The best star host camping in Colorado

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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.

99% (10.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

There are 3 Tipis in The Views area, this is the biggest, The Raven.

1. Bright Star Campground

98%
(779)
33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cortez, CO
We have complimentary WiFi, drinking water, ice, hot showers, bathrooms, communal kitchen, and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables, art nook, ping pong, and more. We are open from April - October. All of our sites and amenities can be booked for retreats or events. There are two large covered pavilions. We customize reservations for small and large groups or longer stays. There are furnished tipis, camping cabins, tent/RV/van sites, and a Navajo Hogan (wooden yurt). Bright Star Campground: Originally established in 2012 as a church camp, it is now a place to connect, create, and rejuvenate in this spectacular high desert landscape. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic views of the Four Corners region, and only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many attractions nearby, such as 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. We are located 45 minutes from Durango, 1.5 hours from Telluride, and about 2 hours from Moab (Arches and Canyonlands National Parks). The nearest airport is in Durango. The nearest large international airports are in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

3. Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

99%
(744)
7 sites · RVs · Larkspur, CO
Our family-owned noncommercial ranch/campground nestled against the Raspberry ButIt is a working ranch with several horses, donkeys, goats, and dogs. Due to the fire risks in our area there are NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED which includes propane fires Thirty acres of our property are fenced for the horses and located directly behind the campsites. In addition, we have lots of wildlife including but not limited to: Deer, Elk, Coyotes, Bobcats, Wild Turkeys, Mountain Lions, Snakes, and Bears. We are approximately 2 miles from the town of Larkspur between Spruce Mountain Road and Perry Park Road. (Please note Google Maps will try and send you to a location on Perry Park Road which is incorrect. Please refer to the map located on this website.) Due to our remote location, we have spotty Wifi. Typically ATT, Starlink, and TMobile work best. Verizon reception can be located at certain spots around our ranch. There are three restaurants located in the town of Larkspur including pizza, Mexican food, and a pub. There is also a large park with lots of kids' play equipment. During the summer there are concerts at the park on the weekends. We are approximately 2 miles from the Colorado Renaissance Festival located in Larkspur. The Renaissance Festival typically runs between June and . Campers will be required to sign a Waiver and Release of Liability when camping with us. The following is a copy of the Waiver: WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY (Please email to: TeresaSOrtez@msn.com) IN CONSIDERATION OF the risk of injury that exists while participating in CAMPING (hereinafter the “Activity”) at Standiford Ranch LLC with restricted access to horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, and other various farm animals, and IN CONSIDERATION OF my desire to participate in said Activity and being given the right to participate in the same: I, for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives (hereinafter collectively, “Releasor,” “I,” or “me,” which terms shall also include Releasor’s parents or guardian if Releasor is under 18 years of age), knowingly and voluntarily enter into this WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY and hereby waive any and all rights, claims, or causes of action of any kind arising out of my participation in the Activity. I hereby release and forever discharge Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) located at 1225 Fox Farm Road, Larkspur, Colorado 80118, their affiliates, managers, members, agents, attorneys, staff, volunteers, heirs, representatives, predecessors, successors, and assigns (collectively “Releasees”), from any physical or psychological injury that I may suffer as a direct result of my participation in the aforementioned Activity. I am voluntarily participating in the aforementioned Activity at my own risk. I am aware of the risks associated with participating in this Activity, which may include but are not limited to physical or psychological injury, pain, suffering, illness, disfigurement, temporary or permanent disability (including paralysis), economic or emotional loss, and death. I understand that these injuries or outcomes may arise from my own or others' negligence, conditions related to travel to and from the Activity, or from conditions at the Activity location(s). Nonetheless, I assume all related risks, both known and unknown to me, of my participation in this Activity. I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Releasees against any and all claims, suits, or actions of any kind whatsoever for liability, damages, compensation, or otherwise brought by me or anyone on my behalf, including attorney’s fees and any related costs. I acknowledge that Releasees are not responsible for errors, omissions, acts, or failures to act of any party or entity conducting a specific event or activity on behalf of Releasees. If I require medical care or treatment, I authorize Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) to provide all emergency medical care deemed necessary, including but not limited to, first aid, CPR, the use of AEDs, emergency medical transport, and sharing of medical information with medical personnel. I agree to assume all costs involved in my medical treatment and to indemnify, save, and hold harmless the Releasees from any loss, liability, damage, or cost, including bodily injury or death. I understand that my access and the access of any members of my party are limited to our designated camping area also referred to as campsite which is marked with a designated number(s). We are prohibited from entering any other areas of the property without express permission and must be accompanied by an authorized member of Standiford Ranch LLC. This restriction applies to all members of my party, including but not limited to family members, guests, and any other individuals who accompany me. I acknowledge that any violation of this rule may result in immediate removal from the property and potential legal action. I agree to inform all members of my party of this restriction and ensure their compliance and will not hold Standiford Ranch LLC liable for any unintended or unaccompanied use of the property. I understand that myself and my party are financially liable for any damages, injuries, or loss as a result of our actions, intentional, negligent, or otherwise. This includes all property, equipment, tools, structures, trees/agricultures, residents, guests, campers, or animals, whether intentionally or as an act of negligence. This includes any unauthorized use of the property including such as hunting, hiking, climbing, illegal dumping, or pollution. I understand that myself and my party must have insurance for any and all vehicles brought onto the Standiford Ranch property to cover any accidents and damage to vehicles caused by fallen trees. In the instance of a dispute arising between the user(s) and Standiford Ranch LLC, both parties agree to seek arbitration as a means to resolve such disputes. The parties shall agree on a single neutral arbitrator to conduct such counsel. If the parties cannot agree on a single arbitrator, they will each select one arbitrator who will then agree on a single arbitrator to resolve the dispute. The arbitrator will under no circumstance be allowed to modify or change this limitation of liability agreement. Furthermore, the arbitrator’s decision shall be final, and the user(s) will be responsible for all fees incurred during the arbitration. Any disputes will be handled in Colorado court. I agree that in the event of any injury or loss of life arising out of my participation in the Activity, including the event of negligence on behalf of Amy, Clint, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC), the total damages to which I, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives may be entitled shall not exceed $10,000. I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT. I FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND HAVE SIGNED IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT, ASSURANCE, OR GUARANTEE BEING MADE TO ME. I INTEND MY SIGNATURE TO BE A COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. I FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF MYSELF AND ALL MEMBERS OF MY PARTY, AM AUTHORIZED TO DO SO, AND I CERTIFY THAT I AM AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. IF A MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY DOES NOT AUTHORIZE YOUR SIGNATURE ON THEIR BEHALF, THEY MUST ALSO SIGN AND AGREE TO THIS AGREEMENT BELOW. BY SIGNING, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT FULL LIABILITY ON BEHALF OF YOUR PARTY AND ACKNOWLEDGE YOU HAVE RECEIVED AUTHORIZATION FROM EACH MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY. Authorized Signer: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Campsite Number: ___________________ Additional Signer(s) Who Do Not Authorize the Individual Above: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$32
 / night
Camp Two Oasis

