Colorado’s natural beauty makes it a camper’s paradise. The state’s diverse landscapes, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to lush forests and clear lakes, offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Colorado’s wide range of campgrounds cater to all. Each camping trip here offers a unique adventure, with lasting memories.
So pack your gear, choose your site, and enjoy the best of camping in Colorado. Let’s explore some of the best campgrounds in Colorado, starting with an introduction to the three main types of camping you’ll find in the Centennial State.
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Table of Contents
Types of Camping in Colorado
There are various types of campgrounds and campsites available in Colorado to suit different camping preferences. Here are the three most common:
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping refers to camping outside of designated camping areas, often in wilderness or remote areas. This type of camping offers solitude and an immersion in nature, but it requires a high degree of self-sufficiency, as amenities like restrooms, water, and picnic tables are typically not available.
Designated Camping
Designated campsites are specific sites in a national forest or park open for first-come, first-serve camping. These sites often include basic amenities such as a fire ring, picnic table, and access to restrooms. They are a half step between dispersed camping and full developed campgrounds.
Developed Campgrounds
Developed campgrounds are larger camping areas that offer a range of amenities. These may include restrooms, shower facilities, water, and electric hook-ups. Some developed campgrounds also offer additional features like playgrounds, ranger programs, and nearby recreational activities.
In this guide, we’ll focus mostly on this third category.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Top Campgrounds in Colorado: 15 Favorites
Here are 17 of our top picks for the best campgrounds in Colorado, ranging from developed campgrounds with many amenities to more remote, dispersed camping areas for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
1. Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park
📍 Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park, Colorado
💰 Price: $35
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, bathrooms, firewood, fire rings, picnic tables
Moraine Park Campground is nestled in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park and provides campers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The campground is open year-round, with peak season running from late May through early October. Known for its spacious sites, which offer a mix of sun and shade, the campground also provides easy access to a number of hiking trails. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the frequent sightings of elk, mule deer, and other local species in the meadows surrounding the campground.
2. Silver Bell Campground, Maroon Bells
📍 Location: Maroon Bells, near Aspen, Colorado
💰 Price: $15
🚰 Amenities: Vault toilets, food storage lockers, fire rings, picnic tables
Silver Bell Campground is located just a short distance from the stunning Maroon Bells, two of Colorado’s most iconic peaks. The campground is surrounded by aspen trees, providing plenty of shade, and is open from late May through late September. It’s an excellent base for exploring the Maroon Bells and the surrounding wilderness. There is no electrical hookup or water available so come prepared.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
3. East Portal Campground, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
📍 Location: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, near Montrose, Colorado
💰 Price: $20
🚰 Amenities: Vault toilets, grill, fire rings, picnic tables, seasonal drinking water access
East Portal Campground is located at the base of the stunning Black Canyon, providing campers with unique views of the dramatic cliffs. The campground, shaded by box elder trees along the water, is open from April to October, and reservations are recommended due to its popularity. The campground provides easy access to a range of hiking trails and fishing spots along the Gunnison River.
4. Echo Lake Campground, Mount Blue Sky
📍 Location: Mount Evans Wilderness, near Idaho Springs, Colorado
💰 Price: $23
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, trash service
Echo Lake Campground is situated at the base of Mount Blue Sky and offers campers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The campground is open from late May through early September. Campers can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It’s also an ideal base camp for those who aim to climb Mount Blue Sky and want to acclimatize beforehand.
5. Pinon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park
📍 Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park, near Alamosa, Colorado
💰 Price: $20
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, bathrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, food storage lockers, firewood, dump station, tent pads
Pinon Flats Campground is located in the heart of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, providing campers with unparalleled access to the tallest sand dunes in North America. The campground is open from April to October, with reservations recommended due to its popularity. In addition to exploring the dunes, campers can enjoy nearby hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.
6. Difficult Campground, Aspen
📍 Location: Near Aspen, Colorado
💰 Price: $32
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, firewood
Difficult Campground, despite its intimidating name, offers a serene camping experience amidst the Aspen trees. Open from late May through September, it’s an excellent location for hikers and bikers with easy access to a variety of trails along Independence Pass. It’s also a short drive away from the town of Aspen, providing an opportunity for a quick escape to civilization if needed. Note: electrical hookup is not available here.
