K
Kyle H.
Traveler
TravelerEnd of the Road
The actual end of the road
Peaceful, great mountain breezes, tall conifers, you need high clearance to drive the 200 feet off the road but it’s like you’re a lot further than that.
Best Campgrounds in Colorado
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Colorado encompasses a wide spectrum of camping experiences, from remote dispersed sites on Bureau of Land Management land to well-developed facilities in national parks. Several prominent campgrounds such as Mesa Verde National Park's Morefield Campground and Rocky Mountain National Park's Moraine Park Campground provide established amenities for tent and RV campers. The state's public lands support diverse accommodation types, with many locations like Mueller State Park offering both traditional campground options and cabin rentals. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping represents numerous primitive camping opportunities on public land throughout the region, where campers can experience more solitude away from developed campground settings.
Seasonal considerations vary dramatically across Colorado's diverse elevations. Many campgrounds like Saddlehorn in Colorado National Monument operate only from spring through fall (March to October), while others such as Chatfield State Park remain accessible year-round. Road conditions in dispersed camping areas can present challenges, particularly after rain or snow events. Permits and reservations are essential at most developed campgrounds, especially during peak summer months when popular sites fill quickly. Visitors should be prepared for significant temperature variations, even during summer months, particularly at higher elevations where overnight temperatures can drop considerably. A camper noted, "Lots of dispersed camping throughout this area. At this spot we found a nice area for a tent that had a fire pit."
Several visitors highlight the appeal of waterside locations, with creek and riverside sites receiving particularly positive reviews. Campers frequently mention the combination of natural settings and basic amenities as key factors in their satisfaction. Campgrounds with electrical hookups like Moraine Park provide a middle ground between rustic and comfortable camping experiences. Public lands offer the greatest flexibility for those seeking solitude, though they typically lack facilities like running water or maintained restrooms. Primitive sites on BLM land provide cost-effective alternatives to developed campgrounds, with one reviewer stating they "Got lucky and found a perfect site right by the creek with a fire ring. Easy to get to in our camper van, no 4 x 4 required." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping represent the majority of established options throughout the state.
Campground Showdown in Colorado
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Best Camping Sites in Colorado (2,251)
1. Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park
112 ReviewsMancos, COWebsite+1 (800) 449-2288"Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"
"I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."
2. Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
98 ReviewsEstes Park, COWebsite+1 (970) 586-1206$35 - $70 / night
"Took the kids camping in Colorado for the first time and we had a blast. It rained on us a lot but it didn't stop us. Took a great hike up deer mountain....stunning views. Can't wait to go back."
"Very enjoyable spot, close access to trails and entrance and exit of the park."
3. Pinon Flats Campground — Great Sand Dunes National Park
99 ReviewsGardner, COWebsite+1 (877) 444-6777$20 - $80 / night
"It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."
"Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."
4. Chatfield State Park Campground
81 ReviewsLittleton, COWebsite+1 (303) 791-7275$36 - $200 / night
"Chatfield State Park is a great mixture of access to the outdoors with availability of many of the benefits of a metro area close by."
"We were on the outskirts of D Loop. The western views of the mountains were beautiful. Better views in other sites but a walk about gave way to the front range."
5. Saddlehorn Campground — Colorado National Monument
73 ReviewsFruita, COWebsite+1 (970) 858-3617$22 / night
"This is one of my favorite campgrounds, because Colorado National Monument is so stunning."
"Colorado National Monument is one of the treasures of the National Parks system."
6. Zapata Falls Campground
71 ReviewsBlanca, COWebsite+1 (719) 852-7074$20 / night
"This was our last night camping in Colorado and it was beautiful!"
"This area in Colorado is one of the most unique places I've seen in a while."
7. South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
68 ReviewsMontrose, COWebsite+1 (970) 249-1914$20 - $34 / night
"The South Rim Campground is similar to other national park campground in that it provides convenient access to park activities and trails, but it stands apart due to the fact that the camping fees are"
"Most of the outer sites are tucked into the forest so there is a decent level of privacy. Lots of deer frequent the area, we saw several on each trip."
8. Mueller State Park Campground
64 ReviewsDivide, COWebsite+1 (719) 687-2366$28 - $270 / night
"This Colorado state park brings visitors year-round for all types of recreation. We have traveled here several times, both tent camping and in our camper."
"By far my favorite campground in Colorado. Sites all have great views and are paved. The park is clean and rangers are always around checking in. Close to town and great hikes. Can’t wait to go back!"
9. Black Canyon Dispersed Camping
67 ReviewsBlack Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, COWebsite"Great location right next to the park! There are plenty of sites and the views are beautiful. Entrance was slightly rutted so make sure you can off-road just a bit!"
