The best camping near Cripple Creek with campfires

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In the 1800s, Cripple Creek was one of Colorado’s bustling gold mining towns. Today, you can capture that wild gold-rush spirit with a camping adventure in the hills around town. Or, head deeper into the Rockies and sleep in the shadow of Pikes Peak. RV parks, rustic cabins, or backcountry tent sites—the area near Cripple Creek has it all.

Explore meadows and climb massive rocks in Mueller State Park. Relax in camp with views of the Continental Divide, or book cabins overlooking Pikes Peak. If you’re ready for a challenge, tackle 36 miles of mountain biking trails. The winter snows set the scene for wild, ungroomed Nordic skiing.

In the Pike National Forest, it’s easy to disconnect—cell and Wi-Fi service is limited. Hike the Devil’s Playground Trail from your site at The Crags. As you drive toward Colorado Springs, find tent camping at Meadow Ridge and Rampart Reservoir. For easy access to the Garden of the Gods, look for RV resorts in Manitou Springs.

Most of the campgrounds near Cripple Creek close in the winter. To enjoy the snow, rent a 4WD vehicle and book a cabin or a yurt. The rest of the year, temperatures are mild. Pack a warm jacket, even in the summer; evenings are cool year-round.

96% (703)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sweetwater River Resort

1. Sweetwater River Resort

91%
(380)
33mi from Cripple Creek · 72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cotopaxi, CO
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. We do offer fly fishing lessons and fly rod rentals on arrival. 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
from 
$40
 / night
Camping in the wooded spot option for this site.

3. Rustic Creek Ranch

98%
(1328)
43mi from Cripple Creek · 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
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Larkspur

6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Larkspur

39mi from Cripple Creek · 782 sites · RVs, Lodging · Larkspur, CO
Discover the natural beauty of Colorado with the family all year at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur! You can explore, relax, and play at our award-winning resort with 100 acres near Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park. We have a great selection of spacious full hookup RV sites and upscale mountainside cabin rentals. Our resort offers an array of exciting amenities for all ages! Dive into fun at Yogi Bear's™ Water Zone or challenge your skills at Arcade Alley and mini bowling. You can also find serenity at the yoga lawn, savor delicious meals at the Campfire Canteen, or have a tasty treat at Frostbites Sweet Treats. Other popular amenities include two heated swimming pools and hot tubs, miniature golf, a basketball court, and multiple pickleball courts. We also have a great variety of planned activities and events that are great fun for all ages. Come join us on your next Colorado getaway for wholesome fun in the great outdoors at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$99
 / night
M Lazy C Ranch

7. M Lazy C Ranch

94%
(43)
24mi from Cripple Creek · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake George, CO
Step into the boots of a cowboy and ride into the old west, the way it used to be! Ride off into the old west at our world-famous historic guest ranch built in the 1900's. Camping sites, cabins, primitive camping, pet friendly, and ATV friendly. Here, we do things the cowboy way…the way it used to be! Bring your horses or ride one of ours. With views of magnificent Pike’s Peak and surrounded by over 350,000 acres of Pike National Forest, soak in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains while you relax in your cabin or RV site. We offer a taste of the real old west at our famous Old West Colorado guest ranch. Listen to the sounds of the wind through the Ponderosa Pines, Elk bugle echoes through the hills, howls of coyotes in the distance, deer moving nearby. It's peaceful but never silent. Come visit the ranch’s 115-year history. Started as a homestead back in 1906, M Lazy Ranch is now a thriving guest ranch and cowboy playground. M Lazy C Ranch is the ideal location for a family trip, time with friends, romantic horse rides and more. Our original turn of the century Cabins dating back to that time period, have been lovingly restored. Not your typical dude ranch. We are flexible and offer a multitude of options to choose from. We also offer RV sites, Equestrian RV Sites, an Arena, Cabins, Weddings, Hunting, Fishing, Events, and more! Surrounded by 350,000 acres of Pike National Forest on three sides provides our guests with unlimited riding potential and amazing views. Ride horses on our property for a perfect relaxing gateway the whole family can enjoy. Sit on the porch of your very own piece of heaven, relax, put your feet up, and stay awhile.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$38
 / night
The cabin is tucked away in the pine trees

