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Camp Always Choose Adventures

Hosted by Chantelle · Idaho Springs, Colorado
27 sites · Tent, Lodging · 6 acres
90%
·
54 reviews
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Amazing views
Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
Family-friendly
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is great for families and kids.
Staff verified
Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
Romantic
Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.
⚠️ Important Policies ⚠️ • No refunds – please read carefully before booking. • Check-in by 8:00 PM only. • Use GPS to find us: Camp Always Choose Adventures, 300 Swamp Angel Lane, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 • All payments are considered donations to our nonprofit and are tax-deductible and non-refundable. • You must call or text your ETA prior to arrival. Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA) Located at 9,300 feet in Idaho Springs, Colorado, we’re just 15 minutes from downtown while offering a true high-country experience in the heart of the Rockies. Our Mission Camp ACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds from camping and events directly support accessibility, education, and underserved communities. 🙏 Thank you for supporting our mission. Learn more: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org You’ll also meet our friendly resident goats 🐐 and dogs 🐕, who are part of daily life at camp. Wildlife sightings are common, including moose, bears, and elk. 🔥 Firewood is provided at no extra cost, and a communal BBQ area, with picnic tables are available. 🐻 Bear boxes on site, compliments CPW. 🚫 No RVs or campers. Please call ahead if you have questions. Camp ACA is also a unique venue for small group events of up to 25 people, including family reunions, intimate weddings, retreats, workshops, offering a private, scenic setting surrounded by nature. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) area in the Front Range, with endless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and responsible off-road recreation. 🌲 Arrive empty-handed and still camp. We offer a donation based Gear Library including Paddleboard's, kayaks, tents, sleeping bags. 🚣 A private lake is just 10 minutes away, perfect for a quiet escape into nature. ⛰️ We’re also only 15 minutes from the Argo Mine / Mighty Argo, the historic Idaho Springs gondola, and numerous mountain hiking trails. Accessibility We proudly offer Extreme Motus off-road wheelchairs What’s New In May 2026, Camp ACA will introduce an on-site Oxygen Bar, sponsored by Summit Oxygen, to help guests feel better and enjoy high-elevation adventures more comfortably.
from
$30
/ night
27 sites

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Tent sites

6 sites
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Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site

79%
(24)
Tent site · Sleeps 2
Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA), the very first off-grid outdoor educational campground in the nation! Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, our campground offers a majestic forest setting teeming with wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature while learning about sustainable living and outdoor skills. Located just 15 minutes from Idaho Springs and Central City, two of Colorado's most historic mining towns, Camp ACA combines the serenity of nature with the charm of the state's rich history. Our unique location provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring the local history and mining heritage. At Camp ACA, we pride ourselves on providing a holistic outdoor educational experience. Our off-grid setup means you'll have the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're attending one of our outdoor educational clinics, participating in a wildlife observation tour, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of the forest, Camp ACA offers an unparalleled adventure. Come join us at Camp ACA for an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors. Reconnect with nature, learn new skills, and make lasting memories in one of Colorado's most beautiful and historic regions.
Moderate walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
from
$30
/ night
for 1 guest
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Tent Site 2

97%
(17)
Tent site · Sleeps 10
Site 2 is our dedicated group campsite at Camp ACA, designed to bring people together in the heart of the Rockies. This spacious site can accommodate up to 10 guests, making it perfect for families, friends, youth groups, or team retreats looking to share an outdoor adventure.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
from
$150
/ night
for 10 guests
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Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook

88%
(13)
Tent site · Sleeps 6
Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA), the very first off-grid outdoor educational campground in the nation! Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, our campground offers a majestic forest setting teeming with wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature while learning about sustainable living and outdoor skills. Located just 15 minutes from Idaho Springs and Central City, two of Colorado's most historic mining towns, Camp ACA combines the serenity of nature with the charm of the state's rich history. Our unique location provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring the local history and mining heritage. At Camp ACA, we pride ourselves on providing a holistic outdoor educational experience. Our off-grid setup means you'll have the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're attending one of our outdoor educational clinics, participating in a wildlife observation tour, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of the forest, Camp ACA offers an unparalleled adventure. Come join us at Camp ACA for an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors. Reconnect with nature, learn new skills, and make lasting memories in one of Colorado's most beautiful and historic regions.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
from
$100
/ night
for 6 guests
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Rocky Mountain Tipi Retreat

