The best lakeside camping near Buena Vista

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Like a city skyline, the Collegiate Peaks dominate the horizon around Buena Vista and serve as the backdrop for camping adventures in the area. Speckled amid these hills and peaks, youll also find several lakes with waterside camping spots perfect for paddling, fishing, and boating. The San Isabel National Forests Twin Lakes capture everything thats magical about this region and offer campsites like those in Lakeview Campground, right near these bodies of water. Cottonwood Lake is another regional gem with dispersed campsites and developed campgrounds dotting the national forest. Waterfront sites are also available at Eleven Mile State Park, with both RV sites and tent camping. Even if you cant find waterfront camping, water is within easy reach at many spots around Buena Vista—options include RV parks in and near town with full hookups and pull-through sites that come with wifi and dump stations. Summer is the peak season for Buena Vista campers thanks to warm lake waters, while spring and fall can be tricky due to plentiful snow.

94% (745)

Top-rated campgrounds

Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

1. Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

98%
(64)
19mi from Buena Vista · 7 sites · Lodging · Salida, CO
The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes. We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent. The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels. New in 2022: We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$109
 / night
Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp

4. Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp

94%
(41)
33mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Alma, CO
Campgrounds, people, noises, regulations, things you won't find here. You will find happiness, peace, the sound of the winds in 3000 year old trees, alpine streams tricking through ancient untouched forests, great horned owls and moose calling into the night, coyote echoing at sunset signaling night approaching, the warm smell of pine and summer grasses, touching the warm rocks next to the stream while you listen to the birds and crickets. I could go on and on, these are the things I see when I close my eyes and think of this place. This site sits at the base of (2) 14ers. in thee middle of a sunken meadow. This is the most beautiful and secluded camping experience you will experience in Colorado. There are miles of 4x4 and atv trails. There are countless hiking trails for day and short nature hikes. Above the site sits bristlecone pines that have appeared in ansel adams prints and are absolutely amazing. The sites sit on 160 private acres which borders national forest. There is a small a-frame tent that's insulated with big windows, locking door, skylight, solar for charging electronics, and a full size bed. The cabin is roughly the size of the full size mattress but seems bigger because of the a-frame roof. Its warm and cozy and keeps the critters and animals out, so you feel safe and comfortable. There are lots of amenities on site.  There is a picnic table, 10'x12' waterproof awning and wood deck.  There is a bbq, bear box, huge stone fire pit and bucket toilet. The road into the site was graded last year but still has small potholes typical of a Colorado county road, most low-profile cars will do fine.  If you have a rv or camper, the turn around is limited, no tow behind campers or vehicles over 20'
Pets
Toilets
from 
$98
 / night
View from the property

5. Camp Lake View

99%
(50)
33mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · Guffey, CO
Learn more about this land:This camp site is directly across the road from Eleven Mile Reservoir. With this site being around 3000 feet from the reservoir you will be able to enjoy all the amazing views and amenities the reservoir has to offer without the crowded camp grounds. You will need a park pass to access the reservoir but not to camp on the land. A 1/4 mile down the road is access to nation forest for going off road or get a parks pass and fish at one of the many amazing fisheries in the area like Eleven mile, Spinney and Eleven mile canyon. The south shore boat ramp is less than 4 miles away. This area does get windy so be careful setting up awnings and pop up tents or anything the wind likes to blow away. The site has a slight pitch but leveling out your camper should be relatively easy. No trees on the land to block your 360 degree mountain views.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Twin Bridges Campground

8. Twin Bridges Campground

93%
(99)
38mi from Buena Vista · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Coaldale, CO
Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 20 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) along the Arkansas River (Gold Medal fishing) with access for all campers for fishing and floating. Many of our sites are great for star-gazing, watching meteors, looking for fireflies, and seeing the birds zip on by. We are conveniently located on Hwy 50, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and have all sorts of rental options for your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you want to pitch a tent, try out the glamping experience, enjoy the convenience of an RV, or rent one of our fully equipped RVs, we have the perfect spot for you. We have four entrances marked by sail flags into the campground, two by the lake, one near the bathhouse, and one by the post office (on our property). The map of the Arkansas River has our campground listed! Adventure awaits with home to the highest mountain peaks in Colorado and the river and 102 miles of Trout Gold Medal Water. There is access to white water rafting, guided fishing, and fishing lessons. There are at least 5 hot springs within 60 miles of Twin Bridges Campground. Salida is considered the white-water rafting capitol of the US by some and has a whitewater park and surfing wave. Salida area is also home to a ton of hiking (14'ers anyone?) and mountain biking trails. The Royal Gorge is a quick 30 minute drive with restaurants and other fun near Canon City. The Sand Dunes are 90 minutes and Monarch Ski Area is 45, we have some of the best bird watching! Warbling Vireo, Western Wood-peewee, Cassin's Kingbird to name a few.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
Gondola Village at Holy Cross