14. Rustic Glamorous Artist's Cabin

98%
(427)
49mi from Cripple Creek · 3 sites · Lodging · Bailey, CO
The first time I saw this beautiful heavily wooded 12-acre property, I immediately put in an offer. That was 18 years ago. I spent the next 11 years chasing corporate goals which I finally realized were inconsistent with my soul. I started a family and decided to sell this property. I brought my then 2 year old daughter here so she could see it once before I sold it. As we drove up highway 285 through vistas each more stunning than the last, I was moved to tears by the beauty. By the time we reached the property, I knew that we would be moving back here. Nearly 3 years later, we finally moved back with 3 dogs and 2 cats in tow. We love it here and truly belong in this place we call home. Part of the former Ute tribe summer hunting area, and backing to the Pike National Forest and Lost Creek Wilderness; this fascinating area is both beautiful and full of things to do. Fresh clean mountain air. No people. Get away to the quiet beauty of your private wooded cabin. Enjoy a campfire, amazing mountain views, and killer hiking right out your cabin door. Spend an amazing night with millions of stars overhead. Recharge your soul in silent mountain peace. A rare opportunity to stay tucked in private woods and steps from 1000s of acres of national forest. Featuring dual heaters, sleeping loft, outdoor cooking area, solar, and indoor camp toilet facilities, this is luxury glampingSpend an unforgettable night watching millions of stars in the crisp clean mountain air.  Feel yourself relax and recharge as you enjoy the woods and the stunning mountain views. The cabin is furnished with many of the pieces from the Lost Creek Cabin Studio and features solar electricity and indoor camp toilet facilities. Fresh water is provided. The artist's retreat is a luxury glamping cabin.As long as there is no fire ban, you are welcome to enjoy a campfire in the outdoor fireplace.  We require guests to diligently tend their fire and completely extinguish the campfire when guests are not near.  There is firewood to gather on the property and we have firewood for purchase as well.  We do not allow guests to bring in firewood as the area has begun to see invasive species of insects and we do not want to contribute to this potentially devastating situation. 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground

16. Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground

80%
(5)
24mi from Cripple Creek · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Penrose, CO
Welcome to Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground, a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of serene natural beauty and convenient access to outdoor adventures. Nestled in the stunning Arkansas River Valley and surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, our campground provides an idyllic escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. At Phantom Canyon, you can immerse yourself in a peaceful environment that prioritizes privacy and tranquility. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors, creating the perfect backdrop for your evening relaxation. Our location allows easy access to a variety of local activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby swimming holes. In addition to the natural wonders, you'll find charming restaurants and shops just a short drive away, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable stay. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or embark on thrilling outdoor excursions, Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

18. Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

96%
(35)
31mi from Cripple Creek · 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
Water Hookup
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night

In the 1800s, Cripple Creek was one of Colorado’s bustling gold mining towns. Today, you can capture that wild gold-rush spirit with a camping adventure in the hills around town. Or, head deeper into the Rockies and sleep in the shadow of Pikes Peak. RV parks, rustic cabins, or backcountry tent sites—the area near Cripple Creek has it all.

Explore meadows and climb massive rocks in Mueller State Park. Relax in camp with views of the Continental Divide, or book cabins overlooking Pikes Peak. If you’re ready for a challenge, tackle 36 miles of mountain biking trails. The winter snows set the scene for wild, ungroomed Nordic skiing.

In the Pike National Forest, it’s easy to disconnect—cell and Wi-Fi service is limited. Hike the Devil’s Playground Trail from your site at The Crags. As you drive toward Colorado Springs, find tent camping at Meadow Ridge and Rampart Reservoir. For easy access to the Garden of the Gods, look for RV resorts in Manitou Springs.

Most of the campgrounds near Cripple Creek close in the winter. To enjoy the snow, rent a 4WD vehicle and book a cabin or a yurt. The rest of the year, temperatures are mild. Pack a warm jacket, even in the summer; evenings are cool year-round.

96% (703)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sweetwater River Resort

1. Sweetwater River Resort

91%
(380)
33mi from Cripple Creek · 72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cotopaxi, CO
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. We do offer fly fishing lessons and fly rod rentals on arrival. 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
from 
$40
 / night
Camping in the wooded spot option for this site.

3. Rustic Creek Ranch

98%
(1328)
43mi from Cripple Creek · 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
Picnic table
from 
$30
 / night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Larkspur

6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Larkspur

39mi from Cripple Creek · 782 sites · RVs, Lodging · Larkspur, CO
Discover the natural beauty of Colorado with the family all year at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur! You can explore, relax, and play at our award-winning resort with 100 acres near Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park. We have a great selection of spacious full hookup RV sites and upscale mountainside cabin rentals. Our resort offers an array of exciting amenities for all ages! Dive into fun at Yogi Bear's™ Water Zone or challenge your skills at Arcade Alley and mini bowling. You can also find serenity at the yoga lawn, savor delicious meals at the Campfire Canteen, or have a tasty treat at Frostbites Sweet Treats. Other popular amenities include two heated swimming pools and hot tubs, miniature golf, a basketball court, and multiple pickleball courts. We also have a great variety of planned activities and events that are great fun for all ages. Come join us on your next Colorado getaway for wholesome fun in the great outdoors at Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$99
 / night
M Lazy C Ranch

