The best river, stream, or creek RV parks in Colorado

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for RV camping by the river in Colorado? We've got over 4700 options to choose from that meet your criteria. Some of our top campsites in the area include Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Serenity in the Foothills (295 reviews). Our average price per night is $37, with options as low as $4. Popular amenities include showers, potable water, and campfires, and you can enjoy activities such as climbing, hiking, and boating. Let's get you set up for a fantastic camping experience!

94% (9.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp! Looking for RV camping by the river in Colorado? We've got over 4700 options to choose from that meet your criteria. Some of our top campsites in the area include Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Serenity in the Foothills (295 reviews). Our average price per night is $37, with options as low as $4. Popular amenities include showers, potable water, and campfires, and you can enjoy activities such as climbing, hiking, and boating. Let's get you set up for a fantastic camping experience!

94% (9.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sweetwater River Resort

91%

(380)

72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cotopaxi, CO

Sweetwater River Resort is located right on the Arkansas River, 30 minutes from Canyon City and 30 minutes from Salida where Hwy 50 follows the river through Bighorn Canyon. Skiers, we are only 40 miles from Monarch Ski Resort. We do offer fly fishing lessons and fly rod rentals on arrival. Sweetwater is the perfect getaway for anglers, hikers, rafters or nature-lovers. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind on our private 1/2 mile stretch of the Arkansas. At night you’ll find the clearest skies around, perfect for stargazing. Experience a range of accommodations at Sweetwater River Resort, from budget-friendly cabins to glamping tents to old-timey cabins and RV sites. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. Sweetwater is a short drive from 45 miles of 4x4 and ATV trails at Texas Creek, the Arkansas Headwaters Hiking Area, Vallie Bridge, Loma Linda, Lone Pine, Hayden Creek, Royal Gorge and Rainbow Trail near Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season as well as a private stretch of blue-ribbon water for trout fishing. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!

2. Hartwork Ranch

97%

(29)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Placerville, CO

Elk are in rut and you can hear them bugling from your campsite. The aspen groves are peaking and we’re surrounded by orange scrub oak for fall. Oh, we have views! You may have a campfire and we have free wood! We also have delicious duck eggs! A beautiful 40 acre ranch on Hastings Mesa with views of Alder Canyon and Hayden’s Peak. You can hear Alder Creek flowing through the canyon from the comfort of your campsite. Many nearby options for bicycling, hiking, kayaking and skiing in the area. Once you pull out the driveway you are a few minutes from Last Dollar Ranch Road (hike, bike, or 4x4) and about a 25 minute drive to Telluride, 30 minutes to Ridgway, and 30 minutes to Norwood. Just outside of Ridgway is Orvis Hot Springs, and more hot springs can be found in Ouray. The property offers access to Alder Creek and our beaver ponds down in the canyon. The fields are blanketed with Iris and clematis flowers in May and June and other wild flowers throughout the summer including pentstemon, larkspur, and wild roses. There are patches of scrub oak and fields with cinquefoil bushes in the camping areas, and as you go down in the canyon there’s aspen groves, blue spruce, and ponderosa pines. As mentioned before, we have delicious farm fresh duck eggs from our happy free-ranging ducks!

3. Rustic Creek Ranch

98%

(1328)

