The best family-friendly glamping near Manitou Springs, Colorado

Tucked into the foothills of the Southern Front Range, Manitou Springs is well placed for tackling Pikes Peak and exploring the sandstone spires of the Garden of the Gods, as well as nearby ancient cliff dwellings. The town is known for its natural mineral springs, which you can drink and soak in. Challenge yourself on the Manitou Incline, or browse for art in the historic downtown. RV parks offer camping in town, but head out to the mountains, forests, and plains to find plentiful options for all types of campers.

95% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Tucked into the foothills of the Southern Front Range, Manitou Springs is well placed for tackling Pikes Peak and exploring the sandstone spires of the Garden of the Gods, as well as nearby ancient cliff dwellings. The town is known for its natural mineral springs, which you can drink and soak in. Challenge yourself on the Manitou Incline, or browse for art in the historic downtown. RV parks offer camping in town, but head out to the mountains, forests, and plains to find plentiful options for all types of campers.

95% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sweetwater River Resort

91%

(377)

49mi from Manitou Springs · 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!

2. Yeti Sanctuary

94%

(167)

20mi from Manitou Springs · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Florissant, CO

Situated on almost 4.5 acres of partially wooded acres, with a small pond, We have 6 beautiful campsites. Two can be used by an RV, two cabins, and the others for tents. There are great hammocking spots amongst the trees and bolders.. Enjoy the rugged beauty in Florissant, CO, with seasonal Aspen foliage and wildflowers, and a lot of birds, for the avid bird watchers. Florissant Fossil Beds Natl Monument is 7 miles away, with a Night Sky program, at every new moon. Plenty of winter activities … Ice skating on the lake, Snowshoeing and cross country skiing in Pike National Forest only 2 miles away. Florissant Mercantile is 5 miles away, for your needed supplies. Come and enjoy the quiet beauty and peaceful atmosphere, of Colorado's beautiful mountains.

3. Starlite Vintage Resort

93%

(67)

34mi from Manitou Springs · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cañon City, CO

Starlite Vintage Resort is located minutes from the world-famous Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Cañon City, Colorado. Situated on over 10 acres with eye-popping views of the Rocky Mountains, the Starlite Vintage Resort provides a variety of luxury accommodations themed around the timeless trends and classic movies of the era that introduced America to the Beatles, man’s first walk on the moon, Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, the Woodstock Rock Festival, and the enduring kids’ TV shows, Sesame Street and The Flintstones.

4. Cabin, RV & RV Site by Muller Park

98%

(85)

16mi from Manitou Springs · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Divide, CO

We are located only 4 miles to Muller State Park or the Wolf Wildlife Center and only 8 miles to Florresint National Park. Real quite here with lots of wildlife visitors including deer, foxes and an occasional bear. Close to world class fishing and hiking. Camp is stocked with firewood and coffee in the trailer. You just need your own bedding and towels. Great place for star gazing 🌛 Learn more about this land: RV sleeps 4 adults and 4 kids. Firewood included. Only 4 miles to Muller State Park and Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. 6 miles to Florissant Fossil Beds National Park. 5 miles to Pikes Peak National Forest off road area.

5. Little Scraggy Camp

93%

(845)

36mi from Manitou Springs · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pine, CO

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.

6. Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

90%

(82)

5.8mi from Manitou Springs · 64 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cascade, CO

Lone Duck Campground sits just outside the city lights of Colorado Springs at the base of Pikes Peak, at an elevation of 7,600 feet. Our prime location puts us within a short distance of the many beautiful Colorado attractions. This makes us an ideal stop for families looking for a summer adventure or folks just passing through for a couple of days. We strive to make every stay a special experience. We know you will love it here at "the Duck"! Lone Duck Campground and Cabins is your stop for a memorable vacation in the Colorado Rockies. We have all the necessary amenities to make your stay a comfortable one. We offer tent sites, cabins, and RV sites. Make your reservation with us today and allow our family to treat yours!

7. Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

100%

(22)

15mi from Manitou Springs · 2 sites · Lodging · Cripple Creek, CO

Located on 3 acres of land, this private campsite features a large 16x20 canvas walled tent with a covered deck. There is a large wood stove inside to keep you warm all night long during all four seasons. The tent can easily accommodate up to 8 people. There is 1 twin over full bunk bed, 1 full size bed, and 1 futon. There is one more additional mattress and bed-frame under the bunk bed for additional sleeping (some minor furniture rearranging is required to make space for the additional bed). PLEASE NOTE: The reservation is for the provided canvas tent only. If you want to pitch additional tents, we do allow that for an added cost of $25 per tent per night. Please contact host prior to booking to make sure your arrangement will work. We do not allow extra tents on the property without prior permission and paid fees. In the woods right by the tent you’ll find a private playground complete with: swings and slide, trampoline, spinning rope tunnels, ninja course, climbing dome and a zip-line. In the winter there’s a great area for sledding.  We provide everything you need for the camping experience. There is a a set of dishes for 10, silverware, all cooking utensils, cast iron pots and pans, a coffee percolator, trash bags, dish soap, outdoor kitchen prep area, large 3 burner camp stove, propane, (5) camp chairs, bear box, warm down comforters, lanterns / solar lights, board games for both kids & adults.  The only thing you should plan to bring is your own firewood, water, sleeping bag or sheets, your pillow and food! PLEASE NOTE: Person reserving the campsite must sign a separate rental agreement. All adults must sign a liability waiver for themselves and their minor children. Rental agreement will be sent after booking.

8. Asha's Retreat

97%

(68)

21mi from Manitou Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO

Time to enjoy the beauty of the mountains! The cottage is located on 4 acres, with orange flags marking the property lines. Our cabin is built near the camp site. The tiny cabin has a propane heater to make this a beautiful and cozy experience. It is a quiet and peaceful place located 25 minutes from Cripple Creek (if you like gambling) , and 45 minutes from Woodland Park where you can find restaurants, supermarkets, rock and gem shops and more attractions typical to a tourist town. A place to find peace, and nature with lots of wildlife, you may get a glimpse of a bear, mountain lion, fox, wild turkeys, deer, cayote. Enjoy the outdoor fireplace (weather permitting), watching a beautiful night sky, in a clear sky you can spot the Milky way and some star constellations. The place is surrounded by many tourist attractions. Gambling, hiking, biking, fishing, Florissant fossil bed with giant tree stumps, horseback riding, waterfalls, wolf and wildlife sanctuary, balloon rides, mining museums, our majestic Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge bridge, Rio Grande train rides and more! If you like to shoot arrows bring your bow! The terrain is rocky so, we highly recommend to keep your eyes on your small kids as well as when they are on the lofts, for security reasons. Reiki healing sessions are available upon request as well as Reiki training by a Certified Reiki Master. Smoking is permitted outside when not under a fire ban. Hipcamper under 21 years old are welcome only under adult supervision. We recommend to bring your own towels and a flashlight since our lodging has an out side toilet. Please don't expect a flash toilet, we want to emphasize that we offer a porta potty. We are charging a very small cleaning fee, expecting our guests to leave the place as they found it. Feel free to reach out for any questions and more detailed information about Asha's retreat!

9. Camp Kan-Ne-Ga (Ute for "home")

99%

(73)

20mi from Manitou Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO

Property borders the Florissant Fossil Bed National Monument. Campsite is on private, beautiful, quiet 26 acres of ponderosa, spruce, fir and aspens with a wonderful view of Badger Mtn. Cripple Creek, Woodland Park and Eleven Mile Reservoir are appx 30 mins away; Breckenridge and Buena Vista about an hour; Mueller State Park and Eleven Mile Canyon being appx 15 mins away. Enjoy a game of corn hole and stargazing at your campsite. There are several Ute prayer trees on the property and Will would be happy to take you on a walking tour. Campsite equipped w/ sun shower and camp toilet. Please note, this is a tent site only with no access for camper trailers. Our tent is furnished with a queen-sized bed. An additional cot or bedding on the floor for smaller children can be provided at no extra cost. You may also set up your own tent (only one) for two additional guests (four guests total) for no extra charge.

