Camping options near Windsor, Colorado provide alternatives to the well-known glamping spots at Horsetooth Reservoir. Located at 4,797 feet elevation in the northern Front Range, this area experiences mild summers with daytime temperatures averaging 85°F and cool evenings around 55°F. The region's proximity to both foothills and plains creates diverse camping environments with notable wildlife viewing opportunities at dawn and dusk.
What to do
Hiking trails access: South Bay Campground offers direct access to trails around Horsetooth Reservoir. "We took the 3 mile hike behind campground which is beautiful but rocky - wear shoes that can withstand rocks. Must return the same way so 6 miles total," shares one camper about the trails connected to the campground.
Fishing opportunities: Carter Lake's South Shore Campground provides shoreline fishing for campers without boats. "We had a spot right by the water. The water was really low, so we didn't actually have water right in front of us. The kids tried their luck at fishing, but didn't catch anything," explains a visitor who stayed at this location.
Wildlife viewing: Hermits Hollow Campground provides opportunities to spot local wildlife in a more secluded setting. "We followed some animal trails and went on a few hikes. Seen a lot of animals, but seen no sign of fresh running water anywhere," reports one visitor who stayed during November.
Mountain access: For those seeking high-elevation adventures near Windsor, Glacier Basin Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park sits at a significantly higher elevation. "The views of the surrounding peaks were great from our site!" notes a camper who visited in August.
What campers like
River sounds: Riverview RV Park offers sites along the Big Thompson River. "We had a great time at this campground. We spent 4 days in a spot right next to the river," shares one visitor who appreciated the waterfront location, mentioning they also enjoyed "the river, dog park, live music on sat. night and laundry."
Lake access: Many visitors appreciate direct water access at South Bay Campground at Horsetooth Reservoir. One camper notes, "We had a great spot right on the water and our kids were able to play in the water right from the campsite."
Open year-round options: Unlike seasonal glamping near Windsor, some campgrounds remain accessible through winter. A camper at Eagle Campground mentions, "It's open all year!" providing an alternative to seasonal accommodations.
Tree coverage: Hermits Hollow Campground offers more wooded sites than many area campgrounds. A visitor notes, "Wooded sites mean privacy from your neighbors and shade during the day," explaining why this location might be preferred during summer heat.
What you should know
Additional fees: Most campgrounds charge beyond the base camping rate. At Carter Lake South Shore Campground, "You have to pay for the nights you plan to stay and you have to pay for your vehicle to have a permit to be there. I think we spent around $30 for 3 or 4 days."
Shower availability: While glamping typically includes private facilities, traditional campgrounds have varying shower setups. At South Bay, "Shower house was close, only open 6am to 10pm, pay showers minimum $2."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. One camper at South Bay noted, "Excessive road noise during the day, it did quiet down each night. If we stay here again we will stay nearer to the entrance or get a cabin."
Seasonal closures: Unlike year-round glamping options, some campgrounds have limited seasons. Glacier Basin Campground operates "May 23 to September 11" according to campground information.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers numerous child-friendly amenities. "The facility offered tons of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily to the point of falling asleep while eating dinner," reports one family who tent camped with children ages 8 and 11.
Kid-friendly swimming: Fort Collins Lakeside KOA provides supervised water activities for families. "Kids paradise & there's a lot of them on bikes & running around the campground," mentions one reviewer who noted the campground has "a pool AND splashpad."
Wildlife education: Many local campgrounds offer opportunities for children to learn about native species. At Hermits Hollow, a ranger program provides information on local wildlife. One visitor noted, "Staff and Rangers are very friendly and helpful, very knowledgeable about the area."
Safety considerations: Bear safety remains important at many camping locations near Windsor. At Glacier Basin, "One negative is that 4-6 sites had to share a bear box," highlighting the need to plan for proper food storage.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. At Eagle Campground, "The pull-through site is very rough and difficult to get your trailer level. We finally just did as good as we could and called it done."
Hookup variations: Unlike consistent glamping amenities, campground utilities vary widely. At Mary's Lake Campground, "Sites were a bit close to each other, but everything else about the KOA was fantastic!" including full hookups that make extended stays comfortable.
Reservation recommendations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Make a reservation, it fills up quick," advises a visitor to South Bay Campground, noting that waterfront sites are particularly sought-after.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches for larger rigs. At Hermit Park, one camper advised, "We didn't take our camper as the switchbacks are very tight and the road is very steep."
