Best Campgrounds near Indian Hills, CO

Camping areas near Indian Hills, Colorado span a range of settings from developed facilities to remote dispersed sites. The Pike National Forest provides multiple camping options including Chatfield State Park Campground with full hookups for RVs, and Buffalo Creek Recreation Area where dispersed camping is permitted on public lands. Campground options vary from lakeside settings to mountain forests, with elevations typically between 7,000-9,000 feet. Both tent and RV camping are widely available, with some locations like Bear Creek Lake Park offering cabins and glamping accommodations for those seeking more comfort.

Road conditions and access vary significantly throughout the region, particularly for dispersed camping locations. Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall. While established campgrounds like Dakota Ridge RV Park remain accessible year-round, dispersed areas in the national forest typically close during winter months due to snow. Campgrounds in the area generally operate from May through September, though some lower-elevation sites remain open year-round. Cell service is spotty in many locations, particularly in canyon areas and higher elevations. A visitor noted that at Gordon Gulch dispersed area, "the elevation is about 8,800 ft and it is on the south side of a hill so it gets a lot of sunlight and is protected from northern winds."

Mountain views and water access represent key attractions at many campgrounds in the region. Several developed campgrounds provide amenities like flush toilets, picnic tables and fire rings, while dispersed sites offer more solitude but require self-sufficiency. The proximity to Denver makes these camping areas popular weekend destinations, with many sites filling quickly during summer months. Campers frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, with moose, deer and eagles commonly spotted. Public lands in the area connect to extensive trail systems including the Colorado Trail, providing hiking and mountain biking opportunities directly from campsites. Reviews indicate that noise levels vary significantly - campgrounds near highways experience road noise, while more remote forest locations offer greater quiet. A camper described Chief Hosa Campground as having "sites well spaced apart" with "water spigots, vault toilets and garbage cans equally dispersed throughout."

Best Camping Sites Near Indian Hills, Colorado (393)

    1. Chatfield State Park Campground

    76 Reviews
    Littleton, CO
    10 miles
    Website
    +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."

    "This is the first time I’ve found a state park so close to a major metro area!!

    Because of its proximity to Denver, Chatfield fills up quickly, so book well in advance."

    2. Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park

    34 Reviews
    Morrison, CO
    5 miles
    Website

    "This was our first time staying at Bear Creek Lake. The park is not part of the Colorado Wilds or CPW State Park system, but daily vehicle fees are included with your camping reservation."

    "Note: If the GPS takes you to a dirt road with a closed gate at the end, get back on the highway and take the next exit to the park entrance."

    3. Dakota Ridge RV Park

    41 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 279-1625

    "This park is kind of pricey even in the winter (we stayed Nov22-Jan23) but it’s Colorado and it’s all pretty pricey. Park staff is super friendly and accommodating."

    "Good site if you want to be close to Denver but still have a short drive to the foothills."

    4. Chief Hosa Campground

    27 Reviews
    Kittredge, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (720) 913-0700

    $33 - $40 / night

    "They use a keycode system to restrict access to the centrally-located bathhouse (there is only one in the campground), which I thought was clever. "

    "The highway noise was very noticeable, but didn’t take away from the peaceful setting. It was a clean campground. The bathrooms and showers were clean and have a key code for entry."

    5. Clear Creek RV Park

    28 Reviews
    Golden, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 278-1437

    $32 - $80 / night

    "Had a great spot right next to the Clear Creek walking path. The campground is clean and well looked after. Clean bathrooms and showers. Close to many hikes and mt trails."

    "**Campground Review: **

    Golden, CO is a super cute town on the outskirts of Denver. The city has a campground in a prime location, and we were lucky to book a site!"

    6. Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon

    48 Reviews
    Eldorado Springs, CO
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3707

    $18 / night

    "area was plowed open to exactly the width of our trailer, so with more than three feet of snow on the ground we needed to get some exercise and do a bit of shoveling so we could back in and be able to walk"

    "Late October is very unpredictable in Colorado for a camper who is primarily a tent camper."

    7. Cherry Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Centennial, CO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 690-1166

    $28 - $432 / night

    "I only gave it 4 stars because on the outskirts of the state park we have a lot of homeless camps popping up oblong Parker road and 225."

    "It is in the center of the city, but aside from the traffic on the dam in the distance you would not realize it. "

    8. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    Buffalo Creek, CO
    19 miles

    "There's several creeks that run through the area and a network of trails that intersect the Colorado Trail and the road. The area is popular with mountain bikers."

    "The area was well kept and obviously beautiful, it's Colorado after all. There was no running water, however the camo host drives an ATV around offering water from giant containers. I loved it."

    9. Denver West-Central City KOA

    30 Reviews
    Central City, CO
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3043

    "good location for cute old mountain towns! also close to Denver and other must sees in Colorado!"

    "8100’ high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don’t worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!"

    10. Applewood RV Resort by Rjourney

    13 Reviews
    Wheat Ridge, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 872-7544

    "Good location close to interstate to access all the cool towns and site seeing west of Denver."

    "When I walked in the office, I was greeted by 5 wonderful sweet dogs. I love dogs so there couldn't have been a better greeting. Kathy was very friendly and helpful."

