Camping near Dillon with campfires
Boating, paddle boarding, and lakeside camping, Dillon, Colorado is a summer water sports haven.
93% (2458 reviews)
- Dillon
93% (2458 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near Dillon with campfires
92%
(99)
Prospector’s Rush
7 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Central City, CO
Welcome to Prospector’s Rush campground located on a 5-acre old mining claim near Idaho Springs, Colorado. This unique rustic campground offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature while experiencing the rich history of the area. 4WD is necessary to access our property!!!
As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the untouched beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the sound of a nearby stream. The campground is surrounded by towering pine trees and a variety of wildlife (moose, deer, elk, turkeys and black bear), providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Prospector’s Rush campground offers tent sites and RV sites, each with plenty of space for campers to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings. While we do not have running water on site, we do have a pit toilet. This is a true camping experience, allowing you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the simplicity of nature.
As you explore the area, you'll discover remnants of the old mining operation, including abandoned mineshafts. You can also hike the nearby trails, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the starry night sky.
At Prospector’s Rush campground, we pride ourselves on offering a true wilderness experience, with limited amenities to ensure that you can fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Come visit Prospector’s Rush campground and discover a piece of Colorado's rich history while immersing yourself in the peace and tranquility of pure nature.
4WD is mandatory!!
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$49
/ night
94%
(239)
Creekside Paradise
5 sites · Lodging, Tents42 acres · CO
Located perfectly between Boulder, Nederland, and Rocky Mountain National Park, and very close to other stunning hikes, this spot is a great landing pad to have easy access to some of the most beautiful places in the Rockies as well as offering it's own breathtaking scenery. This land is the sacred land of the Arapaho tribe. Chief Niwot and his tribe spent winters here. It is a very special place. The property is a mile long so there is plenty of space with the tent sites being 1/2 mile from the yurt and separate entries for each. There are currently 2 tents sites available, a bell tent, and a yurt.
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$38
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92%
(101)
Arapaho Valley Ranch
68 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Granby, CO
Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley.
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$65
/ night
Booked 1 time
Uncle Charlie’s Ranch
8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Black Hawk, CO
Uncle Charlie’s Ranch is an escape from the big city being only 45 minutes from Denver. Our property hosts the experience of Colorado’s nature and so much more; we offer therapeutic hot mineral water soaks, fresh mountain spring drinking water and easy access to local trails and fun. Message us for more information regarding camp sites and things to do!
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$60
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94%
(62)
Bristlecone Camp Breckenridge
1 site · RV, Tent160 acres · Alma, CO
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$50
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98%
(852)
Rustic Creek Ranch
32 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Bailey, CO
The 160 acre ranch was homesteaded by my grandfather over 100 years ago. He was an engineer.
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 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, art gallery, a dollar store, hardware store, camping and sports equipment, brew pub, winery, a few restaurants, potable water station and more.
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$35
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93%
(233)
Camp Wilder
5 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Nederland, CO
Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude.
The main 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 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 cots 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 and wood. Don't forget to take some water with you. 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.
We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin.
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.
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$55
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92%
(18)
Mountain Meadow Glamp Camp
1 site · Lodging160 acres · Alma, CO
Campgrounds, people, noises, regulations, things you won't find here.
You will find happiness, peace, the sound of the winds in 3000 year old trees, alpine streams tricking through ancient untouched forests, great horned owls and moose calling into the night, coyote echoing at sunset signaling night approaching, the warm smell of pine and summer grasses, touching the warm rocks next to the stream while you listen to the birds and crickets. I could go on and on, these are the things I see when I close my eyes and think of this place.
This site sits at the base of (2) 14ers. in thee middle of a sunken meadow. This is the most beautiful and secluded camping experience you will experience in Colorado. There are miles of 4x4 and atv trails. There are countless hiking trails for day and short nature hikes. Above the site sits bristlecone pines that have appeared in ansel adams prints and are absolutely amazing. The sites sit on 160 private acres which borders national forest.
