Best Campgrounds near Thornton, CO

Camping near Thornton, Colorado, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

• Paddleboarding and Water Sports: At Chatfield State Park Campground, visitors enjoy paddleboarding on the lake. One reviewer mentioned, "Very pretty paddle boarding sites," making it a great spot for water activities.
• Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like Bear Creek Lake Park, offer trails for hiking and biking. A camper noted, "Great biking, hiking right from the campsite," highlighting the convenience of outdoor adventures.
• Fishing: If you’re into fishing, check out Beaver Park Reservoir. One visitor shared, "The location is great...great hiking trails nearby," perfect for a day of fishing and exploring.

What campers like:

• Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpful staff at places like Denver West-Central City KOA. One guest said, "Every staff member was so helpful and nice," making for a welcoming experience.
• Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A reviewer at Cherry Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were exceptionally clean and well maintained," which is always a relief when camping.
• Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Reverend's Ridge Campground offer stunning views. One camper noted, "Stunning campground nestled right outside Golden," making it a picturesque spot to relax.

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park reported, "Noise from the bar goes till around 11," which might be a concern for light sleepers.
• Road Conditions: If you're heading to Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, be prepared for rough roads. One camper mentioned, "The road is in very poor condition," so a vehicle with good clearance is recommended.
• Limited Amenities: Some dispersed camping areas, like Beaver Park Reservoir, lack facilities. A reviewer noted, "There’s about 10 designated camp sites to choose from," but amenities are minimal, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Cherry Creek State Park Campground, which offers activities for kids. One parent shared, "Great Campground, Incredible Dog Park," making it a fun place for families.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Golden Gate Canyon State Park mentioned, "Much more so in E loop," indicating that some areas are better suited for family fun.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A visitor at Clear Creek RV Park said, "The location to downtown Golden...is incredible!" so you can easily grab supplies if needed.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Levels: At places like Dakota Ridge RV Park, uneven sites can be a hassle. One RVer noted, "The site was really bad...so uneven that no matter how much we tried we couldn't get level."
• Be Prepared for Costs: Some campgrounds have additional fees. A visitor at Denver West-Central City KOA mentioned, "It is pricey and there are many rules," so budget accordingly.
• Bring Extra Supplies: At campgrounds like Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area, amenities are limited. One camper said, "There’s huge piles of trash everywhere," so be ready to pack out what you bring in.

Camping near Thornton, CO, has something for everyone. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories!