The best romantic campgrounds near Poncha Springs, Colorado

If you're looking to go camping near Poncha Springs, Colorado, Hipcamp has over 180 available options tailored to your accommodation and activity preferences. With campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), you can be confident in your choice. Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, showers, and campfires, while engaging in activities such as horseback riding, surfing, and whitewater paddling. The average price per night is $50, with options as low as $10. Happy camping!

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Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking to go camping near Poncha Springs, Colorado, Hipcamp has over 180 available options tailored to your accommodation and activity preferences. With campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Old Moon Acres Tipi Haven (245 reviews), you can be confident in your choice. Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, showers, and campfires, while engaging in activities such as horseback riding, surfing, and whitewater paddling. The average price per night is $50, with options as low as $10. Happy camping!

98% (728)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sweetwater River Resort

91%

(377)

26mi from Poncha Springs · 72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cotopaxi, CO

Sweetwater River Resort is located right on the Arkansas River, 30 minutes from Canyon City and 30 minutes from Salida where Hwy 50 follows the river through Bighorn Canyon. Skiers, we are only 40 miles from Monarch Ski Resort. We do offer fly fishing lessons and fly rod rentals on arrival. Sweetwater is the perfect getaway for anglers, hikers, rafters or nature-lovers. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind on our private 1/2 mile stretch of the Arkansas. At night you’ll find the clearest skies around, perfect for stargazing. Experience a range of accommodations at Sweetwater River Resort, from budget-friendly cabins to glamping tents to old-timey cabins and RV sites. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. Sweetwater is a short drive from 45 miles of 4x4 and ATV trails at Texas Creek, the Arkansas Headwaters Hiking Area, Vallie Bridge, Loma Linda, Lone Pine, Hayden Creek, Royal Gorge and Rainbow Trail near Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season as well as a private stretch of blue-ribbon water for trout fishing. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!

2. Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

95%

(54)

48mi from Poncha Springs · 5 sites · Lodging · Center, CO

Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley at the entrance to Penitente Canyon and Special Recreation Management Area and 50 minutes to Great Sand Dunes National Park, San Luis Valley Great Outdoors welcomes all guests to come and enjoy their cabins at Tin Can Camp. Tin Can Camp is located within 200 acres of Colorado State Trust Land at roughly 8,000 feet above sea level. The landscape is arid high desert with scattered groves of piñon and juniper trees. The camp serves as a convenient home base for launching adventures across the San Luis Valley to various local Hot Springs, archeological sites, and other small town local attractions. For the more adventurous guests, there is recreation right from Tin Can Camp with The Valleys largest trail system and climbing area less than a mile away and access to the vast expanse of the Rio Grande National Forest. The cabins are "micro homes" outfitted with modern conveniences. Each cabin has solar power, a propane heater, a compact kitchen with a sink, water jugs, and pump, two full size loft beds, a small table with chairs, an incinerator toilet, and a covered porch. Incinerating toilets are self-contained waste management systems that burn human waste instead of flushing it into a sewer or septic system. These toilets use propane gas to incinerate waste at high temperatures, reducing it to a small amount of sterile ash. Incinerating toilets are commonly used in locations where traditional plumbing is impractical, such as remote cabins and environmentally sensitive areas. They are valued for their efficiency, minimal environmental impact, and the elimination of the need for water or chemical treatments. There is odor associated with the incineration process. Guests should know there is no water available on the property. You will need to bring water for all your needs. This includes cooking, washing, drinking, and for putting out fires. Guest should plan 2 gallons of water per person per day. A public well/pumphouse is at the intersection of County Road 38A and Road 40G (37.836363, -106.271551)(inoperable as of 7/11/2024- BLM working to fix it). Tin Can Camp is adjacent to the future Sangre de Cristo Dark Sky Reserve, and the property has spectacular views of the Milky Way Galaxy. Each cabin has a fire ring for guests to relax and enjoy the dark nighttime sky. Wood collecting on the property is not permitted, so guests must bring their own firewood. As mentioned, the property is located at the entrance to Penitente Canyon. Penitente Canyon is a Nationally-renowned climbing destination with more than 400 climbing routes. Penitente Canyon also has 30+ miles of non-motorized trails for mountain biking, hiking, and equestrian activities and guest have direct trail access from camp! Guests can ride mountain bikes directly from the property. There are numerous recreation, sightseeing, historical and cultural, and agricultural tourism opportunities in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, and Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area. Gas, ice, water, and some groceries can be found nearby at the La Garita Trading Post, which has operated since 1913. The La Garita Trading Post is in a historic log cabin and serves the best local-beef burgers in the San Luis Valley.

3. Bear Creek Ranch

100%

(10)

49mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Westcliffe, CO

Tent camp, park your RV or stay in the glamping log cabin that sleeps 4 on this 35 acre private property. The cabin has electricity and a wood burning stove for cold nights but is a dry cabin. There is a pump outside the cabin for water and a vault toilet. Bring your horses, bikes ATV's or hiking shoes to explore trails in the Wet Mountains one mile from your site. The town of Westcliffe is 14 miles away with more trails in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is a National Dark Sky Community.

