70% (82) • 10 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cotopaxi
Collegiate Peaks Ranch
1. Collegiate Peaks Ranch
92%
(25)
33mi from Cotopaxi · 3 sites
Immerse yourself in epic mountain views of towering 14,000'+ peaks and sunny meadows at one of the best glamping campsites in Colorado. Perfectly located 15 minutes from either Buena Vista or Salida. Located just 2 hours 20 minutes from Denver.
The ranch features two 12' x 14' canvas cabin tent built on deck platforms and is pet-friendly, we welcome your furry companions!
Enjoy leisurely strolls on the ranch’s open, sunny meadows. The prime location is perfect for exploring all the world-class recreational opportunities of the Arkansas River Valley.
The ranch also serves as a picturesque venue for events, including family reunions, corporate retreats, concerts and rustic weddings. Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, Collegiate Peaks Ranch provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and comfort.
NEARBY ACTIVITIES:
* White Water Rafting
* Hiking
* Canoeing and Kayaking
* Mountain Biking
* Hunting
* Horseback Riding
* Road Biking
* Fishing
* Rock Climbing
* Off-roading
* Dining
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$92
/ night
Phantom Canyon Acres
2. Phantom Canyon Acres
90%
(10)
36mi from Cotopaxi · 4 sites
Nestled in the beautiful Phantom Canyon, this property offers unique solitude and views that are unrivaled. Enjoy views of incredible canyon rock formations, listen to the sounds of Eightmile Creek as it meanders through the property and relax near 2 picturesque ponds that are situated near groves of massive aspen trees!
The property is situated at an elevation of nearly 9,000ft. on over 100 acres of private, pristine Colorado mountain land that offers incredible canyon views. Take a stroll through a lush aspen grove with towering aspen trees, play in the creek or relax in a sunny meadow next to one of the two ponds - this property has it all!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
3. Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
95%
(59)
48mi from Cotopaxi · 5 sites
Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest.
The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, and a covered porch. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551)(inoperable as of 7/11/2024- BLM working to fix it).
Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood.
As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp!
Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area.
Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from
$45
/ night
Quick Mtn Getaway
4. Quick Mtn Getaway
37mi from Cotopaxi · 1 site
Escape to your own private 5-acre Colorado retreat! This unique shipping container cabin offers a truly off-grid experience with an outhouse and the freedom to bring your own water.
You'll have incredible access to outdoor adventures, including:
* 11 Mile Canyon: Perfect for fishing, hiking, and rock climbing.
* Spinney Reservoir: A haven for anglers and boating enthusiasts.
Plus, you're ideally situated between three major ski resorts, all just 45 minutes away, making it an ideal base for winter sports.
Plenty of room for horses, ATVs, and trailers/RVs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$125
/ night
70% (82) • 10 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Cotopaxi
Collegiate Peaks Ranch
1. Collegiate Peaks Ranch
92%
(25)
33mi from Cotopaxi · 3 sites
Immerse yourself in epic mountain views of towering 14,000'+ peaks and sunny meadows at one of the best glamping campsites in Colorado. Perfectly located 15 minutes from either Buena Vista or Salida. Located just 2 hours 20 minutes from Denver.
The ranch features two 12' x 14' canvas cabin tent built on deck platforms and is pet-friendly, we welcome your furry companions!
Enjoy leisurely strolls on the ranch’s open, sunny meadows. The prime location is perfect for exploring all the world-class recreational opportunities of the Arkansas River Valley.
The ranch also serves as a picturesque venue for events, including family reunions, corporate retreats, concerts and rustic weddings. Whether seeking tranquility or adventure, Collegiate Peaks Ranch provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and comfort.
NEARBY ACTIVITIES:
* White Water Rafting
* Hiking
* Canoeing and Kayaking
* Mountain Biking
* Hunting
* Horseback Riding
* Road Biking
* Fishing
* Rock Climbing
* Off-roading
* Dining
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$92
/ night
Phantom Canyon Acres
2. Phantom Canyon Acres
90%
(10)
36mi from Cotopaxi · 4 sites
Nestled in the beautiful Phantom Canyon, this property offers unique solitude and views that are unrivaled. Enjoy views of incredible canyon rock formations, listen to the sounds of Eightmile Creek as it meanders through the property and relax near 2 picturesque ponds that are situated near groves of massive aspen trees!
The property is situated at an elevation of nearly 9,000ft. on over 100 acres of private, pristine Colorado mountain land that offers incredible canyon views. Take a stroll through a lush aspen grove with towering aspen trees, play in the creek or relax in a sunny meadow next to one of the two ponds - this property has it all!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
3. Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
95%
(59)
48mi from Cotopaxi · 5 sites
Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest.
The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, and a covered porch. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551)(inoperable as of 7/11/2024- BLM working to fix it).
Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood.
As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp!
Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area.
Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.
Pets
Toilets
Cooking equipment
from
$45
/ night
Quick Mtn Getaway
4. Quick Mtn Getaway
37mi from Cotopaxi · 1 site
Escape to your own private 5-acre Colorado retreat! This unique shipping container cabin offers a truly off-grid experience with an outhouse and the freedom to bring your own water.
You'll have incredible access to outdoor adventures, including:
* 11 Mile Canyon: Perfect for fishing, hiking, and rock climbing.
* Spinney Reservoir: A haven for anglers and boating enthusiasts.
Plus, you're ideally situated between three major ski resorts, all just 45 minutes away, making it an ideal base for winter sports.
Plenty of room for horses, ATVs, and trailers/RVs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$125
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Christina
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Quiet location, dark skies - could see ALL the stars! Heater worked well, toilet worked well, and bed was comfortable. Proceeds from the stay all go back into the community which was a huge plus!
