Cherry Creek State Park Campground provides tent and RV sites 25 miles southwest of Watkins, Colorado. This 4,000-acre park includes a large reservoir with a swim beach and multiple camping loops. During summer weekends, visitors should arrive early as traffic backs up significantly and the park often reaches capacity by mid-morning. Winter camping is available with select sites remaining open year-round.
What to do
Water activities at Cherry Creek Reservoir: The park features a swim beach with newly constructed facilities. Water is typically warm enough for swimming from June through early September. One visitor notes, "Nice Swim Beach with brand new Bldg. Many covered Picnic sites, but again, you MUST arrive at the break of day to secure one."
Hiking and biking near Chatfield State Park: The park offers interconnected trail systems suitable for day hikes and mountain biking. A visitor shares, "Great for biking and all kinds of water sports. Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites."
Wildlife viewing at Standley Lake Regional Park: The 1,200-acre reservoir hosts numerous bird species including a bald eagle nesting area. According to one camper, "I don't know how you could not like a place with a huge lake that bald eagles nest beside. With a rookery, this is the spot for bird enthusiasts!"
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Many campsites throughout the region provide ample room between sites and vehicle parking. At Golden Gate Canyon State Park, a camper observed, "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs."
Clean, modern facilities: Several campgrounds near Watkins maintain well-kept bathroom facilities with showers. A camper at Indian Paintbrush Campground notes, "Super clean campground. Close to Red Rocks and Denver. You have to drive a bit to get to the lake. Some nice hiking and biking trails off the campground."
Proximity to Denver attractions: Glamping close to Watkins, Colorado provides convenient access to both natural areas and urban amenities. A visitor to Cherry Creek State Park comments, "We stayed here for one night before heading back out on the road. This place is huge and has many amenities. It's very well maintained."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during peak season (May-September). Sites at popular locations like Casey Jones RV Hideaway can fill up weeks in advance.
Additional fees beyond camping costs: Most state parks charge a daily vehicle entry fee ($9-11) in addition to camping fees. A Cherry Creek visitor advises, "There is also an $11 day pass fee not included in your camping stay."
Weather considerations: The area experiences rapid weather changes with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months. During winter, temperatures regularly drop below freezing at night. A camper at Golden Gate Canyon State Park shares, "It was a bit chilly so we were basically the only people out there tent camping."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Campgrounds like Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur cater specifically to families with children. A visitor reports, "This place is great for little kids. From flag raising in the morning to hay rides, all day activities to the camp fire story times there is something for every kids to keep busy."
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas with modern equipment. At Bear Creek Lake Park, a camper notes, "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding."
Early morning wildlife viewing: Families can often spot deer, birds, and occasionally larger mammals in early morning hours. A visitor to Golden Gate Canyon remarks, "Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose. Panorama Point had a breath taking view."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: While several campgrounds offer electrical hookups, many have fewer full-hookup sites. At Denver East-Strasburg KOA, an RVer advises, "The sites are flat but a bit cramped. The laundry, bathroom and showers were clean with nice hot water."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. A camper at Casey Jones RV Hideaway states, "The campsite that I had was very uneven. It was practically a down hill slope. I had a hard time getting my camper level."
Noise considerations: Proximity to highways affects several campgrounds in the region. A camper at Denver East-Strasburg KOA notes, "VERY close to the interstate. Take a look at a satellite map view so you will come prepared. The road noise is ever present, and if you can tune it out you will be a much happier camper."
