Discover the best private campgrounds near Monument, Colorado

United States
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Colorado
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Monument

97% (261 reviews)

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Mountain View Near Eleven Mile

1 site · RV6 acres · Hartsel, CO

Learn more about this land:An expansive view on this quiet 6 acre site with the shade of trees. Great for stargazing at night. Close to Spinney Mountain State Park, Eleven Mile State Park and Antero Reservoir, thus good for for camping, hiking, hunting or fishing. Cul-de-sac so no traffic and ride your 4-wheelers and dirt bikes right off the site.EZ drive from Denver and Colorado SpringsGood for tents, cars, and RVsUp to 12 personsSite Address: 449 Dudley Dr, Hartsel, CO 80449- 2 hours from Denver via 285- 1 hour 30 minutes from Colorado Springs- 33 minutes to Eleven Mile State Park- 30 minutes to Spinney Mountain State Park- 20 minutes to downtown Hartsel - 30 minutes to Antero Reservoir South ShoreNote: there is a non-working Water Well in the center of the site as shown in the picture

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Camp Lake View

1 site · RV, Tent38 acres · Guffey, CO

Learn more about this land:This camp site is directly across the road from Eleven Mile Reservoir. With this site being around 3000 feet from the reservoir you will be able to enjoy all the amazing views and amenities the reservoir has to offer without the crowded camp grounds. You will need a park pass to access the reservoir but not to camp on the land. A 1/4 mile down the road is access to nation forest for going off road or get a parks pass and fish at one of the many amazing fisheries in the area like Eleven mile, Spinney and Eleven mile canyon. The south shore boat ramp is less than 4 miles away. This area does get windy so be careful setting up awnings and pop up tents or anything the wind likes to blow away. The site has a slight pitch but leveling out your camper should be relatively easy. No trees on the land to block your 360 degree mountain views.

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Hamann Acres for RV or Camping

1 site · Tent20 acres · Florissant, CO

Picturesque 20 acres with views in nearly all directions of multiple mountains and ranges. Most areas of property have stunning views of nothing but mountains and trees as far as the eye can see. Very quiet area in Bear Trap Ranch. Relatively level spot for camping and/or parking an RV available. No hookups available - completely off-grid. Would also recommend only a raised RV and nothing beyond 30 feet long - path from road up to the level area is not paved. We drive it with an RV that is slightly raised going slowly. Our 2021 EPro 20BHS (about 23 feet long) with the off road package after removing our WDH works well. For camping, bring your own bags for portable toilet seat that is provided. Kitchen size 13 gallon bags work - preferably composting bags to then place in a regular bag to take with you. You must take all garbage with you including excrement bags upon completion of your trip. Be bear aware - it is called "Bear Trap Ranch." Bring bear spray, do no leave any food or wrappers anywhere unsealed including in open vehicles. While we have never seen a bear on our property, it's possible that will change at any time. We have heard a coyote pack in the night. Again, we have not seen them on our property, but be aware if you bring pets not to allow them to wander. There is almost always a fire ban. Do not plan on a camp fire. Gas fire pits and gas grills are ok - just please be careful! Explore nearby fishing/hiking/rock climbing at Eleven Mile Canyon, swimming at Guffey Gorge/Paradise Cove, hiking/exploring Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, and much more hiking/ATVing/and exploring nearby. Near Cripple Creek, Canon City, Guffey. Beautiful 1.5 hour drive from Colorado Springs up the pass through Woodland Park, Divide, Florissant, and through Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Verizon signal - at the top of the "driveway" once you are on the property there is intermittently a signal enough to get an email, phone call, or text. There is not typically a signal otherwise. I would not expect to have any other carrier signal on the property. Off-grid experience for true relaxation.

Lone Pine Mine

1 site · Tent7 acres · Westcreek, CO

The Lone Pine Feldspar Quarry is a feldspar mine located in Douglas county, Colorado at an elevation of 8,638 feet. It is right off the Missouri Gulch OHV Trail. With plenty of space for Camping and access to ATV trails. Surrounded by the Pike National Forest. The property has a 40 foot open face rock wall. With an incredible view.

