Camping near Colorado Springs

·

Situated at the base of 14,115 foot tall Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs, Colorado is a great basecamp for forays into the Rocky Mountains. From hiking, mountain biking, and boating in the summer to snowshoeing, ice climbing, and skating in the winter, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do in Colorado Springs. Considering Colorado Springs is Colorado’s second largest city and it’s only about an hour and half from Denver, you’ll find everything you need in terms of amenities here. Camping options are limited to RV parks in town but you’ll find plenty of campgrounds in the surrounding mountains if you prefer to camp closer to nature. 

97% (6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pikes Peak RAD Hostel Van Camping

1. Pikes Peak RAD Hostel Van Camping

98%
(52)
3.5mi from Colorado Springs · 3 sites · RVs · Colorado Springs, CO
Welcome to RAD Hostel, where your van or small RV (up to 23' in length) finds a cozy, convenient home away from home! Our unique parking space offers the perfect blend of comfort and community, making it the ideal spot for your next adventure. Bathroom Access: Enjoy a room with a bathroom featuring a tub/shower and free clean soft towels. Full Access to Hostel Amenities: Take advantage of our well-equipped community kitchen to whip up your favorite meals. Need to catch up on work or just want to relax? Our 24-hour lounge with TV and streaming services and 24-hour workspace have you covered. Outdoor Spaces: Unwind in our inviting patios and back yard. Lounge in a hammock, enjoy outdoor games, or simply soak in the fresh air. Onsite Activities: Engage with fellow travelers through our diverse range of onsite activities. Bonfire with free s'mores, Karaoke, Movie nights, Volleyball, Cornhole, Foosball, Slacklines, Hula hoops, free bikes Tours: Daily hikes and other excursions to local attractions and events (additional fees apply). Hikes to Manitou Springs incline, Garden of the Gods, Paint Mines, Sand Dunes, Pulpit Rock, Drum Circle, Concerts, and Brewery Crawls and others. Convenience: RAD hostel is located right at the heart of everything you would want to do in Colorado Springs. Perfectly situtated 10 minutes from Garden of the Gods, 30 minutes from The Incline, less than 10 minutes from Pulpit Rock. You can visit the best hikes and sites of Colorado Springs with RAD hostel as your base camp! RAD Hostel is more than just a place to park and sleep- it's a vibrant community where travelers come together. Meet new friends, share stories, and create memories. Our central location makes it easy to explore the local area, with restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and attractions just a short distance away. Book your spot at RAD Hostel today and experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night
Red Rocks Open Space

2. Red Rocks Open Space

98%
(47)
6.7mi from Colorado Springs · 1 site · RV · Colorado Springs, CO
We offer a parking spot at night to have a quick safe place to stay. We do not allow the camper to stay multiple continuous days without leaving as you must leave during the day time, but are welcome to return at night. ---shower is only available if our office is open when you arrive----- ---We sometimes have Buses leaving or returning to our facility late at night, so just know you might hear a large bus pulling in late at night. ---PLEASE DO NOT block our Iron Gate with the H on it, or stick out into the entrance of the facility. If you stick out too far, you need to park North to South , which is parallel to the wood fence with the customer parking signs on it. You can block the handicap signs also if needed. You are also welcome to park in between the building and the front garden bed area as well if you prefer. The ground is not too level there, so you will need to level your rv. Here is a little bit about us! We rent motorhomes, camper vans, travel trailers, Paddleboards, and party buses! We are a perfect fit for hip camping because we are right across the street from Red Rocks Open Space, 5 min away from Garden of the Gods, and right off of HWY24 to head deeper into the Rockies! We are a full service RV facility, so we have mechanics on site if you need your rig looked at also! We are all camper van folks and know the struggle of not being able to find a safe spot.
Pets
Potable water
Showers
from 
$15
 / night
Pikes Peak RV Park

