Camping near Tabernash sits at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 9,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal weather patterns with overnight temperatures that can dip below freezing even in summer months. The area's proximity to the Continental Divide means afternoon thunderstorms are common from June through August. Winter camping options are limited as many campgrounds close seasonally after the first major snowfall, typically in late September.
What to do
Hiking from your campsite: Several campgrounds offer direct trail access without driving. At Willow Creek Campground visitors can explore paths along the reservoir. One camper noted, "The park is very pretty, with lots of small trails. We found little clusters of aspen trees, and saw deer and foxes on an evening walk."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts abundant wildlife including moose, fox, and bear. A visitor at Arapaho Bay Campground shared, "They're not kidding when they say bear country- had bears at our site and around the campground 2 out of 3 nights!" Another camper mentioned, "We had many moose sightings in the campground during our stay."
Fishing in alpine waters: Lake Granby and surrounding bodies of water provide excellent fishing opportunities. According to a review of Stillwater Campground, "Great view of Granby Lake from most of the camp sites. Not a lot of tree cover but it was very pretty." For non-motorized fishing, one visitor recommended, "Great fishing on Willow Creek Reservoir—Rainbows, Browns, and some salmon. Boats with motors are prohibited, so there are many canoes, kayaks, and other non motorized activities on the lake."
What campers like
Easy lake access: Several sites offer direct water access for paddling. A camper at Sunset Point Campground praised, "We were lucky enough to snag one of the tent camping sites at Sunset Point, which had direct access to the lake and awesome views! It was great to be able to launch our paddle boards directly from our site."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area typically maintain well-kept facilities. At Green Ridge Campground, a visitor observed, "Restrooms kept clean & well stocked over the 2 weeks we were here. Access to the park from the west side was great and there were moose who wandered right into the campground to take a swim in the lake regularly which was awesome."
Yurt glamping options: Beyond traditional glamping in Tabernash at resort properties, the area offers alternative glamping experiences. At Snow Mountain Ranch, yurts provide a comfortable camping option with amenities. A guest commented, "We have stayed here several times in different setups: Yurts, Cabins and Tents. The YMCA of the Rockies has many amenities for everyone from trails to zip lines."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Glacier Basin Campground in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, planning is essential: "Glacier is open from late May to September with a maximum stay of 7 nights. Campsites are quite close together, but there are quiet hours and limits to generator use."
First-come, first-served challenges: Several campgrounds operate without reservations. At Sunset Point, a camper advised, "Small campground but fully treed and camp hosts friendly and informative. First come first serve. Drinking water on campground at both vault toilets. Campground is small and fills up fast during the season."
Beetle damage impact: The mountain pine beetle has affected forests throughout the area. As one camper at Stillwater noted, "Be prepared for the devastating damage the Mountain Pine beetle has done and continues to do to the forest. The rangers are working to take down and remove dead pines. Be careful hiking in the woods because of the danger of falling limbs and trees."
Tips for camping with families
Affordable glamping alternatives: Beyond luxury glamping in Tabernash, consider more budget-friendly options. At Reverend's Ridge Campground, a visitor shared, "Mother Nature: This was a phenomenal state park. Many multiuse trails. Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view."
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation options. At Snow Mountain Ranch, a visitor reported, "The recreational center schedule activities for kids and the whole family including summer tubbing, skate ring, climbing wall and bow and arrow among others. I really recommend this place for everyone, specially families."
Wildlife education opportunities: Use wildlife sightings as learning experiences. A camper at Green Ridge mentioned, "We had a fox visit our site as well as a marmot & many other creatures. A great experience. Grand Lake town is lots of fun."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose your site based on specific needs. At Stillwater Campground, a camper advised, "I suggest a site on the 'B' loop." Another RVer at Snow Mountain Ranch noted, "Our site (30) was difficult to level our travel trailer due to left/right slope. The Hopi campground has full hookups with 20/30/50 amp, water and sewer."
Seasonal considerations: Plan for variable weather conditions. An RVer at Willow Creek shared, "We stayed in a first come first serve RV site with power and water during early season snow (the day after Labor Day!) with high winds. There is a dump station but it was closed due to freezing temps when we left."
Hookup availability: Research utilities before arriving. A visitor at Reverend's Ridge mentioned, "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables."
