Discover the best desert campgrounds near Pitkin, Colorado

United States
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Colorado
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Pitkin

96% (293 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Pitkin

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

Ferguson Nirvana

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Nathrop, CO

Looking for a perfect spot to relax and unwind? You've found it! Just under 30 minutes from thrilling whitewater rafting and surrounded by extensive OHV trails, our location is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Nestled at the base of the chalk cliffs, you'll be treated to stunning sunsets and fantastic wildlife viewing. Daily visits from deer and elk are a common sight in our backyard. Plus, there's an amazing trail less than 5 miles away that leads to a truly remarkable experience. Come enjoy nature at its best!

Wyldr Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Nathrop, CO

We are sitting on 5 open space acres looking out at the Collegiate Peaks. Plenty of space to stretch your legs, let your dog roam and set up camp however you desire. Outdoor activities within minutes from our property are: hiking, boating, rafting, skiing, hot springs, horseback riding, atv riding, and paddle boarding. We are 15 minutes to the town of Salida and 15 minutes to the town of Buena Vista where you can find great restaurants, coffee shops and shopping.

New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Saguache, CO

New Sky’s bones are those of an old settler’s homestead in the San Luis Valley that dates back to the early 1900’s. Nestled up against the Rio Grande National Forest, it is a high mountain desert oasis that holds the original dance hall of the county and a whole lot of history. New Sky Ranch is a wild, wild place. We are not only off grid, but also nestled in a large natural caldera (meaning a volcano that has collapsed on itself) and are right next to national forest. This means that we can experience all 4 seasons in a single day - having extreme winds and rain in one moment, and clear summer skies the next! We invite you to not only be prepared for this, but to lean into the experience as this unique high alpine environment can be one of the most inspiring and epic places on earth. We are currently fixing up what is already on the property for an eco-experiential retreat as well as a space for like minded artists to take refuge and create magic on the land. We currently have our workshop and studio space up and running as well as the first of several livable structures completed - an 100 year old rehabbed miners cabin using Hempcrete and other natural materials, complete with a communal outdoor kitchen. We also have begun hosting our first artist/maker residents who are using the shop space and land to bring their own creations to life. Over time, we have dreams of permaculture farming, eco building workshops, community collaboration, and the ability to host gatherings – however, we are committed to taking it all one step at a time and allowing only what is meant to be to unfold. For now it is simply our home, a maker space for art and experimental eco building, a gathering spot for friends and a quiet Hipcamp spot.

85%

(10)

Boondock Basecamp in Hartsel

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Johnson Village, CO

Three sites available on 5 acres of raw land in the rolling meadows creates a 360 view of the Pike and San Isabel National Forest mountain range along. No visible city lights obstruct your view of the Milky Way or starry night skies. For hiking, fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming, and more the property is close to Antero Reservoir, Eleven Mile State Park and Reservoir, Spinney Mountain State Park and Reservoir and the famous "Dream Stream" area. Nearby the Continental divide at Cottonwood pass, Wilkerson pass and others, and 9 different fourteeners to hike are within 40 miles. Basecamp Site 1 and Site 2 offer a fire pit and picnic table, Basecamp Site 3 is raw camping site with no current amenities.

Hilltop view at Chavara Ranch

12 sites · RVs, Tents288 acres · Salida, CO

This historic ranch was settled in the 1880s in the upper Arkansas River Valley. You have hiking access to over 280 acres and the cows, sheep and horses grazing on the pastures. I have owned the ranch since 2005 and have spent my time re-vitalizing this amazing place. There are even several gravesites on the property from the 1880s. Your glamping/camping site is unequaled on top of a ridge that overlooks the Arkansas Valley and the Town of Salida. The other direction looks at the 14,000 ft Mt Shavano and the iconic Angel of Shavano. The yurt-like tents are furnished, the XXL and XL Versions (6m and 5m, respectively) have a queen sized bed, rugs, sitting area, tables and a dresser for your things. The Large version is slightly smaller at (4m) and is furnished with rugs, and arm chair, table, shelves and a fold down futon. Recently added is a central area for all Hipcamp guests that includes an area to play horse shoes and a fire pit. Additional amenities will be added throughout the season!

12 top desert campgrounds near Pitkin

91%

(33)

Hilltop view at Chavara Ranch

12 sites · RVs, Tents288 acres · Salida, CO

This historic ranch was settled in the 1880s in the upper Arkansas River Valley. You have hiking access to over 280 acres and the cows, sheep and horses grazing on the pastures. I have owned the ranch since 2005 and have spent my time re-vitalizing this amazing place. There are even several gravesites on the property from the 1880s. Your glamping/camping site is unequaled on top of a ridge that overlooks the Arkansas Valley and the Town of Salida. The other direction looks at the 14,000 ft Mt Shavano and the iconic Angel of Shavano. The yurt-like tents are furnished, the XXL and XL Versions (6m and 5m, respectively) have a queen sized bed, rugs, sitting area, tables and a dresser for your things. The Large version is slightly smaller at (4m) and is furnished with rugs, and arm chair, table, shelves and a fold down futon. Recently added is a central area for all Hipcamp guests that includes an area to play horse shoes and a fire pit. Additional amenities will be added throughout the season!

Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

7 sites · Lodging20 acres · Salida, CO

The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes. We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent. The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels. New in 2022: We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.

New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Saguache, CO

New Sky’s bones are those of an old settler’s homestead in the San Luis Valley that dates back to the early 1900’s. Nestled up against the Rio Grande National Forest, it is a high mountain desert oasis that holds the original dance hall of the county and a whole lot of history. New Sky Ranch is a wild, wild place. We are not only off grid, but also nestled in a large natural caldera (meaning a volcano that has collapsed on itself) and are right next to national forest. This means that we can experience all 4 seasons in a single day - having extreme winds and rain in one moment, and clear summer skies the next! We invite you to not only be prepared for this, but to lean into the experience as this unique high alpine environment can be one of the most inspiring and epic places on earth. We are currently fixing up what is already on the property for an eco-experiential retreat as well as a space for like minded artists to take refuge and create magic on the land. We currently have our workshop and studio space up and running as well as the first of several livable structures completed - an 100 year old rehabbed miners cabin using Hempcrete and other natural materials, complete with a communal outdoor kitchen. We also have begun hosting our first artist/maker residents who are using the shop space and land to bring their own creations to life. Over time, we have dreams of permaculture farming, eco building workshops, community collaboration, and the ability to host gatherings – however, we are committed to taking it all one step at a time and allowing only what is meant to be to unfold. For now it is simply our home, a maker space for art and experimental eco building, a gathering spot for friends and a quiet Hipcamp spot.

Wyldr Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Nathrop, CO

We are sitting on 5 open space acres looking out at the Collegiate Peaks. Plenty of space to stretch your legs, let your dog roam and set up camp however you desire. Outdoor activities within minutes from our property are: hiking, boating, rafting, skiing, hot springs, horseback riding, atv riding, and paddle boarding. We are 15 minutes to the town of Salida and 15 minutes to the town of Buena Vista where you can find great restaurants, coffee shops and shopping.

Ferguson Nirvana

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Nathrop, CO

Looking for a perfect spot to relax and unwind? You've found it! Just under 30 minutes from thrilling whitewater rafting and surrounded by extensive OHV trails, our location is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Nestled at the base of the chalk cliffs, you'll be treated to stunning sunsets and fantastic wildlife viewing. Daily visits from deer and elk are a common sight in our backyard. Plus, there's an amazing trail less than 5 miles away that leads to a truly remarkable experience. Come enjoy nature at its best!

Historic Ranch at Mt. Princeton

9 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Buena Vista , CO

A landmark historic ranch, being brought back to life by our family who operates a holistic animal rescue and sanctuary, where hens, ducks, horses and a llama are loved like family. Once a lettuce and cattle farm, nestled below the towering 14er Mt. Princeton and Collegiate Peaks, the historic big barn and original bunkhouse boast a feel of nostalgia and the simple life.

Boondock Basecamp in Hartsel

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Johnson Village, CO

Three sites available on 5 acres of raw land in the rolling meadows creates a 360 view of the Pike and San Isabel National Forest mountain range along. No visible city lights obstruct your view of the Milky Way or starry night skies. For hiking, fishing, kayaking, boating, swimming, and more the property is close to Antero Reservoir, Eleven Mile State Park and Reservoir, Spinney Mountain State Park and Reservoir and the famous "Dream Stream" area. Nearby the Continental divide at Cottonwood pass, Wilkerson pass and others, and 9 different fourteeners to hike are within 40 miles. Basecamp Site 1 and Site 2 offer a fire pit and picnic table, Basecamp Site 3 is raw camping site with no current amenities.

100%

(4)

Cotton Creek Ranch

99 sites · RVs, Tents65 acres · Moffat, CO

Located in northern San Luis Valley at the edge of the Sangre de Christo mountains. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of sun rises and sun sets while listening to cotton creek rippling through the woods. Spectacular views views. Close to national forest trail heads, Sand Dunes National park, Orient mine, Sand hill crane migration, and more.