💡 Pro Tip: Vehicles over 35 feet in length are prohibited over Independence Pass but can access the campground via Aspen.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
7. The Crags Campground, Pikes Peak
📍 Location: Pikes Peak, near Colorado Springs, Colorado
💰 Price: $22
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables
The Crags Campground, located near the base of Pikes Peak, offers campers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of one of Colorado’s most famous mountains. The first-come, first-serve campground is open from May to September, providing easy access to the Crags Trail and other hiking opportunities on Pikes Peak. Enjoy the crisp mountain air, stunning views and the tranquil sounds of the surrounding forest without worrying about reservations.
8. Elbert Creek Campground, Mount Elbert
📍 Location: Mount Elbert, near Leadville, Colorado
💰 Price: $22
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables,
Elbert Creek Campground is located at the foot of Mount Elbert, the highest peak in Colorado. Open from May to September, it offers visitors a chance to camp in the shadow of this towering peak. The first-come, first-serve campground provides easy access to the Mount Elbert trailhead for those adventurous enough to attempt the summit. Wildlife viewing and fishing in the nearby creek are also popular activities.
9. Morefield Campground, Mesa Verde National Park
📍 Location: Mesa Verde National Park, near Cortez, Colorado
💰 Price: $38
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, bathrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, firewood, trash service, dump station.
Morefield Campground is situated within Mesa Verde National Park, known for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. The campground is open from April to October, with a general store and gas station available for campers. Visitors can explore the park’s ancient dwellings and enjoy the area’s hiking trails.
10. Zapata Falls Campground, San Luis Valley
📍 Location: San Luis Valley, near Alamosa, Colorado
💰 Price: $11
🚰 Amenities: Vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, food storage lockers, trash service
Zapata Falls Campground offers campers a unique experience with a short hike to a hidden waterfall. Open from May to November, it provides an excellent base for exploring the Great Sand Dunes National Park and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The campground is situated at a high elevation, offering cooler temperatures in the summer and stunning views of the surrounding valley. There is no drinking water available, so come prepared.
RELATED READ: ZAPATA FALLS HIKING TRAIL – ULTIMATE GUIDE
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
11. Meadow Ridge Campground, White River National Forest
📍 Location: White River National Forest, near Frisco, Colorado
💰 Price: $21
🚰 Amenities: Vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, trash service
Meadow Ridge Campground is situated in the heart of the White River National Forest, providing an ideal base for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. Open from May to October, the first-come, first-serve campground is surrounded by a stunning forest and offers easy access to multiple trailheads. Its altitude provides cool temperatures during the summer and incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
12. La Vista Campground, San Isabel National Forest
📍 Location: San Isabel National Forest, near Pueblo, Colorado
💰 Price: $27
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, trash service, electrical hookup
La Vista Campground is nestled in the beautiful San Isabel National Forest, offering campers a serene setting by the lake. The campground is open from May to October, and campers can enjoy a host of activities, including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Lake Isabel makes it a popular destination for those who enjoy water sports.
13. Green River Campground, Dinosaur National Monument
📍 Location: Dinosaur National Monument, near Jensen, Utah and Dinosaur, Colorado
💰 Price: $18
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, firewood vendor, trash service
Green River Campground, located in the Dinosaur National Monument, offers campers a truly prehistoric experience. The campground is open from April to October, and visitors have easy access to the park’s ancient dinosaur fossils and petroglyphs. The campground is situated along the Green River, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and rafting.
14. North Michigan Reservoir Campground, State Forest State Park
📍 Location: State Forest State Park, near Walden, Colorado
💰 Price: $24
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, boat ramps
North Michigan Reservoir Campground is located in the State Forest State Park, known for its dense forests and abundant wildlife. It’s open from May to September and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The campground is located near the stunning North Michigan Reservoir, providing campers with beautiful waterfront views and easy access to water activities.
