Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe
95% (4K) • 3,333 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cotopaxi
Twin Bridges Campground
1. Twin Bridges Campground
93%
(113)
3.5mi from Cotopaxi · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 30/50 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) on the Arkansas River with Gold Medal fishing and access for all campers for fishing and floating. Many of our sites are great for star-gazing, watching meteors, looking for fireflies, and seeing the birds zip on by.
We are conveniently located on Hwy 50, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and have all sorts of rental options for your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you want to pitch a tent, try out the glamping experience, enjoy the convenience of an RV, or rent one of our fully equipped RVs, we have the perfect spot for you.
We have four entrances marked by sail flags into the campground, two by the lake, one near the bathhouse, and one by the post office (on our property). The map of the Arkansas River has our campground listed!
Adventure awaits with home to the highest mountain peaks in Colorado and the river and 102 miles of Trout Gold Medal Water. There is access to white water rafting, guided fishing, and fishing lessons. There are at least 5 hot springs within 60 miles of Twin Bridges Campground. Salida is considered the white-water rafting capitol of the US by some and has a whitewater park and surfing wave. Salida area is also home to a ton of hiking (14'ers anyone?) and mountain biking trails. The Royal Gorge is a quick 30 minute drive with restaurants and other fun near Canon City. The Sand Dunes are 90 minutes and Monarch Ski Area is 45, we have some of the best bird watching! Warbling Vireo, Western Wood-peewee, Cassin's Kingbird to name a few.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Sweetwater River Resort
2. Sweetwater River Resort
91%
(431)
4.5mi from Cotopaxi · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sweetwater River Resort is located right on the Arkansas River, 30 minutes from Canyon City and 30 minutes from Salida where Hwy 50 follows the river through Bighorn Canyon. Skiers, we are only 40 miles from Monarch Ski Resort
Sweetwater is the perfect getaway for anglers, hikers, rafters or nature-lovers. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind on our private 1/2 mile stretch of the Arkansas. At night you’ll find the clearest skies around, perfect for stargazing.
Experience a range of accommodations at Sweetwater River Resort, from budget-friendly cabins to glamping tents to old-timey cabins and RV sites. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself.
Sweetwater is a short drive from 45 miles of 4x4 and ATV trails at Texas Creek, the Arkansas Headwaters Hiking Area, Vallie Bridge, Loma Linda, Lone Pine, Hayden Creek, Royal Gorge and Rainbow Trail near Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season as well as a private stretch of blue-ribbon water for trout fishing. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Cutty's Hayden Creek Resort
3. Cutty's Hayden Creek Resort
98%
(21)
6.4mi from Cotopaxi · 54 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Cutty’s offers a camping experience you won’t find anywhere else. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, you and your loved ones can enjoy an abundance of activities while surrounded by incredible scenic views. We offer many activities and amenities to keep the whole family entertained. Go swimming in the indoor or outdoor pool. Play a round of mini golf. Shoot some hoops on the basketball court. Try your hand at poker in the adult lounge upstairs in the lodge. Throw some horseshoes. Rent a golf cart and cruise around the resort with ease. Take a walk next to Hayden Creek. Take in the views. Or just relax at your campsite. Cutty’s Resort will provide the vacation you desire and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
4. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
89%
(14)
Park 20mi from Cotopaxi · 94 sites
Camping comes with a dose of adrenaline and a side of adventure along the Arkansas River.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
San Isabel National Forest
5. San Isabel National Forest
91%
(78)
National forest 25mi from Cotopaxi · 912 sites
Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pleasant Valley RV Park
6. Pleasant Valley RV Park
90%
(10)
7.9mi from Cotopaxi · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover Pleasant Valley RV Park, the premier family-friendly campground just 15 minutes from downtown Salida, Colorado. Located on the scenic banks of the Arkansas River in Howard, our RV campground offers full hook-up RV sites with direct river access, tent sites, cozy riverside cabins, and a unique Airstream rental. Enjoy unparalleled outdoor adventures steps from fishing and rafting, plus easy access to hiking trails and ATV riding nearby. Experience modern amenities, stunning mountain views, and a peaceful riverside setting perfect for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. Book your stay today at Pleasant Valley RV Park—your gateway to Colorado’s best outdoor recreation.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Rockin L7 Ranch
7. Rockin L7 Ranch
95%
(10)
17mi from Cotopaxi · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Open flat land with beautiful views of the Royal Gorge mountains and right on the front range. 1 1/2 miles off highway 50 not far from the Arkansas River. Our ranch is a safe and quiet camping site with incredible starry night skies.
