Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers established horse camping facilities just 30 minutes northwest of Westminster. This 12,000-acre park sits at elevations ranging from 7,600 to 9,500 feet, creating distinct temperature zones that can be 10-15°F cooler than the Denver metro area. Winter camping often requires snow preparation, while summer months feature wildflower displays across the park's meadows and aspen forests.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides habitat for moose, which can be spotted in early mornings. A camper noted, "Get up early and drive mountain base road...we caught a great view of a moose" at Reverend's Ridge Campground.
Mountain biking trails: The extensive trail system includes routes suitable for various skill levels. "Great trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a high elevation lake as well as fantastic views of the continental divide," according to reviews at Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Fishing at park ponds: Fish at stocked bodies of water within the park boundaries. "Dude's Fishing Hole is within walking distance" of Aspen Meadows Campground, making it convenient for anglers staying overnight.
What campers like
Scenic mountain views: Viewpoints throughout the park offer vistas of the Continental Divide. "Panorama Point offers amazing views that even my 70 year old parents were able to join us on," mentions a visitor to Aspen Meadows Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature clean amenities and regularly serviced facilities. A camper at Chatfield State Park noted, "Laundry facility on each loop sites are spread out giving plenty of room between sites," highlighting the infrastructure available to visitors.
Diverse camping options: From developed sites to more primitive accommodations, the area offers varied experiences. At Bear Creek Lake Park, visitors appreciate that "proximity to Red Rocks amphitheater, Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and a genuine braying donkey were a huge plus."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Camping reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance," with sites at popular locations filling quickly.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans may affect cooking plans. At Bear Creek Lake Park, some visitors noted there are "no fires allowed" during certain periods, so alternative cooking methods are necessary.
Limited cell service: Communication capabilities vary across locations. At Winiger Ridge at Gross Reservoir, one camper reported, "There is no cell service anywhere in the park (for my Verizon phone anyway) which I actually enjoyed."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At East Portal Campground, a family noted, "The playground was small but my kids were satisfied. There was a rock climbing wall and swings."
Junior ranger activities: Educational opportunities exist for young campers at state parks. Parents appreciate structured activities that teach children about local ecology and conservation.
Child-friendly trails: Shorter hiking routes suitable for younger explorers can be found throughout the region. "Frazer Meadows is also a fun hike that you can easily accomplish with a kid carrier," mentions a visitor to Aspen Meadows.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer better spacing between RV sites than others. At Reverend's Ridge, "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."
Hookup availability: Various facilities offer different utility connections. "Sites at Reverend's Ridge and Aspen Meadows campgrounds accommodate trailers, though horses must be secured at your campsite with portable corrals or highlines."
Dump station access: Waste disposal facilities may have positioning limitations. One RVer at Chatfield State Park mentioned, "My husband said the dump site was not positioned perfectly for our camper but we were so happy they had one."
