The best lakeside camping in Colorado

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) • 10,475 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Colorado

Tater's Black Canyon Campground

1. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

98%
(302)
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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Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

2. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%
(552)
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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Neverland Camp Wilder

3. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(397)
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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White River National Forest

4. White River National Forest

93%
(71)
National forest in Colorado · 1193 sites
Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.
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Rio Grande National Forest

5. Rio Grande National Forest

87%
(30)
National forest in Colorado · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
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Yeti Sanctuary

6. Yeti Sanctuary

93%
(220)
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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Arapaho Valley Ranch

7. Arapaho Valley Ranch

94%
(540)
Granby, CO · 63 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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Camp Catori

8. Camp Catori

100%
(38)
Fort Garland, CO · 1 site
CAMP CATORI - OFF-GRID IN SACRED NATURE At Camp Catori, we offer an immersive off-grid retreat where you can reconnect with yourself and the land. Set on six sacred acres with sweeping views of the Mt. Blanca Range, our space blends mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness—with a little adventure and fun. Just 30 minutes from the Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls, guests can enjoy hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding. Whether visiting solo, with friends, or hosting a retreat, Camp Catori invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and come home to yourself. ESSENTIALS TO KNOW THIS IS CAMPING - Although we have fabulous amenities for a comfortable experience, this is camping. If you are not a camper do not book. This is not an AIRBNB. Not toddler friendly. OFF-GRID WATER: No well or septic. If you chose the option of running water, six 5-gallon jugs provided to fill nearby. The tank holds 35 gallons. Monitor usage; do not drop below 1/4 full or it may damage the pump. Showers use 1.75 gal/min. Camp style rinse off showers. (Dry cabin Nov–May; no running water during freeze months) TOILET USE: Composting toilet. All guests must watch a 2-minute video and follow instructions. Violation of cabin rules or failure to discard urine in the designated spot incurs a $150 fee. If you’re not comfortable doing this, this may not be the right fit SLEEPING and KITCHEN BEDS: Queen loft, convertible queen second loft (or 2 twins), pull-out sofa (5'10" max). Bring your own sheets or sleeping bags. Pillows and blankets provided KITCHEN: Fridge/freezer, Wonderoven, coffee makers (Nespresso, French press, Italian), all-in-one steamer pan, Dutch oven, propane stove, grill, corkscrew, cooking/eating utensils, plates/bowls, knifes, indoor table (2), outdoor table (6–7), and mountain-view ledge seating (2) INTERNET Hotspot via Solis ($10/day) or use your mobile phone—works well for basic use and streaming MISC: HUGE newly expanded deck, chimenea, telescope, umbrella, outdoor grill, outdoor buckets for washing, TV's, propane heater, fireplace, electric heater, yoga mats (2), extra blankets, binoculors, games Group Camping and Retreats Three cleared campsites (4x4 required) Great for group camping or hosting retreats Contact Catori: 720-474-0779
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Open 40 Acres Near The Dream Stream

9. Open 40 Acres Near The Dream Stream

98%
(47)
Lake George, CO · 80 sites · Tents, RVs
40 acre property overlooking 11-mile reservoir. This property currently has a well drilled and a fire pit installed. More being added regularly. Wildlife in the area are Antelope, Cattle, Elk, Deer, and a large herd of Big Horn Sheep live in the hills to the north of the property. Surrounded by Stoll Mountain, Pulver Mountain, and Puma ridge this is a great open location for RV, Bus, Sprinter, Van, or Tent camping. This area is a 10 minute drive to multiple reservoirs and the Dream Stream which is some of the best fishing in Colorado. Boats, rafts, etc are allowed on different reservoirs. Hiking, ATV trails, fossils, gems, rafting, skiing are all very close to this location. Come enjoy the great outdoors!
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San Isabel National Forest

10. San Isabel National Forest

89%
(83)
National forest in Colorado · 912 sites
Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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San Juan National Forest

11. San Juan National Forest

98%
(44)
National forest in Colorado · 696 sites
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Roosevelt National Forest

12. Roosevelt National Forest

85%
(47)
National forest in Colorado · 800 sites
Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Gunnison National Forest

13. Gunnison National Forest

94%
(41)
National forest in Colorado · 423 sites
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
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Electrical hookup
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Gondola Village at Holy Cross

14. Gondola Village at Holy Cross

94%
(173)
Red Cliff, CO · 2 sites
Welcome to our little slice of mountain heaven! Tucked away between Aspen, Vail, and Leadville, Gondola Village is more than just a cabin—it’s a dream we’ve built at nearly 12,000 feet. We’re pretty sure it’s one of the highest-altitude retreats on the planet, making it a true bucket-list spot for anyone with an adventurous soul. When you stay here, the Holy Cross Wilderness is literally your front porch. You’ll have direct access to pristine trails, hidden alpine lakes, and peaks that feel like they belong only to you, all while being just a few hours from the hustle of Denver. It’s Colorado’s "water wilderness" at its most majestic, and we can’t wait for you to experience the magic of having world-class hiking, fly fishing, and backcountry skiing right outside your door. We’ve poured our hearts into the design of our two cabins, the Alpine Gondola Lodge and the Lost Gondola Lodge. We wanted to celebrate the rugged history of our local mining towns while bringing in the clean, cozy vibes of Scandinavian mountain design. Every corner is filled with things we love: snuggle up with Rumpl blankets, sip your morning coffee from Miir mugs, and cook up a feast on a classic Coleman stove. We’ve even tucked in a guitar, a library of our favorite books, and a super comfy Metolius couch for those lazy afternoons. Fun fact: because our spot is so secluded that big deliveries have to come in by helicopter, we’ve hand-picked every single item to make sure your off-the-grid stay feels special and incredibly comfortable. You might have spotted us on Discovery Channel’s Reclaimed or heard about our support from Airbnb’s OMG! Fund. We’ve spent years learning how to blend high-end design with wild beauty, and Gondola Village is the result of that passion. It’s a place we built for people who, like us, are looking for a little peace, a lot of seclusion, and a chance to really plug back into the natural world. Part of the magic is just getting here—it’s the first chapter of your adventure! Since we’re so far off the beaten path, access is part of the fun. You can hike or bike the scenic 2.5-mile uphill trail or if you’re driving, you’ll need a serious off-road vehicle with a winch and lockers to make the climb. In winter, the approach is 11 miles of over-snow travel.
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Twin Lakes Treasure

