The best camping in Castlewood Canyon State Park, CO

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Discover Castlewood Canyon's rugged beauty and outdoor adventures.  

The best camping in Castlewood Canyon State Park, CO

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Treehouse Magic @ Houses High

1. Treehouse Magic @ Houses High

97%
(19)
6mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Elizabeth, CO
NO MATTER THE SEASON, Sun, Rain or Snow!! Escape the city and find this magical off-grid treasure. Treehouse Magic sits on an 80-acre horse ranch 6476 feet above Sealevel (+ 20 feet for the treehouse!!) Built by hand, with love, and a little help from our friends over a 4-year period. Treehouse Magic is built around PAL an over 80+-year-old Ponderosa Pine. This wonderful space is magical in every way! Only 300 sq. feet with an almost 1100 sq. foot deck, including the covered gnome room. The upstairs bedroom is a full mattress (14" gel mattress). There is also a fold-out couch to sleep 1. The main level couch will fold down and become another bed platform. We provide a CordaRoys transformable chair, that unzips and becomes the bed topper (plus extra sheets, blankets and pillows). Some of the kid guests like to sleep in the Cabana room in the "pop-up" tent and cots! We provide a "smart movie projector" with built-in ROKU, for a movie night...The outdoor kitchen includes a PitBoss pellet smoker/grill, and propane griddle. The kitchen has a 2-burner gas stove and a small refrigerator. The bathroom has a Nature's Head composting toilet... (a little tutorial is needed) a sink and a trough step-in tub/shower with rain head. Wifi- Roku on inside TV as well or just the calm of beautiful nature! Every detail was thought of. A MUST-TRY EXPERIENCE! *Absolutely NO candles or open fires, please!! There is a propane firepit. Maximum of 2 dogs. $40 per dog. Additional rules apply for dog guests and must be cleared with the host prior. Please pick up after your dogs, there are poo-poo bags provided in Treehouse. Please do not leave the dogs unattended EVER in the treehouse, on the deck. Please use dog kennel if needed. At checkout please leave all used linens and towels as well as and lanterns that need charging and the urinals for cleaning at the bottom of the stairs. Running water will be turned off from Nov-April (except for warm days and we can turn on for a short time). We will be sure you have plenty of potable water for drinking and using.
Pets
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$175
 / night
Falkor Ranch

3. Falkor Ranch

100%
(256)
10mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Elizabeth, CO
Falkor Ranch is located on rolling hills on the Palmer Divide about an hour southeast of Denver, Colorado. Located at 7,000 feet with a beautiful view of Pike's Peak and the Rocky Mountains. Your camping fee includes a farm orientation, indoor plumbing that includes a shower. You will meet our beautiful alpacas and Nubian goats that we have for milk, weed control and just because they make us happy, as well as a flock of laying chickens for fresh eggs. We have a variety of gardens and a year-round geodesic dome greenhouse that provides us with fresh produce. This is a quiet country setting. There are many popular and diverse activity sites less than an hour away. Come escape the hustle and bustle of home, and enjoy the beauty of nature and our loving animals. We offer both tent and RV listings to suit however you like to travel. We have a hot shower, bathroom, picnic tables, potable water, and trash and recycle bins. Our RV listing has both 20 and 30 amp electrical hookup but no water or sewer hookups. Our guests love us too! "We had an amazing time here! Diane is so sweet and showed us all of their beautiful friendly animals and plants when we arrived and even offered fresh goat milk and a plant starter! The land was gorgeous and we got to watch adorable goats from our tent. One of my favorite camping experiences ever!"
Potable water
Toilets
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from 
$55
 / night
120 Acre Animal Sanctuary