4. Little Buffalo Cabin

100%

(28)

38mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Hartsel, CO

Experience the charm of our historic 1800s cabin, the Little Buffalo Cabin, in Hartsel, Colorado. Explore Colorado's attractions from this central location, including fishing in nearby Gold Medal waters. The property boasts endless mountain views and the site of the town’s original post office. Nearby local amenities include a quick mart, cafe, saloon, and pizza place. Enjoy the spacious living areas, a cozy queen bedroom, and the versatile office/bedroom space with a futon and desk. The perfect home base for exploring the central Colorado mountains! We're Super Hosts, excited to be able to offer this unique experience to the HipCamp community!

5. Frenchman's Creek Ranch

100%

(324)

30mi from Poncha Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

We have a 100+ acre working ranch with access to the Arkansas river for fishing, kayaking or just dipping your feet in. We have great views of the Collegiate Peaks 14ers and the Harvard trail is just up the hill. Frenchman's creek runs through the ranch which has hay fields, aspens, cottonwoods, pinons, cows, chickens, sheep and pigs. Deer, elk, coyotes and bobcats also wander through. We are 15 minutes from BV, 10 minutes from Clear Creek Reservoir, 20 minutes from Twin Lakes and 30 minutes from Leadville.

6. New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

100%

(56)

35mi from Poncha Springs · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

7. Riverfront Mountain Ranch

98%

(102)

20mi from Poncha Springs · 10 sites · Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

Welcome to our geographic phenomenon! Here at the continental divide; we are lucky to have it all for the Outdoor Enthusiast. Our 5 acre Campground sits right along the Arkansas River. There are (2) 1 Min trails that lead you straight to River Access. Not wanting to get that close? No worries; watch the paddlers and rafters float by all summer long. If the Arkansas River is not enough of a playground for you, you will be happy to know that you have an uninterrupted view of Mount Princeton and the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Peaks. We are also located 1/2 mile from some of the most famous mountain biking trails the USA offers. Mount Princeton Hot Springs are a beautiful 10.5 mile (15 min) drive away. Our campground offers a dreamy Bathhouse with 5 glamoured showers and 5 bathrooms. We have (14) Yurt glamping sites and (2) Riverfront studio cabins. All sites have electricity (heaters included), parking, fire pits (unless we are facing a fire ban), and picnic table. In addition, we have a large community bonfire location and there is access to outdoor grilling. We are excited to have you!

8. Buckaroo Bunkhouse Camping

97%

(19)

49mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO

Resting on private 10 acres sits this roomy camper. Beautiful views of Pikes Peak and rock formations. Kid and dog friendly! Hot and cold running water for a shower. Minutes away access to hiking and fly fishing, tubing, and Cripple Creek casinos, Rita The Troll, Victor mining, Fossil Beds & Guffey Gorge.

Camper favorites near Poncha Springs

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Little Buffalo Cabin

100%

(28)

38mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Hartsel, CO

Experience the charm of our historic 1800s cabin, the Little Buffalo Cabin, in Hartsel, Colorado. Explore Colorado's attractions from this central location, including fishing in nearby Gold Medal waters. The property boasts endless mountain views and the site of the town’s original post office. Nearby local amenities include a quick mart, cafe, saloon, and pizza place. Enjoy the spacious living areas, a cozy queen bedroom, and the versatile office/bedroom space with a futon and desk. The perfect home base for exploring the central Colorado mountains! We're Super Hosts, excited to be able to offer this unique experience to the HipCamp community!

Frenchman's Creek Ranch

100%

(324)

30mi from Poncha Springs · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

We have a 100+ acre working ranch with access to the Arkansas river for fishing, kayaking or just dipping your feet in. We have great views of the Collegiate Peaks 14ers and the Harvard trail is just up the hill. Frenchman's creek runs through the ranch which has hay fields, aspens, cottonwoods, pinons, cows, chickens, sheep and pigs. Deer, elk, coyotes and bobcats also wander through. We are 15 minutes from BV, 10 minutes from Clear Creek Reservoir, 20 minutes from Twin Lakes and 30 minutes from Leadville.

New Sky Ranch : Eco-building + Art

100%

(56)

35mi from Poncha Springs · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Riverfront Mountain Ranch

98%

(102)

20mi from Poncha Springs · 10 sites · Lodging · Buena Vista, CO

Welcome to our geographic phenomenon! Here at the continental divide; we are lucky to have it all for the Outdoor Enthusiast. Our 5 acre Campground sits right along the Arkansas River. There are (2) 1 Min trails that lead you straight to River Access. Not wanting to get that close? No worries; watch the paddlers and rafters float by all summer long. If the Arkansas River is not enough of a playground for you, you will be happy to know that you have an uninterrupted view of Mount Princeton and the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Peaks. We are also located 1/2 mile from some of the most famous mountain biking trails the USA offers. Mount Princeton Hot Springs are a beautiful 10.5 mile (15 min) drive away. Our campground offers a dreamy Bathhouse with 5 glamoured showers and 5 bathrooms. We have (14) Yurt glamping sites and (2) Riverfront studio cabins. All sites have electricity (heaters included), parking, fire pits (unless we are facing a fire ban), and picnic table. In addition, we have a large community bonfire location and there is access to outdoor grilling. We are excited to have you!