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Blue Mountain Ranch

1 site · RV80 acres · Florissant, CO

Learn more about this land: Blue Mountain Ranch is a summer camp for kids and is a Park County Land-marked Historic District. We are in a little valley at the base of Blue Mountain. We are currently offering one dry camping location next to our lake. You are asked to stay away from our buildings, equipment and other camp facilities. No tent campers.

12 top campgrounds near Monument

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(5)

Lone Pine Mine

1 site · Tent7 acres · Westcreek, CO

The Lone Pine Feldspar Quarry is a feldspar mine located in Douglas county, Colorado at an elevation of 8,638 feet. It is right off the Missouri Gulch OHV Trail. With plenty of space for Camping and access to ATV trails. Surrounded by the Pike National Forest. The property has a 40 foot open face rock wall. With an incredible view.

The Black Forest Boho Glamper

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Colorado Springs, CO

We have 7 acres in Black Forest Colorado, just 15 minutes north of Colorado Springs. 1/2 hour away from many tourists destinations. The back 4 acres of our property is a Ponderosa pine forest. You will be located in our 27' keystone bunkhouse camper behind our barn. Sleeps 4-6 people plus 3 if children. Enjoy our sheep and goats in the barnyard.

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(8)

Tree House Magic @ Houses High Treesort

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Elizabeth, CO

NO MATTER THE SEASON, Sun, Rain or Snow!! Escape the city and find this magical off-grid treasure. Treehouse Magic sits on an 80-acre horse ranch 6476 feet above Sealevel (+ 20 feet for the treehouse!!) LOL We have large Ponderosa Pine trees as well as views of the mountains from the South 40, where guests will find the Relax Shack (upon request, we offer coffee, tea or hot chocolate) on Saturday and Sunday mornings.... Hosts MUST check you in as this is an off-grid treehouse and there are things you need to know. Check-in time is between 4 and 6 pm- Once you are booked and we share phone information, we will have you text us when you reach the Elizabeth Safeway grocery store so that we can head to the treehouse to meet you. If you would like to get a jump start on this process, you can get on Youtube and go to Houses High Treesort Instructional and see 30-second or fewer videos! Nobody other than registered guests are to be on the property or at Treehouse. Located on a horse ranch in the heart of Elizabeth, Colorado, 6476 feet + 20 feet above sea level. We are located 50 Minutes to Denver, 20 Minutes to Parker and Castle Rock, 50 Minutes to Colorado Springs, and 1 hour to DIA. Built by hand, with love, and a little help from our friends over a 4-year period. Treehouse Magic is built around PAL an over 80-year-old Ponderosa Pine. This wonderful space is magical in every way! Only 300 sq. feet with an almost 1100 sq. foot deck, including the gnome room. The upstairs bedroom is a full mattress (14" gel mattress). There is also a fold-out couch to sleep 1 (must fold bed stairs and put it under the bed). The main level couch will fold down and become another bed platform. We provide a CordaRoys transformable chair, that unzips and becomes the bed topper (plus extra sheets, blankets and pillows). Some of the kid guests like to sleep in the Cabana room in the "pop-up" tent and cots! We provide a "smart movie projector" with built-in ROKU, for a movie night...The outdoor kitchen includes a PitBoss pellet smoker/grill and there is also a charcoal grill on the ground level. The kitchen has a 2-burner gas stove and a small refrigerator. The bathroom has a Nature's Head composting toilet... (a little tutorial is needed) a sink and a trough step-in tub/shower with rain head. Wifi- Roku on inside TV as well, PS4 PlayStation with 31 games! Lots of DVDs or...just the calm of beautiful nature! When you wake... you will wake to a surprise in the yard! Unless you are visiting with dogs... Sssssssh! It's a surprise! Every detail was thought of. A MUST-TRY EXPERIENCE! *Absolutely NO candles or open fires, please!! There is a propane firepit. Maximum of 2 dogs. $40 per dog. Additional rules apply for dog guests and must be cleared with the host prior. Please pick up after your dogs, there are poo-poo bags provided in Treehouse. Please do not leave the dogs unattended EVER in the treehouse, on the deck or in the yard. At checkout please leave all used linens and towels as well as jackery and lanterns that need charging and the urinals for cleaning at the bottom of the stairs. There is a $73/ a night charge for any additional guest over 4 that is cleared with host. Maximum guests of 6 during Summer months. For overflow or additional space, check out Candyland Camper. Cleaning fee is $100

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Little Rest Ranch

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Sedalia, CO

This camp is set on our personal property with 5.5 acres connected to national forests it is 20 minutes away from town and 17 minutes away from some of the best trout fishing in the state. On our property we have a mini farm with chickens, sheep horses and three curious dogs. You will hear the sheep calling for breakfast. This camp overlooks the lower section of the property where the cows and horse room. You can walk right off the property to explore the beautiful national forest. There is a moderate trail of 2.5 miles , or you can explore beyond. We are so close to the oh trails located at the front of our neighborhood.

