The best camping in Colorado with wildlife watching

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Looking for a camping experience that combines the great outdoors with wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp in Colorado. With over 3800 options specifically tailored to wildlife watching in Colorado, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for a rustic retreat or something more luxurious, Hipcamp has you covered. And with campsites starting as low as $5 per night, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Be sure to check out top campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Serenity in the Foothills (295 reviews) for tried and true options. Plus, popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly sites, and trash disposal make your stay even more convenient. And if you're looking to mix up your wildlife watching with some other activities, you'll find historic sites, paddling, and boating options nearby as well. Start planning your wildlife adventure today!

95% (16.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Arapaho Valley Ranch

2. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%
(379)
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
A-Lodge Boulder

3. 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."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
Camping in the wooded spot option for this site.

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
The Views at Gateway

6. The Views at Gateway

96%
(419)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gateway, CO
Located on the Dolores river, this property is perfect for hikers, fishing, rafting, or just camping! There is a natural spring just a few miles from the location with drinking water as well. When you stay here you are located right on the river with nothing but places to hike, climb and have fun and there are several options for you to choose from. There is a cabin, an onsite RV, a canvas tent, and BYO tent or RV camping on the land - you can pick whatever suits you best! No matter what, you can fall asleep to the sound of the river after a great night of star gazing! Nearby outdoor points of interest include the Dolores River on property, Hanging Flume which is approx. 20 miles from site, Gateway Canyons Resort Auto museum 7 miles from site, Arches National Park 2 hour drive from site, Colorado national monument 1 hour drive. The Grand Mesa 2 hour drive, Telluride ski resort 2 hour drive! You can find hiking, biking, swimming, paddle board, kayaks, rafting, fishing, tubing, bird watching, star gazing rock climbing, bouldering, all right from the property. All sites are accessible without 4wheel drive. I love where I live and think everyone should be able to experience the peaceful quiet beautiful environment that it is!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Rabbit Hole Ranch

10. Rabbit Hole Ranch

94%
(562)
198 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mosca, CO
We are closed for the season. PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY 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 dogs are working dogs and they are more than happy to help keep you and your pets safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with our dogs. And please report any issues promptly. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, her name is Boudicca and she’s excited to meet everyone! Returning this season is 12 year old KayLee, also a GP and and Finn, our little dude from Alaska. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Sugar Loaf Mountain watches over the ranch

11. Riverside Rest for RVs

99%
(131)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dotsero, CO
The original homestead cabin from 1903 is still here! This became our home when my husband retired because it is his dream. Our Highland cattle have personality plus!! The river wrapping around the ranch at the foot of the mountain washes away the stress and leaves a peace here that fills the spirit with calm. We love the land, the bald eagles, the wildlife, our guests and each other! Learn more about this land: Sleep in your RV with the sound of the river lulling you to recharge and just breath in the peace. We have a great boat ramp with a put-in and a place to kayak, tube, raft or fish! Great hiking trails nearby and a quiet country road to bike that the big bike races use. Our Scottish Highland cows give kisses are happy to share your carrots, apples and watermelon! We only rent two spots to keep it peaceful here.
Potable water
Trash
Cooking equipment
from 
$32
 / night
View of the cabin, fire pit. swing and chairs

12. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(354)
5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nederland, CO
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
There are 3 Tipis in The Views area, this is the biggest, The Raven.

13. 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
Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

15. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%
(700)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
camp ground #1, can accommodate any vehicles with room to turn around.

16. Haven Hill

98%
(49)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Rye, CO
Thirty-five private natural acres high above Scenic Byway CO165. A secluded mountain top with privacy. You will be overlooking the beautiful Greenhorn Valley, with wide open views of Greenhorn Mountain and the Spanish Peaks. The stars at night are often breathtaking. It feels like you are on an island in the sky. It’s conveniently close to lakes, hiking, outdoor activities and supplies, restaurants and gas stations. Several roundabouts exist for turning around large vehicles. RV sites are pull through. For digital Nomads, Cell phone and satellite service is good here. ATV's are welcome on designated roads and trails. Fires are allowed. But PLEASE check https://www.pueblo.us/2602/Fire-Restrictions. Fires must be in campfire circles only! PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU FULLY DROWN YOUR CAMPFIRE BEFORE YOU LEAVE. Dead wood on the property is OK to burn but please do not burn your trash. All trash and waste needs to be packed out. There are trash cans and restrooms at the rest stop at I-25 and Highway 165. Firewood is available to purchase nearby in Colorado City at Ace Hardware and others. You will have your choice of Camp site #1 and/or #2. They have flat mulched areas for an RV/Camper or for tent camping. Each has a fire ring and picnic table. Both sites allow room to turn around an RV or camper. Bring your own toilet for now. There is minimal shade available, so plan accordingly. Potable water is available at the blue ground hydrant in front of the little cabin to the west. It takes about 10 seconds to start running. Use of firearms is prohibited. No fireworks are allowed. Quiet time is after 10:00 p.m. Please be respectful of neighboring properties. remember you are on a hilltop so sound can travel :)
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night
Gondola Village at Holy Cross