There is a small a-frame tent that's insulated with big windows, locking door, skylight, solar for charging electronics, and a full size bed. The cabin is roughly the size of the full size mattress but seems bigger because of the a-frame roof. Its warm and cozy and keeps the critters and animals out, so you feel safe and comfortable.
There are lots of amenities on site. There is a picnic table, 10'x12' waterproof awning and wood deck. There is a bbq, bear box, huge stone fire pit and bucket toilet.
The road into the site was graded last year but still has small potholes typical of a Colorado county road, most low-profile cars will do fine. If you have a rv or camper, the turn around is limited, no tow behind campers or vehicles over 20'
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$98
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97%
(76)
William L.’s Land
2 sites · Lodging44 acres · Idaho Springs, CO
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$120
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95%
(450)
Little Scraggy Camp
20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Pine, CO
We are closed for the Winter. We look forward to welcoming you in 2024 - with bookings starting mid-May!
The 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, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 14 people) and large groups (35-200 people).
Potable drinking water is available from onsite 270-gallon water tanks. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites.
Friendly dogs are welcome to enjoy your campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. If your pet has any aggressive tendencies, it must be leashed.
Recently added is a 4 hole disc golf putting course for you to practice your shots or try your hand, with 4 sets of discs provided. We also have a cornhole toss game at both the glamping/rv camp area and tent/rv area.
We are an ideal basecamp for the casual or dedicated trail enthusiast. The ranch itself has several trails and easy trail loops to explore within and just outside of the ranch’s fence lines, with direct access to the 9.5-mile Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Just 3.5 miles away is the Little Scraggy Trailhead, where you will find easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. Additionally, we have an extensive network of hiking and horse trails that avoid conflicts with mountain bikers.
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 horses and ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
Our site called Mountain Horse Camp, provides 3 individual porta-panel horse corrals.
There is limited cell service.
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$25
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99%
(80)
Angel's Landing
2 sites · Lodging5 acres · Idaho Springs, CO
Family owned 5 acre off grid property in the Arapahoe National ForestLearn more about this land:Velkommen to the Viking tent in Idaho Springs! In the mountains just off of I-70, is this cozy little bell tent hiding in the trees. You'll have furs and a toasty stove to sip your morning coffee by in the seclusion of your tent. There's also a large fire pit with seating to eat your dinner by perhaps, and maybe chat with other travelers who are staying on the property. The fire pit is between your tent and another, and for shared use with other guests. At nearly 9,000 ft elevation, we get some gusty winds and unpredictable weather, but the wood burning stove provides a very warm and toasty atmosphere inside, and a rain fly over the tent provides a bit more insulation for keeping heat in at night, and holds it down in the winds quite well. Nestled between two hills on either side, and just feet away from a creek that flows through the spring and early summer, it can feel very secluded, but you are actually just off the road and only about 10 minutes from the town of Idaho Springs. The surrounding aspens and pines are quite magical, just be sure to read our note in the tent about our property boundary. Nearby St Mary's Glacier is a very popular spot, and there are loads of hiking and biking trails nearby. As mentioned before, the tent is just off of the road so you will hear the occasional car driving by, otherwise it's very quiet. There is a composting toilet and a private "toilet tent" on site. No power, just good old fashioned wood burning stove and a plethora of battery powered candles and lanterns. You'll need 4/AWD from about October through April, as we're off of a dirt road. You're in the mountains folks, so bears and moose have been seen on occasion. Please pack out all food and garbage. Drinking water and firewood provided.
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$85
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100%
(3)
Peaceful Ranch, South Park
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Alma, CO
Camp in peace, surrounded by wildlife. Guests love the amenities of South Park, Colorado. A recreational area is located 10 minutes away, offering a pool ($10 for locals, $14 for visitors) with showers, a gym, and yoga classes. Check their website for more information.