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(31)

Camp Kan-Ne-Ga

1 site · Lodging26 acres · 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. Campsite equipped w/ sun shower and camp toilet. Please note, this is a tent site only with no access for camper trailers.

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Green Acres Herbal Retreat

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Florissant, CO

Learn more about this land: Private room fully furnished, kitchen & bath, attached to large greenhouse with organic vegetables (seasonal), with access to herb shop, enclosed communal courtyard sitting area with fire pit, water features and mountainous views. Close to tourist attractions and outdoor activities. Guided hikes and herbal workshop available upon request as time allows. This listing is not suitable for children under 10 years of age.

Crystal peak overlook tent stay

2 sites · Lodging18 acres · Florissant, CO

Perched on top of a hill with breathtaking views of Crystal Peak, this tent is everything you need for an unforgettable getaway. The property offers lots of hiking and exploring. Nearby amenities such as a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, and grocery store are just a 2-minute car ride away. As well as all the activities such as fishing, tubing, hiking, off-roading, disc golfing, and cliff jumping Guffey Cove. This stay is truly a unique experience!

Highboy Ranch

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Bailey, CO

The property is 45 minutes south of Denver on 285 and about 4 miles off of 285. There is a gas station and Dollar General at the intersection of 285. The property sits on 5 acres set back off of the road. Surrounded by trees and natural rock formations. Our house is also on the property but you will have plenty of privacy. Great views of Pikes Peek. Nearby fishing in world class water. 30 inch fish typically caught. Near by hiking. Bear by off roading. Near by rock crawling. Near by hot tub.

Camp Lake View

1 site · RV, Tent38 acres · Guffey, CO

Learn more about this land:This camp site is directly across the road from Eleven Mile Reservoir. With this site being around 3000 feet from the reservoir you will be able to enjoy all the amazing views and amenities the reservoir has to offer without the crowded camp grounds. You will need a park pass to access the reservoir but not to camp on the land. A 1/4 mile down the road is access to nation forest for going off road or get a parks pass and fish at one of the many amazing fisheries in the area like Eleven mile, Spinney and Eleven mile canyon. The south shore boat ramp is less than 4 miles away. This area does get windy so be careful setting up awnings and pop up tents or anything the wind likes to blow away. The site has a slight pitch but leveling out your camper should be relatively easy. No trees on the land to block your 360 degree mountain views.

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Mountain-Life Camping @ Pike's Peak

4 sites · Lodging25 acres · Divide, CO

Enjoy camping in the mountains on the backside of Pike's Peak with our Treehouse, your own tent, have us set up and break down ours for you, or enjoy our fully setup "Glamping" site which includes a large canvas cabin tent and MUCH more! You will be close to all the mountains have to offer! A little slice of heaven in the mountains for your campsite which is close to many local and tourist popular destinations! Less than a mile to Mueller State Park, just over 3 miles to Trailhead of Pike's Peak, 5 miles to Horsethief Park Trailhead, short distance to Cripple Creek, and not far from many other popular locations in the area!

Tempest Sanctuary

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · Fairplay, CO

This fun and romantic place to stay offers a history all its own. Located in the heart of Colorado, WonderLust is a perfect getaway, fun family weekend stay, group camping trip on property camp site, photo shoot location and more. Enjoy the surrounding areas hiking, fishing, local restaurants, shops and more. This location is off grid. Solar power is available, outdoor fire pit, small kitchenette inside with a composting toilet. Pets are welcomed.

