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The best lakeside camping in Colorado

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Every mountain has a valley—and in Colorado, that means glistening blue mountain lakeside getaways. And even at altitude, many lakes get warm enough to swim in during the summer months. The third-largest body of water in Colorado, Lake Granby is a popular spot with campers for fishing and swimming, as well as paddleboarding rentals. And while the water can be quite icy, you can’t beat the views in Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest at Brainard Lake and its Pawnee Campground in Ward near Boulder, where you’ll find (brave) paddleboarders, fishers, and canoers admiring the vistas, as well as a vast network of lakeside biking and hiking trails. If you’re looking for a fuller beach experience at a lower elevation, visit Chatfield State Park near Denver for day-use picnic tables, kayaks, and more. Nestle your feet in the sand, pack snacks and floaties, then rinse off at the coin-operated restroom showers before heading back to your camping spot.

95% (4.4K) 10,496 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Colorado

Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

1. Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

91%
(353)
Black Hawk, CO · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Wideawake Ranch & Waterhouse is a true Colorado gem—family-owned and operated, and rooted in a love for the land. Just 50 minutes from Denver, our ranch offers an authentic Colorado experience where nature, relaxation, and adventure come together. Guests can enjoy our spring-fed pond for swimming and paddleboarding (boards provided!), easy access to nearby National Forest trails, and close driving proximity to additional hiking, biking, and local fishing spots. Whether you’re here to unplug, explore, or soak it all in, Wideawake Ranch is the perfect home base. We can’t wait to welcome you—along with your family, friends, and furry companions—on your next camping getaway. 📸 Instagram: @WideawakeRanchWaterhouse — We love being tagged in your Wideawake adventures! 🌐 Website: www.wideawakeranch.com — Visit us to learn more about our artesian water and hot soaks.
Pets
Toilets
Tater's Black Canyon Campground

2. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

97%
(318)
Crawford, CO · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
North Rim of Black Canyon National Park has re-opened. Hot showers and toilets! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries.  Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.
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Showers
Yeti Sanctuary

3. Yeti Sanctuary

94%
(189)
Florissant, CO · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated on almost 4.5 acres of partially wooded acres, with a small pond, We have 6 beautiful campsites. Two can be used by an RV, two cabins, and the others for tents. There are great hammocking spots amongst the trees and bolders.. Enjoy the rugged beauty in Florissant, CO, with seasonal Aspen foliage and wildflowers, and a lot of birds, for the avid bird watchers. Florissant Fossil Beds Natl Monument is 7 miles away, with a Night Sky program, at every new moon. Plenty of winter activities … Ice skating on the lake, Snowshoeing and cross country skiing in Pike National Forest only 2 miles away. Florissant Mercantile is 5 miles away, for your needed supplies. Come and enjoy the quiet beauty and peaceful atmosphere, of Colorado's beautiful mountains.
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Toilets
White River National Forest

4. White River National Forest

93%
(69)
National forest in Colorado · 1193 sites
Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rio Grande National Forest

5. Rio Grande National Forest

86%
(29)
National forest in Colorado · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Galway Lakehouse & Camp Galway

6. Galway Lakehouse & Camp Galway

Westcliffe, CO · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This property has two lots to choose from for any outdoor type! Site 1 Lake house - Tiny lake house to rent (currently paused and under construction) Site 2 Camp Galway- Pull in caper site with water and electric hookups
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

7. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%
(743)
Clifton, CO · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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 are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away. The first two pets are included at no additional cost. For any additional pets beyond the first two, there is a fee of $10 per pet, per night. Please make sure to add the Pet fee extra accordingly.
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Toilets
Campfires
Arapaho Valley Ranch

8. Arapaho Valley Ranch

93%
(521)
Granby, CO · 62 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time. Guests must be at least 18 years of age or older to book and stay at Arapaho Valley Ranch.
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Full hookups
Twin Bridges Campground

9. Twin Bridges Campground

93%
(112)
Coaldale, CO · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 30/50 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) on the Arkansas River with Gold Medal fishing and 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
Toilets
Full hookups
San Isabel National Forest

10. San Isabel National Forest

91%
(78)
National forest in Colorado · 912 sites
Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Juan National Forest