Downtown South Park is just 10 minutes away and offers stores for fishing gear, restaurants, wine bars, and excellent Mexican food. The market is right on 285 Highway, which leads to Denver or Buena Vista. The scenic ride is beautiful.
South Park hosts many carnivals with food trucks that serve amazing dishes. Fall in love with South Park, known for gold medal fishing and hot springs within 40 minutes away.
Sleep in your RV with the soothing sound of silence to recharge and find peace. There are great hiking trails nearby and a quiet country road for biking.
The ski resort in Breckenridge is just 25 minutes away. The towns of Alma and Fairplay have a history of gold dredging, with some placer gold operations still active. This land was part of a mining project, and some mine entrances were closed by my husband when we first moved here.
Learn more about this land and Fairplay at the Visitor's Welcome Center in Downtown South Park. There are lots of historic places to explore.
Please be aware that this campsite is full of trees and set in a park-like setting, and wildlife is active here 24/7. We only rent two spots and are located near several national forests.
Campsite #1 comes with electricity and water. Please bring your own extensions and hoses; if needed, contact me in advance, and they will be in the blue box.
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$45
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Under $50
Star Hosts in Dillon
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping near Dillon with campfires guide
Overview
Situated near the shores of the pristine Dillon Reservoir and surrounded by world-renowned ski resorts, Dillon is an excellent basecamp for forays into the high country. In summer, visitors flock to the Dillon Reservoir to paddleboard, kayak, or simply hike around the lake. In winter, the Dillon Reservoir becomes a huge snow-kiting destination with rentals and lessons available at the lake. Dillon is one of the few towns in Summit County that offers camping close to town so it’s a great option if you’re also hoping to explore nearby mountain towns like Breckenridge and Copper Mountain.
Where to go
Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area
Also known as Lake Dillon, this spot sits between the towns of Dillon and Frisco as one of the area’s most popular destinations. With several campgrounds, boat and kayak rentals, and nearly 27 miles of shoreline to explore, the Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area is a top choice for camping close to town. Hikers will find several great trails in the area that offer stellar views of the Ten Mile Range and cyclists will enjoy the paved trail that runs over the Dillon Dam.
White River National Forest
The 2.3 million-acre White River National Forest offers unrivaled outdoor recreation opportunities in the Rocky Mountains between Dillon and Aspen. It’s the most visited national forest in the country and offers incredibly scenic terrain from crystal clear mountain lakes and trout streams to wildflower-filled meadows and jagged fourteen thousand foot peaks. Numerous campgrounds are scattered throughout the national forest and there’s no shortage of places to pitch a tent in the backcountry.
Green Mountain Reservoir
Heading north from Dillon on Highway 9 takes you quickly to another large reservoir. Green Mountain Reservoir is only a 30-minute drive from Dillon and boating, fishing, and hiking are popular activities on the water. Campers will find seven campgrounds along the shore of the lake, nearly all with beautiful views of the lake.
When to go
The best time for camping, hiking, and water sports in Dillon, Colorado is when the weather warms, typically June through early September. Summer is definitely the busiest time; the Dillon Amphitheatre hosts dozens of free shows in summer and the Dillon Saturday Farmer’s Market draws in quite the crowds. Dillon sits at 9,111 feet so come prepared for chilly nights even in the middle of summer. Fall is also a lovely time to visit Dillon. Thanks to its high elevation, the mountains around Dillon are one of the first places in Colorado to see fall colors.
Know before you go
- Camping at the Dillon Reservoir is extremely popular so book sites as soon as you know your travel dates. Reservations can be made at the Heaton Bay Campground and Peak One Campground up to six months in advance.
- Campsites at the Dillon Reservoir’s Pine Cove Campground are available first-come, first-served only.
- Early morning, before the afternoon winds pick up, is the best time to kayak or paddleboard on Lake Dillon.
- Swimming is prohibited in Lake Dillon due to safety reasons but is allowed at the Green Mountain Reservoir. There’s even a designated swimming area at Green Mountain
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