15. Cherry Creek Campground, Cherry Creek State Park
📍 Location: Cherry Creek State Park, near Denver, Colorado
💰 Price: $26
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, bathrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, showers, laundry, firewood, dump station, trash service
Cherry Creek Campground is located within the bustling Cherry Creek State Park, offering an urban escape without leaving the city of Denver. The campground is open year-round and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and boating. With its close proximity to Denver, it’s an excellent option for those looking for a quick weekend getaway.
16. Angel of Shavano Campground, Mount Shavano
📍 Location: Mount Shavano, near Salida, Colorado
💰 Price: $25
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault bathrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, food storage lockers
Angel of Shavano Campground is located near the base of Mount Shavano and offers campers a peaceful retreat in the San Isabel National Forest. The campground is open from May to September, and campers can enjoy access to a variety of hiking trails, including a trail that leads to the summit of Mount Shavano. The campground is known for its beautiful views, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to the Colorado Trail.
RELATED READ: CLIMB MT SHAVANO & TABEGUACHE PEAK (CO 14ERS)
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
17. Mill Creek Campground, Uncompahgre National Forest
📍 Location: Uncompahgre National Forest, near Montrose, Colorado
💰 Price: $20
🚰 Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, food storage lockers
Mill Creek Campground is nestled within the Uncompahgre National Forest, offering campers a chance to camp in a peaceful woodland setting. The campground is open from May to September and provides access to numerous hiking and biking trails. The nearby Mill Creek stream is a popular spot for fishing, and the surrounding forest is great for wildlife viewing. Climb several nearby 14ers, including Redcloud Peak, Sunlight Peak, and Handies Peak.
My Favorite Camping Gear for Colorado
Here are some of my favorite gear and equipment for camping trips in Colorado. Wenever I head to the mountains, I have these items packed with me and ready to go to ensure everything goes according to plan.
- Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint: My favorite 2-person no frills tent for most weekends.
- Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag: This bag is rated to 20F, ideal for crisp Colorado nights.
- Classic Coleman Camp Stove: My tried-and-true propane stove for cooking while camping.
- MegaMat 10 Sleeping Pad: This may be the world’s most comfortable sleeping pad. Nuff said.
- YETI Tundra 65 Cooler: A durable cooler to keep your food and drinks cool while camping.
- Adventure Series Guide Medical Kit: Designed to meet the needs of 7 people for up to 14 days camping in Colorado.
The right gear will make your camping adventure more safe and enjoyable. Don’t forget to pack the ten essentials and carry them with you whenever you go camping in case something goes wrong or someone gets hurt.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Leave No Trace Tips
When camping in Colorado, it’s essential to follow the Leave No Trace principles to help protect our natural environment for future generations:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Research your destination and bring necessary equipment. Understand regulations and respect them.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites. Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and rivers.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and leftover food. Use established bathroom facilities when available.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve the past. Do not touch cultural or historical structures and artifacts.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a camp stove for cooking instead of making a fire. If you must have a fire, use established fire rings, keep fires small, and burn only sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not feed animals.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
Visit our Leave No Trace guide to learn more about these critical principles and help protect these special places for future generations.
Safety First:
While camping in Colorado, keep these essential safety tips in mind:
- Check Weather Conditions: Always check local weather forecasts before setting off. Mountain weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for all conditions.
- Store Food Securely: Keep your food and scented items stored securely to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
- Stay on Trails: If you’re hiking, stick to designated trails and avoid straying into unknown areas.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of your physical limits to prevent injuries. Don’t overexert yourself and take regular breaks.
- Carry a First Aid Kit: Always have a first aid kit on hand for emergencies. Knowing basic first aid procedures can also be incredibly helpful.
- Inform Someone About Your Plans: Before you set off, let a friend or family member know about your camping and hiking plans, including your expected return time.
- Beware of Altitude Sickness: If you’re camping at high elevations, be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions.
- Follow Fire Safety Rules: Always adhere to local fire regulations. If fires are permitted, keep them small and fully extinguish them before leaving.
- Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Never feed wild animals as it can harm their health and alter natural behaviors.