39 sites · Tents, RVs · Bailey, CO

The 160 acre ranch was homesteaded by my grandfather over 100 years ago. He was an engineer. **Please note that the GPS will take you 300 feet away from my property, please follow my clear instructions that are sent in your welcome email. There is signage that you can also follow. ** The plan was to use this property as summer grazing for his cattle. The cattle were wintered at the other ranch about 10 miles away, which was homesteaded by my great grandfather. Because my grandfather could survey, he made sure the property lines zigzaged up the valley so the small creek was in the middle to provide water for the animals. He chose well. It is a beautiful, quiet place with elk, deer and wild turkeys. There are tons of wild flowers in the summer. Columbines, the Colorado state flower, wild roses, paintbrushes and lots of wild chokecherries. With nice views of nearby mountains, open pastures, evergreen forests and aspen groves, it looks like it did 100 years ago. Plus, there are a couple of ponds for your dogs to cool off in. Since the first cattle, the ranch has also been home to goats, chickens, horses, and now more goats, alpacas and llamas. And of course the Great Pyrenees ranch dogs. I had a house built a few years ago and live on the property full time. The ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest with the Colorado Trail connecting the property in a number of places. Some of the highest ranked mountain bike trails are nearby. There are lots of places on and off the property to hike, mountain bike and ride your horse. On a clear night you can see thousands of stars and hear coyotes howl. For a drone video of the ranch check out: YouTube's Midsummer 2020 Flyover. Elevation 8,000 feet, Average Summer Temperatures: Days 60-80 f, Nights 45-60 f, Sunshine Average 73-80%, Colorado Trail Segment 3, USGS Maps: Windy Peak; Green Mountain quadrangles. This is the official info. Basically, the weather is usually similar to the Denver area - just 10 degrees cooler. About 8 miles away is the small town of Bailey. It has just about everything you might need: small grocery store, coffee shops, gas, laundry, a dollar store, hardware store, camping and sports equipment, brew pub, winery, a few restaurants, potable water station and more.

4. White River National Forest

93%

(68)

1193 sites · Fulford, Colorado

Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

5. San Juan National Forest

97%

(41)

696 sites · Rico, Colorado

Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. Evans RV Park

43 sites · RVs · Evans, CO

RV Park bringing you the convenience of top-notch amenities, the safety of full-time security, and the enjoyment of both nature and neighborhood. Just south of Greeley and only a drive away from the Rocky Mountains, local restaurants and breweries, and a walk away from the South Platte River and local parks, you’ll be sure to create the kind of stay you’ll enjoy. (No tents allowed)

7. Yeti Sanctuary

94%

(167)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Florissant, CO

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.

8. A-Lodge Boulder

92%

(283)

59 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Boulder, CO

A-Lodge Boulder is a 30 room lodge just 2 miles above downtown Boulder, Colorado. We are located in a wilderness area of Boulder Canyon, right at the junction with Fourmile Canyon. We have three #vanlife sites and four tentsites for offer on Hipcamp. We have a BRAND NEW barrel sauna, hot tub, grills, seasonal pool (Memorial Day to Labor Day), meeting space, outdoor beer garden, bathrooms and showers for campers and a wonderful trail to Betasso Preserve right from your campsite. The Fourmile Creek runs through our property along our large lawn area. Great views and you might see bear, deer, elk, moose, foxes, or even a mountain lion! Walk-in sites are just a short hike, about 100 feet, on an unmanicured trail to our platforms. We provide the platform for your tent as well as access to all of our lodge's amenities; front desk, lobby, bar & beer garden, fire pits, grills, bathrooms, shower, outdoor common areas, free wifi, etc. A-Lodge has a 7-day non-refundable cancellation policy. If you cancel within 7 days of your arrival, 50% of the total is non-refundable. Our guests love us too! Check out what a fellow camper had to say: "First time Hipcamper and A-Lodge visitor here, I’d definitely recommend checking this place out if you’re traveling to the Boulder area. The tent platforms were easy to get to and spaced far enough apart for privacy and generally a nice break from setting up a tent on a gravel pad. WiFi was stable throughout my visit and I was able to get some work done before heading home."

9. Idaho Springs RV Resort Campground

94%

(44)

10 sites · RVs · Downieville Lawson Dumont, CO

Welcome to our RV park! If you're looking for a full-hookup RV site, please visit our website to book directly. This Hipcamp listing is specifically for a non-hookup car camping site. Car camping parking spot with WIFI and access to our private showers. You'll enjoy the beauty being fully surrounded by mountains while being located right off I-70 for an easy in-and-out.

