Sterling's eastern Colorado location at 3,937 feet elevation offers a mix of prairie camping opportunities within reasonable driving distance. The area experiences hot summers and cold winters, with summer camping temperatures often reaching into the high 90s. Dispersed and established campgrounds provide options for both tent campers and RVers seeking accommodations near Sterling, Colorado.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: North Sterling State Park offers fishing opportunities in its reservoir. One camper at Prewitt Reservoir State Wildlife Area noted, "Warm-water reservoir stocked with walleye, saugeye, rainbow and cuttbow trout. Other fill include bluegill, crappie and channel catfish."
Bird watching in wetland areas: The waterways attract diverse bird species. A visitor to Prewitt Reservoir mentioned, "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)."
Explore local history: While camping near Sterling, consider side trips to historical landmarks. A visitor to Cabela's RV Park & Campground shared, "Chimney Rock is a landmark that rises high above the prairie and was a landmark for those traveling the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trail. Chimney Rock historic site is only 60 miles from the Cabela's campground."
Disc golf: The area offers recreational facilities beyond typical camping activities. A reviewer at Brush Memorial Park Campground mentioned the park had "Electric and Water. Memorial Park was pet friendly, heated restrooms and showers, picnic shelters, playground, and disc golf."
What campers like
Convenient overnight stops: Many travelers use campgrounds near Sterling as waypoints. A visitor to Creekside RV Park commented, "Nice spot to stay for a night or two. Within walking distance of a couple of bars and grills and a bowling alley, so make sure to check them out."
Clean facilities: Basic but maintained facilities are appreciated. One camper at Sterling RV Park - The Landing stated, "It was very well kept up and clean. The downtown Sterling was nice. Jane was very helpful with directions and things to do and see."
Proximity to water: Reservoir camping offers serene experiences. At Prewitt Reservoir, a visitor shared, "I wanted a place where I could escape from the everyday. A place where, honestly, I didn't have to see another soul if I didn't want to. Beautiful, calm, quiet, loads of fish jumping out of the water, and most importantly free."
Family-friendly amenities: Parks with recreational facilities appeal to families. At Brush Memorial Park Campground, a camper noted, "There is a city pool next door and a pond across the street that is stocked."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Several campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Brush Memorial Park Campground operates "April 1 to October 15" according to its listing.
Limited tent options: Some RV parks don't accommodate tent camping or have few suitable sites. At Buffalo Hills Campground, a visitor observed, "There wasn't much available in terms of tent sites, nor does this place really cater to the tent camper. Tent sites I did see were not very level were very small."
Varied site quality: Maintenance and amenities can differ significantly. A camper at Buffalo Hills Campground & RV Park reported, "Bathrooms were large and clean. Plenty of hot water in the morning. Has a laundry room... Had many many painful plant spurs imbedded on the tent floor and coming through."
Permits for wildlife areas: Some public lands require specific permits. For Prewitt Reservoir, a reviewer noted, "Visitors age 19 through 64 must possess an Annual Jumbo SWA/Prewitt SWA access permit, or a valid hunting or fishing license."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: During summer months, look for campgrounds with water recreation. A camper at Brush Memorial Park noted, "We enjoyed the community pool and the clean playground."
Playground availability: Several parks offer play facilities for children. At Cabela's RV Park & Campground, a visitor shared, "Our toddler loved exploring Cabelas and playing at the playground."
Budget-friendly options: Some municipal parks offer affordable or free initial stays. At Brush Memorial Park Campground, a camper commented, "Great place to stay for a night. Free electric, water and dump station. Nice park next door with swimming pool and playground."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. A visitor to Cabela's RV Park mentioned, "It was educational to learn how much weight and what they carried in the wagons as they worked their way west."
Tips from RVers
Payment systems vary: Be prepared with different payment methods. For Creekside RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "Cash only and no advance reservations, but plenty of spots were left when we were there."
Reservation requirements: Some parks operate on a first-come basis while others require booking. A visitor to Cabela's RV Park & Campground explained, "The campground does not take reservations. It's first-come, first-served. You drive in and find a site, then go to a cashier in the store to register."
Site size considerations: RV parks vary in their ability to accommodate large rigs. At Cabela's, a camper advised, "Big rig friendly, but arrive around 3pm since the place fills up fast later in the day."
Weather precautions: Be prepared for sprinkler systems and other facility operations. At Cabela's RV Park, a camper warned, "Sprinklers turn on at 9:30 so don't leave anything out."
