Top-rated campgrounds
Top-rated campgrounds
Stories from the community
The best safari tents near Lakewood guide
Where to go
Lakewood and Denver Metro
Right in town, Bear Creek Lake Park lets you hike, bike, fish, boat, swim, and stay at a full service campground. Catch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater, then stay in a yurt nearby, or head to the Jefferson County Open Space Area, which offers a network of parks and two campgrounds. South of Denver, Chatfield State Park and Cherry Creek State Park feature reservoirs and campgrounds with amenities. North of the capital, St. Vrain State Park offers wetlands, ponds, and camping near the water.
Central Front Range
Head west for mountains and high-elevation camping. Drive the highest paved road in the state on Mt. Evans, with camping options at Echo Lake at the base, Camp Rock Campground, or in the backcountry of Mt. Evans Wilderness Area. Further west, explore historic Georgetown and drive the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway to Grant, with plenty of trails and campsites along the byway. Or go off the beaten path and pitch your tent at the Lost Creek Wilderness.
Northern Front Range
Head to Golden Gate Canyon State Park for high alpine views and off-grid camping. Further north, the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests span more than 1 million acres, with plenty of campgrounds. Hop on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway near Nederland north to Estes Park, and choose from various campsites along the way. Or head into Rocky Mountain National Park for alpine landscapes, seasonal campgrounds, and backcountry sites.
Southern Front Range
Pike National Forest sits along the southern Front Range and offers plenty of overnight options from developed to dispersed camping, plus major peaks to tackle, including America’s mountain, Pikes Peak, near the state’s second largest city of Colorado Springs. Enjoy lakeside camping at Eleven Mile State Park with amenities and hookups or stay at Mueller State Park in a tent, RV, or cabin.
When to go
Lakewood is a year-round outdoor recreation destination. April to October is best for hiking, biking, camping, and water activities. Boat ramps in Bear Creek Lake Park are open from mid-March to mid-November, with rentals usually available from May to September. Bear Creek Lake is stocked with fish over summer, while ice fishing and ice skating are popular in winter.
Know before you go
- Motor boats of 10 horsepower or less are permitted on Bear Creek Reservoir but not on Big Soda Lake or Little Soda Lake.
- Colorado state park campsites require advanced reservations, while national forest sites are often first-come, first-served. Jefferson County Open Space camping is by advanced permit only. Permits are required for state and national wilderness areas.
- Store food and other attractants in bear-proof containers away from tents.
- Fishing licenses are required for anyone over age 16. Fishing is only allowed in designated areas within Lakewood.