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Royal Gorge Private Camp

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Canon City, CO

Enjoy views of the Royal Gorge Bridge from this 3 acre property that is also close to plenty of outdoor adventures such as white water rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, hiking, jeep tours, and more. This land has 360 degree views so you can enjoy the sunrise or sunset - whichever you fancy!Please no parties. Follow local fire ban ordinances. Smokers must dispose of cigarettes immediately after smoking - no butts on the ground please.

Dog-friendly getaways

90%

(5)

Lone Pine Mine

1 site · Tent7 acres · Westcreek, CO

The Lone Pine Feldspar Quarry is a feldspar mine located in Douglas county, Colorado at an elevation of 8,638 feet. It is right off the Missouri Gulch OHV Trail. With plenty of space for Camping and access to ATV trails. Surrounded by the Pike National Forest. The property has a 40 foot open face rock wall. With an incredible view.

The Black Forest Boho Glamper

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Colorado Springs, CO

We have 7 acres in Black Forest Colorado, just 15 minutes north of Colorado Springs. 1/2 hour away from many tourists destinations. The back 4 acres of our property is a Ponderosa pine forest. You will be located in our 27' keystone bunkhouse camper behind our barn. Sleeps 4-6 people plus 3 if children. Enjoy our sheep and goats in the barnyard.

Camp Kan-Ne-Ga

1 site · Lodging26 acres · 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. Campsite equipped w/ sun shower and camp toilet. Please note, this is a tent site only with no access for camper trailers.

Crystal peak overlook tent stay

2 sites · Lodging18 acres · Florissant, CO

Perched on top of a hill with breathtaking views of Crystal Peak, this tent is everything you need for an unforgettable getaway. The property offers lots of hiking and exploring. Nearby amenities such as a coffee shop, bar, restaurant, and grocery store are just a 2-minute car ride away. As well as all the activities such as fishing, tubing, hiking, off-roading, disc golfing, and cliff jumping Guffey Cove. This stay is truly a unique experience!

Tree House Magic @ Houses High Treesort

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Elizabeth, CO

NO MATTER THE SEASON, Sun, Rain or Snow!! Escape the city and find this magical off-grid treasure. Treehouse Magic sits on an 80-acre horse ranch 6476 feet above Sealevel (+ 20 feet for the treehouse!!) LOL We have large Ponderosa Pine trees as well as views of the mountains from the South 40, where guests will find the Relax Shack (upon request, we offer coffee, tea or hot chocolate) on Saturday and Sunday mornings.... Hosts MUST check you in as this is an off-grid treehouse and there are things you need to know. Check-in time is between 4 and 6 pm- Once you are booked and we share phone information, we will have you text us when you reach the Elizabeth Safeway grocery store so that we can head to the treehouse to meet you. If you would like to get a jump start on this process, you can get on Youtube and go to Houses High Treesort Instructional and see 30-second or fewer videos! Nobody other than registered guests are to be on the property or at Treehouse. Located on a horse ranch in the heart of Elizabeth, Colorado, 6476 feet + 20 feet above sea level. We are located 50 Minutes to Denver, 20 Minutes to Parker and Castle Rock, 50 Minutes to Colorado Springs, and 1 hour to DIA. Built by hand, with love, and a little help from our friends over a 4-year period. Treehouse Magic is built around PAL an over 80-year-old Ponderosa Pine. This wonderful space is magical in every way! Only 300 sq. feet with an almost 1100 sq. foot deck, including the gnome room. The upstairs bedroom is a full mattress (14" gel mattress). There is also a fold-out couch to sleep 1 (must fold bed stairs and put it under the bed). The main level couch will fold down and become another bed platform. We provide a CordaRoys transformable chair, that unzips and becomes the bed topper (plus extra sheets, blankets and pillows). Some of the kid guests like to sleep in the Cabana room in the "pop-up" tent and cots! We provide a "smart movie projector" with built-in ROKU, for a movie night...The outdoor kitchen includes a PitBoss pellet smoker/grill and there is also a charcoal grill on the ground level. The kitchen has a 2-burner gas stove and a small refrigerator. The bathroom has a Nature's Head composting toilet... (a little tutorial is needed) a sink and a trough step-in tub/shower with rain head. Wifi- Roku on inside TV as well, PS4 PlayStation with 31 games! Lots of DVDs or...just the calm of beautiful nature! When you wake... you will wake to a surprise in the yard! Unless you are visiting with dogs... Sssssssh! It's a surprise! Every detail was thought of. A MUST-TRY EXPERIENCE! *Absolutely NO candles or open fires, please!! There is a propane firepit. Maximum of 2 dogs. $40 per dog. Additional rules apply for dog guests and must be cleared with the host prior. Please pick up after your dogs, there are poo-poo bags provided in Treehouse. Please do not leave the dogs unattended EVER in the treehouse, on the deck or in the yard. At checkout please leave all used linens and towels as well as jackery and lanterns that need charging and the urinals for cleaning at the bottom of the stairs. There is a $73/ a night charge for any additional guest over 4 that is cleared with host. Maximum guests of 6 during Summer months. For overflow or additional space, check out Candyland Camper. Cleaning fee is $100

