Sterling, Colorado camping areas sit on the high plains at 3,937 feet elevation. The region's semi-arid climate averages 16 inches of rainfall annually, creating a drought-resistant landscape dominated by shortgrass prairie. Camping options range from reservoir-based parks to city campgrounds, with many sites offering minimal natural shade due to the treeless plains ecosystem.
What to Do
Birdwatching opportunities: At Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area, campers can observe numerous bird species in this wetland habitat. "Birding is good here most of the year even during goose season which opens the first Saturday in October (Herons, grebes, white pelicans, ducks and peeps)," notes Robert C. The reservoir attracts diverse waterfowl throughout the seasons.
Hiking the buttes: The trails at Pawnee Buttes - Dispersed Camping offer moderate terrain with unique geological formations. "We did the hikes to both of the 'buttes'. From the second one you can get nice areal views if you climb a bit. It took us 3h in a very easy pace, lots of photo and views stops. It can probably be done in and 1h to 1.30h," shares Wild Berries B.
Stargazing sessions: The high plains provide excellent night sky visibility with minimal light pollution. "This area is also a 'dark site,' so on clear, moonless nights the stars / Milky Way are phenomenal," reports J A. from Pawnee Buttes. The open landscape creates unobstructed viewing in all directions.
What Campers Like
Overnight convenience: Many travelers appreciate the accessibility of Brush Memorial Park Campground as a stopover point. "This city park campground is 10 minutes off the highway - a perfect overnighter. We had W & E with a picnic table on a gravel lot surrounded by the municipal park," writes Beverly W.
Peace and solitude: The dispersed camping areas provide quiet escapes from crowded campgrounds. "This is an unexpected gem very close to our house where you can't see a tree for miles. It's peaceful and not crowded," says Larry H. about Pawnee Buttes. The open spaces create natural separation between camping areas.
Water recreation access: North Sterling State Park Campground receives praise for its lake-based activities. "There are two campgrounds at this state park — Inlet Cove and Elks. Elks is next to the marina and feels made for rvs and campers (though you could rent camp too)," explains Laura S. The reservoir provides fishing and boating opportunities throughout the camping season.
What You Should Know
Wind exposure considerations: The open plains landscape provides little natural shelter from prevailing winds. "Very windy with little cover" reports Erin T. about North Sterling State Park, while another camper at Pawnee Buttes notes "It was very windy, especially at night (the wind rocked the car most of the night). It wasn't an issue for us sleeping in the car, but I wouldn't tent camp."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation as temperatures can drop significantly. "We were here in mid April and there was one other RV there. The campground allows views in all directions, that seem to go on for a hundred miles," shares Michael G. Spring and fall typically offer the most moderate weather conditions.
Road conditions: Access to some of the best places to camp near Sterling involves gravel roads. "You have to drive for several miles on some bumpy roads, but my Ford transit handled it fine," reports Kelda C. about reaching Pawnee Buttes dispersed sites. During winter months, snow drifts can accumulate on less-maintained routes.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Buffalo Hills Campground & RV Park offers amenities for children. "We stopped here for the night on our way to the Mountains. (Tent Camping!) The manager was very friendly. Reserving was easy, it is place quiet and open. There's a small play area for kids," notes Danielle F.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe diverse plains animals during their stay. "We saw encounters with antelope, badgers," one camper reported, while at North Sterling State Park, a ranger "found a bull snake. That was huge. Non poisonous. But surprise. Ha ha," according to Jenn H.
Swimming options: During summer months, community pools near campgrounds provide relief from the heat. "We enjoyed the community pool and the clean playground. Very safe area for my brood," shares Crystal R. about Brush Memorial Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers suggest specific sites at certain campgrounds for optimal experiences. At North Sterling State Park, one camper advises: "Best sites waterfront IMHO are 117, 119, and 121 and 123. If you fish, you can do it right from your campsite in a few of these."
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds near Sterling offer partial or full hookups. "Like all Colorado State Parks there is an entrance fee to pay at the gate. AND to camp you must make reservations online. They do not assign camp spaces or take camping payments at the Visitors Center," explains David L. about North Sterling State Park.
Utility management: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Inlet Grove campground has lots of water spigots throughout the campground (every four or five sites) and a dump station with water at the entrance," notes Lori E. RVers should plan accordingly for locations with limited resources.
