Desert camping in Colorado with campfires
Enjoy year-round recreation and a wild diversity of landscapes in this colorful state.
95% (3775 reviews)
- Colorado
95% (3775 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Colorado
Under $50
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12 top desert campgrounds in Colorado with campfires
93%
(236)
Campe Diem!
49 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO
Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays!
We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints!
We have sandboards! $15 per day!
We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r).
5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir.
Firewood must be purchased at the campsite.
Pet friendly!
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$35
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97%
(670)
High Peaks Campground
22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world!
This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide.
Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!!
Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years.
In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing!
My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all!
You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away.
Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message.
Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes.
We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!
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$38
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94%
(517)
Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)
7 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Clifton, CO
We moved here in 1997
The home has had major remodels done on it.
The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction.
The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June.
We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja.
Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests.
But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine.
port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April.
port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away.
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Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO
The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!
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99%
(541)
Bright Star Campground
33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO
We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15!
There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well.
Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy!
We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more.
Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez.
We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp.
We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi.
There are many things to do/see nearby: Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well.
Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks.
The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
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82%
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Dreamweaver's Sanctuary
21 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Crestone, CO
Dreamweaver’s Sanctuary is an evolving artist collaborative project and homestead that focuses on sustainability, creativity, spiritual growth, with mindful community values. We host events and workshops, prepare meals, and we are now offering Usui-Tibetan/Holy Fire and Crystal Reiki for those looking to balance and replenish the Mind, Body and Soul. Expect surprises as we are always incorporating new and fun ideas to enhance your experience and bring unity to the locals of Crestone. In addition to this project, we invite you to join us for Hip Camp. A rustic camping experience in Crestone, Colorado with the most majestic views.
About the land:
Imagine setting up camp in the high desert of Colorado, resting in the quiet of nature, and awakening to birds singing to you as you lay nestled in an ancient Cottonwood Grove. Next you open your eyes to the Majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, overlooking the Great Sand Dunes. Enjoy a fresh and power packed smoothie to break your overnight fast or join us in our off-grid rustic zen community kitchen and prepare what you so choose. Find yourself a comfortable spot and spend some time in meditation or join others in our Meditation Tent, engage in a peaceful and mindful conversation with other campers, enjoy a garden walk or book a Crystal or Holy Fire Reiki Session. Did we mention the sunsets!? In the evening stargazing is a favorite, as Crestone is a Dark Sky Community. And all of that is just here at the sanctuary! Venture out and find hiking trails, take a short drive and enjoy your day at the sand dunes, enjoy local Hot Springs or visit one of Crestone’s many spiritual centers or temples. While we hope you will choose to stay with us, keep in mind that this is a family friendly environment and we welcome pets. Note that we are 4:20 friendly, but kindly discourage the use of non-recreational or illegal substances and the misuse of alcohol on the premises. We have outdoor solar shower amenities and composting toilets and outhouses. There is a water and tea station available. Wifi is available near our Tech Deck.
- Cosmic Kids Yoga 11:30 am in Vimana
- Sacred Fire Offering @ Sunset Daily in Vimana
Crestone is a very special place and we look forward to meeting you here!
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$28
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97%
(367)
The Views at Gateway
10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2000 acres · Gateway, CO
Located on the Dolores river, this property is perfect for hikers, fishing, rafting, or just camping! There is a natural spring just a few miles from the location with drinking water as well. When you stay here you are located right on the river with nothing but places to hike, climb and have fun and
there are several options for you to choose from. There is a cabin, an onsite RV, a canvas tent, and BYO tent or RV camping on the land - you can pick whatever suits you best!
No matter what, you can fall asleep to the sound of the river after a great night of star gazing!
Nearby outdoor points of interest include the
Dolores River on property, Hanging Flume which is approx. 20 miles from site, Gateway Canyons Resort Auto museum 7 miles from site, Arches National Park 2 hour drive from site, Colorado national monument 1 hour drive. The Grand Mesa 2 hour drive, Telluride ski resort 2 hour drive! You can find hiking, biking, swimming, paddle board, kayaks, rafting, fishing, tubing, bird watching, star gazing rock climbing, bouldering, all right from the property. All sites are accessible without 4wheel drive.
I love where I live and think everyone should be able to experience the peaceful quiet beautiful environment that it is!