100%
(7)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
THE TIPI IS ONLY AVAILABLE DURING OUR SUMMER SEASON. IF YOU BOOK THIS SPOT DURING WINTER, OR SNOW, IT IS NOT AVAILABLE AND NO REFUNDS WILL BE PERMITTED.. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Colorado with a stay in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Tipi, crafted by Secret Creek and available for rent through Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA) on Hipcamp. This unique accommodation offers an unforgettable outdoor experience. Accommodation Features: Authentic Tipi Experience: The Black Canyon of the Gunnison Tipi is a beautifully constructed, spacious tipi that provides a cozy and unique lodging option. Made by Secret Creek, known for their high-quality craftsmanship, this tipi offers an authentic yet comfortable experience. Comfortable Interiors: Customize your camping experience with our expansive Gear Library. We have a wide assortment of cots, sleeping pads, sleeping bags and near anything you may need ensuring a restful night's sleep under the stars. Stunning Location: Nestled within Camp ACA's pristine grounds, the tipi offers stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains including dense forests and open aspen meadows. It’s the perfect base for exploring the nearby Arapaho National Forest. Wildlife: We typically have moose, elk, deer and sometimes even bears in our valley. If you wake up between 5:30AM - 6:30AM, you'll most likely see animals in the valley, or willow grove. Be aware there are four friendly resident camp dogs ready to greet you upon arrival. This campground is very dog-friendly, but if you have any concerns about dogs, please let us know, and we can ensure they are kept away from the campground during your stay. We will make every effort to accommodate you. Outdoor Amenities: Guests have access to outdoor amenities such as a communal fire pit for evening gatherings, picnic tables, and clean, port a pot restroom facilities. Educational Opportunities: As part of your stay, you can participate in outdoor educational clinics offered by Camp ACA, learning about Leave No Trace principles, local wildlife, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
Picnic table
from
$100
/ night
for 4 guests
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Tent Site 3

100%
(1)
Tent site · Sleeps 4
Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA), the very first off-grid outdoor educational campground in the nation! Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, our campground offers a majestic forest setting teeming with wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature while learning about sustainable living and outdoor skills. Located just 15 minutes from Idaho Springs and Central City, two of Colorado's most historic mining towns, Camp ACA combines the serenity of nature with the charm of the state's rich history. Our unique location provides easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring the local history and mining heritage. At Camp ACA, we pride ourselves on providing a holistic outdoor educational experience. Our off-grid setup means you'll have the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether you're attending one of our outdoor educational clinics, participating in a wildlife observation tour, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquility of the forest, Camp ACA offers an unparalleled adventure. Come join us at Camp ACA for an unforgettable experience in the great outdoors. Reconnect with nature, learn new skills, and make lasting memories in one of Colorado's most beautiful and historic regions.
Short walk to site
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
from
$50
/ night
for 2 guests
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Campground Takeover

Booked 1 time
Tent site · Sleeps 25
Looking for the ultimate outdoor gathering? Our Campground takeover site is designed for groups of up to 25 people, giving you an exclusive use of Camp ACA. Perfect for family reunions, weddings, school outings, corporate retreats, or big adventures with friends, this site is about bringing people together. With the Campground Takeover, you'll get access to our Tipi, Tiny House, common area, and our gear library! (Including Paddleboards, Camping Gear, Hiking Gear and more)
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
Picnic table
from
$500
/ night
for 25 guests

Lodging

1 site
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The Aspen Sanctuary

100%
(4)
Tiny home · Sleeps 2 · 1 bed
Perfect for a couple, or small family. Nestled in a magical aspen grove, the Aspen Sanctuary is the perfect hideaway for leaf peepers, hikers, and anyone craving a peaceful mountain retreat. In the fall, the meadow bursts into a golden sea of quaking leaves—an unforgettable backdrop for your stay. Inside, you’ll find a rustic one-room cabin with a bookcase full of Gerry Roach’s legendary mountaineering and adventure books, perfect for cozy reading after a day outdoors. Step outside to the meadow and watch for moose and elk that often wander through, or simply relax in the crisp mountain air. Just minutes from hiking trails, OHV roads, and scenic peaks, Aspen Sanctuary offers front-row seats to Colorado’s wild beauty. Whether you’re here to hike Mt. Pisgah, capture fall colors, or sip coffee under the aspens, this is your basecamp for adventure. The Aspen Sanctuary includes a full size bed, and room to bring a cot, or blow up mattress to bring the kids, or a 3rd person.
Campfires allowed
Toilet
No potable water
No pets
No showers
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
for 2 guests
from
$30
/ night
27 sites