5. Camp Two Oasis

97%
(15)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gardner, CO
A great base camp access to the Sand Dunes,Mt Lindsey, and Blanca Basin. Great biking around the camp.Close to the Huerfano River with a secret spot and trout fishing.We have nice level r.v. or tent sites in valley farm / old.orchard setting with mountain views ,electricity and well water. We provide an outdoor sink at the Pumphouse, and plenty of good well water. , 20 minutes to the top of Laveta Pass and hwy.160, 35 minutes to Lily Lake trailhead via 4wd road,and 20 minutes to the Mosca Pass trailhead to the Great Sand Dunes. A great day trip is hiking from Mosca Pass to the Visitor center at Great Sand Dunes ,explore the creek and dunes down there and then trek back up to your car at Mosca Pass.About a 8.5 mile round trip. Decent cell phone reception here at camp.We have wifi available . Easy and nice bikerides right from camp. ,Camps have fire circles and grill for firepit. .Plenty of mowed grassy areas for the kids. Well behaved pets on or.off a leash are welcome . Be mindfull that your pet does not chase or harrass potential livestock.on neighbor's property . Grassy tent site,near power and water. Pit toilet. Corner Camp or Orchard Camp. Orchard Camp has 20 amp power and fresh water hookup.. Pull through with 50 amp hookup and water hookup for the Camp 2 site for longer setups.Pull through is possible.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

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.