10. Roosevelt National Forest

83%

(44)

800 sites · Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

11. Gunnison National Forest

96%

(37)

423 sites · Crested Butte, Colorado

Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

12. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

89%

(14)

94 sites · Salida, Colorado

Camping comes with a dose of adrenaline and a side of adventure along the Arkansas River.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

13. Rocky Mountain National Park

97%

(175)

553 sites · Grand Lake, Colorado

Explore one of America’s most beloved alpine landscapes in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Serenity in the Foothills

99%

(1300)

12 sites · Tents, RVs · Conifer, CO

We now offer disc golf to our guests for a $5 fee per person, course open in the morning to our guests and afternoons to public, ask about this when you check in. It is seperate from Hipcamp ***NO BOOKINGS ACCEPTED UNTIL YOUR CAR INFORMATION IS PROVIDED*** Basic car information will help us ensure you and your party have no issues driving on our forest roads. If you are looking to plan an outdoor event, send us a message. We would love to host your event! YEAR LONG FIRE BAN- propane fire rings are allowed. Propane fire rings and gas tanks available for rent. Welcome to Serenity in the Foothills. Located an hour west of Denver, this 3600 acre ranch features 12 spaced out campsites that offer quite a bit of privacy. There are tons of trails/ roads to hike and bike around on, as well as many amazing views. Resort Valley Ranch was combined from around 15 homesteads by the Corbin family. You will see lots of relics and evidence related to those homesteads across our property! Please do not disturb any artifacts or relics on our property, we are very conservation minded with the history as well as the natural beauty of the area. Come enjoy this hidden private jewel in the pines of Jefferson County, Colorado! We want to ensure your vehicle and trailer won't get damaged while commuting to your campsite. Please read about our campsites and make sure the one you pick works for your car/trailer. -NO fifth wheels (ALL sites). -Maximum length of trailers is 22ft(Select campsites) -Trailers must have adequate clearance: 8 inches or higher with no low hanging plumbing. -Sites 1, 2 : 4WD/ SUV- Short camper trailers only (12 foot max) -Sites 3 and 7 : 4WD/SUV vehicles only -Sites 4-12(excluding sites 7 and 11): 4WD/SUV with good clearance are recommended as well as trailers (22 foot max) -Site 11 : 4WD vehicles only. If your trailer is bigger than 22 feet, our sister camp-site Resort Valley Ranch may be able to accommodate you. (Also located on Hipcamp) **When booking, please include basic information about your car/ trailer clearance to ensure that your campsite you've selected will accommodate it!**

15. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%

(380)

71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Granby, CO

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.

16. Red Rocks Glamping & RV Sites

93%

(121)

5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Morrison, CO

A 10x12ft luxurious canvas tent on 3 acres with a view to the Hogback Ridge is within 1 mi of the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheater. The tent offers a queen size bed, a covered deck with outdoor seating and a BBQ. Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nature by booking your visit with us today!

17. 4 Season Marketplace

91%

(11)

1 site · RV · Arvada, CO

See pictures for where to enter property off of Indiana. A little homestead in the middle of Arvada, Colorado. 3 acres with Nigerian Pygmy Goats, 2 Highland Steers, a coup with 10 chickens. We have a fire pit, 120v electrical hookup. Great view of the mountains to the west. Great place to stop if you are on your way up or down from the mountains. One hour from skiing, 20 min from downtown Denver.

18. A-Lodge Salida

83%

(3)

71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salida, CO

Cabins. RV. Camping From cozy riverside cabins to full-hookup RV spots and peaceful creekside tent sites, A-Lodge Salida offers a variety of stays for every kind of adventurer. Whether you’re looking for comfort or a more primitive experience under the stars, our property gives you direct access to nature without sacrificing location—just minutes from historic downtown Salida.

19. Creekside Chalets

98%

(109)

13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

20. Camp Eddy

100%

(27)

73 sites · RVs, Lodging · Grand Junction, CO

Camp Eddy’s RV Park is brand new and a one-of-a-kind experience in Grand Junction! Our property is uniquely in an urban environment, while still providing the space and tranquility of a nature-filled RV Park. This is because our RV Park is nestled into the beautiful Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction! This park is an expansive and beautiful green space with the Colorado River running through the center. The park is filled with walking and biking trails, river recreation and outdoor sports rentals, and the Amphitheater with headlining acts in the summer. We are the only RV Park around that allows for this central accessibility to the park and all of Grand Junction, while still providing a gorgeous outdoor environment! Whether you’re here for a single night, a week, or more, we know you will love this experience.

