The best lakeside camping near Monte Vista

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your one-stop destination for camping adventures in the United States! If you're a fan of lakes and stunning views, we have over 570 options near Monte Vista, Colorado that will satisfy your wanderlust. Whether you're looking for a lakeside campsite or a cabin with a stunning lake view, we've got you covered. Check out our top campsites like Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews), and The High Desert Ranch Colorado (205 reviews) to get a taste of the best that Monte Vista has to offer. Our campgrounds offer popular amenities such as showers, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay. Plus, with activities like fishing, off-roading, and horseback riding, you'll never run out of things to do. So pack your bags, grab your fishing gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Monte Vista, Colorado!

98% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Rabbit Hole Ranch

1. Rabbit Hole Ranch

94%
(562)
23mi from Monte Vista · 198 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mosca, CO
We are closed for the season. PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful night skies with little to no light pollution and unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif. The Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Just follow the signs to the designated area and pick out a spot you like. Some spots have fire rings, some don’t. We are working on getting more, but in the meantime you’re welcome to bring your own. Or feel free to dig out a little hole. It works great and is easy to extinguish when you fill it back in and bury it. Please do not bury any trash. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our dogs are working dogs and they are more than happy to help keep you and your pets safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with our dogs. And please report any issues promptly. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, her name is Boudicca and she’s excited to meet everyone! Returning this season is 12 year old KayLee, also a GP and and Finn, our little dude from Alaska. Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We typically do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
High Peaks Campground

2. High Peaks Campground

97%
(774)
36mi from Monte Vista · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the largest Alpine Valley in the world! San Luis Valley is a region in south-central Colorado with a small portion overlapping into New Mexico. The valley is approximately 122 miles long and 74 miles wide, making it the largest alpine valley in the world. It extends from the Continental Divide on the northwest rim into New Mexico on the south. This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. I encourage binoculars or even a telescope to view wildlife and check out the Rockies and then the night sky views! Looking to submerse yourself in nature? The Sangre de Cristo Range in Colorado contains the following 14ers: Blanca Peak, Challenger Point, Crestone Needle, Crestone Peak, Culebra Peak, Ellingwood Point, Humboldt Peak, Kit Carson Peak, Mount Lindsey, and Little Bear Peak. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, even Meteor showers!!! History: this land was originally part of a large cattle ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by BLM land, BACA land, and Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Be sure to bring extra bug spray and protection needed against biting insects such as flies, gnats, and mosquitoes. For those bringing your pets, they MUST be on a leash/lead at all times. While I do not have much cactus on my property, I do have an abundance of greasewood (Chico brush) which is very thorn-like if stepped on. Accommodations for those with livestock or horses, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
Camp Catori

3. Camp Catori

100%
(38)
42mi from Monte Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Fort Garland, CO
CAMP CATORI - OFF-GRID IN SACRED NATURE At Camp Catori, we offer an immersive off-grid retreat where you can reconnect with yourself and the land. Set on six sacred acres with sweeping views of the Mt. Blanca Range, our space blends mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness—with a little adventure and fun. Just 30 minutes from the Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls, guests can enjoy hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding. Whether visiting solo, with friends, or hosting a retreat, Camp Catori invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and come home to yourself. ESSENTIALS TO KNOW THIS IS CAMPING - Although we have fabulous amenities for a comfortable experience, this is camping. If you are not a camper do not book. This is not an AIRBNB. Not toddler friendly. OFF-GRID WATER: No well or septic. If you chose the option of running water, six 5-gallon jugs provided to fill nearby. The tank holds 35 gallons. Monitor usage; do not drop below 1/4 full or it may damage the pump. Showers use 1.75 gal/min. Camp style rinse off showers. (Dry cabin Nov–May; no running water during freeze months) TOILET USE: Composting toilet. All guests must watch a 2-minute video and follow instructions. Violation of cabin rules or failure to discard urine in the designated spot incurs a $150 fee. If you’re not comfortable doing this, this may not be the right fit SLEEPING and KITCHEN BEDS: Queen loft, convertible queen second loft (or 2 twins), pull-out sofa (5'10" max). Bring your own sheets or sleeping bags. Pillows and blankets provided KITCHEN: Fridge/freezer, Wonderoven, coffee makers (Nespresso, French press, Italian), all-in-one steamer pan, Dutch oven, propane stove, grill, corkscrew, cooking/eating utensils, plates/bowls, knifes, indoor table (2), outdoor table (6–7), and mountain-view ledge seating (2) INTERNET Hotspot via Solis ($10/day) or use your mobile phone—works well for basic use and streaming MISC: HUGE newly expanded deck, chimenea, telescope, umbrella, outdoor grill, outdoor buckets for washing, TV's, propane heater, fireplace, electric heater, yoga mats (2), extra blankets, binoculors, games Group Camping and Retreats Three cleared campsites (4x4 required) Great for group camping or hosting retreats Contact Catori: 720-474-0779
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$126
 / night
Chinook Cabins & RV Park