99% (10.6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

There are 3 Tipis in The Views area, this is the biggest, The Raven.

1. Bright Star Campground

98%
(779)
33 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cortez, CO
We have complimentary WiFi, drinking water, ice, hot showers, bathrooms, communal kitchen, and a shaded pavilion with picnic tables, art nook, ping pong, and more. We are open from April - October. All of our sites and amenities can be booked for retreats or events. There are two large covered pavilions. We customize reservations for small and large groups or longer stays. There are furnished tipis, camping cabins, tent/RV/van sites, and a Navajo Hogan (wooden yurt). Bright Star Campground: Originally established in 2012 as a church camp, it is now a place to connect, create, and rejuvenate in this spectacular high desert landscape. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic views of the Four Corners region, and only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many attractions nearby, such as 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. We are located 45 minutes from Durango, 1.5 hours from Telluride, and about 2 hours from Moab (Arches and Canyonlands National Parks). The nearest airport is in Durango. The nearest large international airports are in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

3. Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

99%
(744)
7 sites · RVs · Larkspur, CO
Our family-owned noncommercial ranch/campground nestled against the Raspberry ButIt is a working ranch with several horses, donkeys, goats, and dogs. Due to the fire risks in our area there are NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED which includes propane fires Thirty acres of our property are fenced for the horses and located directly behind the campsites. In addition, we have lots of wildlife including but not limited to: Deer, Elk, Coyotes, Bobcats, Wild Turkeys, Mountain Lions, Snakes, and Bears. We are approximately 2 miles from the town of Larkspur between Spruce Mountain Road and Perry Park Road. (Please note Google Maps will try and send you to a location on Perry Park Road which is incorrect. Please refer to the map located on this website.) Due to our remote location, we have spotty Wifi. Typically ATT, Starlink, and TMobile work best. Verizon reception can be located at certain spots around our ranch. There are three restaurants located in the town of Larkspur including pizza, Mexican food, and a pub. There is also a large park with lots of kids' play equipment. During the summer there are concerts at the park on the weekends. We are approximately 2 miles from the Colorado Renaissance Festival located in Larkspur. The Renaissance Festival typically runs between June and . Campers will be required to sign a Waiver and Release of Liability when camping with us. The following is a copy of the Waiver: WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY (Please email to: TeresaSOrtez@msn.com) IN CONSIDERATION OF the risk of injury that exists while participating in CAMPING (hereinafter the “Activity”) at Standiford Ranch LLC with restricted access to horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, and other various farm animals, and IN CONSIDERATION OF my desire to participate in said Activity and being given the right to participate in the same: I, for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives (hereinafter collectively, “Releasor,” “I,” or “me,” which terms shall also include Releasor’s parents or guardian if Releasor is under 18 years of age), knowingly and voluntarily enter into this WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY and hereby waive any and all rights, claims, or causes of action of any kind arising out of my participation in the Activity. I hereby release and forever discharge Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) located at 1225 Fox Farm Road, Larkspur, Colorado 80118, their affiliates, managers, members, agents, attorneys, staff, volunteers, heirs, representatives, predecessors, successors, and assigns (collectively “Releasees”), from any physical or psychological injury that I may suffer as a direct result of my participation in the aforementioned Activity. I am voluntarily participating in the aforementioned Activity at my own risk. I am aware of the risks associated with participating in this Activity, which may include but are not limited to physical or psychological injury, pain, suffering, illness, disfigurement, temporary or permanent disability (including paralysis), economic or emotional loss, and death. I understand that these injuries or outcomes may arise from my own or others' negligence, conditions related to travel to and from the Activity, or from conditions at the Activity location(s). Nonetheless, I assume all related risks, both known and unknown to me, of my participation in this Activity. I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Releasees against any and all claims, suits, or actions of any kind whatsoever for liability, damages, compensation, or otherwise brought by me or anyone on my behalf, including attorney’s fees and any related costs. I acknowledge that Releasees are not responsible for errors, omissions, acts, or failures to act of any party or entity conducting a specific event or activity on behalf of Releasees. If I require medical care or treatment, I authorize Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) to provide all emergency medical care deemed necessary, including but not limited to, first aid, CPR, the use of AEDs, emergency medical transport, and sharing of medical information with medical personnel. I agree to assume all costs involved in my medical treatment and to indemnify, save, and hold harmless the Releasees from any loss, liability, damage, or cost, including bodily injury or death. I understand that my access and the access of any members of my party are limited to our designated camping area also referred to as campsite which is marked with a designated number(s). We are prohibited from entering any other areas of the property without express permission and must be accompanied by an authorized member of Standiford Ranch LLC. This restriction applies to all members of my party, including but not limited to family members, guests, and any other individuals who accompany me. I acknowledge that any violation of this rule may result in immediate removal from the property and potential legal action. I agree to inform all members of my party of this restriction and ensure their compliance and will not hold Standiford Ranch LLC liable for any unintended or unaccompanied use of the property. I understand that myself and my party are financially liable for any damages, injuries, or loss as a result of our actions, intentional, negligent, or otherwise. This includes all property, equipment, tools, structures, trees/agricultures, residents, guests, campers, or animals, whether intentionally or as an act of negligence. This includes any unauthorized use of the property including such as hunting, hiking, climbing, illegal dumping, or pollution. I understand that myself and my party must have insurance for any and all vehicles brought onto the Standiford Ranch property to cover any accidents and damage to vehicles caused by fallen trees. In the instance of a dispute arising between the user(s) and Standiford Ranch LLC, both parties agree to seek arbitration as a means to resolve such disputes. The parties shall agree on a single neutral arbitrator to conduct such counsel. If the parties cannot agree on a single arbitrator, they will each select one arbitrator who will then agree on a single arbitrator to resolve the dispute. The arbitrator will under no circumstance be allowed to modify or change this limitation of liability agreement. Furthermore, the arbitrator’s decision shall be final, and the user(s) will be responsible for all fees incurred during the arbitration. Any disputes will be handled in Colorado court. I agree that in the event of any injury or loss of life arising out of my participation in the Activity, including the event of negligence on behalf of Amy, Clint, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC), the total damages to which I, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives may be entitled shall not exceed $10,000. I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT. I FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND HAVE SIGNED IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT, ASSURANCE, OR GUARANTEE BEING MADE TO ME. I INTEND MY SIGNATURE TO BE A COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. I FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF MYSELF AND ALL MEMBERS OF MY PARTY, AM AUTHORIZED TO DO SO, AND I CERTIFY THAT I AM AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. IF A MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY DOES NOT AUTHORIZE YOUR SIGNATURE ON THEIR BEHALF, THEY MUST ALSO SIGN AND AGREE TO THIS AGREEMENT BELOW. BY SIGNING, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT FULL LIABILITY ON BEHALF OF YOUR PARTY AND ACKNOWLEDGE YOU HAVE RECEIVED AUTHORIZATION FROM EACH MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY. Authorized Signer: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Campsite Number: ___________________ Additional Signer(s) Who Do Not Authorize the Individual Above: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$32
 / night
Camp Two Oasis