Camper favorites near Manitou Springs

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Cabin, RV & RV Site by Muller Park

98%

(85)

16mi from Manitou Springs · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Divide, CO

We are located only 4 miles to Muller State Park or the Wolf Wildlife Center and only 8 miles to Florresint National Park. Real quite here with lots of wildlife visitors including deer, foxes and an occasional bear. Close to world class fishing and hiking. Camp is stocked with firewood and coffee in the trailer. You just need your own bedding and towels. Great place for star gazing 🌛 Learn more about this land: RV sleeps 4 adults and 4 kids. Firewood included. Only 4 miles to Muller State Park and Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. 6 miles to Florissant Fossil Beds National Park. 5 miles to Pikes Peak National Forest off road area.

Little Scraggy Camp

93%

(845)

36mi from Manitou Springs · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pine, CO

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.

Lone Duck Campground and Cabins

90%

(82)

5.8mi from Manitou Springs · 64 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cascade, CO

Lone Duck Campground sits just outside the city lights of Colorado Springs at the base of Pikes Peak, at an elevation of 7,600 feet. Our prime location puts us within a short distance of the many beautiful Colorado attractions. This makes us an ideal stop for families looking for a summer adventure or folks just passing through for a couple of days. We strive to make every stay a special experience. We know you will love it here at "the Duck"! Lone Duck Campground and Cabins is your stop for a memorable vacation in the Colorado Rockies. We have all the necessary amenities to make your stay a comfortable one. We offer tent sites, cabins, and RV sites. Make your reservation with us today and allow our family to treat yours!

Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

100%

(22)

15mi from Manitou Springs · 2 sites · Lodging · Cripple Creek, CO

Located on 3 acres of land, this private campsite features a large 16x20 canvas walled tent with a covered deck. There is a large wood stove inside to keep you warm all night long during all four seasons. The tent can easily accommodate up to 8 people. There is 1 twin over full bunk bed, 1 full size bed, and 1 futon. There is one more additional mattress and bed-frame under the bunk bed for additional sleeping (some minor furniture rearranging is required to make space for the additional bed). PLEASE NOTE: The reservation is for the provided canvas tent only. If you want to pitch additional tents, we do allow that for an added cost of $25 per tent per night. Please contact host prior to booking to make sure your arrangement will work. We do not allow extra tents on the property without prior permission and paid fees. In the woods right by the tent you’ll find a private playground complete with: swings and slide, trampoline, spinning rope tunnels, ninja course, climbing dome and a zip-line. In the winter there’s a great area for sledding.  We provide everything you need for the camping experience. There is a a set of dishes for 10, silverware, all cooking utensils, cast iron pots and pans, a coffee percolator, trash bags, dish soap, outdoor kitchen prep area, large 3 burner camp stove, propane, (5) camp chairs, bear box, warm down comforters, lanterns / solar lights, board games for both kids & adults.  The only thing you should plan to bring is your own firewood, water, sleeping bag or sheets, your pillow and food! PLEASE NOTE: Person reserving the campsite must sign a separate rental agreement. All adults must sign a liability waiver for themselves and their minor children. Rental agreement will be sent after booking.

Asha's Retreat

97%

(68)

21mi from Manitou Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO

Time to enjoy the beauty of the mountains! The cottage is located on 4 acres, with orange flags marking the property lines. Our cabin is built near the camp site. The tiny cabin has a propane heater to make this a beautiful and cozy experience. It is a quiet and peaceful place located 25 minutes from Cripple Creek (if you like gambling) , and 45 minutes from Woodland Park where you can find restaurants, supermarkets, rock and gem shops and more attractions typical to a tourist town. A place to find peace, and nature with lots of wildlife, you may get a glimpse of a bear, mountain lion, fox, wild turkeys, deer, cayote. Enjoy the outdoor fireplace (weather permitting), watching a beautiful night sky, in a clear sky you can spot the Milky way and some star constellations. The place is surrounded by many tourist attractions. Gambling, hiking, biking, fishing, Florissant fossil bed with giant tree stumps, horseback riding, waterfalls, wolf and wildlife sanctuary, balloon rides, mining museums, our majestic Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge bridge, Rio Grande train rides and more! If you like to shoot arrows bring your bow! The terrain is rocky so, we highly recommend to keep your eyes on your small kids as well as when they are on the lofts, for security reasons. Reiki healing sessions are available upon request as well as Reiki training by a Certified Reiki Master. Smoking is permitted outside when not under a fire ban. Hipcamper under 21 years old are welcome only under adult supervision. We recommend to bring your own towels and a flashlight since our lodging has an out side toilet. Please don't expect a flash toilet, we want to emphasize that we offer a porta potty. We are charging a very small cleaning fee, expecting our guests to leave the place as they found it. Feel free to reach out for any questions and more detailed information about Asha's retreat!