7. M Lazy C Ranch

94%
(43)
24mi from Cripple Creek · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lake George, CO
Step into the boots of a cowboy and ride into the old west, the way it used to be! Ride off into the old west at our world-famous historic guest ranch built in the 1900's. Camping sites, cabins, primitive camping, pet friendly, and ATV friendly. Here, we do things the cowboy way…the way it used to be! Bring your horses or ride one of ours. With views of magnificent Pike’s Peak and surrounded by over 350,000 acres of Pike National Forest, soak in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains while you relax in your cabin or RV site. We offer a taste of the real old west at our famous Old West Colorado guest ranch. Listen to the sounds of the wind through the Ponderosa Pines, Elk bugle echoes through the hills, howls of coyotes in the distance, deer moving nearby. It's peaceful but never silent. Come visit the ranch’s 115-year history. Started as a homestead back in 1906, M Lazy Ranch is now a thriving guest ranch and cowboy playground. M Lazy C Ranch is the ideal location for a family trip, time with friends, romantic horse rides and more. Our original turn of the century Cabins dating back to that time period, have been lovingly restored. Not your typical dude ranch. We are flexible and offer a multitude of options to choose from. We also offer RV sites, Equestrian RV Sites, an Arena, Cabins, Weddings, Hunting, Fishing, Events, and more! Surrounded by 350,000 acres of Pike National Forest on three sides provides our guests with unlimited riding potential and amazing views. Ride horses on our property for a perfect relaxing gateway the whole family can enjoy. Sit on the porch of your very own piece of heaven, relax, put your feet up, and stay awhile.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$38
 / night
The cabin is tucked away in the pine trees

14. Rustic Glamorous Artist's Cabin

98%
(427)
49mi from Cripple Creek · 3 sites · Lodging · Bailey, CO
The first time I saw this beautiful heavily wooded 12-acre property, I immediately put in an offer. That was 18 years ago. I spent the next 11 years chasing corporate goals which I finally realized were inconsistent with my soul. I started a family and decided to sell this property. I brought my then 2 year old daughter here so she could see it once before I sold it. As we drove up highway 285 through vistas each more stunning than the last, I was moved to tears by the beauty. By the time we reached the property, I knew that we would be moving back here. Nearly 3 years later, we finally moved back with 3 dogs and 2 cats in tow. We love it here and truly belong in this place we call home. Part of the former Ute tribe summer hunting area, and backing to the Pike National Forest and Lost Creek Wilderness; this fascinating area is both beautiful and full of things to do. Fresh clean mountain air. No people. Get away to the quiet beauty of your private wooded cabin. Enjoy a campfire, amazing mountain views, and killer hiking right out your cabin door. Spend an amazing night with millions of stars overhead. Recharge your soul in silent mountain peace. A rare opportunity to stay tucked in private woods and steps from 1000s of acres of national forest. Featuring dual heaters, sleeping loft, outdoor cooking area, solar, and indoor camp toilet facilities, this is luxury glampingSpend an unforgettable night watching millions of stars in the crisp clean mountain air.  Feel yourself relax and recharge as you enjoy the woods and the stunning mountain views. The cabin is furnished with many of the pieces from the Lost Creek Cabin Studio and features solar electricity and indoor camp toilet facilities. Fresh water is provided. The artist's retreat is a luxury glamping cabin.As long as there is no fire ban, you are welcome to enjoy a campfire in the outdoor fireplace.  We require guests to diligently tend their fire and completely extinguish the campfire when guests are not near.  There is firewood to gather on the property and we have firewood for purchase as well.  We do not allow guests to bring in firewood as the area has begun to see invasive species of insects and we do not want to contribute to this potentially devastating situation. 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground

16. Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground

80%
(5)
24mi from Cripple Creek · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Penrose, CO
Welcome to Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground, a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of serene natural beauty and convenient access to outdoor adventures. Nestled in the stunning Arkansas River Valley and surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, our campground provides an idyllic escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. At Phantom Canyon, you can immerse yourself in a peaceful environment that prioritizes privacy and tranquility. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors, creating the perfect backdrop for your evening relaxation. Our location allows easy access to a variety of local activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby swimming holes. In addition to the natural wonders, you'll find charming restaurants and shops just a short drive away, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable stay. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or embark on thrilling outdoor excursions, Phantom Canyon RV Ranch and Campground is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$25
 / night
Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

18. Camper/RV/Tent in the Trees

96%
(35)
31mi from Cripple Creek · 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
Water Hookup
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night

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