92%

(24)

Colorado Sports Ranch & Refuge

6 sites · Tents160 acres · Moffat, CO

High up in the San Luis Valley, the Colorado Sports Ranch and Refuge occupies over 150 acres. Joyful Journey Hot Springs is 10 minutes away, and Great Sand Dunes National Park is visible from the property. The ranch is uniquely suited to athletes and other fitness enthusiasts with a 5k running/walking trail and a well stocked indoor/outdoor gym with kettlebells, TRX equipment, squat and bench racks, plyo boxes, bands, rowing and cycling machines, basketball hoop, and all manner of agility equipment. Gym cost is $10 per person or $25 for a group of four. Gym users must sign a liability waiver. The camping area is about 1/4 mile from the main house and about 500 meters from the gym and potable water. The highest concentration of 14,000 foot peaks in Colorado is in this area with trail heads in nearby Crestone. Rock climbers and rock hounds will enjoy Penitente Canyon about 40 minutes west. White water rafting and all manner of paddling are available on the Arkansas River in nearby Salida, as is access to some of the finest mountain biking in the world, particularly the Monarch Crest Trail. World class fly fishing can be found on the Arkansas River, and Blue Mesa Reservoir is home to all varieties of trout, pike, and kokanee salmon. We are happy to arrange tours with local guides and adventure providers. The Colorado Sports Ranch and Refugee is a working, off-grid, sustainable homestead. Horses, goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, dogs, cats, and a donkey all share the property. Animal tours are available.

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Horse Park Colorado Campsite

1 site · RV5 acres · Hartsel, CO

Our campsite is in between the Chimapavi Trail and Caddo Road on a 5.8 acre wedge shape lot. I purchased the property as a segment of subdivided horse ranch. Now it's just existing and undeveloped scenic land. The location of the land is in the heart of Southpark, a high mountain valley with a colorful history, 50 miles long and 35 miles wide, surrounded by mountain peaks. Our camp is a perfect spot for peace and quiet and outdoor recreation. Hartsel is 41 miles from Breckenridge and 7 miles from fishing and boating on the Antero Reservoir. Roads are well marked and maintained by the county. Founded in 1880, Hartsel is close to the geographic center of the state and is often referred to as "The Heart of Colorado". Samuel Hartsel’s 100,000 acre cattle ranch included the Hartsel Hot Springs as well as the Estates of Colorado development. Originally inhabited by the Ute and Arapahoe Indians, the name South Park started to be used in the 1840s by hunters and trappers since the valley was the home to vast herds. Hartsel is credited with being one of the first, perhaps the first, ranchers to raise Shorthorn cattle in Colorado. Now, outdoor recreation is the main draw to the area. Hunting is also popular on nearby federal lands and state wildlife areas Learn more about this land: Welcome campers you are right next to horse park in Hartsel Colorado. If all you need is a place to park and stay in a remote area with beautiful views this site is for you. You can just pull off Caddo Road and park wherever fits your fancy. Make sure to leave no trace and respect the land. Pack in what you pack out and never litter. Please enjoy all the natural beauty South Park County has to offer.

100%

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Beautiful Mountain Views

6 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Saguache, CO

Once a part of a larger ranch called Red Rocks, this is a completely off-grid, rustic living area now. We appreciate and acknowledge the Southern Ute Nation as the original caretakers of this Valley. Once owned by a man who flew UltraLite aircraft, this is a peaceful, quiet, rustic, and spacious land treasured by the current family who owns it. The family is working toward self-sustainability and creating a Metaphysics Center on the land beginning with a Labyrinth.Learn more about this land:High winds in the spring or fall necessitate using a camper or RV. During the summer, tents will work out well with little wind to blow them away. This land is peaceful and off the grid. It's close enough to town for eating out or grabbing gas and groceries, but it’s far enough away to let the world fall away as you relax and enjoy the stars. Perfect for family camping and seniors who love to camp. For everyone's safety, we wear masks and social distance for check-ins and any interactions with campers. We also ask campers to practice social distancing if there are other campers on-site as well. We thank all campers for being patient and respectful during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Saved 2 times

The Colorado Imaginarium

26 sites · Tents80 acres · Moffat, CO

A desert of desserts to refill your soul with adventure and beauty. Located in the San Luis Valley with The Great Sand Dunes National Park, Valley View Hot Springs, Joyful Journey Hot Springs, Crestone, Salida; small mountain towns as your neighbors. *~1hr to Wolf Creek and Monarch Ski Resorts *Centrally located to prime Elk hunting *~25min to Penitente Canyon for climbing/hiking *~40min to Salida (dining, shopping, kayaking) , ~30min to Crestone (hiking, dining, meditating) *~45min to Great Sand Dunes National Park *~1.25hrs to Taos (earthships, climbing, hot air balloons) *~Cherry Creek & Cottonwood trails 8min down my road, AA. Sunrises, sunsets and stargazing without obstructions or light pollution are complimentary :) Pets welcome to play and explore, just remember the desert is big, know where they are (must demonstrate control and friendliness without question or must be leashed). *We will be adding activities and experiences as time goes on including glass blowing, welding, timber framing, off grid living experience where we set you up to see what its really like to live off grid & more*

