Lake Camping Near Olathe, Colorado, US: 12 Best Lake Campsites 2026

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Olathe, Colorado, Hipcamp has over 424 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, staying in a cabin, or sleeping in a tipi, there's something for every camping style. With top campsites like Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), The Views at Gateway (243 reviews), and Bright Star Campground (211 reviews), you can trust that you're in for a great experience. And with popular activities like paddling, snow sports, and biking, you'll never run out of things to do. Plus, amenities such as cooking equipment, campfires, and trash facilities are available to make your camping trip hassle-free. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the great outdoors of Olathe, Colorado!

94% (725)

Top-rated campgrounds near Olathe

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Olathe, Colorado, Hipcamp has over 424 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, staying in a cabin, or sleeping in a tipi, there's something for every camping style. With top campsites like Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), The Views at Gateway (243 reviews), and Bright Star Campground (211 reviews), you can trust that you're in for a great experience. And with popular activities like paddling, snow sports, and biking, you'll never run out of things to do. Plus, amenities such as cooking equipment, campfires, and trash facilities are available to make your camping trip hassle-free. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the great outdoors of Olathe, Colorado!

94% (725)

Top-rated campgrounds near Olathe

1. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

97%

(281)

21mi from Olathe · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

North Rim of Black Canyon National Park has re-opened. Hot showers and toilets! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries.  Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.

2. Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

94%

(701)

40mi from Olathe · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away. The first two pets are included at no additional cost. For any additional pets beyond the first two, there is a fee of $10 per pet, per night. Please make sure to add the Pet fee extra accordingly.

3. Stephens Ranch

96%

(47)

47mi from Olathe · 1 site · Lodging

Jake Stephens Performance Horses is a working horse ranch. It's located in Glade Park, Colorado, which you have to travel through the Colorado National Monument and a Red Rock Tunnel to get to. The 70-acre ranch is located in the middle of the funnest and most beautiful places on the planet. Activities include horseback riding through the mountains, canoeing on one of the reservoirs, mountain biking one of the numerous trails, hiking to see some of the most awesome wildlife anywhere, or just camping in one of the cabins or tent camping on the side of a beautiful Red Rock canyon. There's not a cooler place to stay. Learn more about this land:Come stay in one of our two Colorado cozy cabins. They both have wood burning stoves, cable TV and microwaves, and are very unique. The larger cabin now has a  finished bathroom complete with a very unique all rock shower,  and kitchen,  We offer a sunset horseback ride in the mountains or a private horse riding lesson in our arena or round pen, or you can go on a mountain bike ride on Red Rock to Rattlesnake Arches (which is the largest collection of arches in the world, besides the Utah delicate arches), above the ranch on a beautiful aspen-covered alpine trail by the reservoirs, or go on a hike anywhere! Or just sleep in! In a very private cabin or a tent on the lower property that you can pitch by a beautiful 100 ft Red Rock canyon and seasonal waterfall!  

4. Uncompahgre National Forest

85%

(23)

228 sites · Ophir, Colorado

Head to wild western Colorado to truly get away from it all.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Grand Mesa National Forest

87%

(23)

316 sites · Cedaredge, Colorado

Escape to a high elevation forest brimming with lakes, trails, and scenic views.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Colorado Magic School Bus 🚍🌲☀️

23mi from Olathe · 1 site · Lodging

🐉🚍The Magic School Bus at Dragonsong Sanctuary Off-Grid Skoolie Stay | Family-Friendly Mountain Bus on 40 Acres Tucked into a peaceful juniper and pinion forest on 40 private acres in the Colorado mountains. Just 25 minutes from the Grand Mesa’s 500 square miles of wilderness and over 300 alpine lakes, this one-of-a-kind stay offers an unforgettable off-grid experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. You’ll be staying just steps away from hiking trails and wide-open skies perfect for stargazing, meteor showers, or simply unwinding. We are a family of five living on-site, and we’ve created this space to be kid-friendly, safe, and welcoming. Whether you’re looking for adventure or downtime, you’ll find both here. Nearby Attractions: • 10 minutes to Cedaredge: galleries, parks, live music, and amazing eats • 25 minutes to Grand Mesa: fishing, kayaking, hiking, and paddleboarding • 1 hour to the Black Canyon and local wineries in Paonia and Palisade • Under 2 hours to hot springs, ski areas, and historic mountain towns Dragonsong Sanctuary is a place of peace, presence, and connection. All guests are invited to embrace the magic of mountain life with respect and reverence. Come stay, play, and reconnect—with nature, your loved ones, and yourself. Guided meditations, Guided hikes, Women’s health consultations available just ask for pricing! 💗

7. Oasis RV Resort

89%

(33)

48mi from Olathe · 104 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled beside Colorado’s expansive Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in the state, our location offers unparalleled access to serene waters and breathtaking views. Our Gunnison Lakeside Oasis Vacation Cottages offer a range of sizes and sleeping capacities, with a two-night minimum stay requirement. Each cottage includes restroom facilities, including a shower. Options include two-bedroom cottages, 12×12 and 12×16 cottages with or without covered porches, and even a 1960 Retro Trailer. Enjoy your stay close to the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir! Discover the exceptional amenities at Oasis RV Resort and Cottages where modern comforts meet the tranquility of nature. Equiped with fiber optic internet, stay connected to the world while surrounded by the serene beauty of our natural surroundings.