Star Hosts in Monument

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(5)

The Black Forest Boho Glamper

1 site · Lodging7 acres · Colorado Springs, CO

We have 7 acres in Black Forest Colorado, just 15 minutes north of Colorado Springs. 1/2 hour away from many tourists destinations. The back 4 acres of our property is a Ponderosa pine forest. You will be located in our 27' keystone bunkhouse camper behind our barn. Sleeps 4-6 people plus 3 if children. Enjoy our sheep and goats in the barnyard.

Green Acres Herbal Retreat

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Florissant, CO

Learn more about this land: Private room fully furnished, kitchen & bath, attached to large greenhouse with organic vegetables (seasonal), with access to herb shop, enclosed communal courtyard sitting area with fire pit, water features and mountainous views. Close to tourist attractions and outdoor activities. Guided hikes and herbal workshop available upon request as time allows. This listing is not suitable for children under 10 years of age.

Tree House Magic @ Houses High Treesort

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Elizabeth, CO

NO MATTER THE SEASON, Sun, Rain or Snow!! Escape the city and find this magical off-grid treasure. Treehouse Magic sits on an 80-acre horse ranch 6476 feet above Sealevel (+ 20 feet for the treehouse!!) LOL We have large Ponderosa Pine trees as well as views of the mountains from the South 40, where guests will find the Relax Shack (upon request, we offer coffee, tea or hot chocolate) on Saturday and Sunday mornings.... Hosts MUST check you in as this is an off-grid treehouse and there are things you need to know. Check-in time is between 4 and 6 pm- Once you are booked and we share phone information, we will have you text us when you reach the Elizabeth Safeway grocery store so that we can head to the treehouse to meet you. If you would like to get a jump start on this process, you can get on Youtube and go to Houses High Treesort Instructional and see 30-second or fewer videos! Nobody other than registered guests are to be on the property or at Treehouse. Located on a horse ranch in the heart of Elizabeth, Colorado, 6476 feet + 20 feet above sea level. We are located 50 Minutes to Denver, 20 Minutes to Parker and Castle Rock, 50 Minutes to Colorado Springs, and 1 hour to DIA. Built by hand, with love, and a little help from our friends over a 4-year period. Treehouse Magic is built around PAL an over 80-year-old Ponderosa Pine. This wonderful space is magical in every way! Only 300 sq. feet with an almost 1100 sq. foot deck, including the gnome room. The upstairs bedroom is a full mattress (14" gel mattress). There is also a fold-out couch to sleep 1 (must fold bed stairs and put it under the bed). The main level couch will fold down and become another bed platform. We provide a CordaRoys transformable chair, that unzips and becomes the bed topper (plus extra sheets, blankets and pillows). Some of the kid guests like to sleep in the Cabana room in the "pop-up" tent and cots! We provide a "smart movie projector" with built-in ROKU, for a movie night...The outdoor kitchen includes a PitBoss pellet smoker/grill and there is also a charcoal grill on the ground level. The kitchen has a 2-burner gas stove and a small refrigerator. The bathroom has a Nature's Head composting toilet... (a little tutorial is needed) a sink and a trough step-in tub/shower with rain head. Wifi- Roku on inside TV as well, PS4 PlayStation with 31 games! Lots of DVDs or...just the calm of beautiful nature! When you wake... you will wake to a surprise in the yard! Unless you are visiting with dogs... Sssssssh! It's a surprise! Every detail was thought of. A MUST-TRY EXPERIENCE! *Absolutely NO candles or open fires, please!! There is a propane firepit. Maximum of 2 dogs. $40 per dog. Additional rules apply for dog guests and must be cleared with the host prior. Please pick up after your dogs, there are poo-poo bags provided in Treehouse. Please do not leave the dogs unattended EVER in the treehouse, on the deck or in the yard. At checkout please leave all used linens and towels as well as jackery and lanterns that need charging and the urinals for cleaning at the bottom of the stairs. There is a $73/ a night charge for any additional guest over 4 that is cleared with host. Maximum guests of 6 during Summer months. For overflow or additional space, check out Candyland Camper. Cleaning fee is $100

