North Park Campground
Not well kept, but has potential
Was an old KOA. In fact, there are two typical KOA A frame buildings that need to be torn down due to their lack of upkeep. The grounds were overgrown with weeds knee high.
State Forest State Park near Jelm houses upscale glamping accommodations in northern Colorado, with options at North Michigan Campground and The Crags Campground. Elevated experiences include yurts and cabins with modern amenities including electric hookups, comfortable beds, and climate control for year-round stays. The park boasts water hookups, reservable sites, and picnic tables for an enhanced outdoor experience. "We really enjoyed camping here, even though the sound of the river can be quite loud," one visitor noted about the natural surroundings. CanyonSide Campground provides additional glamping options with unique themed cabins and a pop-up trailer rental for those seeking a more resort-style camping experience without sacrificing comfort, complete with showers and toilets.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding Medicine Bow National Forest while enjoying glamping comforts. The sites provide convenient access to fishing in the Poudre River, hiking trails into the canyon, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities for moose, deer, and bears. A guest mentioned, "The views were amazing, met some great people, and chipmunks." Winter visitors benefit from year-round operation at State Forest State Park accommodations. CanyonSide features communal areas including covered patios with WiFi boosters, and proximity to local restaurants like the Poudre Canyon Grille for dining options. Guests should note that most glamping options require advance reservations, especially during summer months when the region sees peak visitation.
"There is no electricity or sewer capabilities for RV's and campers and the sites are relatively small, but a pop up or smaller 5th wheels and RVs will fit."
"The drive up to this area is breathtaking as well."
"Options for camping in campgrounds, close to others, or more alone. Options to camp near the lake, river, or on dry land.options for large or small camping areas. Peaceful and beautiful."
"From Chambers Lake north down FS 103 youll find a lot of dispersed camping and a lot of great spots with beautiful views."
$28 - $120 / night
"There is no electricity, bedding, or running water, but there is a propane heater that looks like a wood burning stove that casts a great ambiance."
"We were camping in Utah at Dinosaur National Monument, but due to the smoke from a nearby wildfire and the high heat of the summer, we decided to cut our stay one day short, and head over to the Rockies"
"We were driving through the area and needed a quick/easy place to camp for the night. Even in mid-July, we were the only people there. Spots are labeled well, with great fire pits at every sight."
"Great views and nice center fire pit!"
$28 / night
"This is a pitch your tent, start a fire, watch the deer walk thru type campground. Beautiful views of the Rockies, trails for all levels of hiking."
"I love the opportunity to connect to the wild spaces that surround us. I love finding people who share that same passion."
$60 - $70 / night
"There’s communal fire pits, a jungle gym for kids, and hiking trails into and up the Poudre Canyon."
"The bathrooms are always super clean, there is even an outdoor shower(covered of course) available in one of the tent sections. There are sinks available at both tent sections as well."
$36 / night
"Short hike to multiple high altitude lakes. Glorious views from campsite. Only has electric and water hookup and the dump station was not convenient. Saw moose from the campsite. Clean and very quiet."
"I tent camped at Ranger Lakes. I was the only one tent camping among all the RV’s. I didn’t mind that the spaces were visible from each other since I was camping alone."
"Just pull out onto one of the dirt roads and there are fire pits. Real dispersed camping."
"The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp. There are at least three camp site I saw that are all secluded by boulders and trees."
"After driving past the more established Lake John RV Resort we found this spot to park our campervan. Site has a metal tin can fire pit. Very peaceful with private location."
"I stayed at site 410 which has a stream behind it and was a beautiful spot. I would also recommend sites 411-414 & 421 for the primitive camper."
Was an old KOA. In fact, there are two typical KOA A frame buildings that need to be torn down due to their lack of upkeep. The grounds were overgrown with weeds knee high.
This is a great little campground with only 7 campsites that are first come first served (no reservations). However, it's almost never full and if it is full there are plenty of free camping areas along the road (forest service road). There is no electricity or sewer capabilities for RV's and campers and the sites are relatively small, but a pop up or smaller 5th wheels and RVs will fit. There are pit toilets in the campground, but no running water - so pack your own or bring a filter to pump out of the creek.