10. Gondola Village at Holy Cross

93%
(160)
44mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Lodging · Red Cliff, CO
Gondola Village at Holy Cross is a little sanctuary in the mountains between Vail, Leadville, and Aspen. There is little nearby except for the next door Holy Cross Wilderness, with a lifetime worth of trails, lakes, and peaks to explore -- all only two hours from Denver. Gondola Village at Holy Cross has direct access that many dream of to Colorado's water wilderness, and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, scrambling, backpacking, and fly fishing in the Summit Vail Eagle Aspen area. Our modern alpine cabins are some of the cutest cabins you'll step foot in, complete with a mix of amenities to make your wilderness stay a bit more comfortable. Gondola Village at Holy Cross is at 11.5k feet above sea level (believed to be the highest altitude Hipcamp in the world). Gondola Village at Holy Cross has been featured on Discovery Channel’s Reclaimed, Airbnb's OMG! Fund, Arch Digest, and the site of many product shoots. The managers of this property have worked in yurt, ADU, and cabin construction and hospitality for many years and have brought together some of the best Scandinavian and modern design with a mining town aesthetic. The trip up can be challenging (only off-road, winch / locker equipped vehicles dare try the 759 Holy Cross City jeep road, others will need to hike in at least 2.5 miles), but the views and cabins are well worth the trek. Snow free season tends to be June 15 an October 30 annually, and outside of this guests should be prepared for up to 11 miles of over-snow travel with no cars allowed (a bit less depending on snow coverage in the shoulder seasons from May 21 - early June and late October - November 21)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night
This is the western view from our place, a great place to watch sunsets

11. Green Acres Herbal Retreat

99%
(69)
46mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO
Learn more about this land: Private room fully furnished, kitchen & bath, attached to large greenhouse with organic vegetables (seasonal), with access to herb shop, enclosed communal courtyard sitting area with fire pit, water features and mountainous views. Close to tourist attractions and outdoor activities. Guided hikes and herbal workshop available upon request as time allows. We jokingly named our place Green Acres after the 1960's sitcom. As through blood sweat and tears and a little humor on the side we have transformed it from a junkyard to a small paradise. We do not mean to indicate several acres of green, although there is plenty of room to stretch out, relax and catch an awesome sunset on our 2 acres of land. This listing is not suitable for children under 10 years of age.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$120
 / night
The Gold Links Ranch

16. The Gold Links Ranch

79%
(7)
31mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ohio City, CO
Our 220 acre historical ranch has been in the family for over 100 years. The property was once a gold mine stop for the Denver South Park and Pacific Railroad and we are still able to enjoy the train depot and telegraph house from the early 1900’s when the train was running through the Quartz Creek Valley. We are also blessed with some of the oldest, largest Pine Trees in the Valley thanks to them being on protected railroad property when logging was prevalent. Come enjoy over 2 miles of private prime fly fishing on the Gunnison headwaters of Gold and Quartz Creek as well as 3 different well stocked lakes. Take a stroll, run or bike along the private 2.5 mile walking loop along Quartz Creek. Keep an eye out for the resident Geese, Blue Heron, ducks and other birds who reside here on the islands. If hiking is your thing-enjoy the Willow Creek Hike that cuts through the property, among other scenic trails in the area. Choose from three different lake-side campsites and come relax on our private slice of heaven!
Pets
Trash
from 
$150
 / night
❤️ Tranquility