3. Pikes Peak RV Park

91%
(38)
7.5mi from Colorado Springs · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · Manitou Springs, CO
Welcome to Pikes Peak RV Park, your gateway to adventure and relaxation in the heart of Manitou Springs! Situated just a mile from downtown, our small campground offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. Discover the charm of Manitou Springs, where entertainment abounds for the whole family. Explore a variety of shops and restaurants, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic town. For outdoor enthusiasts, our park boasts unbeatable proximity to some of Colorado's most iconic attractions. Explore the stunning rock formations of Garden of the Gods, tackle the challenging Manitou Incline, or marvel at the cascading beauty of Seven Falls. And don't forget to embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, just minutes away. Surrounded by natural beauty, our park features a serene creek running through one side, providing a peaceful backdrop for your stay. On the other side, a trail offers easy access to outdoor adventures, where you can spot wildlife such as deer, ducks, and beavers. Whether you prefer Creekside serenity or Trailside views of Pikes Peak, you'll find your perfect retreat at Pikes Peak RV Park. We do not allow campfires at our park. Experience the best of Manitou Springs and beyond at our welcoming campground, where every moment promises adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Yakalo Ranch

5. Yakalo Ranch

98%
(28)
10mi from Colorado Springs · 7 sites · Tents · Colorado Springs, CO
"It's Real Rustic Out Here" This is NOT Glamping, this is the Real Rustic Camping Experience :) - And winter is coming; so our guests are revving up for winter camping experience ❄️☃️🌨️ ***Yakalo Ranch (outfitter private land) is currently undergoing site improvements with Pikes National Forest, however we will accept reservations on a case by case basis.*** Yakalo Ranch a Hike-in, Hike-out experience focused on the core principle of "Leave No Trace" to "Pack it in, Pack it out", hence our motto: "It's Real Rustic Out Here" Beautiful Mountain Ranges, Natural Springs and Creeks, Amazing Rock Formations, Endless Trails, Exploring, and tons of Recreational Activities, wild strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and figs right at your fingertips. Points of Interest: Vultures Point - Hike - Hard - Disbursed Camping - Guide required Roy's Ridge - Hike - Hard - Disbursed Camping - Guide required Walter's Historic Well - Hike - Easy Historic Pipeline Trail - Hike - Easy Stonehenge's Table - Hike - Moderate Ponderosa Pine Forest - Hike - Moderate Sleeping Giant Trail - Hike - Moderate Makayla Meadow - Hike - Moderate - Disbursed Camping - Guide Required BigFoot Forest - Hike - Hard - Disbursed Camping - Guide Required
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

6. Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

96%
(35)
10mi from Colorado Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · Colorado Springs, CO
We are campers ourselves so, we get it! If you're someone who loves camping, glamping or pitching a tent and need a place, we are here for you! We are just 5.4 miles from the NEW Ford Amphitheatre venue. 3 miles from our NEW grocery store. We are on the property ourselves. We are right off a main road with easy access to town, yet you will feel you are in the woods surrounded by nature. We don't have hookups but we do have a water pump and a basic electrical outlet if you need. There's a large firepit that you're welcome to use if there isn't a fire ban in place. The property is fenced and the spot is level. If you need a bit more privacy or a place for additional guests, we have a small cabin that is also for rent on the property! There's a herd of deer that frequent the property as well so, you just might get lucky to enjoy them too!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
The more forested part of our land.

7. Forest and Field! Horses welcome!

100%
(18)
12mi from Colorado Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Colorado Springs, CO
Learn more about this land:We have almost 40 acres of beautiful land that is scattered trees in a field and more forested areas. We also have mountain views depending on where you stay! We are right next door to the Pineries Open Space which is a 9 mile trail that you can hike, bike, or horse ride on. It also connects (by crossing a road) to Section 16 which is another 4 mile trail. You can bring your own horses and for a $50 fee we will set up corral panels for your horses to stay. We have farm animals that will be wondering about the land at times. We have water up at our home that you can use to fill up your campers with water or any water containers you need to fill. A camp bucket toilet will be available for campers use. At certain times we offer farm experiences at additional charges. There is a small corner store a couple of miles away, a local feed store where you can buy hay for tour horses, a little local coffee shop and small cafe as well. Come enjoy the country life just minutes from town! Because we also use our land to graze our animals, we ask that only one vehicle be parked at the site at a time. We have a place for parking additional vehicles if you have more than 1 vehicle.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$68
 / night
Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

8. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

90%
(82)
13mi from Colorado Springs · 64 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cascade, CO
Lone Duck Campground sits just outside the city lights of Colorado Springs at the base of Pikes Peak, at an elevation of 7,600 feet. Our prime location puts us within a short distance of the many beautiful Colorado attractions. This makes us an ideal stop for families looking for a summer adventure or folks just passing through for a couple of days. We strive to make every stay a special experience. We know you will love it here at "the Duck"! Lone Duck Campground and Cabins is your stop for a memorable vacation in the Colorado Rockies. We have all the necessary amenities to make your stay a comfortable one. We offer tent sites, cabins, and RV sites. Make your reservation with us today and allow our family to treat yours!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$43
 / night
Picnic table at campsite.