18. Gondola Village at Holy Cross

93%
(160)
4 sites · Lodging · Red Cliff, CO
Gondola Village at Holy Cross is a little sanctuary in the mountains between Vail, Leadville, and Aspen. There is little nearby except for the next door Holy Cross Wilderness, with a lifetime worth of trails, lakes, and peaks to explore -- all only two hours from Denver. Gondola Village at Holy Cross has direct access that many dream of to Colorado's water wilderness, and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, scrambling, backpacking, and fly fishing in the Summit Vail Eagle Aspen area. Our modern alpine cabins are some of the cutest cabins you'll step foot in, complete with a mix of amenities to make your wilderness stay a bit more comfortable. Gondola Village at Holy Cross is at 11.5k feet above sea level (believed to be the highest altitude Hipcamp in the world). Gondola Village at Holy Cross has been featured on Discovery Channel’s Reclaimed, Airbnb's OMG! Fund, Arch Digest, and the site of many product shoots. The managers of this property have worked in yurt, ADU, and cabin construction and hospitality for many years and have brought together some of the best Scandinavian and modern design with a mining town aesthetic. The trip up can be challenging (only off-road, winch / locker equipped vehicles dare try the 759 Holy Cross City jeep road, others will need to hike in at least 2.5 miles), but the views and cabins are well worth the trek. Snow free season tends to be June 15 an October 30 annually, and outside of this guests should be prepared for up to 11 miles of over-snow travel with no cars allowed (a bit less depending on snow coverage in the shoulder seasons from May 21 - early June and late October - November 21)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night
Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

19. Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

98%
(78)
8 sites · Tents · Cortez, CO
Zuma Bike Ranch invites you to ride.relax.repeat in the high desert of Dolores and Cortez Colorado. Surround yourself with views of Mesa Verde National Park, Sleeping Ute and the San Juan mountains straight from your tent or camper van. The ranch offers camping, and borders Phil's World mountain bike trail network. Our goal is to encourage community among campers and bikers and connection with the land and its rich history. Zuma Bike Ranch resides on native lands of Puebloan and Ute peoples. At Zuma Bike Ranch we provide professional mountain bike instruction and guided rides for individuals and groups. You have immediate access to over 60 miles of world class singletrack at Phil’s World trail network. More mountain bike trails can be found nearby at the Aquaduct trail system in Mancos, Boggy Draw in Dolores and Sand Canyon at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. In less than an hour you can be riding high alpine terrain with access to the Colorado Trail. We’re 45 minutes from Durango and 120 minutes from Moab, UT. We keep things simple at Zuma Bike Ranch. This is to minimize impact on the land and our environment. Each camp site can accommodate one vehicle or van/truck bed camper. Camp sites fit two tents. We have a nice rinse station, potable water source, and porta potty on site. There are no lights but there are plenty of stars! Please pack out what you pack in. Visit our website for questions or to book a group or private lesson.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
a view of the ranch from the road

20. Stephens Ranch

96%
(47)
1 site · Lodging · Glade Park, CO
Jake Stephens Performance Horses is a working horse ranch. It's located in Glade Park, Colorado, which you have to travel through the Colorado National Monument and a Red Rock Tunnel to get to. The 70-acre ranch is located in the middle of the funnest and most beautiful places on the planet. Activities include horseback riding through the mountains, canoeing on one of the reservoirs, mountain biking one of the numerous trails, hiking to see some of the most awesome wildlife anywhere, or just camping in one of the cabins or tent camping on the side of a beautiful Red Rock canyon. There's not a cooler place to stay. Learn more about this land:Come stay in one of our two Colorado cozy cabins. They both have wood burning stoves, cable TV and microwaves, and are very unique. The larger cabin now has a  finished bathroom complete with a very unique all rock shower,  and kitchen,  We offer a sunset horseback ride in the mountains or a private horse riding lesson in our arena or round pen, or you can go on a mountain bike ride on Red Rock to Rattlesnake Arches (which is the largest collection of arches in the world, besides the Utah delicate arches), above the ranch on a beautiful aspen-covered alpine trail by the reservoirs, or go on a hike anywhere! Or just sleep in! In a very private cabin or a tent on the lower property that you can pitch by a beautiful 100 ft Red Rock canyon and seasonal waterfall!  
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$72
 / night

Looking for a camping experience that combines the great outdoors with wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp in Colorado. With over 3800 options specifically tailored to wildlife watching in Colorado, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for a rustic retreat or something more luxurious, Hipcamp has you covered. And with campsites starting as low as $5 per night, you're sure to find something that fits your budget. Be sure to check out top campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Serenity in the Foothills (295 reviews) for tried and true options. Plus, popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly sites, and trash disposal make your stay even more convenient. And if you're looking to mix up your wildlife watching with some other activities, you'll find historic sites, paddling, and boating options nearby as well. Start planning your wildlife adventure today!

