Camping options around Westcliffe, Colorado range from established campgrounds in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to dispersed sites near Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area. The area includes Alvarado Campground, located at 9,000 feet elevation with hiking trails directly accessible from camp, and several RV parks including Wet Mountain RV Park and Grape Creek RV Park that offer full hookups. Tent camping, cabin rentals, and RV sites accommodate various camping styles throughout the region, with most developed campgrounds positioned within 15 minutes of Westcliffe's downtown area.
Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping availability near Westcliffe, with many campgrounds operating from May through October. Higher elevation sites like Alvarado Campground typically close during winter months due to snow and access limitations. A camper noted, "We've done two weeklong stays at Grape Creek RV Park near Westcliffe. The spaces are long and level and each contains full hookups, a large patch of grass, aspen trees, and best of all great views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains." Dispersed camping at Lake Deweese requires a wildlife permit or fishing license, which costs approximately $40 annually. Vault toilets are available at most established camping areas, while water access varies significantly between locations.
The mountain landscape provides the defining feature of camping experiences throughout the area. Campers frequently mention the impressive night sky views, as Westcliffe is designated as a Dark Sky community. Several visitors highlighted the proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities as key benefits when staying at developed campgrounds. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "The campground was beautiful and had access to several wonderful trails. The night sky was amazing after the rain passed through and the clouds cleared." Lake Deweese offers dispersed camping with beautiful mountain views, though recent reviews indicate issues with trash and broken glass in some areas. Westcliffe campsites throughout the region vary considerably in size and levelness, with some campgrounds featuring uneven tent pads that may challenge setup, particularly at higher elevation sites.
$30 - $60 / night
"It was just a quick trip into Westcliffe to pick up any forgotten supplies. Cell service was good here. No water or electrical hookups."
"I absolutely love this area of Colorado. It's breathtaking no matter which direction you look. Decent campground that was a bit too big for my taste."
$20 - $80 / night
"It's a biologically diverse area in Southern Colorado, where high winds that blow through the Rockies deposit sand at the Southernmost tip . We made camping reservations about six months in advance."
"Access to dunes trails, and off road track. Dump station nearby visitor center with free air station. T-Mobile available at most sites, but good by the visitor center and primitive road access."
"Clean, beautiful site by the lake. Summer nights during the new moon is a great time to visit. You can see the Milky Way. Nice spots for fly fishing and hiking."
"Colorado State wild life areas (SWA) require a permit that’s ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting lisence you camp for free."
"Has everything you need and is walking distance to town."
"We’ve done 2 weeklong stays at Grape Creek RV Park near Westcliffe, Colorado."
$25 - $169 / night
"It was our first time to tent camp in Colorado and it was great. Several sites to choose from. Some have views of the dunes, some are more secluded. Bathrooms were clean."
"It's slight hidden behind a bigger RV andodge campground. It was beautiful views from ANY tent site you got. It had bathroom n accessible showers if needed. Firewood. Friendly hosts and snacks."
"Loved hearing the creek roaring in the background and feeling the sun on my skin surrounded by cactus - an I in Texas!?"
"Easy drive, can get a little bumpy but nothing an all wheel drive can’t handle."
$20 / night
"Right next to the Royal Gorge Bridge in Canon City Colorado, the highest suspension bridge in North America ! Do the Segway tour over the bridge!!"
"Paved & gravelled roads, hiking trails, free camping, sightseeing, off roading, atv, handicap accessible, dogs off leash, picnic tables, firepits, kid friendly."
"We also had 3 dogs with us and there was still enough room for them so we weren’t stepping all over one another."
"Colorado sand dunes are a trip."
"From the upper trail head, it was about a 4 mile hike to the campground near the lower lake. If you cant make the drive, add 2.5 miles each way to that total. "
TravelerVery pretty dispersed spot. Roads were a little muddy from the rain. Need a vehicle with awd and decent clearance to use roads further down. Our tent spot isn't very flat but is ok. Here on May 1st, 2026 and its pretty chilly but no snow, lots of rain
TravelerFlat graveled tent/RV spots, super clean. Right next to the river. You can hear the traffic from the highway unfortunately but its not terrible.
ScoutI am a return visitor to the Salida RV Resort. I have stayed at two other campgrounds in the area, but Salida RV Resort has become my go-to. The resort is modern with all new and clean amenities, the staff is responsive to emails and very friendly in person, and the location is convenient to Salida and the activities of the area. The sites are level and fully functional. They have a nice walking path along the river with an available pickle ball court for those who might play. As for me, I am a fly fisherman and enjoy fishing the Arkansas River. I enjoy camping next to the river, and have even caught quite a few brown trout in my "backyard" behind the camper.
ScoutGreat campground about 15 spots first come first serve easy to find! Camped for a few nights, didn’t hear a peep from other campers!
There are four big horn sheep that hang out in the last two campsites along the cliffs! What a cool little spot!
ScoutPossibly the best dispersed camping I’ve found. Lots of sites, lots of privacy, great views. Only slight downside is that it has been pretty windy, but it’s not the end of the world.
The road up is a bit washed out but I’ve seen a few cars up here that I wouldn’t have expected to get past that, so it isn’t too bad.
Also, the Applejack RV resort you pass by on the way in offers showers for $7 if you’re in need.