The beautiful Kilpecker Creek runs through the camp and most of the campsites are situated right along the creek. All of the campsites have a good tent pad, fire pit and picnic table. The great thing about this campground is it's location and the fact that the sites are fairly spaced out giving you more privacy at each site. There is also a great communal area in the center of the campground of you have a small group up there.
Maka sure to use a bear bag or put all food in the car at night (bear country)
Campground Review
This campground is located in the Poudre Canyon area of Colorado. This is a private, 420-friendly campground. While many will be drawn to that allure, there is a lot of other features this campground offers that makes it a lovely place to stay. There’s communal fire pits, a jungle gym for kids, and hiking trails into and up the Poudre Canyon. It’s also a good place to bunk if you like to fish, with access into the rivers just across the road and so many other spots just a short drive away. Across the road is a general store for any last-minute camping supplies, munchies, booze, and ice. There’s also the Poudre Canyon Grille – a tiny, well-kept trailer serving up burgers, fries, and other fast food sandwiches. Near the office, there’s a large covered patio that has a cell and WiFi booster and in the summertime is a lounge area with a TV. There are two areas that have a bathroom with shower – both single use. When there are nearby music festivals, Canyonside has been known to shuttle festival goers to and from areas of greater access to help you enjoy the show. Speaking of shows, there are sometimes laser light shows where the hosts reflect their displays off the rocky canyon walls, and up the canyon there is also a small ampitheatre.
To learn more about what may be going on near the time of your stay, just call the campground. Which is also what I suggest you do before you book, especially if you’re interested in renting one of their really cool themed cabins (there’s a few, are different sizes, and each have a unique décor theme and were all incredibly clean). There are a few factors like the day of the week, amount of people, and amount of dogs you have that will affect your nightly rate. Ask about the dog policy when you call too, as not all sites allow for pets – like the tent sites – and there is a pet waiver that should be read.
One thing I noticed that was neat for tent dwellers was that one area of the tent sites (there are two sent site locations on either side of the park) had a hammock or swing chair and access to water to do dishes (there is also communal dishware) in addition to your typical flat plot, fire pit, and picnic table. There is also poured concrete sites for RVs with electric and water hookups, but I don’t remember seeing a dump station.
Not sure you want to go all the way in on a cabin but don’t want a tent site and you don’t own an RV? That’s OK as there’s also a pop up trailer on site that can be rented as a “glamping” option. It was a pretty neat little place, but due to the size and chance of trapping pet dander, dogs aren’t allowed in there either.
The hosts are very accommodating and want to help you enjoy your stay. They are approachable and can point you to resources to help you make your stay a 420-featured one, if that’s your thing. I understand they’re looking to add more tent sites and shaded areas and continue to tweak their internet to help it cover more of the grounds. I look forward to returning to see how the place evolves. I do like that there’s so many ways the hosts are there to accommodate you, and one thing that I would love to hear about is that they’ve added drinkable water access. Water is there for you but bring your own drinking water on site.
I want to give this place a 5 out of 5 because of how nice the hosts are, how well kept the grounds are, how many camping options there are, and how many activity options you have, but it gets a 4 out of 5 from me because of the water access, pet restrictions, and add-on fees (pet, extra guest), plus possible fines for any ‘dog infractions’. If you plan your trip ahead, you will have a great time here and really enjoy the atmosphere.
Product Review
As part of the Dyrt Ranger program I am given camping gear to test from time to time, and today I was reviewing a new kind of spork, the Morsel Spork XL. This company makes 3 kinds: The regular sized spork, then the XL, and a spoon XL. I have the morsel XL spork. No better place to review a munchie-curing tool like a 420-friendly campground! I’ve used a lot of sporks over time, and there were three things about this one that I really liked.
These sporks are nowhere near the lightest sporks on the market, but their added weight gives them more durability. They aren’t indestructible, but they won’t snap when they get shoved in your pack either. It is technically also a knife because of the ribbed edges of the fork, but I didn’t have a lot of success cutting with this. I love how it’s dishwasher safe and BPA free! Their versatility for camping makes them a better all-around solution for satisfying your hunger than what you’re using now. 4.75/5 because of the whole knife thing not really working super great.