17. ❤️ Tranquility

40mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · Guffey, CO
Private, secluded, and scenic property conveniently located near all your favorite outdoor activities — fishing, hiking, and adventuring, all within an hour’s drive. Perfect for that authentic Colorado camping experience, whether you’re a fisherman, hunter, or outdoor enthusiast. The property can accommodate up to a 24’ travel trailer, 30’ RV, or tent camping. It includes 30-amp power, 110 AC power, internet access, and seasonal water (available on-site). Outdoor fires are allowed in the provided fire pit if fire restrictions are not in effect. A small tiny house is also available, featuring a bunk bed, mini refrigerator, and DVD TV. There’s even an outdoor log composting outhouse. A covered gazebo with chairs and two chaise lounges offers comfort during inclement weather. Please note: there is no sanitation dump on-site. If you have a portable waste tank (“poop wagon”), the neighboring property has a septic outlet available for use — arrangements must be made in advance.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
Washington Gulch Getaway

18. Washington Gulch Getaway

49mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Crested Butte, CO
Welcome to the Washington Gulch Getaway! Don't miss this rare opportunity to stay at one of the most coveted homes in Crested Butte. Featuring 20 acres of private land surrounded by National Forest, ample mountain views and wildlife, 3 ponds, and trout stream, this 3-story creekside cabin is the perfect place for you and your friends or loved ones to enjoy the CO backcountry, or to simply relax and recharge. Book now to lock in your dates before they're gone; I would love to host your stay! ABOUT THE LOCATION: The Washington Gulch Getaway is your premier destination to enjoy a remote mountain retreat in the beautiful backcountry of Crested Butte, Colorado. Start your day watching the sun rise over Gothic Mountain before it slowly starts moving across a picturesque view of Whetstone. Enjoy the views from two decks and frequent visits from wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and beavers. Sit and sunbathe by the two small ponds, or grab your fishing rod and follow the creek down to the third pond with plenty of trout waiting to bite. Hand-built over decades by the legendary Phil P., take in the sights, sounds, and rich history of one of the oldest gold mining claims in Gunnison County as you walk the property to find hidden gems like an old sluce box, outhouse, and some of the original equipment used to create this one-of-a-kind oasis. You'll also find countless trinkets, treasures, and antiques throughout the home. End your day watching the sunset over Anthracite Mesa, where an old coal mine once stood in the 1890's, as deer and other wildlife return almost every evening to graze and visit the ponds. Some might even get as close as the front door!
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$800
 / night

Like a city skyline, the Collegiate Peaks dominate the horizon around Buena Vista and serve as the backdrop for camping adventures in the area. Speckled amid these hills and peaks, youll also find several lakes with waterside camping spots perfect for paddling, fishing, and boating. The San Isabel National Forests Twin Lakes capture everything thats magical about this region and offer campsites like those in Lakeview Campground, right near these bodies of water. Cottonwood Lake is another regional gem with dispersed campsites and developed campgrounds dotting the national forest. Waterfront sites are also available at Eleven Mile State Park, with both RV sites and tent camping. Even if you cant find waterfront camping, water is within easy reach at many spots around Buena Vista—options include RV parks in and near town with full hookups and pull-through sites that come with wifi and dump stations. Summer is the peak season for Buena Vista campers thanks to warm lake waters, while spring and fall can be tricky due to plentiful snow.

94% (745)

Top-rated campgrounds

Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

1. Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

98%
(64)
19mi from Buena Vista · 7 sites · Lodging · Salida, CO
The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes. We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent. The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels. New in 2022: We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$109
 / night
Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp

4. Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp

94%
(41)
33mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Alma, CO
Campgrounds, people, noises, regulations, things you won't find here. You will find happiness, peace, the sound of the winds in 3000 year old trees, alpine streams tricking through ancient untouched forests, great horned owls and moose calling into the night, coyote echoing at sunset signaling night approaching, the warm smell of pine and summer grasses, touching the warm rocks next to the stream while you listen to the birds and crickets. I could go on and on, these are the things I see when I close my eyes and think of this place. This site sits at the base of (2) 14ers. in thee middle of a sunken meadow. This is the most beautiful and secluded camping experience you will experience in Colorado. There are miles of 4x4 and atv trails. There are countless hiking trails for day and short nature hikes. Above the site sits bristlecone pines that have appeared in ansel adams prints and are absolutely amazing. The sites sit on 160 private acres which borders national forest. There is a small a-frame tent that's insulated with big windows, locking door, skylight, solar for charging electronics, and a full size bed. The cabin is roughly the size of the full size mattress but seems bigger because of the a-frame roof. Its warm and cozy and keeps the critters and animals out, so you feel safe and comfortable. There are lots of amenities on site.  There is a picnic table, 10'x12' waterproof awning and wood deck.  There is a bbq, bear box, huge stone fire pit and bucket toilet. The road into the site was graded last year but still has small potholes typical of a Colorado county road, most low-profile cars will do fine.  If you have a rv or camper, the turn around is limited, no tow behind campers or vehicles over 20'
Pets
Toilets
from 
$98
 / night
View from the property

