Twin Lakes Colorado camping sites cluster around 9,200 feet elevation, creating unique conditions for visitors. The area transitions through distinct seasonal periods with rapid temperature changes even in summer months. Camp sites near Twin Lakes offer access to the highest peaks in Colorado with several 14,000+ foot mountains accessible from nearby trailheads.
What to do
Water activities at Chatfield State Park: Located south of Denver, this park features a large reservoir for water sports. "Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," notes Rick from Chatfield State Park Campground.
Mountain biking in Golden Gate Canyon: The park offers extensive trail networks for cyclists of all skill levels. "Golden Gate Canyon SP is absolutely gorgeous! We loved the experience at the park, the trails are great and the views are wonderful," writes Minette and Ron G. from Deer Creek Campground — Golden Gate Canyon.
Wildlife viewing at Standley Lake: The lake provides opportunities to view diverse bird species. "I love watching them in flight with their wings expanded, coming in for a landing, sometimes awkward but always interesting. Inside the visitor center there is a large 'Eagle Cam' TV with live footage of the endangered Bald eagles nesting their eaglets," shares Nancy B. from Standley Lake Regional Park.
Paddling options for beginners: Rent equipment if you don't have your own. "If you don't have a paddle craft they rent them there. You can rent a kayak, a paddle board, a canoe, or a paddle bicycle on a pontoon!" adds Nancy from Standley Lake.
What campers like
Proximity to Denver with mountain feel: Some campgrounds offer a blend of accessibility and nature. "While this campground is minutes from the city and seconds from a highway, at night you feel like you are in a quiet, mountain campsite with stars to gaze for days," notes Kandisa S. from Indian Paintbrush Campground—Bear Creek Lake Park.
Convenient base camps for exploration: Several campgrounds serve as hubs for regional activities. "This campground allows easy access to Denver, Golden, and the foothills. Campers are close together, but there are some mature trees. This campground is nicer than most that provide access to Denver," mentions Colorado C. from Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were VERY clean and seemed to be pretty new - plenty of bathroom stalls, sinks, and large showers. They were quarter showers for 2 minutes of hot water, so basically less than $1 per shower, which is great," reports Danielle V. from Chief Hosa Campground.
Year-round camping options: Some lower elevation sites remain open all year. "Clean bathrooms. Very friendly attendant. Level primitive spots. $26 for primitive," notes Christa C. about Chatfield State Park Campground, which operates year-round.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary by location: Many campgrounds have specific fire rules. "No campfires, strict restrictions on how you can and can't cook food, no hammocks or lines from trees for dogs or dish towels etc," explains Kim L. from Chief Hosa Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. "The campground is easy to get too right off of Interstate 70. It was nice but the sites are very close and you can hear the traffic on the interstate really well," shares Kimberly M. about Chief Hosa.
Limited shade at some sites: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds. "Not a lot of shade for dogs. Super disappointing the pool was closed in the middle of July. Biker bar and noise didn't affect us," reports Chasing the S. from Dakota Ridge RV Park.
Park entrance fees: Many sites charge additional day-use fees. "Your camping reservation (strongly recommended) includes park admission," notes Jennifer L. about Indian Paintbrush Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Some sites offer dedicated children's areas. "Great campground, well kept. Without a reservation you put your name on a list that they start going through at 1pm to assign sites," explains sarah S. from Chatfield State Park.
Consider sites with recreation options: Multiple activities keep children engaged. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," says Joshua H. from Bear Creek Lake Park.
Cabin or yurt options: Alternative accommodations provide comfort for families. "Was just beautiful all the staff was wonderful and made our first in Co wonderful I would definitely recommend this place for sure beautiful views the yurt was awesome," shares Rebecca J. about Bear Creek Lake Park.
Noise considerations: Sound levels vary significantly between sites. "Such a beautiful place. trails are amazing. although the sound of screaming children that pervades the campsite kind of ruins the experience," notes Jennifer S. about Deer Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before setup: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "We got site 47, which is labeled as an RV site, but it is NOT suitable for pop up campers. the site doesn't have even a hint of a levelable spot," warns Shannon S. from Standley Lake Regional Park.
Water pressure awareness: Bring regulators for hookup sites. "Be sure to have a water pressure regulator or you'll come back to a flooded RV," advises Love4travel T. about Prospect RV Park.
Shower access codes: Some facilities use key or code systems. "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," explains Danielle V. about Chief Hosa.
Dump station availability: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Easy to find right off the main drag, so that's a plus. Must be an experienced driver to navigate the tight lots and roads. Smaller sites and not much grass for dogs," notes Chasing the S. about Dakota Ridge RV Park.