4. 120 Acre Animal Sanctuary

100%
(33)
10mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 6 sites · Tents · Elizabeth, CO
Camp for a Cause. Glamp to Give Back. Every stay supports rescued horses and the healing they offer. Unplug under the stars. Reconnect with purpose. Rest in gratitude. Whether you’re bringing your RV, pitching your own tent, or staying in one of our cozy glamping tents, your stay helps make a difference. Raison d’être Ranch—French for “reason to be”—is more than just a name. It’s our mission, our heartbeat, and our why. Here on 120 peaceful acres, we’ve created a sanctuary for over 95 rescued horses, along with santuaried cows, goats, and a myriad of wildlife who call this sacred land home. From deer, pronghorn, and porcupine to coyotes, bald eagles, waterfowl, hawks, meadowlarks, mourning doves, and more—we honor all life here. Every night you spend here supports the lifelong care of our animals and the equine-partnered wellness programs that help people heal through their connection with these sentient beings. Dry camping. Tent camping. Glamping. Choose your style—and know that wherever you sleep, you’re standing for something bigger. While planning your stay, don’t forget to check out our special add-ons and romance packages! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, a proposal, or simply want to create a ‘just because’ moment, we offer picnic setups, romantic touches, and more to make your time here magical. Want to go even deeper? Book one of our unique experiences—like meeting the herd, hearing their rescue stories, walking or grooming a horse, or participating in a private equine-partnered wellness session. We encourage you to book in advance to ensure availability. This isn’t just a stay—it’s a sanctuary experience. Camp with purpose. Glamp with gratitude. And give back to what matters. Please note: Check-In Policy Our standard check-in window is between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Arrivals between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM may be accommodated with prior notice and are subject to a $10 late check-in fee. Due to the nature of our property as a working ranch, and in respect for our animals and fellow guests, we are unable to accommodate any check-ins after 10:00 PM. Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM, and for the safety and well-being of all on site, late arrivals beyond this time
Pets
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from 
$38
 / night
Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

5. Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

99%
(745)
12mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 7 sites · RVs · Larkspur, CO
Our family-owned noncommercial ranch/campground nestled against the Raspberry ButIt is a working ranch with several horses, donkeys, goats, and dogs. Due to the fire risks in our area there are NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED which includes propane fires Thirty acres of our property are fenced for the horses and located directly behind the campsites. In addition, we have lots of wildlife including but not limited to: Deer, Elk, Coyotes, Bobcats, Wild Turkeys, Mountain Lions, Snakes, and Bears. We are approximately 2 miles from the town of Larkspur between Spruce Mountain Road and Perry Park Road. (Please note Google Maps will try and send you to a location on Perry Park Road which is incorrect. Please refer to the map located on this website.) Due to our remote location, we have spotty Wifi. Typically ATT, Starlink, and TMobile work best. Verizon reception can be located at certain spots around our ranch. There are three restaurants located in the town of Larkspur including pizza, Mexican food, and a pub. There is also a large park with lots of kids' play equipment. During the summer there are concerts at the park on the weekends. We are approximately 2 miles from the Colorado Renaissance Festival located in Larkspur. The Renaissance Festival typically runs between June and . Campers will be required to sign a Waiver and Release of Liability when camping with us. The following is a copy of the Waiver: WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY (Please email to: TeresaSOrtez@msn.com) IN CONSIDERATION OF the risk of injury that exists while participating in CAMPING (hereinafter the “Activity”) at Standiford Ranch LLC with restricted access to horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, and other various farm animals, and IN CONSIDERATION OF my desire to participate in said Activity and being given the right to participate in the same: I, for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives (hereinafter collectively, “Releasor,” “I,” or “me,” which terms shall also include Releasor’s parents or guardian if Releasor is under 18 years of age), knowingly and voluntarily enter into this WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY and hereby waive any and all rights, claims, or causes of action of any kind arising out of my participation in the Activity. I hereby release and forever discharge Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) located at 1225 Fox Farm Road, Larkspur, Colorado 80118, their affiliates, managers, members, agents, attorneys, staff, volunteers, heirs, representatives, predecessors, successors, and assigns (collectively “Releasees”), from any physical or psychological injury that I may suffer as a direct result of my participation in the aforementioned Activity. I am voluntarily participating in the aforementioned Activity at my own risk. I am aware of the risks associated with participating in this Activity, which may include but are not limited to physical or psychological injury, pain, suffering, illness, disfigurement, temporary or permanent disability (including paralysis), economic or emotional loss, and death. I understand that these injuries or outcomes may arise from my own or others' negligence, conditions related to travel to and from the Activity, or from conditions at the Activity location(s). Nonetheless, I assume all related risks, both known and unknown to me, of my participation in this Activity. I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Releasees against any and all claims, suits, or actions of any kind whatsoever for liability, damages, compensation, or otherwise brought by me or anyone on my behalf, including attorney’s fees and any related costs. I acknowledge that Releasees are not responsible for errors, omissions, acts, or failures to act of any party or entity conducting a specific event or activity on behalf of Releasees. If I require medical care or treatment, I authorize Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) to provide all emergency medical care deemed necessary, including but not limited to, first aid, CPR, the use of AEDs, emergency medical transport, and sharing of medical information with medical personnel. I agree to assume all costs involved in my medical treatment and to indemnify, save, and hold harmless the Releasees from any loss, liability, damage, or cost, including bodily injury or death. I understand that my access and the access of any members of my party are limited to our designated camping area also referred to as campsite which is marked with a designated number(s). We are prohibited from entering any other areas of the property without express permission and must be accompanied by an authorized member of Standiford Ranch LLC. This restriction applies to all members of my party, including but not limited to family members, guests, and any other individuals who accompany me. I acknowledge that any violation of this rule may result in immediate removal from the property and potential legal action. I agree to inform all members of my party of this restriction and ensure their compliance and will not hold Standiford Ranch LLC liable for any unintended or unaccompanied use of the property. I understand that myself and my party are financially liable for any damages, injuries, or loss as a result of our actions, intentional, negligent, or otherwise. This includes all property, equipment, tools, structures, trees/agricultures, residents, guests, campers, or animals, whether intentionally or as an act of negligence. This includes any unauthorized use of the property including such as hunting, hiking, climbing, illegal dumping, or pollution. I understand that myself and my party must have insurance for any and all vehicles brought onto the Standiford Ranch property to cover any accidents and damage to vehicles caused by fallen trees. In the instance of a dispute arising between the user(s) and Standiford Ranch LLC, both parties agree to seek arbitration as a means to resolve such disputes. The parties shall agree on a single neutral arbitrator to conduct such counsel. If the parties cannot agree on a single arbitrator, they will each select one arbitrator who will then agree on a single arbitrator to resolve the dispute. The arbitrator will under no circumstance be allowed to modify or change this limitation of liability agreement. Furthermore, the arbitrator’s decision shall be final, and the user(s) will be responsible for all fees incurred during the arbitration. Any disputes will be handled in Colorado court. I agree that in the event of any injury or loss of life arising out of my participation in the Activity, including the event of negligence on behalf of Amy, Clint, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC), the total damages to which I, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives may be entitled shall not exceed $10,000. I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT. I FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND HAVE SIGNED IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT, ASSURANCE, OR GUARANTEE BEING MADE TO ME. I INTEND MY SIGNATURE TO BE A COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. I FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF MYSELF AND ALL MEMBERS OF MY PARTY, AM AUTHORIZED TO DO SO, AND I CERTIFY THAT I AM AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. IF A MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY DOES NOT AUTHORIZE YOUR SIGNATURE ON THEIR BEHALF, THEY MUST ALSO SIGN AND AGREE TO THIS AGREEMENT BELOW. BY SIGNING, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT FULL LIABILITY ON BEHALF OF YOUR PARTY AND ACKNOWLEDGE YOU HAVE RECEIVED AUTHORIZATION FROM EACH MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY. Authorized Signer: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Campsite Number: ___________________ Additional Signer(s) Who Do Not Authorize the Individual Above: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Pets
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from 
$32
 / night
Colorado Meadows & Fishing Pond