8. CampV Colorado

97%

(45)

42mi from Olathe · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Inspired Shelter for the Spirited Wanderer CampV was established in 1942 by the Vanadium Corporation to house the engineers who worked in the uranium mines outside of Naturita, Colorado. In 2020, this historic gem was restored by StudioVille Crew to welcome wanderers to a remote and scenic corner of SW Colorado. Discover your Wild without the crowds. Beautiful with a tiny bit of dirt under the fingernails and 120 acres to explore, travelers can sleep well in one of the newly reimagined historic cabins, glamping tents, Jupes, airstreams or river front camping. Through our arts non-profit WEarts, explorers can experience our curated art and support art and creative programming in a rural community. When you’re ready for a mission, check out Planet V, our annual arts and music gathering over Memorial Day and prepare to lift off.

9. Kiser Creek Cabins LLC

100%

(10)

27mi from Olathe · 5 sites · Lodging

7 quaint and rustic cabins located on 4 acres next to the majestic Grand Mesa.  Quiet and relaxing venue lying in an Aspen ForestLearn more about this land:Surrounded by Aspen Trees. Beautiful views of the West Elk mountains. Over 300 lakes to fish on. Hiking trails. ATV trails. Gunnison River is 12 miles south of camp. Abundant wildlife to watch all over the Grand Mesa.

10. Gunnison National Forest

96%

(37)

423 sites · Crested Butte, Colorado

Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Curecanti National Recreation Area

100%

(2)

158 sites · Gunnison, Colorado

Nestled high in the mountains west of Colorado Springs is a boater's paradise.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Vega State Park

100%

(1)

109 sites · Collbran, Colorado

Enjoy the outdoors all year long at this high-elevation state park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Paonia State Park

13 sites · Marble, Colorado

Paddle or water ski amongst the wildflowers at this low-key state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Colorado River Animal Sanctuary

95%

(65)

40mi from Olathe · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

One of a kind property on the Colorado River in the middle of wine country. Animal sanctuary w Alpaca, Goats, Pigs, mini Horses, Peacocks, Chickens, Dogs, That all free range the property. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the best of Western Colorado the views, stars secluded quietness in nature yet 5 miles from all the city conveniences Electric 15 amp; water hookups & along the Colorado River on a private animal sanctuary. We allow tents, vans, small rvs & small campers. This is a very exclusive property and location. There is also a large lake for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding for our guest use. This spot is on a private beach shared w our family friends and guest on the Colorado river Sorry no dogs allowed

15. Colorado river Airstream

91%

(11)

40mi from Olathe · 1 site · Lodging

Animal sanctuary farm w alpaca, dogs, goats, pigs, mini horses, chickens, peacocks. Located on the beach of the Colorado river. Large 2 acre lake to fish, paddle board, kayak, canoe or swim. All the animals are rescues that are now pets that you can hand feed and interact with they all love attention and food.

16. Basecamp 550

93%

(7)

36mi from Olathe · 2 sites

This little campground was originally developed in the 1970s but the Weber Ranchers.  It was built with small sites and big views in mind. We're giving this old campground a facelift little by little and adding unique lodging options for our guests. Hope you enjoy!

17. Blue Mesa Outpost

38mi from Olathe · 33 sites

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where every accommodation offers breathtaking views of the stunning Blue Mesa Reservoir and the majestic Rocky Mountains in Gunnison, Colorado. Our RV sites are designed for your comfort, with 10 pull-through options that face the reservoir or mesa. Each site is 25 feet wide and ranges from 75 to 80 feet in length. For those seeking a cozy retreat, our one-bedroom cabins accommodate four to six guests and provide picturesque overlooks of the reservoir. Additionally, we offer convenient propane fills and bottle exchanges right on site. Blue Mesa Reservoir is renowned for its exceptional trout and salmon fishing, making it a prime destination for anglers. Located just one mile from boat ramps, Blue Mesa Outpost is perfectly situated for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find us at 940 Cove Road, Gunnison, Colorado 81230, just 25 miles west of downtown Gunnison and 35 miles east of Montrose. We are conveniently located off Highway 50, between mile markers 131 and 132, making it easy to access nearby attractions and activities. Enjoy the beauty of nature while creating unforgettable memories at our campground!

18. Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground

45mi from Olathe · 6 sites

Experience the unique blend of camping and water sports at Colorado's largest body of water, located near Gunnison in Western Colorado. Blue Mesa Reservoir offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure, featuring 20 miles of pristine water and over 96 miles of scenic shoreline, perfect for paddling and exploration. Nestled within the Curecanti National Recreation Area, this destination boasts two full-service marinas—Elk Creek Marina and Lake Fork Marina—along with the renowned Pappy’s Restaurant, which provides stunning views of the reservoir. The surrounding Gunnison County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, gold medal trout fishing, and a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, your next unforgettable experience awaits at Blue Mesa Reservoir!

Camper favorites near Olathe

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Kiser Creek Cabins LLC

100%

(10)

27mi from Olathe · 5 sites · Lodging

7 quaint and rustic cabins located on 4 acres next to the majestic Grand Mesa.  Quiet and relaxing venue lying in an Aspen ForestLearn more about this land:Surrounded by Aspen Trees. Beautiful views of the West Elk mountains. Over 300 lakes to fish on. Hiking trails. ATV trails. Gunnison River is 12 miles south of camp. Abundant wildlife to watch all over the Grand Mesa.

Colorado River Animal Sanctuary

95%

(65)

40mi from Olathe · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

One of a kind property on the Colorado River in the middle of wine country. Animal sanctuary w Alpaca, Goats, Pigs, mini Horses, Peacocks, Chickens, Dogs, That all free range the property. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the best of Western Colorado the views, stars secluded quietness in nature yet 5 miles from all the city conveniences Electric 15 amp; water hookups & along the Colorado River on a private animal sanctuary. We allow tents, vans, small rvs & small campers. This is a very exclusive property and location. There is also a large lake for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding for our guest use. This spot is on a private beach shared w our family friends and guest on the Colorado river Sorry no dogs allowed

Colorado river Airstream

91%

(11)

40mi from Olathe · 1 site · Lodging

Animal sanctuary farm w alpaca, dogs, goats, pigs, mini horses, chickens, peacocks. Located on the beach of the Colorado river. Large 2 acre lake to fish, paddle board, kayak, canoe or swim. All the animals are rescues that are now pets that you can hand feed and interact with they all love attention and food.

Basecamp 550

93%

(7)

36mi from Olathe · 2 sites

This little campground was originally developed in the 1970s but the Weber Ranchers.  It was built with small sites and big views in mind. We're giving this old campground a facelift little by little and adding unique lodging options for our guests. Hope you enjoy!

Blue Mesa Outpost

38mi from Olathe · 33 sites

Discover the unique charm of our campground, where every accommodation offers breathtaking views of the stunning Blue Mesa Reservoir and the majestic Rocky Mountains in Gunnison, Colorado. Our RV sites are designed for your comfort, with 10 pull-through options that face the reservoir or mesa. Each site is 25 feet wide and ranges from 75 to 80 feet in length. For those seeking a cozy retreat, our one-bedroom cabins accommodate four to six guests and provide picturesque overlooks of the reservoir. Additionally, we offer convenient propane fills and bottle exchanges right on site. Blue Mesa Reservoir is renowned for its exceptional trout and salmon fishing, making it a prime destination for anglers. Located just one mile from boat ramps, Blue Mesa Outpost is perfectly situated for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find us at 940 Cove Road, Gunnison, Colorado 81230, just 25 miles west of downtown Gunnison and 35 miles east of Montrose. We are conveniently located off Highway 50, between mile markers 131 and 132, making it easy to access nearby attractions and activities. Enjoy the beauty of nature while creating unforgettable memories at our campground!

Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground

45mi from Olathe · 6 sites

Experience the unique blend of camping and water sports at Colorado's largest body of water, located near Gunnison in Western Colorado. Blue Mesa Reservoir offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure, featuring 20 miles of pristine water and over 96 miles of scenic shoreline, perfect for paddling and exploration. Nestled within the Curecanti National Recreation Area, this destination boasts two full-service marinas—Elk Creek Marina and Lake Fork Marina—along with the renowned Pappy’s Restaurant, which provides stunning views of the reservoir. The surrounding Gunnison County is a treasure trove of natural beauty, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, gold medal trout fishing, and a variety of recreational activities. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, your next unforgettable experience awaits at Blue Mesa Reservoir!