8. Chinook Cabins & RV Park

100%
(61)
27mi from Monte Vista · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · South Fork, CO
Our RV Park in South Fork CO has space for 18 R.V.’s. Each site has full hookups with the majority being 50amp service and are oversized so that they can handle any big rig! There is a shower house and laundry facility available for our guests (seasonal). There is more than ample parking and each site is easy to access. Our sites are back off the highway for a more relaxing atmosphere and the view is amazing. We have a community fire pit of which we can roast hot dogs, marshmallows for s’mores and tell all the stories you would like. “What goes on at the Fire Pit stays at the Fire Pit.” Come and join us! We have a lot of fun! South Fork Colorado has all the family fun and challenging terrain you could ever look for. 1000’s of miles of trails to hike and bike. Snowmobile/ATV/UTV and Motorcycle riding multi-use Rio Grande National Forest Service trails and roads. We welcome you with plenty of parking area on site for your trailers to park. The Rio Grande River offers world class fly fishing. There are plenty of lakes and creeks to enjoy also. Wolf Creek Ski Area is just up the road from South Fork, Colorado for all your winter fun downhill skiing and snowboarding. Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing are fun low cost family activities with plenty of terrain to enjoy. Great Sand Dunes National Park is open all year long and is a day trip from South Fork. Enjoy the Sand Dunes National Park, learn how they were formed, hike a dune and try sand boarding. Zapata Falls is a short hike near the Sand Dunes. South Fork Colorado has several other waterfalls nearby to visit, Treasure Falls and South & North Clear Creek falls. You will want to come back year after year to explore all we have to offer.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
The Scott Ranch

9. The Scott Ranch

100%
(4)
22mi from Monte Vista · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · South Fork, CO
Welcome to the Scott Ranch located 10 minutes east of South Fork, CO. Our ranch is easily accessible via a flat, state-maintained road, just seconds off Highway 160. Our family purchased the ranch a couple years ago. We are native Coloradoans who are interested in conservation. The Scott Ranch is a 147 acre, conserved ranch and boasts some of the most beautiful riparian grassland in the valley. We have hundreds of tall cottonwoods bordering 7/10th mile of private, gold medal water on the Rio Grande river. There are literally thousands of species of plants and animals on the property. Come enjoy the incredible sunset views from the firepit perched high above the large pond and be prepared for one the best stargazing experiences in the valley! Please know that we are not an RV park, nor do we want to be. We have only three sites overlooking the lower river corridor. This is intentional because we want your experience to be focused on the beauty of the ranch. The sites are flat and relatively private. Each site is 26x80 (easy pull through) with individual access to power (50 amp, 30 amp and 110 outlet) and water. There is common area that includes a large firepit, small table and charcoal grill for your enjoyment. You also have immediate access to a septic system station next to the sites, at your convenience. The Scott ranch is a working ranch. The lower corridor of the ranch will have livestock (cattle) grazing for several weeks out of the year. (Calving season is adorable!) For insurance reasons, guest access to the lower pastures and river corridor -- defined as any part of the ranch beyond the RV sites -- is only allowed through a separate reservation. If you are interested fly fishing our gold medal waters or simply want to explore the ranch's forest and pastures, please book an RV site first. Access to any part of the ranch beyond RV sites is foot traffic only and 75$ per person per day, unless otherwise arranged. It's first come first serve, limited to one group per day (arranged separately after the RV reservation is paid). Yes, we've allowed riverside camping -- a truly epic experience -- with trust and prior authorization. Fishing is limited to fly rods only. Artificial flies only. Catch and release only.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

14. AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

100%
(24)
18mi from Monte Vista · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging · Capulin, CO
The AIYM Camp serves as a wonderful base camp and Christian Retreat for families wanting to recreate in the Rio Grande National Forest. Cabin rentals and Tent Campsites. You are invited to stay on 185 acres surrounded by beautiful mountains in the Rio Grande National Forest. Escape the crowds and relax in the quiet mountains. Easy Alamosa River access. Close to outdoor adventures; fishing, hiking, biking, atv trail access. Come enjoy a secluded and unforgettable mountain experience! The camp is in a wilderness setting with electricity supplied by a diesel generator that operates from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. No cell service in the canyon but the camp does have a regular phone for special usage and satellite Wi-Fi for $10. The most unique quality is the beauty and cleanliness of the forest. The quiet peaceful atmosphere of the canyon is hard to believe. This is the perfect place for families to unplug, get outside but still have some of the comforts we all enjoy!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your one-stop destination for camping adventures in the United States! If you're a fan of lakes and stunning views, we have over 570 options near Monte Vista, Colorado that will satisfy your wanderlust. Whether you're looking for a lakeside campsite or a cabin with a stunning lake view, we've got you covered. Check out our top campsites like Enchanted Circle Campground (397 reviews), Rabbit Hole Ranch (259 reviews), and The High Desert Ranch Colorado (205 reviews) to get a taste of the best that Monte Vista has to offer. Our campgrounds offer popular amenities such as showers, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay. Plus, with activities like fishing, off-roading, and horseback riding, you'll never run out of things to do. So pack your bags, grab your fishing gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Monte Vista, Colorado!

98% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Rabbit Hole Ranch

1. Rabbit Hole Ranch

94%
(562)
23mi from Monte Vista · 198 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mosca, CO
We are closed for the season. PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY The Rabbit Hole Ranch offers beautiful night skies with little to no light pollution and unobstructed views of the majestic Blanca Massif. The Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls is just a (gorgeous) 35 minute drive. Camping here at the Rabbit Hole Ranch is primitive and dispersed (no numbered sites) and there 30 acres available for you to use. Just follow the signs to the designated area and pick out a spot you like. Some spots have fire rings, some don’t. We are working on getting more, but in the meantime you’re welcome to bring your own. Or feel free to dig out a little hole. It works great and is easy to extinguish when you fill it back in and bury it. Please do not bury any trash. Typically, you will experience a rare kind of solitude and silence that feels…. other-worldly, with incredible sunrises and sunsets filling the enormous skies. On holidays, however, expect it to be busy. Our dogs are working dogs and they are more than happy to help keep you and your pets safe. Please help make their jobs easier by not leaving any food or trash in or around tents. Please keep your pets on leash or under control until you’re comfortably certain they get along with our dogs. And please report any issues promptly. This year we have a new Great Pyrenees to greet you, her name is Boudicca and she’s excited to meet everyone! Returning this season is 12 year old KayLee, also a GP and and Finn, our little dude from Alaska. Quiet time begins at 10:00 pm. Note: Holidays still offer the excellent location and spectacular views, but are likely to be less quiet and far more busy. We typically do not strictly enforce quiet time during holidays.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
High Peaks Campground

