The best camping in Lory State Park, CO

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The best camping in Lory State Park, CO

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Maycroft Ranch

4. Maycroft Ranch

92%
(43)
7.3mi from Lory State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Fort Collins, CO
Discover the allure of this expansive 26-acre property, nestled just 5 miles away from the pristine Horsetooth Reservoir and inlet bay, 13 miles to Carter lake and 30 miles to Estes park . Engage in a plethora of outdoor pursuits, with hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities awaiting at every turn. This haven is tailor-made for both serene relaxation and vibrant gatherings, offering seclusion and privacy amidst the natural beauty that surrounds it. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city without sacrificing convenience; located a mere 15 minutes or 10 miles to the town of Fort Collins, this retreat seamlessly combines tranquility with accessibility. A hidden gem for those seeking respite, the property provides an ideal sanctuary to unwind and recharge. Conducive to large gatherings, this secluded oasis ensures your privacy, creating an atmosphere where you can fully immerse yourself in the joys of nature. A bathroom onsite adds a touch of comfort to your outdoor experience, providing convenience without compromising the rustic charm of the surroundings. For the thrill-seekers, an exciting motorcycle track onsite promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure, adding an unexpected twist to your retreat. Whether you're yearning for a quiet escape or an active getaway, this property offers the perfect balance—a harmonious blend of natural serenity, outdoor recreation, and proximity to city amenities.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Lazy M Homestead

5. Lazy M Homestead

100%
(13)
11mi from Lory State Park · 8 sites · RVs · Fort Collins, CO
An incredibly convenient, beautiful, and clean place with 8 total camp sites to layover on your road trip to exciting destinations ! 4 individual camping spaces available for RV, camper trailers, camper vans up to 30' with some access to potable water and basic electric. An open grass pasture area will accommodate 4 large RV's. No Bathrooms or showers provided. Flower, vegetable, and fruit Gardens, fire pit, trees, horses ... a relaxing place to unwind after a long day on the road. Would you like a Beer, Wine, Whiskey, Root Beer Float, Soft Drinks, roast hot dogs and S'mores by the firepit ... Or, just hit the hay ? You choose how you want to spend your relaxing evening before you hit the road again. Within 1.3 mile : Gas Stations, Dump station, Liquor Store with Ice, Tractor Supply, Co-Op, Tack Shop, Welding Shop, Waffle House, Denny's, Hacienda Real Mexican Restaurant, McDonalds 4 Miles or less : Micro Breweries, Winery, Walmart, Costco, Starbucks, Chick Fil A, Wendy's, Charco Broiler Steak House, Freddie's, Taco Bell, KFC, Tires, Banks, Miniature Golf, Safeway, King Soopers, and much more ! This is a great location to base out of if you want to take in the sites of Fort Collins, CSU Football Games, Golf, Horse Tooth Reservoir to water ski, fish, boat, head to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park and the Roof Top Rodeo, or Cheyenne Frontier Days. This is a wonderful location to set up camp and make your trip a bit more easy and enjoyable. Property located 1.1 mile East of I-25 on Hwy 14 (Exit 269 A off I-25) Very easy access.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
North Shore RV Park & General Store

10. North Shore RV Park & General Store

95%
(78)
16mi from Lory State Park · 20 sites · RVs, Lodging · Loveland, CO
Located west of Loveland, Colorado, next to Carter Lake, North Shore RV Park and General Store offers full 20/30/50 amp, water and sewer sites along with cabin rentals for those seeking something a little different. One may enjoy the many amenities offered that include laundry facilities, fire ring/grill, trash services, general store to name a few. Spend the day outside enjoying outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, canoeing, stargazing, waterskiing and wildlife viewing. Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are a short 45 minutes away, shopping, hiking, and wild life such as elk, moose, bears, and many restaurants to enjoy. For Rocky Mountain National Park you must book online for a timed entrance in advance. Go to www.nps.gov to book. Whether it’s for a night or two, we hope to see you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Campsite.

