Best Tent Camping near Timnath, CO

Tent camping near Timnath, Colorado provides access to diverse natural settings within a short drive, from mountain foothills to reservoir shorelines. Backcountry Campground at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offers tent-only sites just 15 miles west of Timnath, with first-come, first-served walk-in tent sites about 1.5 miles from the parking area. Lory State Park Backcountry Campsites, located near Bellvue, provides hike-in tent camping opportunities with views of Horsetooth Reservoir. For tent campers seeking established sites with more amenities, Hermits Hollow Campground in Hermit Park offers spacious tent campsites with bear boxes, fire rings, and picnic tables.

Most tent campgrounds in the area require advance reservations during peak season (May through September), while dispersed camping in Canyon Lakes Ranger District provides free primitive tent camping options. Bear-resistant food storage is required at most locations, with bear boxes provided at established campgrounds. Water availability varies significantly between sites, with no potable water at most backcountry locations. According to reviews, campers should pack in all water needed for Horsetooth Mountain Open Space backcountry sites. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, so tent campers should check current regulations before planning to have a campfire. Vault toilets are available at established campgrounds but not at dispersed sites.

The backcountry tent camping experience near Timnath offers notable solitude and scenic views. One visitor reported that Horsetooth Mountain Open Space backcountry sites are "secluded enough so you don't see hikers or bikers" and provide "nice views of Horsetooth Reservoir." Primitive tent camping in the area typically features flat tent pads surrounded by ponderosa pines and rock formations. Tent campers should be prepared for wildlife encounters, including bears, and practice proper food storage. Weekday visits are recommended for greater solitude, as one camper noted that Hermits Hollow "was full for the holiday weekend, but staff mentioned there's usually a lot of availability during the week." Elevation at most tent sites ranges from 5,500 to 9,000 feet, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear even in summer months.

Best Tent Sites Near Timnath, Colorado (38)

    1. Backcountry Campground — Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

    3 Reviews
    Masonville, CO
    12 miles
    +1 (970) 498-5610

    $25 / night

    "This would be a perfect first backpacking trip for beginners! Once you park, you sign in to the backpacking log to the right of the main entrance by the kiosk. The sites are first come first serve."

    "Great sunrises and away from traffic noise tho you may have to deal with a little bit of noise from the hiking trail but other than that horse tooth has 3 back country sites that are perfect. highly recommend"

    2. Boat In Sites — Horsetooth Reservoir

    2 Reviews
    Masonville, CO
    10 miles
    +1 (970) 619-4570

    $30 / night

    "The water also will go from so far above the trees that there is no shade to so far below that you're hoofing your gear 100 yards from the boat in the mud up to your campsite."

    3. Lory State Park Backcountry Campsites

    3 Reviews
    Bellvue, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 493-1623

    $18 / night

    "We did a quick overnight backpacking trip to one of the backcountry sites at the top of the Timber trail. It’s a beautiful meadow with wildflowers in the summer."

    "We did a quick overnight backpacking trip to one of the backcountry sites at the top of the Timber trail. It’s a beautiful meadow with wildflowers in the summer."

    4. Hermits Hollow Campground — Hermit Park

    25 Reviews
    Estes Park, CO
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 577-2090

    $35 / night

    "Best place to camp in Estes Park/Northern Colorado! Wooded sites mean privacy from your neighbors and shade during the day. Vault toilets are very clean, well kept."

    "Very conveniently located, only a short drive into Estes Park. Lots of trails for hiking and biking in the park. Each campsite had a bear box, picnic table, and fire ring."

    5. Allenspark Dispersed Camping

    27 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Our spot was near the creek, the sound was beautiful. The only downside was absolutely no cell service."

    "Fire ban was in effect when we went, but lots of fire circles available otherwise. Bring bug spray, the flies are bold."

    6. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    53 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    46 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Prior campers have left some trash, bullet casings and obviously neglected to dig cat holes. After a quick clean up, the site was fine for my purposes."

    8. Allenspark Dispersed Camp Spot

    9 Reviews
    Pinewood Springs, CO
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 295-6600

    "Clear skies at night, but tree cover if you prefer. Quick drive to Estes Park. No Verizon cell service."

    "Spacious site with a fire ring. Easy time finding, just follow all the arrows when there is a fork in the road."

    10. Longs Peak Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park

    14 Reviews
    Allenspark, CO
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 586-1206

    "The camp sites near the top of Longs Peak in the Boulderfield are worth the long hike (6 miles up steep terrain)."

    "Amazing hikes and plenty of wildlife. The spaces are small but accommodate an RV or a single tent. Bear boxes and toilets close to everything."

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Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Timnath, CO

1583 Reviews of 38 Timnath Campgrounds



Guide to Timnath

Nestled near Timnath, Colorado, tent camping offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Carter Knolls Campground at Carter Lake features picnic tables, firewood availability, and drinking water, making it a comfortable spot for campers.
  • South Shore Campground offers electric hookups and sanitary dump facilities, catering to those who prefer a bit more convenience while camping.
  • Longs Peak Campground provides well-maintained sites with toilets and trash disposal, ensuring a clean and pleasant camping experience.

Activities for outdoor enthusiasts

Tent campers should check out local attractions

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Timnath, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Timnath, CO is Backcountry Campground — Horsetooth Mountain Open Space with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Timnath, CO?

TheDyrt.com has all 38 tent camping locations near Timnath, CO, with real photos and reviews from campers.