- Waterside Camping
The best waterside camping near Loveland
Top-rated campgrounds near Loveland
1. St. Vrain State Park
2. Rocky Mountain National Park
Top-rated campgrounds near Loveland
1. St. Vrain State Park
2. Rocky Mountain National Park
Loveland camping guide
Where to go
Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park
Highway 34 runs through the Big Thompson River Canyon between Loveland and Estes Park, providing epic views of the rollicking river as the foothills turn into snowy peaks at one of the eastern entrances to Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park offers private and public campgrounds for RVs and tent camping. If you don’t need hookups, the campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park boast scenic panoramas and easy access to alpine adventures.
Fort Collins
Loveland’s big brother to the north, Fort Collins, is another adventurous northern Colorado basecamp packed with local brewpubs and restaurants. Enjoy a literal taste of the Rockies after time hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring the natural landscapes. After cutting a scenic canyon through Roosevelt National Forest, the Cache la Poudre River tumbles through Fort Collins, providing a focal point for scenic drives and outdoor adventures along Colorado’s only designated “Wild & Scenic River.” Venture over to Horsetooth Reservoir to find county park campgrounds.
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grasslands
The Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests covers 1.5 million acres of scenic landscapes in north central Colorado. Over 50 public camping areas can be found, with some at elevations topping 10,000 feet. Some are more suitable for tent camping, while others welcome motorhomes and RVs. Check each campground’s site to see if amenities like electricity, running water, and dump stations are available, as some have limited services, while offering rustic camping in a pristine environment.
When to go
The weather varies greatly by season and by elevation across the greater Loveland region. Summer brings comfortable temperatures for hiking, paddling, and biking—you may even be warm enough to hit a swim beach. Don’t head out without grabbing some extra layers, however, as temperatures may become brisk after dark, especially in the mountains. Winter often brings an abundance of snow, providing a fresh landscape for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. Freezing temperatures and dodgy road conditions may make it less-than-ideal for camping, but many an intrepid camper has found sublime serenity in the off season.
Nearby attractions
Experience the beauty of camping in Poudre Canyon, a picturesque mountain getaway. Set up camp amidst towering cliffs, hike scenic trails, and listen to the soothing sounds of the Poudre River. Enjoy fishing, spot wildlife, and create lasting memories in this tranquil natural paradise.
