Best Campgrounds near Empire, CO

Camping near Empire, Colorado, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

• Paddleboarding and kayaking: Chatfield State Park Campground is a great spot for water activities. One visitor mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it perfect for those who love being on the water.
• Hiking: Explore the trails around the Prospector Campground. 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 accessibility of the area for hikers.
• Wildlife watching: At Arapaho Bay Campground, one camper shared, "We saw a moose in the morning drinking from the lake," making it a great spot for nature lovers.

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."
• Scenic views: Many visitors rave about the beautiful surroundings. A camper at Arapaho Bay Campground said, "The sunsets were amazing," showcasing the area's natural beauty.
• Clean facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus for campers. A reviewer at Golden Gate Canyon State Park mentioned, "Very well kept with nice clean bathrooms," which is always a relief when camping.

What you should know

• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Prospector Campground, lack certain amenities. A visitor noted, "There is no water, no electric, no sewer," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
• Noise levels: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that some sites can be loud. One camper at Chatfield State Park Campground mentioned, "We were woken up multiple mornings before 7AM to the sound of model airplanes."
• Crowded during peak times: Popular spots like Arapaho Bay Campground can fill up quickly. A visitor shared, "The whole campground was full by the time we got there at 8pm on Friday."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose sites near water: Families will enjoy being close to the lake. A reviewer at Chatfield State Park Campground suggested, "I’d recommend finding a site closer to the lake so you can get to the water quicker when it’s super hot."
• Bring shade: The sun can be intense, especially during the day. One camper at Prospector Campground mentioned, "We had canopies but the sun beat us down pretty bad during the high part of the day."
• Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. A visitor at Peak One Campground noted, "Close proximity to Frisco is great too if you want to get some pizza for a meal."

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: RVers should ensure their site can accommodate their vehicle. A camper 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 Arapaho Bay Campground, do not offer electric or water hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There are vault toilets, water to fill jugs but none to hook up to."
• Watch for road conditions: If you're heading to more remote sites, like Boreas Pass, be cautious of road conditions. One camper noted, "Made it in a 2w drive low clearance just be slow."

Camping near Empire, Colorado, has its perks and challenges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!