"A few minutes outside the south gate of the park. Multiple sites, most of which are on dirt. Paths to and from can be a bit rough for most passenger vehicles. But it’s quite and close to the park."
10. Glacier Basin Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park
60 ReviewsEstes Park, COWebsite+1 (970) 586-1206$35 - $70 / night
"Firewood sold next to the entrance by the same husband and wife that have been selling firewood there for 35 years. There is a shed full of firewood."
"The spaces are large, but quite close to one another with few trees for privacy. Each site here is variable, with some open with no trees and others nestled in some mature trees."
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Recent Reviews in Colorado
10000 Reviews of 2251 Colorado Campgrounds
- JJohn H.
ScoutSeep Springs OHV Area
One night stay
Nice road getting in, driving a Tacoma and Jay Flight 20ft. We stayed at the first pull through lot, it was spacious. The road to the other 2 sites had some gnarly ruts. Lots of goathead weeds the dogs didn’t like, and some noise from the nearby atv trails. Overall still a nice place to stay
katie W.ScoutSilverton Lakes RV Resort
Perfect Summer Getaway!
We've been coming to Silverton Lakes RV Park Campground for the past five years, and it continues to be one of our favorite places to stay in Colorado. We visited again this July, and as always, had an amazing experience. The weather was perfect, with cool, crisp mornings and sunny afternoons with rain some days that made it easy to enjoy everything the area has to offer. What really keeps us coming back year after year is the incredible staff. Everyone is so friendly, welcoming, and accommodating, always going out of their way to make sure guests have everything they need. You can truly tell they care about providing a great experience. The campground is always clean, well-maintained, and surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. We highly recommend Silverton Lakes RV Park Campground to anyone looking for a relaxing and memorable camping trip. We already can't wait to come back next year!
- CChase C.Scout
Saints John Trail Roadside Campsites
Not crowded, rough trail
Got there at 5:30pm on a Saturday, still a few spots open. Road getting up is rough but saw some Subarus, would recommend a high clearance vehicle. Very pretty!
- MMerrily J.
GuideSaul’s Creek Campground
Not much going on — and that’s why we liked it
Convenient to shopping in Durango 18 miles west. Nice community market with surprisingly well stocked produce and wine selections. Bayfield offers several restaurants, some antique stores, a Napa, Tractor Supply and Dollar General among other small retailers including a laundromat. Propane refills at the Speedway and potable water at the Maverik between Bayfield and Durango.
Access is by FS628. We strongly recommend that eastbound campers in large rigs, whether motor homes or pulling trailers, use the turnoff from the Bayfield Parkway at the Conoco gas station because the eastern turnoff involves a hairpin right turn that we would have been unable to make with our 5th wheel. FS626 and 627 are well maintained gravel roads. There is one sharp, blind corner on 627 that needs to be taken at the posted 15 mph speed. The first turn off to the right on 627 is the access road to Sauls Creek. Despite exploring most of the side roads, we never found a formal campground, so our experience is with the dispersed camping. The campground is closed in the winter for wildlife management purposes. Contact the San Juan FS office in Bayfield for specific dates.
628 and its smaller branches are narrow but well maintained dirt roads which might be muddy during wet weather and dusty other times. The camping sites are widely spaced and either open meadow or tucked into the pines. Most are car/van or small RV sites but we did find several that would accommodate large rigs or serve for group camping. Traffic was light, mostly residents of ranches at the end of some of the branches off 628 or service trucks tending to a few natural gas pumpers scattered around. Off-road vehicle travel is prohibited, so we saw (heard) only a couple of motorbikes and quads. Dog walkers, joggers and horseback riders were most frequent passers-by. We could see a few RVs at a distance but never had any actual neighbors.
We found a beautiful site off 755A on a pine covered hill with meadow views on three sides. It was a keyhole site with a turnaround a little too tight for our 41’ so we had to back out when leaving. We had good solar but also adequate shade and breezes which were most appreciated when temperatures hit 90 on several days during our stay. There were a couple of rock fire circles but no downed wood for fires. No cutting down of standing trees! Also we were under Stage 2 fire restrictions so did not have a campfire.
We were reluctant to move on but stay limit is 14 days. No amenities — haul in and haul out.
Sue D.GuideCold Springs - Arapaho Roosevelt Nf (CO)
Peaceful and beautiful
The moose came! We watched them from within our camper van, very exciting. Aspens and pines everywhere, gambling town 12 minutes away, Moffat Tunnel a half hour drive with a great hike. Average clean bathrooms, can't complain.