5. Camp Two Oasis

97%
(15)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gardner, CO
A great base camp access to the Sand Dunes,Mt Lindsey, and Blanca Basin. Great biking around the camp.Close to the Huerfano River with a secret spot and trout fishing.We have nice level r.v. or tent sites in valley farm / old.orchard setting with mountain views ,electricity and well water. We provide an outdoor sink at the Pumphouse, and plenty of good well water. , 20 minutes to the top of Laveta Pass and hwy.160, 35 minutes to Lily Lake trailhead via 4wd road,and 20 minutes to the Mosca Pass trailhead to the Great Sand Dunes. A great day trip is hiking from Mosca Pass to the Visitor center at Great Sand Dunes ,explore the creek and dunes down there and then trek back up to your car at Mosca Pass.About a 8.5 mile round trip. Decent cell phone reception here at camp.We have wifi available . Easy and nice bikerides right from camp. ,Camps have fire circles and grill for firepit. .Plenty of mowed grassy areas for the kids. Well behaved pets on or.off a leash are welcome . Be mindfull that your pet does not chase or harrass potential livestock.on neighbor's property . Grassy tent site,near power and water. Pit toilet. Corner Camp or Orchard Camp. Orchard Camp has 20 amp power and fresh water hookup.. Pull through with 50 amp hookup and water hookup for the Camp 2 site for longer setups.Pull through is possible.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Stories from the community

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

The best star host camping in Colorado guide

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.

Top regions in and near Colorado