The best family-friendly glamping sites near Denver

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Reconnect with nature and breathe in that crisp, mile-high air with camping near Denver in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Discover the craggy, red rocks of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, or gaze upon the glory of Pikes Peak, the over 14,000-foot mountain that inspired “America the Beautiful.” Rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding await, while Hipcampers looking to relax can indulge at Indian Hot Springs, just south of Golden Gate Canyon State Park past Black Hawk. A little further out of town are the campgrounds at Valley View Hot Springs, where clothing is optional and dogs are welcome.

94% (1.4K) 14 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Denver

Aspen Forest in Evergreen Colorado

1. Aspen Forest in Evergreen Colorado

97%
(46)
31mi from Denver · 3 sites
We have some amazing hiking trails and Arapahoe National Forest in our backyard! Maxwell National Trailhead is 9 mins from the property with free parking and free entrance. Cub Creek Trail Head is also around the corner. Evergreen Lake- 15 min car ride. Fishing, kayaking, picnic. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre- 30 min car ride. Summer concerts, and movie nights at the park. Our property is at 10,000 feet in the foothills of the Rockies. The last mile is unpaved and has some steep inclines. We receive quite a lot of snow (Oct-May). We require that guests use AWD/4WD vehicles and winter tires to safely access our dome during snow months. Please check weather conditions and follow Colorado traction laws.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$221
 / night
Camp Always Choose Adventures

2. Camp Always Choose Adventures

90%
(74)
37mi from Denver · 30 sites · Tents, Lodging
⚠️ Important Policies ⚠️ • No refunds – please read carefully before booking. • Check-in by 8:00 PM only. • Use GPS to find us: Camp Always Choose Adventures, 300 Swamp Angel Lane, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 • All payments are considered donations to our nonprofit and are tax-deductible and non-refundable. • You must call or text your ETA prior to arrival. Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA) Located at 9,300 feet in Idaho Springs, Colorado, we’re just 15 minutes from downtown while offering a true high-country experience in the heart of the Rockies. Our Mission Camp ACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds from camping and events directly support accessibility, education, and underserved communities. 🙏 Thank you for supporting our mission. Learn more: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org You’ll also meet our friendly resident goats 🐐 and dogs 🐕, who are part of daily life at camp. Wildlife sightings are common, including moose, bears, and elk. 🔥 Firewood is provided at no extra cost, and a communal BBQ area, with picnic tables are available. 🐻 Bear boxes on site, compliments CPW. 🚫 No RVs or campers. Please call ahead if you have questions. Camp ACA is also a unique venue for small group events of up to 25 people, including family reunions, intimate weddings, retreats, workshops, offering a private, scenic setting surrounded by nature. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) area in the Front Range, with endless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and responsible off-road recreation. 🌲 Arrive empty-handed and still camp. We offer a donation based Gear Library including Paddleboard's, kayaks, tents, sleeping bags. 🚣 A private lake is just 10 minutes away, perfect for a quiet escape into nature. ⛰️ We’re also only 15 minutes from the Argo Mine / Mighty Argo, the historic Idaho Springs gondola, and numerous mountain hiking trails. Accessibility We proudly offer Extreme Motus off-road wheelchairs What’s New In May 2026, Camp ACA will introduce an on-site Oxygen Bar, sponsored by Summit Oxygen, to help guests feel better and enjoy high-elevation adventures more comfortably.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Little Scraggy Camp

3. Little Scraggy Camp

93%
(845)
38mi from Denver · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 16 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2025 - two separate, professionally designed 18-hole disc golf courses with PDGA regulation baskets, and a Pro Shop with a free 9-hole putting course, which is great for those who have never played disc golf and want to try it out, (we have free loaner discs). Our Hipcamp guests get a 10% discount on player fees, their children play free. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. We also have several cornhole toss games set up. Friendly, well-mannered dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. We are an ideal basecamp for hiking or biking trail enthusiasts,with direct access to the Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Little Scraggy Trailhead is 3.5 miles away, with easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train Shire draft horses and also ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

4. Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

94%
(200)
38mi from Denver · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$58
 / night
Neverland Camp Wilder

5. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(354)
38mi from Denver · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
Rocky Mountain Glamping

6. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%
(363)
39mi from Denver · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night
Riverview RV Park and Campground

7. Riverview RV Park and Campground

92%
(48)
48mi from Denver · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Riverview RV Park and Campground is set in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the Big Thompson River. The quiet countryside setting of our family-oriented park, with its gorgeous surroundings and charming wood carvings, is a favorite for groups or a romantic getaway. Hidden beneath the cottonwoods at 5100 ft elevation, Riverview RV Park and Campground is near the Big Thompson Canyon entrance. We are 30 minutes from the beauty of Estes Park and 20 minutes from unique shops, art district, and numerous family friendly activities within Loveland and Ft Collins. Cheyenne and Denver are about an hour’s drive from Loveland on I-25.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$42
 / night

Reconnect with nature and breathe in that crisp, mile-high air with camping near Denver in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Discover the craggy, red rocks of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, or gaze upon the glory of Pikes Peak, the over 14,000-foot mountain that inspired “America the Beautiful.” Rock climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding await, while Hipcampers looking to relax can indulge at Indian Hot Springs, just south of Golden Gate Canyon State Park past Black Hawk. A little further out of town are the campgrounds at Valley View Hot Springs, where clothing is optional and dogs are welcome.

94% (1.4K) 14 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Denver

Aspen Forest in Evergreen Colorado

1. Aspen Forest in Evergreen Colorado

97%
(46)
31mi from Denver · 3 sites
We have some amazing hiking trails and Arapahoe National Forest in our backyard! Maxwell National Trailhead is 9 mins from the property with free parking and free entrance. Cub Creek Trail Head is also around the corner. Evergreen Lake- 15 min car ride. Fishing, kayaking, picnic. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre- 30 min car ride. Summer concerts, and movie nights at the park. Our property is at 10,000 feet in the foothills of the Rockies. The last mile is unpaved and has some steep inclines. We receive quite a lot of snow (Oct-May). We require that guests use AWD/4WD vehicles and winter tires to safely access our dome during snow months. Please check weather conditions and follow Colorado traction laws.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$221
 / night
Camp Always Choose Adventures

2. Camp Always Choose Adventures

90%
(74)
37mi from Denver · 30 sites · Tents, Lodging
⚠️ Important Policies ⚠️ • No refunds – please read carefully before booking. • Check-in by 8:00 PM only. • Use GPS to find us: Camp Always Choose Adventures, 300 Swamp Angel Lane, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 • All payments are considered donations to our nonprofit and are tax-deductible and non-refundable. • You must call or text your ETA prior to arrival. Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures (Camp ACA) Located at 9,300 feet in Idaho Springs, Colorado, we’re just 15 minutes from downtown while offering a true high-country experience in the heart of the Rockies. Our Mission Camp ACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds from camping and events directly support accessibility, education, and underserved communities. 🙏 Thank you for supporting our mission. Learn more: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org You’ll also meet our friendly resident goats 🐐 and dogs 🐕, who are part of daily life at camp. Wildlife sightings are common, including moose, bears, and elk. 🔥 Firewood is provided at no extra cost, and a communal BBQ area, with picnic tables are available. 🐻 Bear boxes on site, compliments CPW. 🚫 No RVs or campers. Please call ahead if you have questions. Camp ACA is also a unique venue for small group events of up to 25 people, including family reunions, intimate weddings, retreats, workshops, offering a private, scenic setting surrounded by nature. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) area in the Front Range, with endless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and responsible off-road recreation. 🌲 Arrive empty-handed and still camp. We offer a donation based Gear Library including Paddleboard's, kayaks, tents, sleeping bags. 🚣 A private lake is just 10 minutes away, perfect for a quiet escape into nature. ⛰️ We’re also only 15 minutes from the Argo Mine / Mighty Argo, the historic Idaho Springs gondola, and numerous mountain hiking trails. Accessibility We proudly offer Extreme Motus off-road wheelchairs What’s New In May 2026, Camp ACA will introduce an on-site Oxygen Bar, sponsored by Summit Oxygen, to help guests feel better and enjoy high-elevation adventures more comfortably.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Little Scraggy Camp