Little Rest Ranch

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Sedalia, CO

This camp is set on our personal property with 5.5 acres connected to national forests it is 20 minutes away from town and 17 minutes away from some of the best trout fishing in the state. On our property we have a mini farm with chickens, sheep horses and three curious dogs. You will hear the sheep calling for breakfast. This camp overlooks the lower section of the property where the cows and horse room. You can walk right off the property to explore the beautiful national forest. There is a moderate trail of 2.5 miles , or you can explore beyond. We are so close to the oh trails located at the front of our neighborhood.

Camp Kan-Ne-Ga

1 site · Lodging26 acres · 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. Campsite equipped w/ sun shower and camp toilet. Please note, this is a tent site only with no access for camper trailers.

Private camping near Monument guide

Overview

Monument, CO is a gateway to outdoor adventures. Sitting about 50 miles south of Denver and 20 miles north of Colorado Springs, Monument offers easy access to some of the best urban amenities as well as forests and mountains in the state. Year-round options for camping in tents, cabins, and RVs surround the area. And natural attractions like San Isabel and Pike National Forests offer extensive hiking trails along some of the most iconic fourteeners (mountain peaks that have an elevation of at least 14,000 feet), as well. Anglers may want to try Lake Pueblo State Park, which delivers the perfect spot for fishing and water sports.

Where to go

San Isabel National Forest

West of Monument sits San Isabel National Forest. Encompassing over 1,750 square miles and containing 19 of the state’s fourteeners, it’s a dream for hikers and mountain climbers. The forest features nearly 800 miles of hiking trails through meadows, forest passes, and six designated wilderness areas. Turquoise Lake Recreation Area is the most popular developed camping area, with seven campgrounds that feature flush toilets and a centrally located dump station. Twin Lakes Recreation Area is also popular among anglers and boaters, thanks to a convenient boat ramp and campsites right along the shoreline.

Pike National Forest

Just west of Monument, Pike National Forest covers about 1,730-square-miles and contains natural gems like Pikes Peak, Kenosha Pass, and the Continental Divide. Devil’s Head Lookout is also a must-see spot that includes a 2.8-mile trail through a forest of pine and aspen trees. It culminates in 143 steps up to a U.S. Forest Service fire lookout tower for a 360-degree view. Hipcampers can choose from dozens of serviced campgrounds for tent and RV camping in the forest as well as rustic log and modern two-story cabins.

Lake Pueblo State Park

About an hour south of Monument sits Lake Pueblo State Park, which encompasses about 10,000 acres of land, including 60 miles of shoreline around Lake Pueblo. Lake Pueblo is a hot spot for fishing, bringing anglers from all over to catch bass, catfish, rainbow trout, carp, and a dozen other fish species. The lake is also perfect for swimming, kayaking, and tubing. On land, find miles of hiking trails that wind through 200-year-old juniper trees to the Arkansas River. The park also has 393 campsites with picnic tables, paved parking, and fire pits. Arkansas Point and Northern Plains Campgrounds have electricity, along with showers, flush toilets, playgrounds, and dump stations. These sites fill up on weekends between Labor Day and Memorial Day, so reserve spots early.

When to go

Monument is most popular during warmer months, particularly from Labor Day to Memorial Day. July is the warmest month with average highs around 86°F. However, anglers should head to Lake Pueblo during spawning season in March and April for prime fishing. Snowsporters should check out the area in winter, when parks open designated snowmobile routes and cross-country skiing trails along with downhill skiing and snowboarding slopes. December can get frigid, with an average high of 40°F, but cold-weather campsites are available.