2. High Peaks Campground

97%
(774)
36mi from Monte Vista · 22 sites · Tents, RVs · Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the largest Alpine Valley in the world! San Luis Valley is a region in south-central Colorado with a small portion overlapping into New Mexico. The valley is approximately 122 miles long and 74 miles wide, making it the largest alpine valley in the world. It extends from the Continental Divide on the northwest rim into New Mexico on the south. This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. I encourage binoculars or even a telescope to view wildlife and check out the Rockies and then the night sky views! Looking to submerse yourself in nature? The Sangre de Cristo Range in Colorado contains the following 14ers: Blanca Peak, Challenger Point, Crestone Needle, Crestone Peak, Culebra Peak, Ellingwood Point, Humboldt Peak, Kit Carson Peak, Mount Lindsey, and Little Bear Peak. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, even Meteor showers!!! History: this land was originally part of a large cattle ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by BLM land, BACA land, and Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Be sure to bring extra bug spray and protection needed against biting insects such as flies, gnats, and mosquitoes. For those bringing your pets, they MUST be on a leash/lead at all times. While I do not have much cactus on my property, I do have an abundance of greasewood (Chico brush) which is very thorn-like if stepped on. Accommodations for those with livestock or horses, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
Camp Catori

3. Camp Catori

100%
(38)
42mi from Monte Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Fort Garland, CO
CAMP CATORI - OFF-GRID IN SACRED NATURE At Camp Catori, we offer an immersive off-grid retreat where you can reconnect with yourself and the land. Set on six sacred acres with sweeping views of the Mt. Blanca Range, our space blends mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness—with a little adventure and fun. Just 30 minutes from the Great Sand Dunes and Zapata Falls, guests can enjoy hiking, fishing, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding. Whether visiting solo, with friends, or hosting a retreat, Camp Catori invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and come home to yourself. ESSENTIALS TO KNOW THIS IS CAMPING - Although we have fabulous amenities for a comfortable experience, this is camping. If you are not a camper do not book. This is not an AIRBNB. Not toddler friendly. OFF-GRID WATER: No well or septic. If you chose the option of running water, six 5-gallon jugs provided to fill nearby. The tank holds 35 gallons. Monitor usage; do not drop below 1/4 full or it may damage the pump. Showers use 1.75 gal/min. Camp style rinse off showers. (Dry cabin Nov–May; no running water during freeze months) TOILET USE: Composting toilet. All guests must watch a 2-minute video and follow instructions. Violation of cabin rules or failure to discard urine in the designated spot incurs a $150 fee. If you’re not comfortable doing this, this may not be the right fit SLEEPING and KITCHEN BEDS: Queen loft, convertible queen second loft (or 2 twins), pull-out sofa (5'10" max). Bring your own sheets or sleeping bags. Pillows and blankets provided KITCHEN: Fridge/freezer, Wonderoven, coffee makers (Nespresso, French press, Italian), all-in-one steamer pan, Dutch oven, propane stove, grill, corkscrew, cooking/eating utensils, plates/bowls, knifes, indoor table (2), outdoor table (6–7), and mountain-view ledge seating (2) INTERNET Hotspot via Solis ($10/day) or use your mobile phone—works well for basic use and streaming MISC: HUGE newly expanded deck, chimenea, telescope, umbrella, outdoor grill, outdoor buckets for washing, TV's, propane heater, fireplace, electric heater, yoga mats (2), extra blankets, binoculors, games Group Camping and Retreats Three cleared campsites (4x4 required) Great for group camping or hosting retreats Contact Catori: 720-474-0779
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$126
 / night
Chinook Cabins & RV Park