Reviews

90% Recommend74 Ratings · 54 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Great stay
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
Nice quiet open space. Pretty scenery. More than enough firewood for the campfire. And host was extremely accommodating!
C
Cristian A.
5 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook
We booked last minute and it worked out beautifully. I highly recommend the tent site and a stay at ACA! Great location with a helpful and friendly host, Chantelle! Thank you for being so accommodating to my daughter and her friend.
D
Diana B.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
This is a great site for campers of all abilities.
S
Samantha B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· October 2025
Great campsite and host
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
Chantelle was a wonderful hostess. She went above and beyond to assure we had a comfortable experience at the camp. We got in a bit late and it started raining so she offered we could stay either in the tipi tent or the tiny house. We opted for the latter, very grateful. The camp has everything you need- firewood with a pit and a roasting rack, water, plenty of tables and benches. Bear boxes at every site. There is wi-fi at the common area and fun books and games in the tiny house. We’d gladly come back.
D
D. Z C.
4 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2025
Amazing time and place
Tent · With kids ·
Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook
My three grandkids had a wonderful and fun time camping at ACA. They had fun feeding goats, interacting with her dogs, riding in her side-by-side, seeing moose, and experiencing the beautiful outdoors. Chantelle is an excellent camp host. She is a very gracious, generous and caring person. She facilitated in bringing smiles and special memories of adventure. The campsite was nice with amazing views and close to Idaho Springs. We will return.
J
John R.
6 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Fantastic Host
Tent ·
Rocky Mountain Tipi Retreat
Fantastic host. Great land and escape from the City. Tipi was super fun.
M
Maureen W.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook
Great little spot with nice amenities; porta-potties, shared fire area, and games. The overlook site was beautiful! Nice getaway!
C
Claire D.
7 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 2
We absolutely loved our stay here! Clean toilets, WiFi, stunning views, and a great spot to pitch a tent. Quiet and peaceful. Someone was there to meet us when we arrived. We will definitely be back!
E
Ellie S.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
What a beautiful place, isolated just enough buy conveniently close to Denver! The host was amazing and was my kid’s favorite thing about the trip.. Our disbursed tent site felt private yet was close to the car. Highlights were the baby goats, the awesome host, and a moose wandering past our campsite at dusk. Highly recommend.
K
Karlton B.
5 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Family Friendly Camping
Tent · With kids ·
Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook
Excellent views from tent site 1 and Chantelle was very accommodating. Blackstone grills and community fire pit were great perks. We brought our 2 year old son and there were plenty of games, dogs, and goats for him to play with.
C
Cole H.
2 reviews
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 4
The host was incredibly hospitable and the view was amazing. Would definitely stay again!
D
Dale S.
1 year on Hipcamp
Mixed feelings
· July 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook
Great host but campsites were a little close together!
R
Rebekah D.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 1 - Sunrise Overlook
I had a great experience tent camping with Chantelle! She was very responsive and helpful before and upon arrival. Site (sunrise overlook) was beautiful and within walking distance to common area (fire pit, wifi room, restrooms). Multiple friendly dogs on property.
S
Sarah S.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
Tent · Group trip ·
Tent Site 2
Beautiful tent site! Great common area! The hosts were were nice and even let us pet their goats! We would come back again!
L
Lee T.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
With pets ·
The Aspen Sanctuary
Our stay in the Shack Cabin was magical. Waking up to the mountain sunrise and crisp air was pure peace. The cabin was cozy and well-designed, and the community campfire each evening felt like adult summer camp - but also large enough to have your own space. The shared kitchen area was perfect to cook, and we were so impressed by all the gear available to guests — thoughtful and useful. Chantelle welcomed us warmly, and we left feeling truly cared for and inspired by the non-profit’s mission. The stay was cozy, refreshing and inspiring!
Avatar
Alyssa S.
19 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent ·
Rocky Mountain Tipi Retreat
Awesome! Chantelle was great.. loved the conversation.. the baby goats and tipi...recommend! .
L
Lawrence R.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Tent Site 3
Great campsite and area- beautiful view and easy to get to. We missed the part where the campfire was communal- so that’s a bummer. But otherwise- it was an amazing site.
C
Caitlin F.
8 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
Tepee Camping
Tent · With kids ·
Rocky Mountain Tipi Retreat