Camp Kan-Ne-Ga (Ute for "home")

99%

(73)

20mi from Manitou Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO

Property borders the Florissant Fossil Bed National Monument. Campsite is on private, beautiful, quiet 26 acres of ponderosa, spruce, fir and aspens with a wonderful view of Badger Mtn. Cripple Creek, Woodland Park and Eleven Mile Reservoir are appx 30 mins away; Breckenridge and Buena Vista about an hour; Mueller State Park and Eleven Mile Canyon being appx 15 mins away. Enjoy a game of corn hole and stargazing at your campsite. There are several Ute prayer trees on the property and Will would be happy to take you on a walking tour. Campsite equipped w/ sun shower and camp toilet. Please note, this is a tent site only with no access for camper trailers. Our tent is furnished with a queen-sized bed. An additional cot or bedding on the floor for smaller children can be provided at no extra cost. You may also set up your own tent (only one) for two additional guests (four guests total) for no extra charge.

Stories from the community

K

Kristin

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

There are not words to describe the views from our cabin! Hosts were so kind and friendly. I was worried that the cabin would not be warm enough but the heater provided put off way more than enough heat. You’re missing out if you don’t stay here !

Alison Penelope

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Sweetwater River Resort

Sweetwater was the perfect spot to rest and recharge. The sounds of the river were fantastic and the general scenery was breathtaking.

J

Joseph

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

Loved it! As advertised, great little cabin in awesome location. Me and my 6 year old son went for the weekend. Hiked the local mountains in the day, camp fires at night. Went November 7, but still wasn’t too cold in the cabin at all. Highly recommend .

Shaun

October 2025

1 night at Starlite Vintage Resort

Mike was a big help in picking a camper. Thank you!

S

Sarah

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort

This was a great stop on my best friend reunion tour! We opted for a cabin and it was a cute, warm, clean and cozy little place. You don't have your own bathroom and have to walk to the common building for stalls and showers, but that was ok- it was clean and not too far away from the cabin. Be sure to peek in to the vintage "RV museum"- 3 restored RVs that are retro outfitted and fun to explore. The woman manning the check in/shop was super friendly and gave good recommendations for places in Cañon City, which is about 15 mins away. We were also pleased to be a short walk from the Gold Mine gem shop, full of beautiful things! In October the area is out of season, so it was pretty quiet, and we were happy with that! I would recommend Starlite for a welcoming glamping experience.

A

Alexandria

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

Sweetwater was such an incredible time! The cabin was perfect and setting was even better. My husband and pup spent two days here and wish we could have stayed longer!! Only critique was that it certainly wasn’t private. The neighboring cabins are super close, and several kids fishing just kept walking through our area and even using our front to fish. Not a big issue, but something to keep in mind if you’re looking for something private!

M

Milana

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Quaking Aspens Campsite- For Kids!

My 3 kids (10-16) and I had such a lovely time. They loved the zip line and the net tunnel thing and made obstacle courses and had such a blast having it all to themselves. I loved all the details that made it comfortable!

L

Lori

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

A perfect little get away if you’re not into tents or don’t own Motorhome! Cozy little cabin, bathroom and shower are a very short walk and are really clean! Right on the water! Beautiful!

Jane

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

Beautiful cabin stay. Porch by the river was peaceful, cabin had everything we needed, secluded and quiet. Will be back

K

Kristie

October 2025

1 night at Starlite Vintage Resort

Loved it! Everything is decorated really well. So much todo on the grounds. There’s even a dog park!

K

Kelly

October 2025

1 night at Sweetwater River Resort

This cabin was adorable and the location by the river was great! Everything was really clean and we were impressed with the upkeep. We had a fun time :)

A

Aimee

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Yeti Sanctuary

Absolutely loved this spot! The small cabin is very comfortable & has everything you need in regard to chairs, cookware, etc. My only advice would be to be sure to know your way out because Google maps got me there easily but there’s no cell service so be sure to remember your way back. Beautiful lake & Tim was so helpful!