5. Camp Lake View

99%
(50)
33mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · Guffey, CO
Learn more about this land:This camp site is directly across the road from Eleven Mile Reservoir. With this site being around 3000 feet from the reservoir you will be able to enjoy all the amazing views and amenities the reservoir has to offer without the crowded camp grounds. You will need a park pass to access the reservoir but not to camp on the land. A 1/4 mile down the road is access to nation forest for going off road or get a parks pass and fish at one of the many amazing fisheries in the area like Eleven mile, Spinney and Eleven mile canyon. The south shore boat ramp is less than 4 miles away. This area does get windy so be careful setting up awnings and pop up tents or anything the wind likes to blow away. The site has a slight pitch but leveling out your camper should be relatively easy. No trees on the land to block your 360 degree mountain views.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Twin Bridges Campground

8. Twin Bridges Campground

93%
(99)
38mi from Buena Vista · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Coaldale, CO
Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 20 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) along the Arkansas River (Gold Medal fishing) with access for all campers for fishing and floating. Many of our sites are great for star-gazing, watching meteors, looking for fireflies, and seeing the birds zip on by. We are conveniently located on Hwy 50, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and have all sorts of rental options for your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you want to pitch a tent, try out the glamping experience, enjoy the convenience of an RV, or rent one of our fully equipped RVs, we have the perfect spot for you. We have four entrances marked by sail flags into the campground, two by the lake, one near the bathhouse, and one by the post office (on our property). The map of the Arkansas River has our campground listed! Adventure awaits with home to the highest mountain peaks in Colorado and the river and 102 miles of Trout Gold Medal Water. There is access to white water rafting, guided fishing, and fishing lessons. There are at least 5 hot springs within 60 miles of Twin Bridges Campground. Salida is considered the white-water rafting capitol of the US by some and has a whitewater park and surfing wave. Salida area is also home to a ton of hiking (14'ers anyone?) and mountain biking trails. The Royal Gorge is a quick 30 minute drive with restaurants and other fun near Canon City. The Sand Dunes are 90 minutes and Monarch Ski Area is 45, we have some of the best bird watching! Warbling Vireo, Western Wood-peewee, Cassin's Kingbird to name a few.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$27
 / night
Gondola Village at Holy Cross

10. Gondola Village at Holy Cross

93%
(160)
44mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Lodging · Red Cliff, CO
Gondola Village at Holy Cross is a little sanctuary in the mountains between Vail, Leadville, and Aspen. There is little nearby except for the next door Holy Cross Wilderness, with a lifetime worth of trails, lakes, and peaks to explore -- all only two hours from Denver. Gondola Village at Holy Cross has direct access that many dream of to Colorado's water wilderness, and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, scrambling, backpacking, and fly fishing in the Summit Vail Eagle Aspen area. Our modern alpine cabins are some of the cutest cabins you'll step foot in, complete with a mix of amenities to make your wilderness stay a bit more comfortable. Gondola Village at Holy Cross is at 11.5k feet above sea level (believed to be the highest altitude Hipcamp in the world). Gondola Village at Holy Cross has been featured on Discovery Channel’s Reclaimed, Airbnb's OMG! Fund, Arch Digest, and the site of many product shoots. The managers of this property have worked in yurt, ADU, and cabin construction and hospitality for many years and have brought together some of the best Scandinavian and modern design with a mining town aesthetic. The trip up can be challenging (only off-road, winch / locker equipped vehicles dare try the 759 Holy Cross City jeep road, others will need to hike in at least 2.5 miles), but the views and cabins are well worth the trek. Snow free season tends to be June 15 an October 30 annually, and outside of this guests should be prepared for up to 11 miles of over-snow travel with no cars allowed (a bit less depending on snow coverage in the shoulder seasons from May 21 - early June and late October - November 21)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night
This is the western view from our place, a great place to watch sunsets