Nicholas P.TravelerBeaver Park Reservoir - Dispersed
Great
A lot of private land around, but also lots of camp sites. I didn't spend too long there, but it was great at least for what I was looking for as a spot to crash for the night!
Kimberly A.GuideWhite River National Forest dispersed
WRNF dispersed camping
Beautiful Mountain Views! -privacy. No one can pull in next to you.
-small campers/trucks/cars and tents.
-great basecamp for Off-roading (approx 2-3 miles from meadow lake)
Rob S.
RangerShavano Mountain
Shavano Delight
This place is one of the best BLM campgrounds ever. It would be nice if it had a pit toilet, but that is my only wish.
Guide to Colorado
Camping in Colorado offers stunning views, diverse landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in the Centennial State.
What to do
- Explore the Outdoors: Colorado is known for its beautiful parks. For instance, at Chatfield State Park Campground, you can enjoy paddle boarding and hiking. One camper mentioned, “Loved the paddle board experience.”
- Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Mueller State Park Campground, are home to diverse wildlife. A visitor noted, “Lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery.”
- Fishing and Boating: At Eleven Mile State Park, you can fish or take a canoe out on the water. One camper said, “Take a canoe, kayak, or fishing poles and enjoy a day on the lake.”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Cherry Creek State Park Campground stated, “Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained.”
- Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. At Mueller State Park Campground, a camper remarked, “Park staff are very friendly.”
- Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. One visitor at Turtle Rock Campground said, “This place is beautiful. Easy to get to.”
What you should know
- Weather Variability: Colorado weather can change quickly. A camper at Eleven Mile State Park warned, “Winds in the evening almost made me leave site.”
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, lack basic facilities. A review mentioned, “There’s huge piles of trash everywhere.”
- Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Prospector Campground noted, “If you have one of the US Park lifetime senior lifetime whatever’s then it’s only $13.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. Cherry Creek State Park Campground offers various activities, making it great for families.
- Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and games for the kids. One camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, “The staff was great and managed to get us a site at short notice.”
- Plan Activities: Have a list of fun things to do. A visitor at Chatfield State Park Campground said, “The state park is enjoyable.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Mueller State Park Campground noted, “Our site was a pull through with a tight radius for a 25ft trailer.”
- Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Some campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A review for Prospector Campground mentioned, “There is no water, no electric, no sewer.”
- Stay Vigilant About Security: Some areas have reported theft. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park warned, “One vehicle stolen and several cars rummaged through.”
Camping in Colorado can be a fantastic experience if you know what to expect. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of activities, it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for scenic views?
What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for scenic views?
Colorado offers breathtaking vistas at numerous campgrounds. South Bay Campground — Horsetooth Reservoir is renowned for having some of the best views in the state after 15+ years of camping comparisons. For mountain panoramas, Oh Be Joyful Campground delivers amazing vistas with a convenient honor system for fees. The high-elevation sites at Twin Peaks Dispersed Campground provide killer views with great hiking opportunities. For unique landscapes, consider the South Rim Campground — Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park where dramatic cliff views create an unforgettable experience.
When is the best time of year to camp in Colorado?
When is the best time of year to camp in Colorado?
Summer (June-August) is prime camping season in Colorado with warm days and cool nights. At Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll enjoy stunning summer hiking opportunities, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Early fall (September-early October) offers spectacular aspen color changes with fewer crowds at places like Freeman Reservoir Campground, which is praised as a 10/10 camping destination with perfect fall weather. Late spring (late May-June) brings wildflowers but potential lingering snow at higher elevations. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, but requires proper cold-weather gear. For high mountain camping, the season is shortest, typically July-September due to snow conditions.
Where can I find free camping in Colorado?
Where can I find free camping in Colorado?
Colorado offers excellent free dispersed camping options. Road 240 - Dispersed is described as one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for free camping, with numerous wooded sites along a river. Buffalo Pass Campground provides free camping in wide-open spaces away from weekend crowds. The Black Canyon Dispersed Camping area offers free sites on BLM land. Throughout Colorado, National Forests provide abundant dispersed camping on Forest Service roads - just look for existing fire rings and camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and be prepared with your own water and waste disposal systems.
What are the most popular camping areas in Southern Colorado?
What are the most popular camping areas in Southern Colorado?
Southern Colorado features several remarkable camping destinations. Zapata Falls Campground near the Great Sand Dunes offers beautiful high-desert camping with access to a scenic waterfall. Great Sand Dunes Oasis provides spacious tent sites with dune views and clean facilities, perfect for first-time Colorado campers. The Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins is praised as one of the most beautiful RV parks in the region. For history enthusiasts, Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park offers convenient access to ancient cliff dwellings. Pinon Flats Campground at Great Sand Dunes National Park is another popular option with its unique landscape.
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