10. Sunshine Mountain

95%
(76)
17mi from Colorado Springs · 3 sites · RVs · Woodland Park, CO
Sunshine Mountain is a shared 7.5 acre property which includes the RV spot, a vacation rental and host’s home. Back portion of the property is a wooded hiking trail for all guests to enjoy. It is located in the historic Ute Pass region. The property was once owned by Ute Indians who later sold it, at which time it became a Hippie camp and later a family home/ranch. We can’t wait to meet you and help you have the true Colorado experience. You will love the country feel while being walking distance to Woodland Park and have the amenities of 50 amp electric, WiFi, water (not for drinking), picnic table, chairs, mini grill, hammock, gray water dump at site, propane fire pit (guests bring their own propane) and access to black water dump if needed. $15 black dump fee for bookings less than 1 week, otherwise 1 free black water dump per week. Pets must be on a leash at all times and pets and children are never to be left unattended for any period of time.
Pets
Toilets
Trash
from 
$45
 / night
Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

15. Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

100%
(22)
22mi from Colorado Springs · 2 sites · Lodging · Cripple Creek, CO
Located on 3 acres of land, this private campsite features a large 16x20 canvas walled tent with a covered deck. There is a large wood stove inside to keep you warm all night long during all four seasons. The tent can easily accommodate up to 8 people. There is 1 twin over full bunk bed, 1 full size bed, and 1 futon. There is one more additional mattress and bed-frame under the bunk bed for additional sleeping (some minor furniture rearranging is required to make space for the additional bed). PLEASE NOTE: The reservation is for the provided canvas tent only. If you want to pitch additional tents, we do allow that for an added cost of $25 per tent per night. Please contact host prior to booking to make sure your arrangement will work. We do not allow extra tents on the property without prior permission and paid fees. In the woods right by the tent you’ll find a private playground complete with: swings and slide, trampoline, spinning rope tunnels, ninja course, climbing dome and a zip-line. In the winter there’s a great area for sledding. 
We provide everything you need for the camping experience. There is a a set of dishes for 10, silverware, all cooking utensils, cast iron pots and pans, a coffee percolator, trash bags, dish soap, outdoor kitchen prep area, large 3 burner camp stove, propane, (5) camp chairs, bear box, warm down comforters, lanterns / solar lights, board games for both kids & adults. 
The only thing you should plan to bring is your own firewood, water, sleeping bag or sheets, your pillow and food! PLEASE NOTE: Person reserving the campsite must sign a separate rental agreement. All adults must sign a liability waiver for themselves and their minor children. Rental agreement will be sent after booking.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$192
 / night

Situated at the base of 14,115 foot tall Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs, Colorado is a great basecamp for forays into the Rocky Mountains. From hiking, mountain biking, and boating in the summer to snowshoeing, ice climbing, and skating in the winter, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do in Colorado Springs. Considering Colorado Springs is Colorado’s second largest city and it’s only about an hour and half from Denver, you’ll find everything you need in terms of amenities here. Camping options are limited to RV parks in town but you’ll find plenty of campgrounds in the surrounding mountains if you prefer to camp closer to nature. 

97% (6K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Pikes Peak RAD Hostel Van Camping