We stayed here for 2 nights in one of the Cabins in December. There is no electricity, bedding, or running water, but there is a propane heater that looks like a wood burning stove that casts a great ambiance. Our cabin also had plenty of coat racks, a snow shovel, and a table. We stayed in Cabin 6, and walked though 2 feet of snow 300 ft down a hill (larger hill than expected) with all our stuff to get settled in. As we approached, the propane stove was already going and the cabin was warm and inviting. We used string lights (solar powered) to provide light (there is a dim solar powered light in the cabin as well). We brought 0 degree sleeping bags in case the heater was not enough, but it was toasty warm inside and we ended up hot. The cabins are right on the edge of the reservoir (which is drained as of Dec 2021 but still beautiful in the snow). Cabins 1-3 (cabins 1&2 hold 15ish ppl for large groups, cabin 3 is ADA) are closer to the road and look like they would not have such a long walk in the snow. During my search, it looks like they also allow primitive camping in the winter for $18, but I didn't see which area this would be in, the cabins are on the north side of the lake. Daily vehicle fee of $9. The experience was incredible, we were completely alone and enjoyed great stars and beautiful sunrises. Highly recommend for a unique winter camping experience (sure it would be great in the summer as well but likely way more crowded). Be sure to be prepared for cold temps!
Pretty setting on the reservoir (amazing setting and great for water activities). There aren’t a ton of sites and they’re grouped in pods. Pods are pretty close but manageable. Great access to hiking
The Poudre River is absolutely beautiful. We really enjoyed camping here, even though the sound of the river can be quite loud. Each site has a table, fire ring and tent pad. The drive up to this area is breathtaking as well.
Our stay at this place has been nothing short of perfect! From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The staff here has been incredibly friendly and accommodating, going above and beyond to ensure that our every need is met. If it’s a tent already set up and waiting for you, one of the many tiny houses on site, or even a Cabin with all the amenities- they will be able to accommodate you. While we have thoroughly enjoyed our time here, it is clear that there are ongoing renovations and improvements taking place. The potential of this place is evident, and we cannot wait to see the final result. Based on what we have already experienced, we have no doubt that it is going to be amazing!
If you’re going to the Mishawaka for a show, the shuttle from Riverside runs to the Amish every 15 minutes making it SUPER convenient to attend a concert. Don’t forget to grab some food before the show too!!
Such an amazing and laid back place to camp! With two separate tent area, RV camping, and cabins, this place has it all! The bathrooms are always super clean, there is even an outdoor shower(covered of course) available in one of the tent sections. There are sinks available at both tent sections as well. There are also communal areas where you can hang out and meet other campers, you can watch directv in one area as well! There is a short trail that goes up the mountain behind the CG to a small chapel, and a swing that overlooks the river across the road. There is a convenient gas station/convenience/liquor store across the road within easy walking distance. There is a restaurant and bar under two miles as well. June is fantastic, she makes you feel like you are at home. Her hospitality alone is worth stopping by and checking the place out!
We were driving through the area and needed a quick/easy place to camp for the night. Even in mid-July, we were the only people there. Spots are labeled well, with great fire pits at every sight. Rock formations were awesome. We nestled behind a rock and couldn’t even hear the traffic by nearby road. Definitely planning another trip soon
Dispersed camping options near Jelm, Wyoming offer more primitive experiences than the nearby glamping accommodations. Located at 8,100 feet elevation in the Medicine Bow Mountains, this area experiences dramatic temperature drops at night with summer highs averaging 75°F and nighttime lows frequently dropping below 40°F. The region sits at the intersection of alpine forest and high desert terrain, creating diverse camping environments within short distances.
Fishing access points: North Fork Poudre Campground provides easy access to Kilpecker Creek. "The beautiful Kilpecker Creek runs through the camp and most of the campsites are situated right along the creek," notes Joe O., who recommends bringing a filter to pump water from the creek if needed.