11. San Juan National Forest

97%
(42)
National forest in Colorado · 696 sites
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Roosevelt National Forest

12. Roosevelt National Forest

85%
(46)
National forest in Colorado · 800 sites
Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Gunnison National Forest

13. Gunnison National Forest

96%
(38)
National forest in Colorado · 423 sites
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Neverland Camp Wilder

14. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(370)
Nederland, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.
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Toilets
Vali Soul Sanctuary

15. Vali Soul Sanctuary

100%
(4)
Valmont, CO · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Tucked away on 8.5 acres at the edge of Boulder, Vali Soul Sanctuary is the kind of place that feels worlds away from the city, yet sits just minutes from downtown. Located at: 6717 Valmont Rd. Boulder, CO 80301 Mature trees, green lawns, community fire pits, a small pond, and flat areas perfect for tents, vans, and car camping create a nice place to stay for a night or few. The land is irrigated and stays lush throughout the season, with paths winding through the property that make it a joy to explore on foot. The property is home to a vibrant community event space that hosts gatherings, music, ceremonies, and celebrations throughout the week. Expect good energy and, occasionally, a thumping bass line in the evenings (usually Tuesday nights until 10 p.m.). The property is quite large, however, and most campsites are several acres away from the event area, where the music is barely audible. Learn more about upcoming events on our Facebook group (still working on it). Daytime is for hanging out, exploring the grounds, relaxing under the trees, or simply enjoying nature on the edge of Boulder. Mosquitoes are part of the local ecosystem and can be plentiful in the evenings during certain times of the year. We're doing our part by installing as many bat boxes and propane traps as possible! This property is best a small airport so expect some air traffic sounds from single engine planes in the daylight hours. Please note that property management/ownership is currently in transition, so you may notice ongoing cleanup projects and improvements as we continue to develop the space and build a working website and event calendar. If you're looking for a campsite with character, beautiful surroundings, community, and easy access to everything Boulder has to offer, Vali Soul Sanctuary is the perfect spot. Messaging preferred through HipCamp messages, though feel free to text Miles at 303-731-7708
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Campfires
Picnic table
3 Pond Ranch

16. 3 Pond Ranch

91%
(22)
Rifle, CO · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This property is nestled right between two great Colorado reservoirs, Harvey Gap and Rifle Gap. The camping area is right beside a beautiful pond with live fish. There is a picnic table and small firepit for activities. Harvey Gap is about a 1 mile walk from the property and Rifle Gap is a 7 min drive. This property is situated right beside BLM land with a trail head for 4x4 and hiking just 30 seconds down the road or out the back door.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
High Peaks Campground

17. High Peaks Campground

97%
(790)
Moffat, CO · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the largest Alpine Valley in the world! San Luis Valley is a region in south-central Colorado with a small portion overlapping into New Mexico. The valley is approximately 122 miles long and 74 miles wide, making it the largest alpine valley in the world. It extends from the Continental Divide on the northwest rim into New Mexico on the south. This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. I encourage binoculars or even a telescope to view wildlife and check out the Rockies and then the night sky views! Looking to submerse yourself in nature? The Sangre de Cristo Range in Colorado contains the following 14ers: Blanca Peak, Challenger Point, Crestone Needle, Crestone Peak, Culebra Peak, Ellingwood Point, Humboldt Peak, Kit Carson Peak, Mount Lindsey, and Little Bear Peak. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, even Meteor showers!!! History: this land was originally part of a large cattle 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 BLM land, BACA land, and Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Be sure to bring extra bug spray and protection needed against biting insects such as flies, gnats, and mosquitoes. For those bringing your pets, they MUST be on a leash/lead at all times. While I do not have much cactus on my property, I do have an abundance of greasewood (Chico brush) which is very thorn-like if stepped on. Accommodations for those with livestock or horses, 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Gold Links Ranch

18. The Gold Links Ranch

79%
(12)
Ohio City, CO · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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 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 4 different lake & creek-side campsites and come relax on our private slice of heaven!
Pets
Camp Lake View

19. Camp Lake View

99%
(53)
Guffey, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Oasis RV Resort

20. Oasis RV Resort

90%
(39)
Gunnison, CO · 53 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views. Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir! Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups

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