8. Chinook Cabins & RV Park

100%
(61)
27mi from Monte Vista · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · South Fork, CO
Our RV Park in South Fork CO has space for 18 R.V.’s. Each site has full hookups with the majority being 50amp service and are oversized so that they can handle any big rig! There is a shower house and laundry facility available for our guests (seasonal). There is more than ample parking and each site is easy to access. Our sites are back off the highway for a more relaxing atmosphere and the view is amazing. We have a community fire pit of which we can roast hot dogs, marshmallows for s’mores and tell all the stories you would like. “What goes on at the Fire Pit stays at the Fire Pit.” Come and join us! We have a lot of fun! South Fork Colorado has all the family fun and challenging terrain you could ever look for. 1000’s of miles of trails to hike and bike. Snowmobile/ATV/UTV and Motorcycle riding multi-use Rio Grande National Forest Service trails and roads. We welcome you with plenty of parking area on site for your trailers to park. The Rio Grande River offers world class fly fishing. There are plenty of lakes and creeks to enjoy also. Wolf Creek Ski Area is just up the road from South Fork, Colorado for all your winter fun downhill skiing and snowboarding. Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing are fun low cost family activities with plenty of terrain to enjoy. Great Sand Dunes National Park is open all year long and is a day trip from South Fork. Enjoy the Sand Dunes National Park, learn how they were formed, hike a dune and try sand boarding. Zapata Falls is a short hike near the Sand Dunes. South Fork Colorado has several other waterfalls nearby to visit, Treasure Falls and South & North Clear Creek falls. You will want to come back year after year to explore all we have to offer.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$49
 / night
The Scott Ranch

9. The Scott Ranch

100%
(4)
22mi from Monte Vista · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · South Fork, CO
Welcome to the Scott Ranch located 10 minutes east of South Fork, CO. Our ranch is easily accessible via a flat, state-maintained road, just seconds off Highway 160. Our family purchased the ranch a couple years ago. We are native Coloradoans who are interested in conservation. The Scott Ranch is a 147 acre, conserved ranch and boasts some of the most beautiful riparian grassland in the valley. We have hundreds of tall cottonwoods bordering 7/10th mile of private, gold medal water on the Rio Grande river. There are literally thousands of species of plants and animals on the property. Come enjoy the incredible sunset views from the firepit perched high above the large pond and be prepared for one the best stargazing experiences in the valley! Please know that we are not an RV park, nor do we want to be. We have only three sites overlooking the lower river corridor. This is intentional because we want your experience to be focused on the beauty of the ranch. The sites are flat and relatively private. Each site is 26x80 (easy pull through) with individual access to power (50 amp, 30 amp and 110 outlet) and water. There is common area that includes a large firepit, small table and charcoal grill for your enjoyment. You also have immediate access to a septic system station next to the sites, at your convenience. The Scott ranch is a working ranch. The lower corridor of the ranch will have livestock (cattle) grazing for several weeks out of the year. (Calving season is adorable!) For insurance reasons, guest access to the lower pastures and river corridor -- defined as any part of the ranch beyond the RV sites -- is only allowed through a separate reservation. If you are interested fly fishing our gold medal waters or simply want to explore the ranch's forest and pastures, please book an RV site first. Access to any part of the ranch beyond RV sites is foot traffic only and 75$ per person per day, unless otherwise arranged. It's first come first serve, limited to one group per day (arranged separately after the RV reservation is paid). Yes, we've allowed riverside camping -- a truly epic experience -- with trust and prior authorization. Fishing is limited to fly rods only. Artificial flies only. Catch and release only.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

14. AIYM Camp Riverfront Duplex Cabin!

100%
(24)
18mi from Monte Vista · 32 sites · Tents, Lodging · Capulin, CO
The AIYM Camp serves as a wonderful base camp and Christian Retreat for families wanting to recreate in the Rio Grande National Forest. Cabin rentals and Tent Campsites. You are invited to stay on 185 acres surrounded by beautiful mountains in the Rio Grande National Forest. Escape the crowds and relax in the quiet mountains. Easy Alamosa River access. Close to outdoor adventures; fishing, hiking, biking, atv trail access. Come enjoy a secluded and unforgettable mountain experience! The camp is in a wilderness setting with electricity supplied by a diesel generator that operates from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. No cell service in the canyon but the camp does have a regular phone for special usage and satellite Wi-Fi for $10. The most unique quality is the beauty and cleanliness of the forest. The quiet peaceful atmosphere of the canyon is hard to believe. This is the perfect place for families to unplug, get outside but still have some of the comforts we all enjoy!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Monte Vista

Stories from the community

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Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field