12. Genuine Homestead

97%
(38)
19mi from Lory State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Johnstown, CO
Our homestead property is 15 acres with trees and open pasture raising traditional farmstead animals in sheep, chickens, and ducks, and growing produce and flower gardens! You will be surrounded by sounds of the farm while being near local attractions, dining, and shopping. Property is conveniently located near Loveland, Johnstown, Berthoud, Fort Collins, and Greeley. Less than 15 minutes from The Ranch events center (and Blue Arena) which hosts the Larimer County Fair, concerts, sporting events, and more. Also near sports tournament sites such as Loveland Sports Park and Fort Collins Soccer Complex. Other attractions within driving distance such as Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Lake Loveland, and Boyd Lake State Park provide many opportunities for fishing, hiking, kayaking, and more! No pets are allowed due to the farm animal surroundings and inside maintenance of the tent and site. Feel free to reach out to us for special requests regarding pets and we will let you know! SEASONAL NOTES: The temperatures and weather conditions can vary greatly throughout the year. Please plan accordingly and see notes below for seasonal tips. Average high/low temperatures (Fahrenheit): January 44/16 February 44/17 March 57/27 April 62/34 May 68/42 June 84/53 July 88/59 August 86/56 September 79/48 October 64/35 November 52/24 December 42/16 WINTER: 1) Drinking water is provided year-round, whether in a cooler or at the outhouse. You may bring extra water with you if you wish. 2) The wood stove keeps the tent warm; here are some helpful resources: Getting Started: youtube.com/watch?v=2yYPz2xuyHc Keeping Warm: mffire.com/wood-stove-101-how-to-build-a-fire-that-lasts-all-night/ SPRING: 1) Occasional thunderstorms, wind, and rain/hail. Guests have stayed safe and dry; see reviews for comments. 2) Moth season is May/June and lasts a few weeks. Not harmful, but can hide and surprise us at times. We try to help by providing moth traps and bug zapper lights. SUMMER: 1) We provide a small battery-powered fan; consider bringing an extra for high heat. 2) The daylight is long, the sunrises and sunsets are long and beautiful. AUTUMN/FALL: 1) A very captivating season for camping. As with Spring, prepare for weather variety. 2) Generally calm, snow can come early.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$91
 / night

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The best camping in Lory State Park, CO guide

Overview

About

Pine-clad hills, rugged mountain trails, and verdant valleys stretch through the Rocky Mountain foothills in Lory State Park. With more than 20 miles of bike- and hoof-friendly trails to explore, this outdoor paradise has options for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Need an extra dose of adrenaline? Try the rock-climbing routes around Arthur’s Rock, tackle the equestrian cross-country course, or go cross-country skiing. For a change of scenery, follow the trails down to the Horsetooth Reservoir, where you can boat, kayak, and raft. Camping at Lory is an adventure, too—there are six hike-in backcountry campsites. 

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of the park’s six backcountry campsites via the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. 
  2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance. 
  3. Campsites can book up on holiday weekends and during peak season (June through August), so book a minimum of three months in advance for these times.

When to go

Lory State Park is a year-round destination, and winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing once the hiking trails freeze up. Wildflowers brighten up the hillsides from late spring through summer, and this is the most popular time for hiking and outdoor activities. Trails can get muddy after rainfall and may close in periods of extreme weather. Camping is possible year-round but is limited to Friday and Saturday nights during hunting season (September through May). 

Know before you go

  • Lory State Park is located 11 miles west of Fort Collins, or about a 20-minute drive. The Horseshoe Reservoir lies just outside the park’s east boundary.
  • Park entrance fees are payable in addition to camping fees.
  • Facilities in the park include a Visitor Center and picnic areas with restrooms and drinking water. You can purchase groceries, gas, and other supplies in LaPorte, a 10-minute drive from the park. 
  • All Lory State Park campsites are primitive backcountry sites (with no restrooms or water) and lie at least a 2-mile, one-way hike from the nearest parking lot. There is no RV camping in the park. 
  • Fire bans are prohibited in Lory State Park, but cooking stoves are permitted.
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