Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Westcliffe, CO
Alvarado Campground's pet policy permits dogs in all sites with standard leash requirements throughout the grounds. Grape Creek RV Park offers full-hookup RV sites with designated pet areas on large, level spaces that include grass patches and shade from aspen trees. Several sites near Westcliffe, Colorado are featured on The Dyrt. Lake Deweese State Wildlife Area provides dispersed camping options for pet owners, though a wildlife permit or annual fishing license is required for overnight stays. Campers should be aware that the reservoir has warning signs for toxic algae, making it unsafe for dogs to swim or wade. Wet Mountain RV Park & Cabins and Valley View Hot Springs also welcome pets with varied amenities. Clean vault toilets are maintained at established campgrounds, while dispersed areas typically lack facilities.
Trails accessible directly from Alvarado Campground provide excellent dog walking opportunities with stunning mountain views. The surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer numerous pet-friendly hiking options, though wildlife encounters are possible—a hiker-bear interaction was reported on Venable Trail in recent seasons. Broken glass has been an issue at some Lake Deweese campsites, requiring careful attention when walking dogs along the shoreline. The town of Westcliffe is approximately 15 minutes from Alvarado Campground and provides pet supply options if needed. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly at these higher elevations (Alvarado sits at 9,000 feet), so appropriate bedding for pets is recommended. Most campgrounds in the area have standard quiet hours, with some visitors noting occasional issues with enforcement of noise policies that can affect dogs sensitive to loud music.