1. Pikes Peak RAD Hostel Van Camping

98%
(52)
3.5mi from Colorado Springs · 3 sites · RVs · Colorado Springs, CO
Welcome to RAD Hostel, where your van or small RV (up to 23' in length) finds a cozy, convenient home away from home! Our unique parking space offers the perfect blend of comfort and community, making it the ideal spot for your next adventure. Bathroom Access: Enjoy a room with a bathroom featuring a tub/shower and free clean soft towels. Full Access to Hostel Amenities: Take advantage of our well-equipped community kitchen to whip up your favorite meals. Need to catch up on work or just want to relax? Our 24-hour lounge with TV and streaming services and 24-hour workspace have you covered. Outdoor Spaces: Unwind in our inviting patios and back yard. Lounge in a hammock, enjoy outdoor games, or simply soak in the fresh air. Onsite Activities: Engage with fellow travelers through our diverse range of onsite activities. Bonfire with free s'mores, Karaoke, Movie nights, Volleyball, Cornhole, Foosball, Slacklines, Hula hoops, free bikes Tours: Daily hikes and other excursions to local attractions and events (additional fees apply). Hikes to Manitou Springs incline, Garden of the Gods, Paint Mines, Sand Dunes, Pulpit Rock, Drum Circle, Concerts, and Brewery Crawls and others. Convenience: RAD hostel is located right at the heart of everything you would want to do in Colorado Springs. Perfectly situtated 10 minutes from Garden of the Gods, 30 minutes from The Incline, less than 10 minutes from Pulpit Rock. You can visit the best hikes and sites of Colorado Springs with RAD hostel as your base camp! RAD Hostel is more than just a place to park and sleep- it's a vibrant community where travelers come together. Meet new friends, share stories, and create memories. Our central location makes it easy to explore the local area, with restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and attractions just a short distance away. Book your spot at RAD Hostel today and experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night
Red Rocks Open Space

2. Red Rocks Open Space

98%
(47)
6.7mi from Colorado Springs · 1 site · RV · Colorado Springs, CO
We offer a parking spot at night to have a quick safe place to stay. We do not allow the camper to stay multiple continuous days without leaving as you must leave during the day time, but are welcome to return at night. ---shower is only available if our office is open when you arrive----- ---We sometimes have Buses leaving or returning to our facility late at night, so just know you might hear a large bus pulling in late at night. ---PLEASE DO NOT block our Iron Gate with the H on it, or stick out into the entrance of the facility. If you stick out too far, you need to park North to South , which is parallel to the wood fence with the customer parking signs on it. You can block the handicap signs also if needed. You are also welcome to park in between the building and the front garden bed area as well if you prefer. The ground is not too level there, so you will need to level your rv. Here is a little bit about us! We rent motorhomes, camper vans, travel trailers, Paddleboards, and party buses! We are a perfect fit for hip camping because we are right across the street from Red Rocks Open Space, 5 min away from Garden of the Gods, and right off of HWY24 to head deeper into the Rockies! We are a full service RV facility, so we have mechanics on site if you need your rig looked at also! We are all camper van folks and know the struggle of not being able to find a safe spot.
Pets
Potable water
Showers
from 
$15
 / night
Pikes Peak RV Park

3. Pikes Peak RV Park

91%
(38)
7.5mi from Colorado Springs · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · Manitou Springs, CO
Welcome to Pikes Peak RV Park, your gateway to adventure and relaxation in the heart of Manitou Springs! Situated just a mile from downtown, our small campground offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. Discover the charm of Manitou Springs, where entertainment abounds for the whole family. Explore a variety of shops and restaurants, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic town. For outdoor enthusiasts, our park boasts unbeatable proximity to some of Colorado's most iconic attractions. Explore the stunning rock formations of Garden of the Gods, tackle the challenging Manitou Incline, or marvel at the cascading beauty of Seven Falls. And don't forget to embark on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, just minutes away. Surrounded by natural beauty, our park features a serene creek running through one side, providing a peaceful backdrop for your stay. On the other side, a trail offers easy access to outdoor adventures, where you can spot wildlife such as deer, ducks, and beavers. Whether you prefer Creekside serenity or Trailside views of Pikes Peak, you'll find your perfect retreat at Pikes Peak RV Park. We do not allow campfires at our park. Experience the best of Manitou Springs and beyond at our welcoming campground, where every moment promises adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Yakalo Ranch