Public campgrounds near Olathe

Silesca Cabin

21mi from Olathe · 1 site · in Uncompahgre National Forest

Iron Springs Campground

22mi from Olathe · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

Columbine Campground

25mi from Olathe · 1 site · in Grand Mesa National Forest

100%

(3)

Island Lake Campground

29mi from Olathe · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

100%

(1)

Little Bear Campground

30mi from Olathe · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

100%

(1)

Ward Lake Campground - Grand Valley

30mi from Olathe · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

Cobbett Lake Campground

30mi from Olathe · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

100%

(1)

Crag Crest Campground

31mi from Olathe · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

100%

(1)

Spruce Grove Campground - Grand Valley

31mi from Olathe · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

100%

(2)

Moose Manor Campground

31mi from Olathe · 1 site · in Grand Mesa National Forest

Jumbo Campground

31mi from Olathe · 21 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

Weir and Johnson Campground

33mi from Olathe · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Grand Mesa National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Jeff

2 weeks ago

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Stayed here in early December and it is such a great spot! Nice sunset viewing, easy access to the sites, quiet, and it's a rare Colorado location near water. Mike stopped by to chat and is a very accommodating host. I would highly recommend visiting this campsite, especially in the warmer months.

D

David

November 2025

22 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Mike is such a great host and the site was exactly as advertised. We will absolutely be staying again when we make it back out to Palisade

J

Jon

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

We got moved to RV spot #1 from our original spot a few days before our stay which wasn't an issue. The lake was beautiful and clean, and we were well stocked on wood. We didnt have any neighbors so it was nice and quiet with little sound from distant traffic.

A

Anne

November 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

This is a spectacular spot and Mike is an awesome host. I will definitely be back

S

Serena

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Beautiful view of the lake. Mike was attentive and responsive as well. There was some good birding in the morning, too! There is some road noise at the lake but not too loud.

J

JJ

October 2025

12 ft campervan

1 night at CampV Colorado

Awesome spot beneath the golden cottonwoods! Loved checking out the installations and spaces.

L

Lydia

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Beautiful place! Super fun and great for the doggie!

F

Fabian

October 2025

23 ft Class C

1 night at Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Really nice campground with large fire pit and Kayaks available for a cruise on the lake. Worth a stay!

C

Catherine

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Lovely stay! Beautiful view. Quiet. Bathhouse terrific. Only sad that Tater didn’t visit. 😹. Highly recommend.

Bath house. Tater inspecting to make sure campers did not leave the lights on...

J

Joey

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

Great scenic spot with nice full bathrooms. Great for a weekend getaway to enjoy the beautiful mountains.

M

McKenna

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

This was a great site! I was worried about being on the north rim of Black Canyon because the “main” stuff is on the south rim but IT WAS SO GREAT! We did the south rim the day before and hit the North Rim morning after (views are 10x better!!) Definitely recommend Tater’s campground, so clean, so comfortable, so serene. Star gazing, stunning views, seclusion, and sweet pets 🩵 Traci + Chris have done a wonderful job.

K

Kelly

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Sweet spot by the lake to camp for the night! We had a lovely campfire and appreciated the full set up ready to roll as we got in late and were tired from the drive!! It was a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy the night before getting a good sleep for our drive the next day. The next morning we had the place almost entirely to ourselves, and my dog especially loved exploring!

T

Thomas

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Nice area for everyone in our group including our friends.

Picnic table and view to lake, mountains and Needle Rock. Tater inspecting the site...

Janet

September 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Tater's Black Canyon Campground

We enjoyed our 2 night stay at Tater’s. Chris is a helpful and friendly host and we enjoyed chatting with him and meeting Tater, Sugi and Otis. The view of the nearby mountains was amazing, especially at sunset and the dark sky allowed for wonderful stargazing. The bathhouse with showers was a short walk from the campsite and it is kept clean. We had everything we needed for a relaxing visit while exploring the north rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

N

Nate

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Colorado River Animal Sanctuary

Very nice spot right on the river! Had a campfire, fed alpacas carrots and hung out with dogs. Cool property all around, would definitely recommend!

S

Shelby

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tater's Black Canyon Campground

This was a great spot! The view was great, the site was well maintained, and the bathrooms were spacious and clean. We would definitely recommend and visit again.

J

Jay

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Nice quiet spot. Loved that I was able to paddleboard and enjoy the water right next to my campsite. Would definitely book again if in the area

J

Jay

September 2025

12 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

Lots of space for our group. We loved that we were right next to the water and were able to drop our paddleboards off at the dock

D

Dorothy

September 2025

Tent

1 night at CampV Colorado

I found this camp at the last minute, while pulled over on the side of the road. It was awesome! The owner came and showed me around and advised me on working the hot shower. There.was a pond, total privacy, with everything I needed. It was lovely and I would definitely recommend staying at CampV!

T

Timothy

September 2025

19 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

This spot is amazing! The lake is gorgeous and peaceful. The CO river is a very nearby as is the town of Palisade. only a few campsites and spread out well so you have plenty of space and quiet. Mike is extremely helpful if ou want him to be. We will definitely be back.