Available this weekend

91%

(33)

Hilltop view at Chavara Ranch

12 sites · RVs, Tents288 acres · Salida, CO

This historic ranch was settled in the 1880s in the upper Arkansas River Valley. You have hiking access to over 280 acres and the cows, sheep and horses grazing on the pastures. I have owned the ranch since 2005 and have spent my time re-vitalizing this amazing place. There are even several gravesites on the property from the 1880s. Your glamping/camping site is unequaled on top of a ridge that overlooks the Arkansas Valley and the Town of Salida. The other direction looks at the 14,000 ft Mt Shavano and the iconic Angel of Shavano. The yurt-like tents are furnished, the XXL and XL Versions (6m and 5m, respectively) have a queen sized bed, rugs, sitting area, tables and a dresser for your things. The Large version is slightly smaller at (4m) and is furnished with rugs, and arm chair, table, shelves and a fold down futon. Recently added is a central area for all Hipcamp guests that includes an area to play horse shoes and a fire pit. Additional amenities will be added throughout the season!

Mountain Goat Lodge Tipis

7 sites · Lodging20 acres · Salida, CO

The Mountain Goat Lodge is set within 20 acres of rolling pastures at the foot of the famous Sawatch Mountain Range. Our resident goats roam the meadows, providing us with the milk, cheese, and yogurt for our tasty homecooked breakfasts and our cheese-making classes. We are located in central Colorado in pristine wilderness, yet just 6 miles from the historic town of Salida. In addition to the tipis, we are a full service Bed and Breakfast lodge. We have campers and a vintage trailer available to rent. The tipis have a full-sized bathhouse for use by our tipi guests. Guests need to provide their own toiletries and towels. New in 2022: We have added a queen sized bed and mattress to each of the tipis.. Campers still should bring their own bedding (sleeping bags, pillows) or if need be, can rent bedding from us.

Ferguson Nirvana

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Nathrop, CO

Looking for a perfect spot to relax and unwind? You've found it! Just under 30 minutes from thrilling whitewater rafting and surrounded by extensive OHV trails, our location is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Nestled at the base of the chalk cliffs, you'll be treated to stunning sunsets and fantastic wildlife viewing. Daily visits from deer and elk are a common sight in our backyard. Plus, there's an amazing trail less than 5 miles away that leads to a truly remarkable experience. Come enjoy nature at its best!

Wyldr Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Nathrop, CO

We are sitting on 5 open space acres looking out at the Collegiate Peaks. Plenty of space to stretch your legs, let your dog roam and set up camp however you desire. Outdoor activities within minutes from our property are: hiking, boating, rafting, skiing, hot springs, horseback riding, atv riding, and paddle boarding. We are 15 minutes to the town of Salida and 15 minutes to the town of Buena Vista where you can find great restaurants, coffee shops and shopping.

New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Saguache, CO

New Sky’s bones are those of an old settler’s homestead in the San Luis Valley that dates back to the early 1900’s. Nestled up against the Rio Grande National Forest, it is a high mountain desert oasis that holds the original dance hall of the county and a whole lot of history. New Sky Ranch is a wild, wild place. We are not only off grid, but also nestled in a large natural caldera (meaning a volcano that has collapsed on itself) and are right next to national forest. This means that we can experience all 4 seasons in a single day - having extreme winds and rain in one moment, and clear summer skies the next! We invite you to not only be prepared for this, but to lean into the experience as this unique high alpine environment can be one of the most inspiring and epic places on earth. We are currently fixing up what is already on the property for an eco-experiential retreat as well as a space for like minded artists to take refuge and create magic on the land. We currently have our workshop and studio space up and running as well as the first of several livable structures completed - an 100 year old rehabbed miners cabin using Hempcrete and other natural materials, complete with a communal outdoor kitchen. We also have begun hosting our first artist/maker residents who are using the shop space and land to bring their own creations to life. Over time, we have dreams of permaculture farming, eco building workshops, community collaboration, and the ability to host gatherings – however, we are committed to taking it all one step at a time and allowing only what is meant to be to unfold. For now it is simply our home, a maker space for art and experimental eco building, a gathering spot for friends and a quiet Hipcamp spot.

Desert camping near Pitkin guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Pitkin, Colorado? Hipcamp has over 1,600 options for you to choose from, with accommodations ranging from traditional campsites to unique rentals like tipis and ranches. The average price per night is $55, but you can also find options as low as $15. If you're looking for top-rated campsites, check out Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews). Popular amenities include trash disposal, toilets, and potable water. And if you're into surfing, biking, or off-roading (OHV), you'll find plenty of opportunities for those activities too.