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A
Aénor
January 2026
1 night at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Very nice! The view is beautiful. We were the only one on the site, we spent only one night but everything was as indicated.
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e
erica
November 2025
With pets
Great tiny cabin with amazing views of the night sky and distant city lights
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A
Ashley
November 2025
With pets
ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS PLACE! Honestly, I will be back - many times. Beautiful views, extremely communicative host, and all around great property and stay. Home was comfortable, clean and truly one of a kind.
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Stephanie
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
We loved it! Grateful there was a pour-over coffee set up because we forgot our french press!
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Amanda
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
This is in an open space with mountains behind you and fields in front. Such a peaceful space with a sky full of stars. Plus, just a 30 min walk away is this wonderful historic church. The walk was easy and beautiful. Visiting that church was a nice spiritual experience. We settled into our space nicely and slept comfortably. Very Cool Space!
See moreK
Kristina
September 2025
3 nights at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Great little cabin. We usually camp in the canyon but saw the evening rain in the forecast so wanted to try these. They are small, but good for a couple. Everything was just as described, and the views + access are just amazing from these cabins. The rock art lighting was a great touch! My only suggestion for SLVGO would be to add blinds. It might help deter the moths/insects at night.
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ilaria
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Everything was great.
We found everything in the cabin, very cozy!
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J
Joy
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
First, it was way easier to get to than we were worried about. Made it in a Tesla 3 without any problem (charged in Del Norte on the way in, Alamosa on the way out). Probably wouldn't try it in that car in winter or mud, but don't be intimidated.
The cabin was absolutely perfect. I mean, adorable, functional, warm, clean, great location, the whole deal. The incinerator toilet was easy to use but you kind of have to plan around the burn cycle time. Not a big deal at all since there were just two of us. We had great night skies (this long weekend trip was planned around hiking and skywatching) and plenty of space. We hiked Penitente Canyon and had an amazing time, but didn't even scratch the surface of stuff to do in the area.
The only minor issue is that if something is awry, there's no one out there to mitigate. The neighboring site started pulling branches off of trees right by our cabin as their fire started to die down around midnight and kept coming back for a couple of hours. But your get dumb people at any campground anywhere these days.
We're already trying to plan a trip with our adult kids and a couple of friends for next year, so we'll definitely be back.
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N
Nicole
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Absolutely amazing. Tiny cabin, which I enjoyed. Just watched your head when you sit up in bed 😅. Peaceful and will be visiting again, probably quarterly if can!!!
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S
Scott
August 2025
2 nights at Phantom Canyon Acres
We really enjoyed our stay at the Cottage Cabin! Very clean, amazingly quiet and in a beautiful setting. Proximity to the Victor and Cripple Creek area made our sightseeing excursions more enjoyable.
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Maria
August 2025
3 nights at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
This place is so cute and well done and you have everything you need for a wonderful getaway. Outside shower and water nearby and the cabin has everything a person could need to just relax and be with nature. April also keeps the cabins sparkling clean. You won't be disappointed and the view is magnificent
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H
Harrison
July 2025
With pets
Jeff's property is spectacular. This is the third time we have stayed at one of his properties and each time we have had a memorable time! It is very secluded, directions to the property are great, and everything is as advertised. The mattresses were more comfortable than expected for a place in the woods. It is so nice to be off the grid but also have a roof over your head and not have to worry about your tent getting wet if it rains. There is a lot to explore. We will absolutely be back!
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Donna
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Beautiful, private setting in an tiny cabin with a small stove, cooking utensils, pots, skillets, plates and cups. A solar panel provides just enough electricity to turn on the ambient lighting and operate the faucet pump, but not so much that you feel like you're in a boring hotel room. There's also a solar shower enclosure for post-climbing, hiking, biking rinse-offs. You're also REALLY close to Penitente Canyon (there's even a trail straight from camp). If you're coming to Penitente and want to upscale your camping, this is the place.
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R
RICHARD
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Small, remote campsite with access to the great outdoors no matter what floats your boat. Perfection.
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L
Loren
June 2025
Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Good location for riding and close proximity to Del Norte.
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Paschal
June 2025
2 nights at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
Cabins had all you need and were very clean. Site was very nice.
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C
CHEF
June 2025
2 nights at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base
The whole experience was wonderful. The cabin accommodations was everything they described. Night time sky views where beyond amazing. Incinerator toilets were convenient to use just make sure you read directions thoroughly. The troubleshooting tips are to the left of the toilet instructions on the wall . Definitely helpful when filter doesn't go all the way in the Incinerator portion. If you are gonna be wasting dishes Definitely bring more than the 2 5gal water containers provided. Sleeping lofts are low so don't expect to be able to sit up straight while in them otherwise a very comfortable sleeping experience. Trail entrance is right near the cabin. Had a wonderful stay all together. And I'd say book two or more days. One is not enough to take in all the beauty of the area
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E
Erin
May 2025
With pets
Such a fun unique psudeo-camping experience! The cabins are very cute and well stocked, there were more kitchen supplies than we expected. The loft beds were comfy and the cabin offered just enough space to get out of bad weather. The outdoors is what really shines with the fire pit and gorgeous San Luis valley views. Super quiet, even for a holiday weekend, and we loved being able to have our dogs with us. The trail connection to the trail system is awesome and we didn’t get in the car at all for the whole weekend. The incinerating toilet was a new experience for us, but we got used to it too.
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Corey
May 2025
With pets
Nice base camp for so many things to do nearby. Cabin had all the essentials and we packed way too much. Would stay again.
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