Camper favorites in Colorado

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Creekside Chalets

98%

(109)

13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salida, CO

Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.

Camp Eddy

100%

(27)

73 sites · RVs, Lodging · Grand Junction, CO

Camp Eddy’s RV Park is brand new and a one-of-a-kind experience in Grand Junction! Our property is uniquely in an urban environment, while still providing the space and tranquility of a nature-filled RV Park. This is because our RV Park is nestled into the beautiful Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction! This park is an expansive and beautiful green space with the Colorado River running through the center. The park is filled with walking and biking trails, river recreation and outdoor sports rentals, and the Amphitheater with headlining acts in the summer. We are the only RV Park around that allows for this central accessibility to the park and all of Grand Junction, while still providing a gorgeous outdoor environment! Whether you’re here for a single night, a week, or more, we know you will love this experience.

Vacant Land On The Clear Creek

100%

(4)

1 site · Tent, RV · Silver Plume, CO

Land on river, no electric or water/sewer hookups

Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%

(701)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 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.

Bristlecone Camp Breckenridge

95%

(96)

1 site · Tent, RV · Alma, CO

Arrowhead Point Camping Resort

90%

(21)

96 sites · Tents, RVs · Buena Vista, CO

Come join our family at friendly Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins. You’ll feel right at home in our welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re playing a round of horseshoes, joining in on a volleyball game, surfing the web on our free WIFI network, or stopping in for an espresso drink at our Espresso Bar, you’ll be glad you chose to stay with us. Located on the beautiful Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway in Buena Vista Colorado, Arrowhead Point is the Home of The Original 1800’s Pony Express and Stage Coach Stop. The 23-acre property still contains the bunkhouse, stable, and tack room from the 1800s when it was one of the 165-way stations on the Pony Express route. Come see! We’re committed to making your stay with us an enjoyable and memorable experience. Come see why so many of our customers come back to visit year after year! We know that your vacation time is valuable to you. Our job is to make sure that every guest enjoys every day with us here at Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins. You’ll love our welcoming and helpful environment, and will quickly see that we offer Buena Vista Colorado camping at its finest. At Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins, we’re proud of our beautiful facilities. You’ll find everything clean and well-maintained to ensure your stay with us will be a comfortable one. Our convenient location gives you easy access to a host of local attractions. Arrowhead Point Campground is a great place to call “base camp” while enjoying much in the surrounding area!

Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%

(363)

6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lyons, CO

A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.

Resort Valley Ranch East

98%

(955)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Conifer, CO

Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.

Public campgrounds in Colorado

100%

(7)

Maroon Bells Amphitheatre

1 site · Tent, RV · in White River National Forest

View of Dillon Reservoir from Prospector Campground

100%

(10)

Prospector Campground

105 sites · Tents, RVs · in White River National Forest

100%

(8)

Gore Creek Campground

24 sites · Tents, RVs · in White River National Forest

100%

(13)

Florida Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in San Juan National Forest

100%

(22)

Timber Creek Campground

100 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rocky Mountain National Park

100%

(22)

Aspenglen Campground

50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Rocky Mountain National Park

100%

(11)

Brainard Lake Recreation Area

47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(6)

Lake Irwin Campground

25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Gunnison National Forest

100%

(5)

North Rim Campground

13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100%

(11)

Fruita

57 sites · Tents, RVs · in James M. Robb - Colorado River State Park

Ruby Mountain & the Brown Canyon National Monument

100%

(5)

Ruby Mountain

19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

100%

(4)

Snowslide Campground

13 sites · Tents, RVs · in San Juan National Forest

Stories from the community

J

Jeff

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Stayed here in early December and it is such a great spot! Nice sunset viewing, easy access to the sites, quiet, and it's a rare Colorado location near water. Mike stopped by to chat and is a very accommodating host. I would highly recommend visiting this campsite, especially in the warmer months.