7. Colorado Meadows & Fishing Pond

100%
(17)
13mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Larkspur, CO
Learn more about this land: Elevation 7,000 feet. Flat to slightly rolling grass field and pond. Camping is allowed on east or west side of pond. No vehicle access to east side of pond. East of the pond area has *firepit, picnic tables and chairs. Camping on either the east or west side of the pond in mowed grassy areas only. Vehicles are not permitted over the berm, which is access to the east side of pond. Walking access only. Please adhere to this requirement. A small wagon is available to transport camping items. Tents are allowed on either west or east side of pond. Trailers and campers are only allowed on the west side of the pond in the mowed grassy area. *For the 2025 season fire requirements and permits are followed. If a Fire Ban is in effect, there are no fires, charcoal grills, gas firepits, gas BBW, gas stoves, or smoking. At no time are fireworks or firearms allowed. Please consider other options when on the site. This Fire ban is strictly enforced. Any violators will be asked to leave with no refund. No Port-a-Potty on site. Campers, trailers or guest portable potty only. No vehicles over berm area (access to east side of pond). No exceptions. Pond available for fishing. No swimming, wading or watercraft of any kind on pond. Children and pets must be supervised at all times and water safety strictly adhered. There is a small country market in Larkspur for light meals and coffee, about 3 miles away.. There is one horse on site at this time. There may be cattle within one of the pastures, as well. Please do not enter the pastures. The entrance to Sandstone Open Space with hiking trails is approximately 1 mile north on the west side of Perry Park/Highway 105. The Renaissance Festival is approximately 3 miles from the property.
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from 
$100
 / night
CampCHERIshed-Camp for a Cause!

9. CampCHERIshed-Camp for a Cause!

97%
(384)
16mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Sedalia, CO
⭐️ *Tons of privacy!* ⭐️ Camp for a Cause! 🌲100% of every dollar in our camping fee is a donation for ShesCHERIshed. ☂️ Help us with this mission by camping with us! 🏕 You can expect tons of trees, privacy, peaceful, quiet land to relax, with beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains, miles of pine trees, boulders, open hiking, fire pits, *Chatfield Reservoir views (in certain areas) and more! 🔥 Enjoy private camping, yet still close to Rampart Range, the town of Sedalia or Castle Rock for convenience. ⛰ Or head to Deckers, and the South Platte River for Fishing! 🎣 Only 10 minutes to the town of Sedalia, w/ a gas station, the famous cheeseburger at Bud's Bar, B'Mans BBQ & Wide Open Saloon, a cafe & more. Options available if you don't feel like cooking while camping. 👏🏼 This is a smoke, drug, and drunk free campsite. 🚫Thank you! 🙏🏼 Blessings! (ShesCHERIshed is a 501(c)(3) non-profit ministry.) ✝️
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$85
 / night
The more forested part of our land.

11. Forest and Field! Horses welcome!

100%
(18)
22mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Colorado Springs, CO
Learn more about this land:We have almost 40 acres of beautiful land that is scattered trees in a field and more forested areas. We also have mountain views depending on where you stay! We are right next door to the Pineries Open Space which is a 9 mile trail that you can hike, bike, or horse ride on. It also connects (by crossing a road) to Section 16 which is another 4 mile trail. You can bring your own horses and for a $50 fee we will set up corral panels for your horses to stay. We have farm animals that will be wondering about the land at times. We have water up at our home that you can use to fill up your campers with water or any water containers you need to fill. A camp bucket toilet will be available for campers use. At certain times we offer farm experiences at additional charges. There is a small corner store a couple of miles away, a local feed store where you can buy hay for tour horses, a little local coffee shop and small cafe as well. Come enjoy the country life just minutes from town! Because we also use our land to graze our animals, we ask that only one vehicle be parked at the site at a time. We have a place for parking additional vehicles if you have more than 1 vehicle.
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$68
 / night
Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

12. Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

96%
(35)
22mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Colorado Springs, CO
We are campers ourselves so, we get it! If you're someone who loves camping, glamping or pitching a tent and need a place, we are here for you! We are just 5.4 miles from the NEW Ford Amphitheatre venue. 3 miles from our NEW grocery store. We are on the property ourselves. We are right off a main road with easy access to town, yet you will feel you are in the woods surrounded by nature. We don't have hookups but we do have a water pump and a basic electrical outlet if you need. There's a large firepit that you're welcome to use if there isn't a fire ban in place. The property is fenced and the spot is level. If you need a bit more privacy or a place for additional guests, we have a small cabin that is also for rent on the property! There's a herd of deer that frequent the property as well so, you just might get lucky to enjoy them too!
Pets
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$50
 / night
The Galapago Glamper

15. The Galapago Glamper

97%
(15)
27mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Denver, CO
Experience luxury glamping near the heart of Denver with our renovated camper. Nestled in a secluded residential neighborhood location, this is the perfect retreat for those seeking a unique and comfortable stay. Here's what we offer: Amenities: Our camper is equipped with all the essentials to ensure a cozy and convenient experience. You'll have access to a fridge, microwave, running water (cold water only), electricity, and AC. Stay connected with our complimentary WiFi, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or catch up on work during your stay. Climate Control: Beat the summer heat with our small AC unit, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable environment. A large fan is also included as well as a space heater for cooler nights. Restroom Facilities: While we offer an outdoor toilet, please note that there is no shower on the premises. Sleeping Arrangements: The Galapago Glamper comfortably accommodates a max of two adults. You'll find one full bed providing a restful night's sleep. Privacy and Parking: Enjoy your own private entrance and parking space, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure. We value privacy, so we’ll give you your space and won't meet you upon arrival, but we’re also available 24/7 if you need anything. You’ll have our personal cell numbers, and we’re always happy to help. Natural Surroundings: Our location backs up to a large park with river access, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Explore the Denver bike trail just steps away from your doorstep. Within a mere 5-minute walk, you'll find a charming bar/coffee shop where you can unwind and indulge in a refreshing beverage. Additionally, there's a kids' playground nearby, providing entertainment for the little ones. Red Rocks Amphitheater is a quick 20 minute drive! Evans Light Rail Station is about a 20 minute walk. Book your stay at the Galapago Glamper today for a unique and unforgettable glamping experience near the city!
Potable water
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$72
 / night
Tuff’s Animal Rescue @ Tuff’s Ranch

16. Tuff’s Animal Rescue @ Tuff’s Ranch

100%
(27)
27mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 35 sites · RVs · Bennett, CO
An animal rescue and cattle ranch in beautiful Bennett, Colorado, home of Tuff's Animal Rescue at Tuff's Ranch!! Chickens, alpacas, cattle, lambs, emus, goats, and pigs to see and play with! Walking trail, shooting range, and archery range. Meat and eggs available to purchase, based on availability. Rancher's market on Thursdays 4-7 and Saturdays 9-2 through mid October. Conveniently located at I-70 exit 305 Kiowa-Bennett Road (Eastbound) and I-70 exit 306 Kiowa (Westbound). PLEASE USE THIS PIN DROP https://maps.app.goo.gl/6ptL8Hn9zAdYcqobA From Eastbound I-70, go south (right) through the flashing caution light (about 7.7 miles). The first gate on the right is where we are located! You will see a big green barn in front of you. From Westbound I-70, go forward through the stop sign. Turn south (left) on Kiowa-Bennett Road. This will take you OVER the Interstate. Continue south through the flashing caution light (7.7 miles). The first gate on the right is where we are located! You will see a big green barn in front of you. 5055 S. Kiowa-Bennett Rd 5055 S. County Road 137 Please park parallel to the highway against the fence, facing the BIG GREEN BARN and the Outpost. (720) 263-2279 call or text We appreciate all donations! Vemo.com/Tuffsanimalrescue Paypal.me/Tuffsanimalrescue Tuff’s Animal Rescue ℅ Tuff’s Ranch is a Non-Profit Public Charity Organization since 2021 EIN 87-3432359
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$35
 / night
Harmony Ridge Farm