If you are traveling with horses we have several corrals for you to rest your horses as well as a RV power hook up. Sorry no waste dump.
We have a water spigot with cold delicious water and an outlet to charge your phones.
Please bring your own camp toilet to this site!
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Potable water
Four Seasons RV Park
8. Four Seasons RV Park
90%
(40)
18mi from Cotopaxi · 19 sites
We are excited to be your beautiful basecamp for countless outdoor activities or a peaceful pad to simply unwind and relax next to our rambling river.
Four Seasons is located just a mile outside the vibrant Mountain Town of Salida, and inside the historic Area of Cleora. The settlement started as a stagecoach stop on the Barlow Sanderson Stagecoach line. Explore natural landmarks, hiking trails and a range of activities for the whole family.
Pets
Full hookups
Camp Penguin at WPR
9. Camp Penguin at WPR
100%
(268)
18mi from Cotopaxi · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Note: NO FIREWORKS or GUNS are allowed to be used on the property.
#WanderingPenguinRanch #CampPenguin #LifeOnTheMountain
Don't forget we're at over 9,000 feet elevation and temperatures and weather conditions can vary greatly. Be prepared for all seasons!!!
Camp fire usage depends on current weather conditions at the time of visits in addition to any state/county restrictions that may be in place (host approval required)!!! IF there are no restrictions and fires are allowed, we have firewood bundles and/or starter packs for purchase at $10/bundle/pack. We also have two propane fire pits available for rent (see "extras"), or you are welcome to bring your own. If you have purchased wood and there are restrictions/bans, we will gladly apply your wood purchase the rental of a propane pit. Propane fire pit usage may also be restricted by current conditions or state/county restrictions!
Fresh eggs are available for purchase (when the girls are cooperating) by the dozen, or half dozen (see "extras"). You are welcome to go "visit" the chickens. Their coop is next to the large blue shop/barn.
*UPON ARRIVAL at the property, please WAIT INSIDE our main gate (unless otherwise directed via prior communication with host). The host(s) will meet you there shortly after passing through the gate and direct you to your site.
-----------------------
Camp Penguin at Wandering Penguin Ranch (facebook.com/CampPenguin) in southern Colorado is about a 3 hour drive from the Denver metro area, two hours from Colorado Springs and just under an hour north west of Canon City. We provide a variety of site options to choose from including tent sites, car/van/truck sites, and rustic trailer site options - all with NO amenities (NO electric/septic/water, etc). Additional vehicle parking on the property can be accommodated for groups with more than one vehicle. Please provide type of camper/tent and number of vehicles at booking so hosts can help direct you to the best site option available.
Guests can relax around our small pond or roam freely around our 35-acre property. There is both hiking and fishing at Badger Creek only a short drive away. Waugh Mountain State Trust Land is another hiking option and is also just a short drive up the road (*NOTE: the State of Colorado now requires a valid hunting/fishing license to access state trust lands)! Additionally, we are about 45-90 minutes away from a variety of alternative adventures! Some of these include Salida, Cripple Creek, Eleven Mile Reservoir, Paradise Cove Swimming Hole, Florissant Fossil Beds, Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Manitou Incline, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Cave of the Winds, Seven Falls, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience, several rafting/zipline and Jeep tour companies, Westcliffe, Bishop Castle and Canon City including Skyline Drive, Tunnel Drive, Royal Gorge Train, Museum of Colorado Prisons and The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. Any of these can be done as a day trip or visited while on your way here, or home. (*NOTE: some of these attractions are free, some require a fee and some are seasonal. To avoid disappointment, PLEASE do your own research prior to arrival)!
Guests need to be self-sustaining to camp here as there are no facilities nearby (gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, etc.)! But, if you are looking for a peaceful, quiet getaway to commune with nature, a chance to see wildlife and simply relax.... We're your place - book your visit now!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rio Grande National Forest
10. Rio Grande National Forest
86%
(29)
National forest 67mi from Cotopaxi · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Eleven Mile State Park
11. Eleven Mile State Park
89%
(9)
State park 41mi from Cotopaxi · 305 sites
Bring your boat on a camping adventure at one of Colorado’s largest reservoirs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Pike National Forest
12. Pike National Forest
84%
(66)
National forest 57mi from Cotopaxi · 883 sites
A surprisingly diverse landscape sprawled throughout a huge national forest.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Gunnison National Forest
13. Gunnison National Forest
96%
(38)
National forest 86mi from Cotopaxi · 423 sites
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Salida RV Resort
14. Salida RV Resort
100%
(17)
18mi from Cotopaxi · 75 sites
Salida RV Resort is a brand new luxury RV park in Colorado with over 1,600 feet of Arkansas riverfrontage and is surrounded by the beautiful Collegiate Peak mountains. Book your spacious RV Site and be just 2.5 miles to shops and dining in Salida’s lovely and hip historic downtown district. With year-round full hookup RV Sites, Salida has four seasons of outdoor adventure awaiting you!