5. Yakalo Ranch

98%
(28)
10mi from Colorado Springs · 7 sites · Tents · Colorado Springs, CO
"It's Real Rustic Out Here" This is NOT Glamping, this is the Real Rustic Camping Experience :) - And winter is coming; so our guests are revving up for winter camping experience ❄️☃️🌨️ ***Yakalo Ranch (outfitter private land) is currently undergoing site improvements with Pikes National Forest, however we will accept reservations on a case by case basis.*** Yakalo Ranch a Hike-in, Hike-out experience focused on the core principle of "Leave No Trace" to "Pack it in, Pack it out", hence our motto: "It's Real Rustic Out Here" Beautiful Mountain Ranges, Natural Springs and Creeks, Amazing Rock Formations, Endless Trails, Exploring, and tons of Recreational Activities, wild strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and figs right at your fingertips. Points of Interest: Vultures Point - Hike - Hard - Disbursed Camping - Guide required Roy's Ridge - Hike - Hard - Disbursed Camping - Guide required Walter's Historic Well - Hike - Easy Historic Pipeline Trail - Hike - Easy Stonehenge's Table - Hike - Moderate Ponderosa Pine Forest - Hike - Moderate Sleeping Giant Trail - Hike - Moderate Makayla Meadow - Hike - Moderate - Disbursed Camping - Guide Required BigFoot Forest - Hike - Hard - Disbursed Camping - Guide Required
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

6. Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

96%
(35)
10mi from Colorado Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · Colorado Springs, CO
We are campers ourselves so, we get it! If you're someone who loves camping, glamping or pitching a tent and need a place, we are here for you! We are just 5.4 miles from the NEW Ford Amphitheatre venue. 3 miles from our NEW grocery store. We are on the property ourselves. We are right off a main road with easy access to town, yet you will feel you are in the woods surrounded by nature. We don't have hookups but we do have a water pump and a basic electrical outlet if you need. There's a large firepit that you're welcome to use if there isn't a fire ban in place. The property is fenced and the spot is level. If you need a bit more privacy or a place for additional guests, we have a small cabin that is also for rent on the property! There's a herd of deer that frequent the property as well so, you just might get lucky to enjoy them too!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
The more forested part of our land.

7. Forest and Field! Horses welcome!

100%
(18)
12mi from Colorado Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Colorado Springs, CO
Learn more about this land:We have almost 40 acres of beautiful land that is scattered trees in a field and more forested areas. We also have mountain views depending on where you stay! We are right next door to the Pineries Open Space which is a 9 mile trail that you can hike, bike, or horse ride on. It also connects (by crossing a road) to Section 16 which is another 4 mile trail. You can bring your own horses and for a $50 fee we will set up corral panels for your horses to stay. We have farm animals that will be wondering about the land at times. We have water up at our home that you can use to fill up your campers with water or any water containers you need to fill. A camp bucket toilet will be available for campers use. At certain times we offer farm experiences at additional charges. There is a small corner store a couple of miles away, a local feed store where you can buy hay for tour horses, a little local coffee shop and small cafe as well. Come enjoy the country life just minutes from town! Because we also use our land to graze our animals, we ask that only one vehicle be parked at the site at a time. We have a place for parking additional vehicles if you have more than 1 vehicle.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$68
 / night
Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

8. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

90%
(82)
13mi from Colorado Springs · 64 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cascade, CO
Lone Duck Campground sits just outside the city lights of Colorado Springs at the base of Pikes Peak, at an elevation of 7,600 feet. Our prime location puts us within a short distance of the many beautiful Colorado attractions. This makes us an ideal stop for families looking for a summer adventure or folks just passing through for a couple of days. We strive to make every stay a special experience. We know you will love it here at "the Duck"! Lone Duck Campground and Cabins is your stop for a memorable vacation in the Colorado Rockies. We have all the necessary amenities to make your stay a comfortable one. We offer tent sites, cabins, and RV sites. Make your reservation with us today and allow our family to treat yours!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$43
 / night
Picnic table at campsite.

10. Sunshine Mountain

95%
(76)
17mi from Colorado Springs · 3 sites · RVs · Woodland Park, CO
Sunshine Mountain is a shared 7.5 acre property which includes the RV spot, a vacation rental and host’s home. Back portion of the property is a wooded hiking trail for all guests to enjoy. It is located in the historic Ute Pass region. The property was once owned by Ute Indians who later sold it, at which time it became a Hippie camp and later a family home/ranch. We can’t wait to meet you and help you have the true Colorado experience. You will love the country feel while being walking distance to Woodland Park and have the amenities of 50 amp electric, WiFi, water (not for drinking), picnic table, chairs, mini grill, hammock, gray water dump at site, propane fire pit (guests bring their own propane) and access to black water dump if needed. $15 black dump fee for bookings less than 1 week, otherwise 1 free black water dump per week. Pets must be on a leash at all times and pets and children are never to be left unattended for any period of time.
Pets
Toilets
Trash
from 
$45
 / night
Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

15. Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

100%
(22)
22mi from Colorado Springs · 2 sites · Lodging · Cripple Creek, CO
Located on 3 acres of land, this private campsite features a large 16x20 canvas walled tent with a covered deck. There is a large wood stove inside to keep you warm all night long during all four seasons. The tent can easily accommodate up to 8 people. There is 1 twin over full bunk bed, 1 full size bed, and 1 futon. There is one more additional mattress and bed-frame under the bunk bed for additional sleeping (some minor furniture rearranging is required to make space for the additional bed). PLEASE NOTE: The reservation is for the provided canvas tent only. If you want to pitch additional tents, we do allow that for an added cost of $25 per tent per night. Please contact host prior to booking to make sure your arrangement will work. We do not allow extra tents on the property without prior permission and paid fees. In the woods right by the tent you’ll find a private playground complete with: swings and slide, trampoline, spinning rope tunnels, ninja course, climbing dome and a zip-line. In the winter there’s a great area for sledding. 
We provide everything you need for the camping experience. There is a a set of dishes for 10, silverware, all cooking utensils, cast iron pots and pans, a coffee percolator, trash bags, dish soap, outdoor kitchen prep area, large 3 burner camp stove, propane, (5) camp chairs, bear box, warm down comforters, lanterns / solar lights, board games for both kids & adults. 
The only thing you should plan to bring is your own firewood, water, sleeping bag or sheets, your pillow and food! PLEASE NOTE: Person reserving the campsite must sign a separate rental agreement. All adults must sign a liability waiver for themselves and their minor children. Rental agreement will be sent after booking.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$192
 / night

Camper favorites near Colorado Springs

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Colorado Springs

Stories from the community

Other options near Colorado Springs

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

Camping near Colorado Springs guide

Where to go

Pikes Peak

One of the most visited mountains in the world and the highest peak in the southern Front Range, the 14,115-foot Pikes Peak summit offers incredible views. There are numerous ways to reach the top—you can hike, cycle, or drive up. The fee-based Pikes Peak Highway was built in 1915 and winds 19 miles to the top offering views of lakes and mountains along the way. You can find both tent sites and RV sites in the nearby Pike and San Isabel national forests.

Garden of the Gods

Just outside the city of Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is a wonderland of red rock towers that appear to jut straight out of the Earth. Hiking trails wind among the towering formations, with horseback riding, jeep tours, and bike rentals are offered in the park. Park entrance is free, and although there are no Garden of the Gods campgrounds, several RV parks with full hookups and free wifi can be found right outside the park.

Lost Creek Wilderness

Tucked into the foothills northwest of Colorado Springs in the Pike National Forest, the Lost Creek Wilderness Area is filled with interesting red rock formations, secluded fishing streams, and some of the best camping near Colorado Springs. The Devil’s Head area is popular for rock climbing and has a trail that leads to the Devil’s Head Fire Lookout, one of the few remaining active fire lookout towers in the area. Campers will find endless options for tent camping.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time in Colorado Springs. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit March through May or September and October. Anytime between May and October is good for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. Wildflower season varies based on elevation, but early summer is typically good. Pikes Peak region fall colors often peak between September and October. The Pikes Peak Highway is open year-round but may close periodically due to snow.  

Know before you go

  1. Downtown Colorado Springs offers numerous outdoor recreation stores and plenty of places to rent gear if you need it.  
  2. Head to Old Colorado City, just west of downtown, for a taste of Colorado’s early Gold Rush days. Here you’ll find a unique mix of antique shops, sidewalk cafes, old candy shops, and fine dining restaurants. 
  3. If you don’t want to drive to the top of Pikes Peak by yourself, you can hop on a guided jeep or bus tour. Just be sure to reserve in advance; tours fill quickly in peak season.  
  4. To capture the best photographs of Garden of the Gods visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the most brilliant rock colors.
  5. Nearby Cripple Creek, Manitou Springs, and Cheyenne Mountain State Park offer additional options for campers.