L

Lori

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort

Our stay at Starlite Village was exceptional and we thoroughly enjoyed our 'I Dream of Jeannie' vintage camper. Dirk was great communicating with us before and during our stay. The campground was so amazing with all the vintage campers to walk around and look at and the shower house was clean and updated. Thanks again for your wonderful hospitality and we will be back!

The cabin is loaded with games, tools, condiments, extra blankets, sporting equipment, etc

Kevin

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Yeti Sanctuary

This was my wife and I's second stay at the lakeside cabin and boy oh boy was it more peaceful and beautiful than the first. Don't scroll past this one BOOK NOW!!!! Tim your the man.

T

Thomas

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Kan-Ne-Ga (Ute for "home")

We were extremely thrilled to revisit Will and Jake and their campsite. As always the campsite was clean, inviting, and well maintained. Jake cooked for us again and the gourmet burgers did not disappoint. As the last campers of the season, we were pleased to relax in a pine tree haven. So glad to make new friends and we will be back next year! Highly recommended-10/10! Thank you!

E

Eric

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort

perfect spot that will exceed your expectations. far enough out of town but not so far that you cannot get things..they are constantly improving and i do love a good fire.. loved iy and will definitely stay here again

E

Erin

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort

These vintage trailors were all so adorable and in a great location! Very friendly and accommodating host 10/10 would recommend

K

Katelyn

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Starlite Vintage Resort

Starlight Vintage RV Resort is the absolute CUTEST! We could only stay one night but I will absolutely be back asap for a longer stay! Everything was lovely and they have a store on site with camping supplies/necessities which was a huge bonus!

V

Victoria

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Kan-Ne-Ga (Ute for "home")

Camp Kan-Ne-Ga was absolutely wonderful. My husband and I couldn't have asked for a better site than this one for our anniversary. Will was incredibly kind and made sure we found our way to the site after dark.

K

Karrah

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Kan-Ne-Ga (Ute for "home")

Super friendly hosts, beautiful views, and easy directions - an overall lovely experience! Hoping we can come back sometime next year.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Manitou Springs guide

Where to go

Pike National Forest

Head west for outdoor activities near Woodland Park, or find fossils at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. On the other side of Pikes Peak, Mueller State Park offers year-round outdoor recreation in a wooded setting, abundant wildlife, and camping options spanning walk-in tent sites, RV sites with electric hookups, and cabins. The surrounding Pike National Forests offer plenty of wilderness and mountains, and a wide range of campgrounds plus space for dispersed camping. For solitude, explore and camp within several wilderness areas.

Denver and nearby

For urban adventures, head north to Denver. Cherry Creek State Park and Chatfield State Park both offer reservoirs, rolling hills, and campgrounds with amenities just outside Colorado’s largest city. For off grid camping and glamping, try Golden Gate Canyon State Park. To the north of Denver, St. Vrain State Park offers great fishing and camping near ponds. Drive along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway to enjoy stellar views and plentiful campgrounds.

South central Colorado

Stay in a private campground or RV park in nearby Colorado Springs, or head to Cheyenne Mountain State Park to explore the outdoors and camp. Near Cañon City, you can ride the rapids of Royal Gorge and stay in rustic glamping tents. Head further south to explore the plains and high desert, with a visit to historic Pueblo, and follow the Santa Fe Trail down through Trinidad. Camp lakeside at Lake Pueblo State Park or Trinidad Lake State Park, or take the Highway of Legends from Trinidad to La Veta and Walsenburg to camp near the Spanish Peaks or Lathrop State Park.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time in Manitou Springs, and also offers the best weather for outdoor activities. During the peak summer season, visitors to Pikes Peak may not be able to drive to the summit and may have to take a shuttle bus. Visit in late spring for smaller crowds. Fall brings Golden aspens, and the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway is a great drive to see them. Expect peak colors in September to early October.

Know before you go

A free shuttle takes passengers around Manitou Springs. You will want a vehicle to explore areas outside of town.
Manitou Springs is situated at over 6,000 feet. Other recreation areas and campsites in the region are at even higher elevations. Be aware of altitude issues.
Hiking, parking, and camping are not allowed on the Pikes Peak Highway, which charges a per person fee from May to November.
Be bear aware, especially when camping. Store food and other attractants in a bear-proof container away from your tent.