Buckaroo Bunkhouse Camping

97%

(19)

49mi from Poncha Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Florissant, CO

Resting on private 10 acres sits this roomy camper. Beautiful views of Pikes Peak and rock formations. Kid and dog friendly! Hot and cold running water for a shower. Minutes away access to hiking and fly fishing, tubing, and Cripple Creek casinos, Rita The Troll, Victor mining, Fossil Beds & Guffey Gorge.

Stories from the community

K

Kristin

6 days ago

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

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

L

Liv

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Bear Creek Ranch

Seriously the coolest little cabin I’ve ever stayed in! Wood burning stove is amazing and keeps the place super warm. And I couldn’t believe there was a private little ice skating rink just for you in the winter time. Epic trip, highly recommend!

S

Stephen

3 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Sweetwater River Resort

This was a great campground!!! Right on the river with very active fish and very peaceful!

Alison Penelope

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Sweetwater River Resort

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

J

Joseph

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

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

A

Ashley

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS PLACE! Honestly, I will be back - many times. Beautiful views, extremely communicative host, and all around great property and stay. Home was comfortable, clean and truly one of a kind.

D

Dena

October 2025

4 nights at Bear Creek Ranch

It's too cold to tent camp so this quaint cabin was perfect. Still cooked on camp stove outside but with the benefit of electricity to heat up water in kettle provided. Had a lovely campfire one night but mostly stayed warm with the wood burning stove. We normally bring 10 gallons of water but this had a potable well pump that saved us the trouble. It was a perfectly relaxing atmosphere and stay. The night sky was gorgeous. The hike around the property lovely. The dogs were friendly and charming. Lorie is attentive and helpful. At my questioning she suggested Beckwith Ranch a worthwhile stop. I spent 2 hours there and got a private tour! It was a wonderful stay. Oh, and the the outhouse was positively posh😊

A

Anne

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Buffalo Cabin

What a wonderful visit to the sweetest Cabin imaginable. Hartsell is a darling little town with lots to do within a short drive… Hot Springs, a drive-in, movie theater, great restaurants and outdoor activities. The house was exactly as pictured with wood for the fireplace, a well stocked kitchen, a cozy bed, plenty of extra blankets and pillows, and absolutely stunning views. We had an incredible time and would go back in a heartbeat!

S

Scott

October 2025

25 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

This is a budget friendly place to camp. The hosts were helpful, and the bathrooms were actually quite clean. Old, but clean. Hwy noise is a bit of an issue, but does quiet down a bit after 8 pm or so. The river was very lovely, and my kids loved the suspension bridge. The camp sites are very close to each other though, so if you don’t like to be that close to people, you may want to look elsewhere. Overall, this was a great place I would go to again, but would stay in Corral 1 instead of 2. Corral 2 was difficult to get power and water since they were on the opposite side of our camper and had no tree shade like 1 did.

Karen

October 2025

2 nights at Bear Creek Ranch

I loved the cabin. It was relaxing, private and clean. I enjoyed the wood burning stove. The views were amazing and I definitely will go back.

S

Stephanie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

We loved it! Grateful there was a pour-over coffee set up because we forgot our french press!

k

kamal

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

We are new to camping and this place was perfect for us. The host were very nice and accommodating as well ..our stove went out but the host provided us loaner stove as well for free. My 3 year old wanted to fishing ..the host provided that to us too …one small issue is that its right next to a highway so some road noise during day …but other than that the place is awesome.

A

Alexandria

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

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

B

Bryan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bear Creek Ranch

We had such a lovely time at Bear Creek Ranch. The cabin is supplied well with things like an electric kettle, tea bags, coffee, firewood, and a fan for warm evenings. We loved getting to lay in the grass in front of the cabin and see the Milky Way. We made fires in the evenings in the wood stove, so cozy. The dogs are calm and friendly, as are the horses. The outhouse was very clean and not smelly at all, and very close to the cabin. It was a perfect weekend getaway for us to slow down and reconnect.

Amanda

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Tin Can Camp: Adventure Base

This is in an open space with mountains behind you and fields in front. Such a peaceful space with a sky full of stars. Plus, just a 30 min walk away is this wonderful historic church. The walk was easy and beautiful. Visiting that church was a nice spiritual experience. We settled into our space nicely and slept comfortably. Very Cool Space!

L

Lori

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

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

Jane

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

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

Cortney

October 2025

13 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Sweetwater River Resort

Very beautiful views and the sound from the river was so soothing

P

Parker

October 2025

15 ft campervan

2 nights at Sweetwater River Resort

Great campsite for a couple of days. Awesome views and the river was nice. We stayed in corral #1 and the added lights were awesome for coming in late.

K

Kelly

October 2025

1 night at Sweetwater River Resort

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