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Nature is FREE
5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Blanca, CO
...
Learn more about this land:
We have scraped areas , sites 3 & 4.
Sites 1 and 2 are raked not scraped.
We are offering free Duck and chicken eggs for breakfast or dinner. As well as a free bundle of wood for a fire. WHILE SUPPLIES LAST AND WEATHER ALLOWS.
***Now a bathroom is available***
Want to ride atvs or park and stretch or do some yoga in front of the mountain ? Do it here cheaper than the rest !
I do offer firewood and other extras. Ducks and Chickens onsite for kiddos, also have kiddos. Live the offgrid life for short time. Safe travels !
All areas are MANY yards from each other. Terrain is scrapped for tents but be aware cactus is everywhere. Please check weather for area because the wind can get fierce.
Great night views of the stars and 360 view of mountains as well as being at the base of one. Sand dunes and waterfall just 15 minutes away .
Please respect the wildlife and property.
Pet/420 Friendly.
We do NOT charge to camp, charges are for a GATE FEE. You are paying the gate fee THRU HIPCAMP NOW... NO PAYMENT on arrival. Best if GPS is used, but address given after booking.
IF AT NIGHT, STAY TO YOUR LEFT ON DRIVEWAY, CONTINUE LEFT TILL YOU SEE NUMBERED SPOTS.
FOR DAYTIME, LOOK FOR 3 LARGE WIND TURBINES INFRONT OF A BLUE AND WHITE HOUSE.
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Dunes Desert Camp
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · Hooper, CO
Enjoy your own private desert playground, 320 Acres of pristine wilderness in the shadow of Blanca Peak and in sight of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Whether you want to explore the valley on a hike, bike, or All Terrain Vehicle, fly over it in a private light aircraft, or plan an expedition to the mountains, Dunes Desert Camp is your staging ground for exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of the San Luis Valley. Located just twenty miles from downtown Alamosa, Dunes Desert Camp offers remoteness and privacy coupled with the convenience of being near a vibrant metropolitan center. Get away from it all, and get back to finding yourself in the desert.
We have one large Safari tent with a double bed and 5 two person dome tents fitted with camp cots
Sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses and camping equipment is available to rent on site.
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$55
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98%
(416)
Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven
7 sites · Lodging22 acres · Paonia, CO
Formerly known as the North Fork Tipi Haven, this 22 acres was once owned by International sculptor Lincoln Fox, and built by Mr. Wooten in the early 1900's as an apple orchard, Old Moon Acres is now home to Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven.
The North Fork Valley of the Gunnison River, encompassing Crawford, Hotchkiss and Paonia, was an important fruit orchard area in the late 1800's and well into the early 1900's. The valley's climate is a banana belt, perfect for fruit with the cold air coming down from the mountains at night and the heat from the mesas warming up the valley during the day. Coal mines up the road in Bowie and Somerset paid better, so many of the orchards languished over the years. Since the closing of all the mines but one, today the NFV is home to the largest concentration of organic farms in the state of Colorado as well as becoming a state Creative District serving the multitudes of artist and creatives that call the valley home.
There are many pick-your-own peaches, cherries, apples, pears, nectarines and if we are lucky, apricots, in the valley. Delicious Orchards, 1 mile down Hwy 133, is an excellent place to pick your own, drink local hard cider and listen to live music on the weekend over a wonderful brunch. It is all about the farms, cattle, art, music, outdoor adventure, fun and relaxation here in the North Fork Valley.
The tipis are custom made by the Colorado Yurt Company in Montrose, Colorado where they have been making yurts, tents and tipis since 1976. The tipis are expertly designed and made with custom paintings invoking the animal spirits that inhabit our land. These are a Sioux design tipi as the Ute's mainly lived in wiki-ups until they were introduced to the tipi in the 1800's. The Ute's appropriated the tipi design from the Sioux or Plains Natives.
We have solar showers (solar bags of water heated by the sun during the day) available for free.
Showers are also available at the local laundromat in Hotchkiss.
