Best Campgrounds near Winter Park, CO

Winter Park, Colorado camping spots range from almost-town sites to more remote options in the mountains. Vasquez Ridge sits just two miles from Winter Park but feels more like backcountry camping. Campers who want to check out Rocky Mountain National Park can stay at Moraine Park Campground, which puts you close to the Colorado River. If you're looking to spend time on the water, Arapaho Bay Campground near Grand Lake works well for swimming and boating. Late spring and early fall bring the best camping weather with clear trails, though late October can swing between warm days and freezing nights without much warning. The pine beetle has killed many trees in local campgrounds, so shade can be hard to find in summer. Rocky Mountain National Park has good hiking trails where you might spot elk, moose, and smaller wildlife. Fishing is big here too, with several lakes and the Colorado River holding trout. Always check current fire rules before your trip, as bans are common in dry months. Most good campgrounds fill up fast in summer, so book ahead when possible. Each campground has different rules about how long you can stay, so read up before you go. Winter Park has camping that works for solo travelers, groups, and families with different comfort levels.

Best Camping Sites Near Winter Park, Colorado (430)

    1. Vasquez Ridge

    30 Reviews
    Winter Park, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 541-2500

    "Aug 2019 - Found a perfect little spot that was a close 5 minute maybe 1/2 mile in drive from Winter Park. Managed to make it in with a 2WD sedan."

    "Close to Winter Park and access to Grand County."

    2. Chinns Lake Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    Empire, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 567-4382

    "Just outside of Idaho Springs, take the exit for Co Rd 275 off of I-70. It's a scenic drive up a curvy paved road for about 15 minutes."

    "It is about 7 miles of dirt road, and 4 miles of very challenging (for me) driving.

    Be sure to follow the sign LEFT to Chinns Lake. "

    3. Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area

    51 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "So the Gordon Gulch dispersed camping area has around 15 numbered sites that are ok... but if you keep driving further down 233.1 you will find many more unnumbered campsites."

    "Getting here is easy, only a few miles away from Nederland and I had cell service (verizon) the entire time."

    4. Fall River Reservoir Dispersed Camping Trail

    15 Reviews
    Empire, CO
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 567-4382

    "I first camped in Colorado last year with a friend and we chose this dispersed due to it being close to travel too- yet still dispersed. I’ve come back 4 other times to camp here!"

    "It is a light off road trail and would recommend having high vehicle clearance and 4x4. We were unable to park right next to the reservoir because it was closed off."

    5. Denver West-Central City KOA

    29 Reviews
    Central City, CO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3043

    "good location for cute old mountain towns! also close to Denver and other must sees in Colorado!"

    "8100’ high. 7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don’t worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!"

    6. Arapaho Bay Campground

    31 Reviews
    Grand Lake, CO
    16 miles
    Website

    $29 - $58 / night

    "Nice sized spaces, many sites close to the water, good wildlife sittings (moose, bald eagles, bear) beautiful large lake with Colorado River headwaters, near town of Grand Lake and entrance to Rocky Mt"

    "This is true wilderness camping at its best overlooking beautiful Colorado waters with the Mountains peaking down upon you is where you will find yourself camping with great amenities and water available"

    7. St. Louis Creek Campground

    12 Reviews
    Fraser, CO
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 887-4100

    "There are many trails and roads for mountain biking and hiking. The trails leave right from the campground. St. Louis Creek runs adjacent to the campground with easy access and good trout fishing."

    "Beautiful location, more remote than many of the other campgrounds near Winter Park / Fraser area. Byers Peak hike is nearby which gives great views of the valley and surrounding areas."

    8. West Magnolia Campground

    26 Reviews
    Nederland, CO
    15 miles
    Website

    "Not only is this pretty easy to reach, but Peak to Peak highway is great to drive. Just take P to P south from Nederland and turn right on HWY 132… Campsites and trailhead are about 1/2 mile down. "

    "Great (free) Forrest Service campground west of Boulder, CO near a cute little town Nederland."

    9. Cr 47

    13 Reviews
    Winter Park, CO
    1 mile

    "You won’t be able to get to these sites without a car with four wheel drive. We drove up to some of the higher spots with an awesome view of mountains, a lake and Longmont in the distance."

    "This will be one of few free camping spots around Rocky Mt. National Park. The road in begins easy but gets more difficult as you get onto National Forest Land."

    10. Reverend's Ridge Campground — Golden Gate Canyon

    29 Reviews
    Rollinsville, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (303) 582-3707

    $28 - $202 / night

    "This spot is just a quick ride outside of Golden. The scenery is gorgeous with several trails to hike or mountain bike. The campsites are clean and easy to get to."

    "Stunning campground nestled right outside Golden and Boulder Colorado. We couldn’t believe it…so close but you feel incredibly removed once you get there."

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Showing results 1-10 of 430 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Winter Park, CO

2768 Reviews of 430 Winter Park Campgrounds



Guide to Winter Park

Camping near Winter Park, CO, offers a fantastic mix of stunning views and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Rocky Mountain National Park. One camper mentioned, "The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters. We saw a weasel and a flock of turkeys."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Glacier Basin Campground shared, "Of course you are in the park, so you can drive to see elk, coyotes, pika, marmots and more."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in nearby lakes and rivers. A camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake noted, "Tons of fishing in and out of the park."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Moraine Park Campground said, "Just beautiful and in the park so don’t deal with timed entry."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park mentioned, "The bathrooms never have soap and they are from the 70’s, but the staff was great."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. A reviewer at Prospector Campground stated, "It was our home base while we took advantage of nearby hiking, biking, and other activities."

What you should know:

  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during specific months. For example, Glacier Basin Campground is open from May 23 to September 11.
  • Limited Amenities: Many sites lack full hookups. A camper at Prospector Campground noted, "There is no water, no electric, no sewer, but they do have pit toilets."
  • Crowded During Peak Season: Expect busier conditions in summer. A visitor at Moraine Park Campground mentioned, "It's a bit overcrowded. Lots of beetle damage."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at East Portal Campground said, "Big playground and not crazy expensive."
  • Plan for Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. One camper at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake shared, "Every day I had mule deer visitors."
  • Pack for All Weather: The weather can change quickly. A visitor at Glacier Basin Campground noted, "Chilly, clear starry night."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Peak One Campground mentioned, "We had no trouble fitting our 29' Class C, tow dolly, and towed vehicle in the site."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds have limited stores. A visitor at Dakota Ridge RV Park noted, "The laundry was expensive and the washers and dryers were pretty old."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A reviewer at Dakota Ridge RV Park said, "Noise from the bar goes till around 11 and construction sounds begin around 6 am."

Camping near Winter Park, CO, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Winter Park, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, Winter Park, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 430 campgrounds and RV parks near Winter Park, CO and 140 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Winter Park, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Winter Park, CO is Vasquez Ridge with a 3.9-star rating from 30 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Winter Park, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 140 free dispersed camping spots near Winter Park, CO.

What parks are near Winter Park, CO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Winter Park, CO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.