Evan

November 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Yeti Sanctuary

Tim was an awesome host, super helpful shining an extra light when we arrived after dark to park the trailer. Quiet and peaceful property to spend a weekend, will be back. Thanks Tim!

D

David

November 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Mike is such a great host and the site was exactly as advertised. We will absolutely be staying again when we make it back out to Palisade

L

Lori

November 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at Idaho Springs RV Resort Campground

The owner was very responsive. Loved the warm shower and bathroom. Very easy access to the freeway. We were just passing through and we would stay there again.

Mary

November 2025

46 ft fifth wheel

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Eddy

This is a great spot on the river, near bike paths and downtown. There were beautiful views and great amenities. Honestly, we caught a great rate for a nightly stay. We would have stayed longer, but the weekly rate was a bit spendy.

A

Anne

November 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

This is a spectacular spot and Mike is an awesome host. I will definitely be back

c

christine

October 2025

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Idaho Springs RV Resort Campground

Van camped for an overnighter. The hosts were very accommodating, and gave a whole discount leaflet for places in town! Bathrooms were super clean! Great spot.

Our site was fairly flat and easy to set up.

M

Misha

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity in the Foothills

Had a wonderful time and will be back! Simple directions and incredibly kind host. The campsite was very private and beautiful!

Travis

October 2025

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Rocky Mountain Glamping

Byron and Dot were incredibly friendly and welcoming hosts — you can tell they truly enjoy sharing their space. They made me feel right at home and had some great recommendations for local trails and scenic spots that really made my stay even better. The property was peaceful, well-kept, and a perfect base to explore the area. Would definitely stay again!

L

Lydia

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Beautiful place! Super fun and great for the doggie!

Jennifer

October 2025

22 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity in the Foothills

Lovely secluded spot with filtered light and just a short drive from Denver! Site 1 definitely needs clearance on the drive up, we barely made it with our popup, but a very nice stay if you can make it!

A

Amy

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Idaho Springs RV Resort Campground

Beautiful surroundings, sparkling clean facilities, host is super accommodating. I would definitely stay here again. Highly recommend!

F

Fabian

October 2025

23 ft Class C

1 night at Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Really nice campground with large fire pit and Kayaks available for a cruise on the lake. Worth a stay!

S

Stephen

October 2025

21 ft Class B

With kids

1 night at Arapaho Valley Ranch

Awesome place at the end of a fairly rough dirt road. Original lodge with pool table. Dark sky, lots of stars. Definitely going back. Probably stay in in one of the tent “cabins” facing the pond with showers!

W

William

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity in the Foothills

Camp sites are very spread out, so made for peace and quite. Just what we were looking for!

Jericho

October 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Rocky Mountain Glamping

My family and I really enjoyed camping at Dot and Byron's boondocking site. I have a 24 ft. travel trailer which fit nicely in their spot. The area is beautiful to say the least. Dot and Byron were very hospitable and very helpful in many ways to include providing information on the area and helping me get my camper in place. It was quiet and peaceful even with other guests on site. Initially, the proximity of the workshop and permanent trailer was slightly off putting but with all the goodness that feeling faded fast. We had a great time and I felt relaxed there.

Courtney

October 2025

19 ft campervan

1 night at A-Lodge Boulder

Fun, cozy setting and amenities. We enjoyed our very first night in our van here. Great location that feels remote yet is only minutes outside of Boulder. Easy access.

T

Terran

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Yeti Sanctuary

Very quiet, secluded, and away from people camp. 8800’ elevation, water, and fun hosts who host a communal campfire each night. Very dog friendly, abcs a fun return to our earlier tent camping days.

G

Garrett

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bristlecone Camp Breckenridge

Great spot very high up on the mtn so you get really good views from the campsite. Very secluded from other campsites. Very rocky though so be sure to bring sleeping pads if you decide to tent camp. We had a great time up there.