Perfect for year-round guests, we offer access to all of the wonderful river activities, including our private river access ramp for non-motorized rafts and floats. Visitors can explore wonderful mountain biking and hiking trails for all skill levels in the nearby Sawatch Range, or participate in the town of Salida’s many great summer festivities! In the winter, Monarch Ski Resort is just 23 miles away. Don’t forget to take a dip in one of the local hot springs while you’re here any time of year! Salida’s mild year-round climate caused by the “banana belt” is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets!
Pets
Full hookups
Lone Tree Yurt at Poncha Pass
15. Lone Tree Yurt at Poncha Pass
98%
(20)
19mi from Cotopaxi · 1 site
Settled in the remote headwaters of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains, you'll find Yurts At Poncha Pass as a perfect stepping off spot for endless mountain adventures and dark sky star gazing.
Along with close access to the Ark river, mountain biking, and the sand dunes, you'll find fun little towns to visit like Salida, Poncha Springs and Buena Vista. With plenty of hiking right from the yurt north towards the Sangre De Cristo range, this space offers a genuine ability to disconnect and be in nature. The Lone Tree yurt is a 30ft diameter yurt with sleeping accommodation for 4 and is pet-friendly. (1 queen, 2 single beds)
Equipped with water jug, a coffee maker and fridge as well as a composting toilet gives you the simplicity of mountain living with clean sheets.
Note that no cooking stove, sink or utensils are provided. A common area does host a propane fire table, a wood fire sauna and cold plunge. This area allows one to enjoy the outdoors simply while also meeting other traveling guests.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
Royal Gorge Private Camp
16. Royal Gorge Private Camp
100%
(26)
21mi from Cotopaxi · 1 site
Enjoy views of the Royal Gorge Bridge from this 2.5 acre property that is also close to plenty of outdoor adventures such as white water rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, hiking, jeep tours, and more. This land has 360 degree views so you can enjoy the sunrise or sunset - whichever you fancy!
Please no parties.
Follow local fire ban ordinances.
Smokers must dispose of cigarettes immediately after smoking - no butts on the ground please.
Pets
Full hookups
Starlite Vintage Resort
17. Starlite Vintage Resort
94%
(97)
21mi from Cotopaxi · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Starlite Vintage Resort is located minutes from the world-famous Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Cañon City, Colorado.
Situated on over 10 acres with eye-popping views of the Rocky Mountains, the Starlite Vintage Resort provides a variety of luxury accommodations themed around the timeless trends and classic movies of the era that introduced America to the Beatles, man’s first walk on the moon, Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, the Woodstock Rock Festival, and the enduring kids’ TV shows, Sesame Street and The Flintstones.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Mountain Bird Alpine Desert
18. Mountain Bird Alpine Desert
99%
(199)
21mi from Cotopaxi · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing.
Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching.
New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable.
ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST.
No fireworks are permitted at any time.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Badger Creek Ranch
19. Badger Creek Ranch
100%
(24)
22mi from Cotopaxi · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Badger Creek Ranch is a family owned and operated working ranch high above the Arkansas Valley in Central Colorado. We take a holistic approach to ranching and land stewardship; from having good daily practices by living “off the grid,” providing healthy locally sourced food to our guests and healthy, humanely raised meat to our meat customers, and by living in harmony with nature, including our livestock and the wildlife that call the ranch their home.
Our intention is to create a space that provides connection and community. This work is meant to be shared and experienced by all. We welcome you to join us and be a part of Badger Creek Ranch. Whether you want to get your hands in the dirt, take respite and recharge, or find inspiration for your own work, Badger Creek’s gate is open.
Experiences - fishing nearby in Badger Creek, hiking, wonderful trails for mountain bikes, dark sky viewing or simply relaxing in the deep quiet.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Mountain Goat Lodge Glamping
20. Mountain Goat Lodge Glamping
98%
(70)
25mi from Cotopaxi · 5 sites
The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes.
We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent.
The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels.
