River Run RV Resort in Granby offers upscale camping options about 25 minutes from Winter Park. Operating at 8,500 feet elevation, the resort features amenities uncommon for standard campgrounds in Grand County. The weather varies significantly between seasons with summer temperatures reaching the 70s during day and dropping below 40°F at night, while winter brings heavy snowfall from October through April.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Access several trailheads directly from Robbers Roost Campground near Fraser. "Very close to winter park if you're into downhill mountain biking," notes one visitor who appreciated the campground's proximity to Winter Park's renowned bike park.
Hiking into wilderness: Trek into Indian Peaks Wilderness from Diamond Lake for backpacking and fishing opportunities. A camper reports, "Took the Forth of July Trail to Diamond Lake for some camping and fishing. Ended up camping for 4 nights. Aside from a few random hikers throughout the day, I pretty much had the place to myself."
Fishing spots: Fish at Shadow Mountain Lake from Green Ridge Campground where wildlife viewing adds to the experience. "We had a fox visit our site as well as a marmot & many other creatures. A great experience," shares one camper who spent two weeks at the site.
What campers like
Lake access: Campers at Arapaho Bay value the waterfront location on Lake Granby. "The views were incredible, and we pretty much had private lake access for our paddle board and kayak. Not the most private campground, but the views made up for it," writes a camper who secured a lakefront spot.
Amenities at resort-style properties: Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain provides extensive facilities that exceed typical campground offerings. "This place has everything! Bowling, an amazing pool and hot tubs, super clean facilities, full hookups, rent an airstream or chuckwagon for the weekend, stay in a tiny home - really, there's so much to do especially for families," explains a reviewer who stayed at the resort.
Uncrowded backcountry options: For those seeking solitude and glamping close to Winter Park, Colorado, backpacking to Diamond Lake offers a quieter experience. "It was pretty busy but not too busy. The lake was a great spot to fly fish and chill. And the hike out was about 5 miles out," notes one backpacker who visited the lake.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Winter Park fill quickly during summer months. At Arapaho Bay Campground, a camper advises, "While I did not stay at the campground I wanted to post a quick review to help people out. The campground itself seemed very nice and well maintained but you pretty much need a reservation ahead of time to camp here."
Weather preparedness: High elevation means rapidly changing conditions year-round. One visitor to Green Ridge Campground mentioned encountering "Two feet of snow!" during summer solstice.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. A reviewer at Arapaho Bay warns, "Be warned: road in across the dam is ROUGH to the point of hazard, and lacks guardrail. Significant safety concern for others or those with large or unwieldy vehicles."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon offers amenities specifically designed for children. One family noted, "Our nine year old really liked the playground area," while another parent with multiple children observed, "I have 3 children and not one of them wanted to leave!"
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with junior ranger programs or nature walks. A camper at Green Ridge Campground reported wildlife sightings that excited younger visitors: "Lots of fat little chipmunks!" and another mentioned "moose, bald eagles, bear" sightings that provided educational value.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds near main roads experience traffic noise. A visitor to Robbers Roost mentioned, "The bad: You can hear the highway very well," suggesting families with light sleepers might prefer more secluded options for glamping in the Winter Park area.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and access: Reverend's Ridge Campground at Golden Gate Canyon offers spacious RV sites. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you to situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables," reports one RVer.
Hookup availability: Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain provides full-service sites for those wanting luxury glamping near Winter Park. A camper noted, "For a pull through it was only $67+tax per night" with "full service hook up" that allowed them to focus on enjoying their stay rather than managing systems.
Leveling requirements: Be prepared with leveling blocks at certain campgrounds. A camper at Reverend's Ridge advised, "The sites are not very level so be prepared to use your blocks."