95% (16.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Arapaho Valley Ranch

2. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%
(379)
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
A-Lodge Boulder

3. 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."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
Camping in the wooded spot option for this site.

5. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
The Views at Gateway

6. The Views at Gateway

96%
(419)
10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gateway, CO
Located on the Dolores river, this property is perfect for hikers, fishing, rafting, or just camping! There is a natural spring just a few miles from the location with drinking water as well. When you stay here you are located right on the river with nothing but places to hike, climb and have fun and there are several options for you to choose from. There is a cabin, an onsite RV, a canvas tent, and BYO tent or RV camping on the land - you can pick whatever suits you best! No matter what, you can fall asleep to the sound of the river after a great night of star gazing! Nearby outdoor points of interest include the Dolores River on property, Hanging Flume which is approx. 20 miles from site, Gateway Canyons Resort Auto museum 7 miles from site, Arches National Park 2 hour drive from site, Colorado national monument 1 hour drive. The Grand Mesa 2 hour drive, Telluride ski resort 2 hour drive! You can find hiking, biking, swimming, paddle board, kayaks, rafting, fishing, tubing, bird watching, star gazing rock climbing, bouldering, all right from the property. All sites are accessible without 4wheel drive. I love where I live and think everyone should be able to experience the peaceful quiet beautiful environment that it is!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Rabbit Hole Ranch

10. Rabbit Hole Ranch

94%
(562)
198 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mosca, CO
We are closed for the season. PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY 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 dogs are working dogs and they are more than happy to help keep you and your pets safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with our dogs. And please report any issues promptly. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, her name is Boudicca and she’s excited to meet everyone! Returning this season is 12 year old KayLee, also a GP and and Finn, our little dude from Alaska. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
Sugar Loaf Mountain watches over the ranch

11. Riverside Rest for RVs

99%
(131)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dotsero, CO
The original homestead cabin from 1903 is still here! This became our home when my husband retired because it is his dream. Our Highland cattle have personality plus!! The river wrapping around the ranch at the foot of the mountain washes away the stress and leaves a peace here that fills the spirit with calm. We love the land, the bald eagles, the wildlife, our guests and each other! Learn more about this land: Sleep in your RV with the sound of the river lulling you to recharge and just breath in the peace. We have a great boat ramp with a put-in and a place to kayak, tube, raft or fish! Great hiking trails nearby and a quiet country road to bike that the big bike races use. Our Scottish Highland cows give kisses are happy to share your carrots, apples and watermelon! We only rent two spots to keep it peaceful here.
Potable water
Trash
Cooking equipment
from 
$32
 / night
View of the cabin, fire pit. swing and chairs

12. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(354)
5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nederland, CO
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
There are 3 Tipis in The Views area, this is the biggest, The Raven.

13. 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
Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

15. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%
(700)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
camp ground #1, can accommodate any vehicles with room to turn around.

16. Haven Hill

98%
(49)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Rye, CO
Thirty-five private natural acres high above Scenic Byway CO165. A secluded mountain top with privacy. You will be overlooking the beautiful Greenhorn Valley, with wide open views of Greenhorn Mountain and the Spanish Peaks. The stars at night are often breathtaking. It feels like you are on an island in the sky. It’s conveniently close to lakes, hiking, outdoor activities and supplies, restaurants and gas stations. Several roundabouts exist for turning around large vehicles. RV sites are pull through. For digital Nomads, Cell phone and satellite service is good here. ATV's are welcome on designated roads and trails. Fires are allowed. But PLEASE check https://www.pueblo.us/2602/Fire-Restrictions. Fires must be in campfire circles only! PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU FULLY DROWN YOUR CAMPFIRE BEFORE YOU LEAVE. Dead wood on the property is OK to burn but please do not burn your trash. All trash and waste needs to be packed out. There are trash cans and restrooms at the rest stop at I-25 and Highway 165. Firewood is available to purchase nearby in Colorado City at Ace Hardware and others. You will have your choice of Camp site #1 and/or #2. They have flat mulched areas for an RV/Camper or for tent camping. Each has a fire ring and picnic table. Both sites allow room to turn around an RV or camper. Bring your own toilet for now. There is minimal shade available, so plan accordingly. Potable water is available at the blue ground hydrant in front of the little cabin to the west. It takes about 10 seconds to start running. Use of firearms is prohibited. No fireworks are allowed. Quiet time is after 10:00 p.m. Please be respectful of neighboring properties. remember you are on a hilltop so sound can travel :)
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night
Gondola Village at Holy Cross