15. Twin Lakes Treasure

73%
(11)
Twin Lakes, CO · 1 site
Epic lake and Mountain Views. Flat ground for tent. Walking distance to the lake for paddle boarding or kayaking. No bathroom facilities. Wag bag kits recommended.
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40 Acre - Eleven Mile Sky Camp near Dream Stream

16. 40 Acre - Eleven Mile Sky Camp near Dream Stream

100%
(9)
Lake George, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to Colorado's wide-open high country near Eleven Mile Reservoir, where quiet campsites, big-sky views, and dark, star-filled nights create a peaceful basecamp for fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife watching, and relaxing away from town. Our property offers private, low-impact campsites on raw mountain land with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings. This is a great fit for campers seeking a simple, scenic, off-grid experience close to Eleven Mile Reservoir, Spinney Mountain Reservoir, the South Platte River, and the Lake George area. The campsites are intentionally rustic. Guests should come prepared for dry camping and changing mountain weather. The area can be windy, dusty, cold at night, and exposed to strong sun during the day. Wildlife may be present, so food and trash must be secured at all times. Campfires are permitted only when local fire restrictions allow, and guests are expected to follow all Park County and state fire regulations. This is a quiet, nature-focused destination for responsible campers who value space, scenic views, and easy access to some of Colorado's best outdoor recreation without the crowds of a developed campground. Pack in what you need, pack out what you bring, respect the land, and enjoy a peaceful stay in the high country.
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Picnic table
Historic 1800s Ski Hut & Summer Cabin & Private Thermal Dipping Pool

17. Historic 1800s Ski Hut & Summer Cabin & Private Thermal Dipping Pool

94%
(63)
Alma, CO · 1 site
Stay in a beautifully restored 1800s alpine cabin at 11,000 feet surrounded by ancient bristlecone pines. Hike four iconic 14ers, cozy up beside the wood stove, then unwind in a private creekside thermal dipping pool beside a waterfall. One of Colorado's most unforgettable mountain retreats.
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Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp

18. Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp

93%
(48)
Alma, CO · 1 site
Campgrounds, crowds, noise, generators, headlights at midnight — those are the things you leave behind when you come here. What you’ll find instead is silence, privacy, and the feeling of having an untouched piece of Colorado completely to yourself. This private alpine meadow sits at approximately 11,000 feet, at the base of two 14,000-foot peaks, on 160 secluded acres bordering National Forest. The camp rests in a hidden sunken meadow surrounded by ancient forest, alpine streams, and some of the oldest living bristlecone pines in the world — trees so remarkable they have appeared in Ansel Adams photography. At night, you may hear great horned owls in the trees, coyotes calling at sunset, and sometimes moose moving quietly through the meadow. During the day, the air smells of pine, summer grass, and cold mountain water. Sit beside the stream with your feet on warm granite while the wind moves through 3,000-year-old trees overhead. It is peaceful, wild, and difficult to describe until you are here. The site is built for guests who want to disconnect from crowds and reconnect with nature without giving up comfort. Tucked into the meadow is a cozy insulated A-frame shelter with large windows, a skylight, soft solar lighting for nighttime ambiance, a locking door, and a full-size bed. It is simple, warm, secure, and comfortable — a perfect basecamp after exploring the high country. From the property, you have access to miles of 4x4 roads, ATV trails, hiking routes, wildlife viewing, photography, stargazing, and quiet time by the stream. Spend the day hiking alpine ridges, exploring the forest, reading on the deck, or doing nothing at all. Amenities include a wood deck, waterproof awning, picnic table, BBQ grill, bear box, oversized stone fire pit, and simple backcountry-style toilet setup. Altitude note: this camp is around 11,000 feet, so guests should be prepared for high-elevation conditions, cooler nights, stronger sun, and changing mountain weather. There are also two other private Hipcamp sites on the property. [Add short sentence here naming or describing the other two sites.] Access note: the county road was recently graded and is manageable for most vehicles when driven slowly, though normal mountain-road potholes and uneven sections remain. RVs,
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Rabbit Hole Ranch

19. Rabbit Hole Ranch

94%
(597)
Mosca, CO · 197 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful night skies with little to no light pollution and unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif. The Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Just follow the signs to the designated area and pick out a spot you like. Some spots have fire rings, some don’t. We are working on getting more, but in the meantime you’re welcome to bring your own. Or feel free to dig out a little hole. It works great and is easy to extinguish when you fill it back in and bury it. Please do not bury any trash. 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 only dog, Boudicca, is a working dog and she is more than happy to help keep you and your pets safe. Please help make her job easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Her name is Boudicca (BOO duh kuh) and she lost her two besties last year, so she needs extra love and treats! Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with our dog. And please report any issues promptly. 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 typically do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.
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Bristlecone Camp Breckenridge

20. Bristlecone Camp Breckenridge

95%
(111)
Alma, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV
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