamping in Shawnee, Colorado, where elevations range from 8,000-10,000 feet in most camping areas. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August. The area's proximity to Denver (about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on location) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for city residents.
What to do
Hiking with diverse terrain options: Staunton State Park Campground offers a network of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. One camper noted, "This park was incredible for just getting away with my pup for a night. We brought out the bike and did some trails to find the perfect spot and since we went in the middle of the week we had our choice of spot."
Tubing and paddling: Lone Rock Campground provides direct river access for water activities. "The kids were old enough to walk up the path, tube down a little ways, then get out to do it all over again," reports one visitor, highlighting the family-friendly water activities available along the South Platte River.
Fishing across multiple waterways: Echo Lake Campground offers fishing opportunities at higher elevations. A reviewer explains, "The campground and lake are very nice. There are several campsites that sit right on the water. There are also campsites that sit further up on the mountain."
Wildlife viewing throughout seasons: Timberline Campground provides wildlife viewing opportunities in a more secluded setting. A visitor reported, "On top of the world it seems. Lots of animals in camp that cruise by. Mainly elk n moose..bighorn sheep too down the road."
What campers like
Privacy levels vary between sites: Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake offers varying degrees of privacy depending on location. "If you're looking for more privacy I would get a site up on the mountain. There are also several group sites," advises one camper who appreciated the options.
Natural swimming areas: Bear Creek Lake Park provides lake access with designated swimming areas. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," reports one visitor.
Cooler temperatures during summer: Most glamping locations near Shawnee benefit from cooler mountain temperatures. Chatfield State Park visitors noted this advantage: "Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites."
Proximity to mountain towns: Denver West-Central City KOA offers a convenient base for exploring nearby historic mining towns. "This KOA is perched up in between the most beautiful outlooks. The staff is so kind and welcoming, and the amenities are well kept," shares a recent visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most glamping sites have minimal or no connectivity. About Wellington Lake, a visitor advises, "The only downside was the road to get there. It wasn't maintained very well and there was only room for one vehicle at some points... There is very little if any cell access."
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds shut off water during winter months. At Lone Rock Campground, a camper reported, "Water- shut off on Sept. 28th for winter. Fees drop from $22 to $20 after Sept. 28th regardless of what the sign says."
Reservations essential during peak times: Most popular glamping sites book up weeks in advance. "Reserve ahead, gets booked," cautions a Wellington Lake visitor who noted the campground's popularity despite its relatively high cost.
Weather fluctuations: Even summer nights can be cold at higher elevations. One Staunton State Park camper warned, "We went in June and July. Check the weather. We had very cold weather in both months, weather hit the low 30's."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural entertainment: Sites with water access provide built-in activities. A Lone Rock Campground visitor recommended, "Spot 7 along the river was perfect. Shade, river access, bathroom & trash drop off nearby."
Look for sites with barriers from hazards: Selecting appropriate sites enhances safety. About Staunton State Park, one reviewer suggested, "My favorite for size and for kids is 19. This one sits atop all of the other sites and is one of the most accommodating and fairly private sites for families both in room and fun. It's a nice barrier to any dangerous cliffs."
Consider noise factors: Campground quiet hours vary in enforcement. One Wellington Lake visitor mentioned, "Quiet hours are not well kept and that would be my only complaint," suggesting light sleepers or families with young children may want to research this aspect.
Plan for temperature swings: Mountain glamping requires appropriate sleeping gear. A Meridian Campground visitor advised, "We had our two young nephews (4 & 6) with us... Meridian was well spaced out, had nice fire pits at each site, and had great shade."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most glamping sites near Shawnee have minimal RV amenities. At Echo Lake, one RVer noted, "The campground is best suited for tent or small trailers. Its high altitude, nestled in the pines."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. A visitor to Timberline Campground observed, "Noticed a few people had trouble finding flat parking for RVs and vans."
Road access considerations: Many access roads have seasonal limitations. About Castle Mountain, a camper shared, "The road to get there wasn't maintained very well and there was only room for one vehicle at some points."
Dump stations limited: Full-service RV facilities are rare outside larger campgrounds. Chatfield State Park is one exception: "Nice campground, well kept... There are 3 different areas - each has multiple bathhouses, which have coin-laundry available."