18. Gondola Village at Holy Cross

93%
(160)
4 sites · Lodging · Red Cliff, CO
Gondola Village at Holy Cross is a little sanctuary in the mountains between Vail, Leadville, and Aspen. There is little nearby except for the next door Holy Cross Wilderness, with a lifetime worth of trails, lakes, and peaks to explore -- all only two hours from Denver. Gondola Village at Holy Cross has direct access that many dream of to Colorado's water wilderness, and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, scrambling, backpacking, and fly fishing in the Summit Vail Eagle Aspen area. Our modern alpine cabins are some of the cutest cabins you'll step foot in, complete with a mix of amenities to make your wilderness stay a bit more comfortable. Gondola Village at Holy Cross is at 11.5k feet above sea level (believed to be the highest altitude Hipcamp in the world). Gondola Village at Holy Cross has been featured on Discovery Channel’s Reclaimed, Airbnb's OMG! Fund, Arch Digest, and the site of many product shoots. The managers of this property have worked in yurt, ADU, and cabin construction and hospitality for many years and have brought together some of the best Scandinavian and modern design with a mining town aesthetic. The trip up can be challenging (only off-road, winch / locker equipped vehicles dare try the 759 Holy Cross City jeep road, others will need to hike in at least 2.5 miles), but the views and cabins are well worth the trek. Snow free season tends to be June 15 an October 30 annually, and outside of this guests should be prepared for up to 11 miles of over-snow travel with no cars allowed (a bit less depending on snow coverage in the shoulder seasons from May 21 - early June and late October - November 21)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night
Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

19. Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

98%
(78)
8 sites · Tents · Cortez, CO
Zuma Bike Ranch invites you to ride.relax.repeat in the high desert of Dolores and Cortez Colorado. Surround yourself with views of Mesa Verde National Park, Sleeping Ute and the San Juan mountains straight from your tent or camper van. The ranch offers camping, and borders Phil's World mountain bike trail network. Our goal is to encourage community among campers and bikers and connection with the land and its rich history. Zuma Bike Ranch resides on native lands of Puebloan and Ute peoples. At Zuma Bike Ranch we provide professional mountain bike instruction and guided rides for individuals and groups. You have immediate access to over 60 miles of world class singletrack at Phil’s World trail network. More mountain bike trails can be found nearby at the Aquaduct trail system in Mancos, Boggy Draw in Dolores and Sand Canyon at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. In less than an hour you can be riding high alpine terrain with access to the Colorado Trail. We’re 45 minutes from Durango and 120 minutes from Moab, UT. We keep things simple at Zuma Bike Ranch. This is to minimize impact on the land and our environment. Each camp site can accommodate one vehicle or van/truck bed camper. Camp sites fit two tents. We have a nice rinse station, potable water source, and porta potty on site. There are no lights but there are plenty of stars! Please pack out what you pack in. Visit our website for questions or to book a group or private lesson.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
a view of the ranch from the road

20. Stephens Ranch

96%
(47)
1 site · Lodging · Glade Park, CO
Jake Stephens Performance Horses is a working horse ranch. It's located in Glade Park, Colorado, which you have to travel through the Colorado National Monument and a Red Rock Tunnel to get to. The 70-acre ranch is located in the middle of the funnest and most beautiful places on the planet. Activities include horseback riding through the mountains, canoeing on one of the reservoirs, mountain biking one of the numerous trails, hiking to see some of the most awesome wildlife anywhere, or just camping in one of the cabins or tent camping on the side of a beautiful Red Rock canyon. There's not a cooler place to stay. Learn more about this land:Come stay in one of our two Colorado cozy cabins. They both have wood burning stoves, cable TV and microwaves, and are very unique. The larger cabin now has a  finished bathroom complete with a very unique all rock shower,  and kitchen,  We offer a sunset horseback ride in the mountains or a private horse riding lesson in our arena or round pen, or you can go on a mountain bike ride on Red Rock to Rattlesnake Arches (which is the largest collection of arches in the world, besides the Utah delicate arches), above the ranch on a beautiful aspen-covered alpine trail by the reservoirs, or go on a hike anywhere! Or just sleep in! In a very private cabin or a tent on the lower property that you can pitch by a beautiful 100 ft Red Rock canyon and seasonal waterfall!  
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$72
 / night

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