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Recent Reviews near Indian Hills, CO

2568 Reviews of 393 Indian Hills Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Great spot, right on the water

    High clearance 4x4 recommended but could be doable without if you’re an experienced driver. Beautiful lakes and some campsites are right on the water. Only one other person camping on a Wednesday night. There is currently a fire ban so be sure to respect our forests and be updated.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Chief Hosa Campground

    I-70 off-ramp camping

    The campground is unfortunately too close to the highway and the noise makes it difficult to sleep or relax. Nice parking spot if you need to see the sights for a day or two.

  • Kevin C.
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Dispersed Camping - Pike National Forest Divide

    Nice Campground but Terrible Neighbors

    It is a nice spot to make camp.  We had plenty of spots to choose from.  We thought it was perfect at first.  Then the people with the ATVs started showing up and it got loud.  And stayed loud all night long.  Loud, with massive lights that would light up our tent every time they drove by all night long.  We will not be going back, purely because of the other people.

  • Trish M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    Absolutely beautiful

    My husband and I are addicted to dispersed camping 🏕 and every weekend, we try to go somewhere different. This place was beautiful beyond words! The road getting there really wasn't bad, but you do need a little ground clearance. We got in around 9 pm, so it was dark, and we didn't know where we were, so there was a spot open right as you get to the top that we parked in. The moon was so bright we could see the mountains around us and could even see the like big of snow up there. Woke up the next morning and fell in love with our spot, so we stayed. We decided to take a walk around the lake and check out the upper lake. Definitely loved it here. Will be back for sure.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Nice view of Gold Lake

    Overlook of Gold Lake

    Beautiful camp site setup. Huge Rock fire pit. Piled firewood. At a high point with views of gold's Lake roads to site have been deactivated so it would be necessary to walk in. AT&t cell service a little bit spotty. Nice open areas up there. Roads in sight. Very secluded

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Gold Lake Roosevelt Forest dispersed camping

    Peaceful. Nobody around

    Adjacent to boundary fence line between the private Lake and the national Roosevelt Forest. Nice high spot. Well shaded. Very large fire pit for fires when they're allowed. Weak AT&T.

  • E
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Denver East-Strasburg KOA

    Great location

    The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. Campground is clean and quiet.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Bear Creek Lake Campground

    Location, Location, Location

    The Good: Very clean. Diligently maintained. Super friendly staff.

    The Bad: Day use Denverite humans on bicycles who run their mouths as the peddle past. (Get a job, Chad).

    The Ugly: national home improvement retail outlet neon serves as a directional reference from every vantage point.


Guide to Indian Hills

Camping near Indian Hills, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Paddleboarding and Water Activities: Enjoy the beautiful paddleboarding spots at Chatfield State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it a great place to cool off on hot days.
  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Golden Gate Canyon State Park. A camper noted, "Great biking, hiking right from the campsite," highlighting the accessibility of outdoor adventures.
  • Fishing and Swimming: The Bear Creek Lake Park has a reservoir perfect for swimming and fishing. One reviewer said, "Reservoir in the park for swimming and fishing," making it a fun spot for families.

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon mentioned, "Much jet noise from airliners leaving Denver," so be prepared for some background noise.
  • Road Conditions: If you're heading to Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, be aware that the road conditions can be poor. One review noted, "The road is in very poor condition," which might be a concern for some campers.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Vasquez Ridge may not have many facilities. A visitor mentioned, "No drinking water, no electric hookups," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Chatfield State Park Campground, where families can enjoy paddleboarding and hiking. One parent said, "Loved the paddle board experience," which is great for kids.
  • Check for Clean Facilities: Families appreciate clean bathrooms. A camper at Cherry Creek State Park Campground noted, "Great Campground, Incredible Dog Park," which is perfect for families with pets.
  • Plan for Shade: If camping in the summer, look for shaded spots. A review for Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon mentioned, "There are lots of trees if you like shade," which can help keep kids cool.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, "Pull through sites are very practical to accommodate longer RV," which is helpful for larger vehicles.
  • Be Prepared for Costs: Some campgrounds can be pricey. A visitor at Denver West-Central City KOA said, "It is a bit pricy for an RV ($92 per night)," so budget accordingly.
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campers appreciate full hookups for convenience. One review for Dakota Ridge RV Park stated, "Full service with a very friendly staff," which can make your stay more comfortable.

Camping near Indian Hills, Colorado, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to bustling campgrounds. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Indian Hills Campground?

Indian Hills Campground typically provides basic amenities similar to other Colorado foothills campgrounds. You'll likely find maintained fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets. For comparison, Roosevelt National Forest Camp Dick Campground offers well-maintained fire pits and access to hiking trails, while Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake provides bathroom facilities and a visitor center where you can purchase firewood. Most mountain campgrounds in this region don't offer hookups or showers but compensate with natural beauty and outdoor recreation access.

Do I need reservations for camping at Indian Hills?

Reservations are highly recommended for camping at Indian Hills, especially during peak season (May through September) and on weekends. Like many Colorado mountain campgrounds, sites can fill quickly. For comparison, Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur and Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir both benefit from advance planning. If you're flexible with your camping location, nearby dispersed camping areas may offer first-come, first-served options, but designated campgrounds in the Indian Hills area generally operate on a reservation system to manage visitor numbers.

Where is Indian Hills Campground located?

Indian Hills Campground is located in the beautiful Colorado mountains, approximately 30 minutes west of Denver. This area is nestled in the foothills, similar to nearby Colorado Campground which sits outside of Woodland Park and near Manitou Lake. The Indian Hills region offers easy access to multiple hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a convenient base for exploring the Front Range wilderness while still being within reasonable driving distance from urban amenities.