Our goal is to awaken your sense of wonder by sleeping out in nature and waking up to the Colorado blue sky in clean, clear air at 5500 ft. You can visit the many high altitude wineries, fruit orchards, organic farms, farm-to-table restaurants, great music, interesting movies at the community owned Paradise Theater, art at the Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss, stand-up paddle boarding, WSSUP, at Crawford reservoir, mountain biking in Grand Mesa, hiking in the West Elks, rafting down the Gunnison river in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, fishing up canyon in the coolness of the forest or relaxing in one of many hot springs within an hour of us.
Colorado Detours is highly recommended by us to take you and yours on a hiking, farm, wine, or geology tour of the area.
Aspen, Crested Butte (over Kebler Pass), Glenwood Springs, Gunnison, Ouray, Grand Junction, Ridgeway
and Telluride all are about an hour or two
away by car.
Welcome to Colorado.
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$65
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94%
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Rabbit Hole Ranch
102 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Alamosa East, CO
The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif and the Great Sand Dunes and is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive from both to include Zapata Falls. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see, and I am grateful for the opportunity to offer you a place nearby to set up camp and go exploring.
Alamosa, the largest town in the SLV, is just 20 minutes away. With a population of around 9,800 Alamosa has that small town feel and has the goods and services you will need.
Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies.
On holidays, however, expect it to be busy.
Our two Great Pyrenees are here to help keep you and your pets (and our chickens) safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents.
Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with all four of our dogs. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, his name is TheoVon and he is huge! Returning this season is KayLee also a GP and and Finn, who is a little Benji lookin rescue from Alaska who just LOVES everybody. And then we have our latest addition, Kya, Shes a rescue as well and spent way too much time in an apartment before coming to stay with us, This will be her first season with us and she is 1 1/2 years old. A more energetic dog than what were used to around here but so far so good! Hopefully you happy campers can help us socialize the new dogs!
Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm.
Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.
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$48
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Goose Creek Ranch
6 sites · RVs, Tents320 acres · Yoder, CO
Goose Creek Ranch is a 320 acre ranch in Yoder, Colorado. We are about 30 minutes east of Colorado Springs on Highway 94. The ranch operates completely off grid, limited solar power can be arranged. We are currently working on getting port-o-johns for the camping area. We can also arrange delivery of non potable water.
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$7
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Star Hosts in Colorado
Dog-friendly getaways
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Desert camping in Colorado with campfires guide
Overview
With 42 state parks and four national parks, Colorado has long been a shining star among lovers of the great outdoors. This western state offers a wide variety of landscapes, with ancient mountains, massive canyons, ski resort towns that range from quaint to ultraluxe, many within easy access of the capital city of Denver. Camping areas abound throughout the state, ranging from simple backcountry tent sites to developed campgrounds with full hookups and dump stations, many managed by Colorado State Parks. Best of all, pretty much every outdoor activity under the sun is available, from biking and horseback riding to birding and stargazing.
Where to go
Western Colorado
Western Colorado shares quite a bit in common with neighboring Utah to the west, with massive sandstone rock formations—including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park—plus fantastic opportunities for winter and summer recreation alike. Towns worth checking out include Steamboat Springs and Aspen—both popular ski resorts—as well as cute towns such as Montrose and Durango that make excellent bases for exploring the wilds of the San Juan Mountains. If you’re interested in history or archaeology, don’t miss the chance to visit the Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.
Denver and North-Central Colorado
Stretching from Fort Collins near the Wyoming border all the way down just past Denver, this region is largely urban but still offers plenty for campers. You can take in fantastic views of the region from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or by driving the Trail Ridge Road scenic byway through Rocky Mountain National Park. Or, pack up your tent and head out on a backcountry camping trip in the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests.
South and South-Central Colorado
This part of the state offers a mix of wide-open plains and towering massifs, including Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, a scenic mountaintop that served as the inspiration for the patriotic tune America the Beautiful. Popular area activities include fishing and whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande and sledding down the sands at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. If you want to soothe tired muscles after a weekend of adventure, head to the hot springs towns of Buena Vista and Salida—both just outside the Pike and San Isabel national forests.
Eastern Colorado
Quiet Eastern Colorado features a mix of grasslands and canyons, with massive expanses of grazing lands and farms that give way to charming small towns. You can learn about life in the 19th century at the Old Fort National Historic Site and the Boggsville Historic Site, or head down to the John Martin Reservoir, a great place for birdwatching and boating.
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