3. Little Scraggy Camp

93%
(845)
38mi from Denver · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 16 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2025 - two separate, professionally designed 18-hole disc golf courses with PDGA regulation baskets, and a Pro Shop with a free 9-hole putting course, which is great for those who have never played disc golf and want to try it out, (we have free loaner discs). Our Hipcamp guests get a 10% discount on player fees, their children play free. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. We also have several cornhole toss games set up. Friendly, well-mannered dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. We are an ideal basecamp for hiking or biking trail enthusiasts,with direct access to the Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Little Scraggy Trailhead is 3.5 miles away, with easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train Shire draft horses and also ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

4. Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

94%
(200)
38mi from Denver · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$58
 / night
Neverland Camp Wilder

5. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(354)
38mi from Denver · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
Rocky Mountain Glamping

6. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%
(363)
39mi from Denver · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night
Riverview RV Park and Campground

7. Riverview RV Park and Campground

92%
(48)
48mi from Denver · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Riverview RV Park and Campground is set in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the Big Thompson River. The quiet countryside setting of our family-oriented park, with its gorgeous surroundings and charming wood carvings, is a favorite for groups or a romantic getaway. Hidden beneath the cottonwoods at 5100 ft elevation, Riverview RV Park and Campground is near the Big Thompson Canyon entrance. We are 30 minutes from the beauty of Estes Park and 20 minutes from unique shops, art district, and numerous family friendly activities within Loveland and Ft Collins. Cheyenne and Denver are about an hour’s drive from Loveland on I-25.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$42
 / night

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The best family-friendly glamping sites near Denver guide

Where to go

Rocky Mountain National Park

With some of the most majestic mountain scenery, it’s no wonder National Geographic named Rocky Mountain National Park as one of its best trips in the world in 2014. Hipcampers can’t ask for a more picturesque setting for tent camping and RV sites, including full hookups. View wildlife around its 147 lakes and 355 miles of hiking trails, spotting elk, moose, and bighorn sheep along the way. Clear mountain skies, away from city lights, are exceptional for stargazing.

Cherry Creek State Park

A short drive outside of town, Cherry Creek State Park is minutes off the interstate but worlds away from the everyday. The close location makes it easily accessible for day-trippers and overnighters alike. Enjoy the convenience of hot showers and laundry facilities at Cherry Creek Campground, which features both RV park and walk-in tent camping options. There’s even wifi for posting adventures online. Rent a jet ski to race around Cherry Creek reservoir, or do some swimming, fishing, and cycling.

Chatfield State Park

Water activities are the name of the game at Chatfield State Park with boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding around the expansive Chatfield Reservoir. Bring out the bait and tackle to catch trout and bass for supper. For Hipcampers who prefer land, bird-watch along Plum Creek, and explore the 26 miles of hiking and biking trails. There are even opportunities to fly a model airplane in these foothills southwest of Denver. All four campgrounds have picnic tables and are walking distance to the lake.

When to go

Summer camping near Denver is best for campers looking to avoid the cold and get in the best fishing. It also happens to be the busiest season, especially with families. Plus, there are occasional surprise thunderstorms thanks to a phenomenon called the “Denver Cyclone.” For a more tranquil camping experience, visit during the shoulder seasons. Spring is great for wildflower viewing, and the fall foliage in Colorado is breathtaking. The gold, orange, and red aspen leaves make for a stunning backdrop in a print-worthy photo souvenir.