Alpine lake hiking: From The Crags Campground in State Forest State Park, take advantage of proximity to mountain lakes. "Remote, but access to some really great hikes (American Lakes/Snow Lake, Lake Agnes)," reports Lauren P., who spotted wildlife during her stay.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Laramie River Road Dispersed camping areas offer excellent wildlife spotting. "Wildlife is abundant with tons of deer and moose in the area. Topography is Aspen wetlands and is beautiful," writes Justin D., adding that the county dirt road remains well maintained and fairly wide despite the remote location.
Boulder exploration: Vedauwoo Wagon Road camping area features distinctive rock formations popular with climbers. "We nestled behind a rock and couldn't even hear the traffic by nearby road," explains Laura C., who found the sites well-labeled with established fire pits at every location.
Secluded sites: Campers appreciate the privacy at North Michigan Campground in State Forest State Park. "Spacious dispersed sites. Most have fire pits. Lovely weather in June. Not as windy as the pilot hill rd or vedauwoo dispersed sites," reports Izzy T., who enjoyed the shade and hiking opportunities.
Year-round access: The Crags Campground remains accessible during winter months. Hayley K. describes staying in cabin #3: "We had room enough for 4 people and 3 dogs and didn't feel like we were on top of each other. The gas stove kept us nice and toasty all night long!"
Waterfront locations: Several campsites offer direct water access. Jen M. recommends site 221 at North Michigan Campground: "This site is right above the water with its own little trail going down to the reservoir," though she warns visitors to bring bug spray and fill water containers near the cabins.
Mountain views: The scenery consistently ranks as a top feature. At State Forest State Park, Kell H. notes: "Perfect weather and beautiful scenery. The campground was well maintained, even after the busy weekend. We hiked, biked and just enjoyed the view."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season. At Laramie River Road Dispersed camping, Molly U. observed: "The area is extremely fire damaged in places & there was a fire ban in effect when we were there over 4th of July."
Wildlife precautions: Multiple campers report close encounters with wildlife. "We have had full grown moose run through our camp site and there has been reports of black bears near by as well as elk and deer," explains Darla R., who recommends taking proper precautions with food storage.
Road conditions: Access to some glamping close to Jelm, Wyoming requires navigating unpaved roads. "The washboard road coming off the highway is harsh but it smooths out when you get closer to camp," reports kiloalpha 2 about Upper Blaire Dispersed Camping.
Water availability: Many sites lack potable water. At North Fork Poudre Campground, Joe O. advises: "There are pit toilets in the campground, but no running water - so pack your own or bring a filter to pump out of the creek."
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights year-round. Darla R. notes even summer campers should be prepared: "It does get cold at night even in summer as it's about 9,000 ft above sea level."
Child-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. At North Michigan Campground, Meghan H. shares: "My 4 year olds threw rocks in the reservoir, they bikes on nearby trails. The bathrooms were clean too."
Wildlife education opportunities: State Forest State Park's Moose Visitor Center provides educational resources. Amanda M. explains: "The visitors center was educational and interesting, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable and answered all of our questions."
Safety considerations: Families should prepare for wilderness conditions. Darla R. advises: "There is no cell service but there are call boxes in the area and we often see rangers driving by."
Accessible sites: Some campgrounds offer specific sites for accessibility needs. B B. notes that Pearl Lake State Park has designated accessible sites among its lakefront spots, with additional sites on an upper loop offering views of the lake or valley.
Hookup availability: CanyonSide Campground offers electric and water hookups on poured concrete sites. Will T. notes additional amenities: "There are sinks available at both tent sections as well. There are also communal areas where you can hang out and meet other campers."
Size limitations: The Crags Campground restricts larger vehicles. Grant M. shares: "Had no trouble pulling our 16ft Scamp up with a minivan, but can see that if the road was wet it wouldn't have gone as well. Small trailers are fine, 2WD is fine as long as you aren't battling the weather."
Dump station locations: Sarah S. recommends RVers at Ranger Lakes Campground "make sure to fill your tank at the maintenance center 6 miles up the road," as on-site water access can be limited.
Levelness of sites: North Michigan Campground offers suitable terrain for RVs. Garret M. notes: "Plenty space between sites for privacy too. They had twice daily ranger visits and they were very polite."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Jelm, WY?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Jelm, WY is North Fork Poudre Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Jelm, WY?
TheDyrt.com has all 11 glamping camping locations near Jelm, WY, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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