17. Harmony Ridge Farm

99%
(78)
28mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ramah, CO
We began this venture in 2012 by purchasing 35 acres overlooking a 7000 acre homestead. We are located on the beautiful eastern plains of Colorado southeast of Denver. Rolling hills dotted with Ponderosa pines that encourage wildlife to settle in. Pikes Peak, Longs Peak and Mount Evans all visible on clear days. We have 35 acres and raise alpaca’s, chickens, cats and dogs as well as a large garden. We are totally off grid and enjoy life in the home my husband built using trees he cut down and milled on his sawmill. We lived on the property in a 400sq ft cottage while building the house and this cottage is now available to rent. Water is available outside and the outhouse is just a few steps away. It comes equipped with a woodturning stove you can use to cook on. We added the Bijou Tree House to our options a couple years ago! It is a one room cabin (sleeps 2) with an incredible picture window that frames Pikes Peak beautifully. It is nestle among some old Ponderosa Pines; sports a cute but tiny wood burning stove; bar table in front of the window; deck with seating and a propane camp chef 2 burner stove. A hammock is available for use and private outhouse just a few feet away. Across the gulley is the new Sawmill Cabin built under the canopy of Jim's sawmill. It is small, and can sleep 3 with a unique bunk over a queen sized platform bed. A small deck, fire pit all under a covered open space. More kids? Bring a tent! there’s room! Numerous tent sites are available all within easy walking to your car. An outhouse is close by. We love sharing our story and our home and the beautiful place God has gifted us with people from all over the world and hope to host you as well. Come Camp; and relax. Watch and listen to the birds, deer and antelope really do play here two little fawns were chasing each other through the gully just this morning. We are blessed beautiful sunrises and sunsets; stars at night and an added bonus is our Farm Store where we showcase products made from our alpaca's, and trees my husband has cut down... !
Potable water
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$30
 / night
Little Scraggy Camp entrance.

18. Little Scraggy Camp

93%
(845)
29mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pine, CO
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 16 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2025 - two separate, professionally designed 18-hole disc golf courses with PDGA regulation baskets, and a Pro Shop with a free 9-hole putting course, which is great for those who have never played disc golf and want to try it out, (we have free loaner discs). Our Hipcamp guests get a 10% discount on player fees, their children play free. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. We also have several cornhole toss games set up. Friendly, well-mannered dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. We are an ideal basecamp for hiking or biking trail enthusiasts,with direct access to the Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Little Scraggy Trailhead is 3.5 miles away, with easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train Shire draft horses and also ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
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$25
 / night
Site #3

20. Resort Valley Ranch East

98%
(955)
30mi from Castlewood Canyon State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Conifer, CO
Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.
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Overview

About

Castlewood Canyon State Park is a treasure trove of scenic vistas, diverse wildlife, and rich history. With no campgrounds available, the park instead offers a variety of day-use activities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and picnic areas, all while enjoying the park's unique geology and remnants of the historic Castlewood Canyon Dam.

When to go

The best time to visit Castlewood Canyon State Park is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer months can be hot, and winter may bring snow, limiting access to some trails. Always check for seasonal closures before planning your trip.

Know before you go

  • Check for seasonal trail and climbing route closures due to wildlife nesting from March to July.
  • Keep dogs on a leash and pick up after them; some trails prohibit pets entirely.
  • Park hours are from sunrise to sunset, with inbound gates closing one hour prior.
  • There is no camping available within the park; it is a day-use only area.
  • For rock climbing, contact the park office to register and purchase a climbing guide.
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