GuideVery rocky trail there need 4x4...but the morning view is awesome
ScoutNice spot although lots of trash need 4 wheel drive to get down and out very private
LegendIf you are in a 2wd car or small suv, stay on a and b loop. There is one hill thats steep and loose rock to get up here and the views are only marginally better. Dont risk it if you have a 2wd heavy van. Not saying it cant be done, just saying there is a measurable risk for inexperienced drivers in low clearance cars. The views are amazing and the road keeps going up and up well beyond where I stopped. Honestly tho only go up here is the loops below are full its not much different but the whole area is amazing. Pack an extra blanket it gets cold and windy at night up here
LegendGo up to the y and take a right. These are all designated spots on a gravel loop. Good verizon cell depending on where you park. Watch out when baking up the road is lined with guard posts and saw some People accidentally back into them. Lots of wildlife and amazing views up here. If you get to a scary hill that looks steep and rough you went to far that way only gets worse. Turn around and try again. Follow signs for a and B loop to access this area
Camping spots near Westcliffe, Colorado offer unique outdoor experiences in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at elevations ranging from 7,800 to 9,000 feet. The region transitions between alpine forests and high desert terrain, creating distinct microclimates for campers depending on their chosen location. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach the mid-70s with nighttime lows in the 40s, even during peak season.
Hiking the high country: Multiple trails accessible directly from North Crestone Creek Campground provide opportunities for both day hikes and backpacking. "We hiked up the backpacking trail at the end to go fishing up at the lake and rivers along the trail. There was plenty to do but it was also quiet; perfect for down time," shares Jordan M., who camped with friends at North Crestone Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Lake Deweese provide opportunities to spot local wildlife while keeping a respectful distance. "Plenty of areas to choose from. We decided on a non wooded area on the north side of the lake for a great view of the mountain range. The views of the aspens turning were spectacular," notes wayne H. who camped at Lake Deweese state wildlife area.
Dark sky stargazing: Take advantage of Westcliffe's designation as a Dark Sky community by camping at locations with minimal light pollution. "Clean, beautiful site by the lake. Summer nights during the new moon is a great time to visit. You can see the Milky Way," reports Jessica W. after her stay at Lake Deweese.
Mountain access: Sites that provide direct trail access receive consistently positive reviews from hikers and backpackers. According to Trish M., who stayed at Alvarado Campground, "We've stayed here 3 times now and absolutely love it! We've stayed at campsite 36 and 41. 41 is our favorite. It has plenty of space and a nice creek running near it. We felt secluded. Hiking trail was not far from us."
Site spacing and layout: Campers frequently mention appreciation for campgrounds with well-designed sites that offer privacy. "Plenty of sites available, some nicely secluded, some not so secluded. Very clean bathrooms," notes Rachel H. about Alvarado Campground.
Hot springs access: For those seeking relaxation after hiking, some campgrounds offer natural hot springs. "Valley View is a large swath of land with about 12 beautiful pools and about 20+ camping spots. You need to reserve well in advance as the demand is much higher than the capacity," explains Morgan Y. about Valley View Hot Springs.
Tent pad conditions: Several campgrounds have uneven tent pads that require careful site selection. At Alvarado Campground, Diane S. observes, "Many of the sites in the 30s up are useless other than a van. Tent sites are not good. Very uneven pads. The 40s are much better and all mostly tents."
Bear activity: The Westcliffe area is bear country, requiring proper food storage and vigilance. "You are back in bear country a little and we did have an incident with some bears coming into the camp 2 nights in a row because the people next to us left their food out," warns Jordan M. from North Crestone Creek Campground.
Seasonal insects: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain locations during summer months. "Great spots available - plenty of room for multiple campsites along the road. Great views! - BUT mosquitoes were absolutely awful so be prepared (mid July)," cautions Cooper P. about Dispersed Sand Area 1.
Permit requirements: Wildlife areas require specific permits for overnight stays. "This is dispersed camping. Colorado State wildlife areas (SWA) require a permit that's ~$40 a year, or if you have a year fishing or hunting license you camp for free," explains Jess C. regarding Lake Deweese.
Site selection for kids: Choose lower-elevation sites with easier access and better facilities. "The lower sites are larger, more open, and more recently updated. Sites further uphill are in a mixed state of dilapidation," advises laura S. about Alvarado Campground.
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with multiple activity possibilities to keep children engaged. "Quite National Forest camp ground that is a pay per night. Site has a nice creek and offers lots of hiking. Vault toilets and several water fountains. No electricity. Lots of wildlife in the area," notes Kris M. from North Crestone Creek Campground.
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly, requiring adaptable clothing layers. One camper at Royal Gorge Park East Ridge Campground shared, "The site was really nicely set up on the top of a hill. Nice and warm for the elevation, especially at night, which was especially nice considering the other campsites we stayed at that were about 20 degrees cooler at night."
Length restrictions: Many mountain campgrounds have size limitations for RVs and trailers. "The campground won't accommodate fifth wheels only horse and rv up to 30 or so," states Diane S. about Alvarado Campground.
Level sites: RVers emphasize the importance of level sites in this mountainous region. "We easily got our 40' coach into a very level site. Definitely will be back!" reports DaveAdele C. who stayed at Alvarado Campground.
Site utilities: Check specific hookup availability before arrival. "This was a gorgeous place to stay. Make sure you check your vehicle length because some of the spots were pretty small. No water or electrical hookups," advises Steph C., who camped at Alvarado Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Westcliffe, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Westcliffe, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 213 campgrounds and RV parks near Westcliffe, CO and 62 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Westcliffe, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Westcliffe, CO is Alvarado Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 16 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Westcliffe, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 62 free dispersed camping spots near Westcliffe, CO.
What parks are near Westcliffe, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Westcliffe, CO that allow camping, notably Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve and Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.
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