We loved tepee camping on Chantelle's land! Natasha and Chantelle are fantastic Hosts, offering items we might have forgotten to pack. The kids had a great time cooking dinner and making smores over an open campfire. The next day we woke to a prepared firepit to warm the early morning chill. We received a great tip for a new fishing location. Granddaughter caught the biggest one. Maybe a new summer tradition!
D
Daria E.
11 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
Chantelle was great! Even though I didn't take her up on the offer of food, she did offer for me to join them for dinner. The place was packed due to father's day weekend and them hosting a Veterans women's group that weekend. But even so, it was peaceful and serene in the camping area. The Aspen Grove was lovely. Thank you!
A
Anna B.
3 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · With kids ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
Great little spot in the mountains - very friendly folks there to welcome you!!
E
Elliot S.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· June 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Tent Site 2
Great spot! I particularly liked the site I was at because of the views. Chantelle was also fantastic! Excellent spot not too far from the city but far enough away for some fresh air. Will definitely be back again.
Avatar
Justin B.
3 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 2
Enjoy our stay! Chantelle was very attentive and communicated well. Will definitely stay here again
L
Luis G.
6 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Great view, welcoming host!
Tent · Group trip ·
Tent Site 5
The host, Chantelle, was welcoming and helpful. She built a fire in the common area for s’mores at night. We ended up setting up in “The Overlooking” spot and the view was beautiful. Lots of hiking trails and a lake near by. Would return!
T
Tracy L.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 2
Chantelle was excellent, quick to respond. Even offered me a sleeping bag if I got too cold. She also recommended a hiking trail that I hit the next morning and it turned out to be perfect. Highly recommend!
S
Shea H.
2 reviews
Not recommend
· May 2025
Beware
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
We asked about tuck tents, as this is only our second time booking and I didn’t see it on the listing. The host was rude on the chat and belittling. We decided to not go at all to avoid feeling uncomfortable.
J
Jennifer V.
2 reviews
Not recommend
· May 2025
Opt for Dispersed sites instead
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
This site seemed to be lacking the privacy it conveyed in the listing. We were shown a "nerf battle arena" aspen grove directly in front of 2 larger camper trailers. Plus no convenient car access, which I think was listed so our fault there. We ended up bailing for a nearby dispersed campsite and not once did they follow up, indicating no concern for who was staying on their property. The host simply greeted us on arrival, pointed at an aspen grove behind a barbed wire fence, and drove off. Never heard or saw them again. Better to not spend money here in my opinion unless you want to pay more for a different spot they offer.
W
Will J.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
It was a truly wonderful place – surrounded by mountains and offering a clear night sky full of stars, it felt peaceful and refreshing. The hosts were extremely friendly and welcoming; they even checked in to see if I needed anything, which made the stay feel personal and cared for. The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, perfect for a getaway from the city. Whether you’re looking to unwind, stargaze, or just enjoy nature, this place is definitely worth a visit!
S
Shishir P.
2 reviews
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent ·
Tent Site 5
Chantelle (host) was very responsive and friendly. She gave us a lot of recommendations on what to do around the campsite and offered lots of amenities such as paddle boards or extra sleeping bags. She even upgraded us to the tipi! Overall a great experience and we would definitely go back!
C
Cesar M.
9 months on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Hidden Sanctuary
With pets ·
The Aspen Sanctuary
Staying here was like stepping into a hidden sanctuary. Each morning began with a breathtaking sunrise—deep orange and soft pinks spilling over the mountain ridges. The air was crisp and pure, like a fresh breath for the soul. Nights were just as magical, the sky glittering with stars, the cool breeze whispering through the trees. The communal area brought everyone together like family, yet there was always enough space to retreat in peaceful solitude. And the host—gracious, thoughtful, and attentive—made sure every detail was just right. I left feeling grounded, renewed, and deeply connected to nature." — A Grateful Camper
T
Tina B.
1 year on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2025
Tent · With pets ·
Tent / Hammock / Backpacking Site
She was super friendly and helpful! Great spot with a nice view, sunrise was excellent. 3 miles from main road up dirt bumpy road to camp. 2wd accessible. No personal fires only community, which her son was very friendly on starting one for us!
Z
Zachary W.
4 reviews

Location

Idaho Springs, Gilpin County, Colorado, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Chantelle S.

Joined in June 2024

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