We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Robert
3 days ago
Tent
Great campsite. Bathrooms were clean. Jennifer checked in on us and was very nice. Excellent weekend.
See more
S
Siina
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Wonderful hosts and an amazing place to camp! I can warmly recommend this campsite to anyone wanting a quiet, remote experience.
See more
Laura
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We were looking for a place to decompress and be away from fireworks as we both have dogs scared by loud noises. The whispering pines site was perfect! So peaceful and quiet. We really felt as if we were alone in the woods. We saw deer and birds; I had a blast identifying all the plants and the dogs had so much fun exploring! We brought a paddle board and played in the pond with the dogs every day. Having access to water like that was such a bonus.
Lori and Tim are wonderful hosts who go above and beyond to make sure you have what you need. They provided a toilet, extra water, dog treats and poop bags as well as home made cookies! Once they got us settled, they left us to ourselves to explore their beautiful property.
I will definitely be back! Such a perfect getaway, thank you Lori and Tim!
See more
Alexandra
2 weeks ago
With pets
The Mountain Goat Lodge is a true gem with quick and easy access to downtown Salida and Buena Vista. Gina and D'Arcy are phenomenal hosts and we can't wait to plan our next trip there! Highly recommend!!
See more
M
Madison
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort
I loved staying at Starlite! The vibe was so fun and relaxing. Plenty to do if you have some free time during your stay. staff was super nice and helpful!
See more
A
Andrew
2 weeks ago
With pets
Super fun! The decor was great and the hosts made sure everyone had an amazing time. Perfect for families, dog owners, and couples. It’s right about halfway between the Royal Gorge and town, so easy to glamp in style. I’ll come back and try another site for sure!
See more
C
Chris
2 weeks ago
Tent
Paul and robin were very accommodating. The scenery is beautiful and extremely peaceful. I would highly recommend.
See more
H
Helen
2 weeks ago
With pets
Extremely nice accommodations on a well-kept campground! Paul & his wife are very hospitable and friendly.
We booked the Karma Camper and it was perfect with a very comfy queen bed + our husky loved the AC. ☺️
There are other campsites nearby but they’re well spaced apart - we didn’t hear a thing. We would definitely recommend!
See more
M
Matthew
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Very secluded and quiet, with great views of nature and animals (wildlife and ranch). Water and portable urinals available. We didn't get to use the fire pit/grill due to fire restrictions, but available with table at each site.
See more
Roxanne
2 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
With pets
Dan is a great host! I needed a spot to park my van overnight en route to camping at a friend’s cabin. Dan’s property was easy to find and he was very responsive to communications. He even helped navigate the fire closures and made suggestions for the best route to take to help me find my way to my next destination. The cute, curious cows are an added bonus!
See more
L
Lisa
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great little place off the highway. Only down fall is the traffic
See moreG
Graham
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great spot! We really enjoyed our time! Incredible river access, clean bathrooms, plenty of camping space. Will be back!
See more
J
Jenny
3 weeks ago
Tent
We sadly had a medical emergency and were unable to go on our camp trip. Sweetwater was so kind and easy to communicate with. Very grateful for their kindness and compassion during such a challenging time and hope we can visit in the future.
See more
D
Dylan
3 weeks ago
Tent
Paul was an awesome host and I will definitely make my way back to his beautiful property.
See more
D
Dan
3 weeks ago
18 ft campervan
We really enjoyed our stay at L7! Carl was a great host! Very welcoming and checked in with us if he was in the area. We especially enjoyed the animals, from the Zonky to the burrows and the intimidating gentleness of Big Dan. If you like quiet dark nights, this is the place to be!
See more
R
Rain
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Tim and Lori were the absolute sweetest! They helped guide us to the sites and answered all our questions and even gave us cookies and eggs when we arrived! The pond was wonderful to sit by and fish. This site does now hold a special place in my heart as I was proposed to during our weekend out. If you got the time, love the mountains totally book here!! We will be back
See more
A
Amber
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
We used one of the tent sites at the end of the property. Just a very short walk down a path and we were on the water. It was so relaxing. The amenities are great, the little shop in the office is super cute. We will definitely be coming back. We had a great time fishing during the day and looking at the stars at night.
See more
K
Karen
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort
Charming and friendly. Great family activities. Host was super nice and tried to involve everyone. Great time!
See more
J
Jaedy
3 weeks ago
21 ft pop-up camper
The place is spacious, the river is a few steps from your rv site. It has showers and toilets.
See more
A
Ashley
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Such a quiet and private place! We will definitely be back!
See more