By adhering to these safety guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience in Colorado. Check out our comprehensive mountain safety guide for more information and safety best practices.
Conclusion: Best Campgrounds in Colorado
Colorado’s diverse landscapes make it a haven for campers of all kinds. With its majestic peaks, lush forests, and clear lakes, the state offers a wide range of camping experiences. Whether you prefer the solitude of dispersed camping or the comfort of developed campgrounds, Colorado has something to offer. Remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles and safety guidelines to ensure a memorable and responsible camping adventure. Happy camping!
Looking for more info? Check out our FAQ section below or leave a question in a comment!
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
FAQ
Here are answers to common questions about the best campgrounds in Colorado. If we haven’t addressed your question yet, leave it in a comment and I will get back to you with more information as soon as possible.
Q: Where is the best place to camp in Colorado for RV?
A: Cherry Creek State Park, located near Denver, is an excellent location for RV camping. It offers a range of amenities that are ideal for RV campers such as electricity and water hook-ups, dump stations, and larger campsite spaces. The park also offers a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, biking, and boating. Its proximity to Denver makes it a convenient location for those who want to explore the city or need quick access to urban facilities.
Q: Where to go camping with kids in Colorado?
A: Moraine Park Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park is a fantastic place for camping with kids. With spacious sites that offer a mix of sun and shade, it’s ideal for family tents. The campground is located near a number of kid-friendly hiking trails and the frequent sightings of elk, mule deer, and other local species in the surrounding meadows can provide exciting wildlife viewing opportunities for children. Additionally, the park offers ranger-led programs that can be both fun and educational for kids.
Q: When should I reserve campsites in Colorado?
A: It’s best to reserve a campsite as soon as you know your camping plans, especially during the peak season which runs from May to September. Most campsites, particularly the popular ones, can get booked up quickly. Online reservation systems for campsites typically allow bookings up to six months in advance, so it’s a good idea to make your reservations as early as possible.
Q: Does Colorado have free camping?
A: Yes, dispersed camping is typically free in Colorado. This type of camping, which refers to camping outside of designated camping areas, often in wilderness or remote areas, does not usually require a fee. However, it also means no amenities like restrooms, water, and picnic tables, and it requires a high degree of self-sufficiency.
Q: How to find available campsites in Colorado?
A: The best way to find available campsites in Colorado is through the online reservation systems of the National Park Service or Colorado Parks and Wildlife. These online systems allow you to check the availability of campsites, make reservations, and pay camping fees. Other online databases and apps also aggregate information on campsites, including user reviews, which can be very helpful.
Q: How much does it cost to camp in Colorado?
A: The cost of camping in Colorado varies depending on the type of campsite. Dispersed camping is typically free, while the cost for designated campsites and developed campgrounds can range from around $20 to $35 per night. Some campgrounds may charge additional fees for extra vehicles, pets, or use of certain facilities.
Q: Can you camp wherever you want in Colorado?
A: No, camping is not allowed everywhere in Colorado. You must camp in designated campsites unless you’re dispersed camping, which is allowed in some wilderness or remote areas. Even so, there are rules and regulations to follow for dispersed camping. Always check with the local land management agency for specific rules, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Q: What is the best campground in Rocky Mountain National Park?
A: Moraine Park Campground is often considered one of the best in Rocky Mountain National Park. Located in the heart of the park, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and provides easy access to a number of hiking trails. The campground is known for its spacious sites, and its location in the midst of wildlife habitat means frequent sightings of local species.
Q: How do you safely camp in Colorado?
A: To ensure safe camping in Colorado, always check local weather conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts before you set off. Keep food and scented items secure to prevent attracting wildlife to your campsite. Stay on designated trails when hiking and respect rules and regulations to protect the environment and ensure your safety. It’s also recommended to carry a map, compass, and basic first aid kit.
Q: When should I start camping in Colorado?
A: The best time for camping in Colorado is typically from late May to early October. Due to the state’s high altitude and mountainous terrain, nights can be chilly even during the summer. However, the weather during these months is usually warm and pleasant during the day, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Remember that weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and pack appropriately.