11. Green Acres Herbal Retreat

99%
(69)
46mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO
Learn more about this land: Private room fully furnished, kitchen & bath, attached to large greenhouse with organic vegetables (seasonal), with access to herb shop, enclosed communal courtyard sitting area with fire pit, water features and mountainous views. Close to tourist attractions and outdoor activities. Guided hikes and herbal workshop available upon request as time allows. We jokingly named our place Green Acres after the 1960's sitcom. As through blood sweat and tears and a little humor on the side we have transformed it from a junkyard to a small paradise. We do not mean to indicate several acres of green, although there is plenty of room to stretch out, relax and catch an awesome sunset on our 2 acres of land. This listing is not suitable for children under 10 years of age.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$120
 / night
The Gold Links Ranch

16. The Gold Links Ranch

79%
(7)
31mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Ohio City, CO
Our 220 acre historical ranch has been in the family for over 100 years. The property was once a gold mine stop for the Denver South Park and Pacific Railroad and we are still able to enjoy the train depot and telegraph house from the early 1900’s when the train was running through the Quartz Creek Valley. We are also blessed with some of the oldest, largest Pine Trees in the Valley thanks to them being on protected railroad property when logging was prevalent. Come enjoy over 2 miles of private prime fly fishing on the Gunnison headwaters of Gold and Quartz Creek as well as 3 different well stocked lakes. Take a stroll, run or bike along the private 2.5 mile walking loop along Quartz Creek. Keep an eye out for the resident Geese, Blue Heron, ducks and other birds who reside here on the islands. If hiking is your thing-enjoy the Willow Creek Hike that cuts through the property, among other scenic trails in the area. Choose from three different lake-side campsites and come relax on our private slice of heaven!
Pets
Trash
from 
$150
 / night
❤️ Tranquility

17. ❤️ Tranquility

40mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · Guffey, CO
Private, secluded, and scenic property conveniently located near all your favorite outdoor activities — fishing, hiking, and adventuring, all within an hour’s drive. Perfect for that authentic Colorado camping experience, whether you’re a fisherman, hunter, or outdoor enthusiast. The property can accommodate up to a 24’ travel trailer, 30’ RV, or tent camping. It includes 30-amp power, 110 AC power, internet access, and seasonal water (available on-site). Outdoor fires are allowed in the provided fire pit if fire restrictions are not in effect. A small tiny house is also available, featuring a bunk bed, mini refrigerator, and DVD TV. There’s even an outdoor log composting outhouse. A covered gazebo with chairs and two chaise lounges offers comfort during inclement weather. Please note: there is no sanitation dump on-site. If you have a portable waste tank (“poop wagon”), the neighboring property has a septic outlet available for use — arrangements must be made in advance.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
Washington Gulch Getaway

18. Washington Gulch Getaway

49mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Crested Butte, CO
Welcome to the Washington Gulch Getaway! Don't miss this rare opportunity to stay at one of the most coveted homes in Crested Butte. Featuring 20 acres of private land surrounded by National Forest, ample mountain views and wildlife, 3 ponds, and trout stream, this 3-story creekside cabin is the perfect place for you and your friends or loved ones to enjoy the CO backcountry, or to simply relax and recharge. Book now to lock in your dates before they're gone; I would love to host your stay! ABOUT THE LOCATION: The Washington Gulch Getaway is your premier destination to enjoy a remote mountain retreat in the beautiful backcountry of Crested Butte, Colorado. Start your day watching the sun rise over Gothic Mountain before it slowly starts moving across a picturesque view of Whetstone. Enjoy the views from two decks and frequent visits from wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and beavers. Sit and sunbathe by the two small ponds, or grab your fishing rod and follow the creek down to the third pond with plenty of trout waiting to bite. Hand-built over decades by the legendary Phil P., take in the sights, sounds, and rich history of one of the oldest gold mining claims in Gunnison County as you walk the property to find hidden gems like an old sluce box, outhouse, and some of the original equipment used to create this one-of-a-kind oasis. You'll also find countless trinkets, treasures, and antiques throughout the home. End your day watching the sunset over Anthracite Mesa, where an old coal mine once stood in the 1890's, as deer and other wildlife return almost every evening to graze and visit the ponds. Some might even get as close as the front door!
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$800
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field