The best family-friendly glamping near Sugarloaf

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Sugarloaf is a tiny community nestled into the foothills above Boulder, Colorado, midway between Boulder and Nederland. It sits at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain, a rocky little knoll that’s easy to summit. The views of Longs Peak and Rocky Mountain National Park from the top of Sugarloaf are incredible and well worth the half-mile climb. The popular Switzerland Trail also takes off from Sugarloaf and follows an old railroad grade through the mountains. Camping is not allowed in the mountains near Sugarloaf—it’s more of a residential area than a town. You can find several campgrounds 10 miles west in Nederland.  

94% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sugarloaf

1. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%
(380)
20mi from Sugarloaf · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time. Guests must be at least 18 years of age or older to book and stay at Arapaho Valley Ranch.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$65
 / night

2. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(354)
7.9mi from Sugarloaf · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night

3. Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

94%
(200)
7.9mi from Sugarloaf · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$58
 / night

4. Camp Always Choose Adventures

90%
(74)
17mi from Sugarloaf · 30 sites · Tents, Lodging
⚠️ Important Policies ⚠️ • No refunds – please read carefully before booking. • Check-in by 8:00 PM only. • All payments are considered donations to our nonprofit. • You must text or call your ETA before arrival! ⸻ Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures, the nation’s first off-grid outdoor educational campground. Located at 9,300 feet in Central City, Colorado, we’re just 15 minutes from Idaho Springs. Our property offers a Tipi, a tiny house on wheels, 5 premium campsites and dispersed camping sites in the heart of the Rockies, where you may see elk, moose, deer, and even bears. 🚫 No RVs or campers. We have one on site but cannot host others unless you call us first. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Road Highway Vehicle area in the Front Range, with endless trails for hiking and exploring. 🌲 Arrive empty-handed and still camp! We rent tents, sleeping bags, and outdoor gear so anyone can enjoy a full mountain experience. We’re a one-stop-shop for your Colorado bucket list: camping with premier gear, 4x4 adventures, and everything in between. ⸻ Accessibility We’re proud to offer Extreme Motus off-road wheelchairs, designed for rugged terrain so guests with disabilities can join hikes, off-road rides, and fully enjoy the outdoors. ⸻ Our Mission Camp ACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds from camping directly support underserved youth and those with disabilities, ensuring the outdoors is accessible to all. 🙏 Thank you for supporting our mission. Learn more: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

5. Little Scraggy Camp

93%
(845)
50mi from Sugarloaf · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 16 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2025 - two separate, professionally designed 18-hole disc golf courses with PDGA regulation baskets, and a Pro Shop with a free 9-hole putting course, which is great for those who have never played disc golf and want to try it out, (we have free loaner discs). Our Hipcamp guests get a 10% discount on player fees, their children play free. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. We also have several cornhole toss games set up. Friendly, well-mannered dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. We are an ideal basecamp for hiking or biking trail enthusiasts,with direct access to the Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Little Scraggy Trailhead is 3.5 miles away, with easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train Shire draft horses and also ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

7. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%
(363)
10mi from Sugarloaf · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

Sugarloaf is a tiny community nestled into the foothills above Boulder, Colorado, midway between Boulder and Nederland. It sits at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain, a rocky little knoll that’s easy to summit. The views of Longs Peak and Rocky Mountain National Park from the top of Sugarloaf are incredible and well worth the half-mile climb. The popular Switzerland Trail also takes off from Sugarloaf and follows an old railroad grade through the mountains. Camping is not allowed in the mountains near Sugarloaf—it’s more of a residential area than a town. You can find several campgrounds 10 miles west in Nederland.  

94% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Sugarloaf

1. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%
(380)
20mi from Sugarloaf · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time. Guests must be at least 18 years of age or older to book and stay at Arapaho Valley Ranch.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$65
 / night

2. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(354)
7.9mi from Sugarloaf · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night

3. Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

94%
(200)
7.9mi from Sugarloaf · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$58
 / night

4. Camp Always Choose Adventures

90%
(74)
17mi from Sugarloaf · 30 sites · Tents, Lodging
⚠️ Important Policies ⚠️ • No refunds – please read carefully before booking. • Check-in by 8:00 PM only. • All payments are considered donations to our nonprofit. • You must text or call your ETA before arrival! ⸻ Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures, the nation’s first off-grid outdoor educational campground. Located at 9,300 feet in Central City, Colorado, we’re just 15 minutes from Idaho Springs. Our property offers a Tipi, a tiny house on wheels, 5 premium campsites and dispersed camping sites in the heart of the Rockies, where you may see elk, moose, deer, and even bears. 🚫 No RVs or campers. We have one on site but cannot host others unless you call us first. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Road Highway Vehicle area in the Front Range, with endless trails for hiking and exploring. 🌲 Arrive empty-handed and still camp! We rent tents, sleeping bags, and outdoor gear so anyone can enjoy a full mountain experience. We’re a one-stop-shop for your Colorado bucket list: camping with premier gear, 4x4 adventures, and everything in between. ⸻ Accessibility We’re proud to offer Extreme Motus off-road wheelchairs, designed for rugged terrain so guests with disabilities can join hikes, off-road rides, and fully enjoy the outdoors. ⸻ Our Mission Camp ACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds from camping directly support underserved youth and those with disabilities, ensuring the outdoors is accessible to all. 🙏 Thank you for supporting our mission. Learn more: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night

5. Little Scraggy Camp

93%
(845)
50mi from Sugarloaf · 22 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 16 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2025 - two separate, professionally designed 18-hole disc golf courses with PDGA regulation baskets, and a Pro Shop with a free 9-hole putting course, which is great for those who have never played disc golf and want to try it out, (we have free loaner discs). Our Hipcamp guests get a 10% discount on player fees, their children play free. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. We also have several cornhole toss games set up. Friendly, well-mannered dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. We are an ideal basecamp for hiking or biking trail enthusiasts,with direct access to the Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Little Scraggy Trailhead is 3.5 miles away, with easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train Shire draft horses and also ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

7. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%
(363)
10mi from Sugarloaf · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$55
 / night

Camper favorites near Sugarloaf

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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The best family-friendly glamping near Sugarloaf guide

Where to go

Boulder

Boulder is a huge outdoor adventure town situated at the base of the Flatirons, about thirty miles northwest of Denver. Boulder Creek runs through downtown and a trail runs alongside it offering trail running and cycling right in town. There’s also excellent hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking in the nearby foothills. Campers will find the closest camping at the Gross Reservoir, midway between Boulder and Nederland.

Nederland

At an elevation of 8,228 feet in the front range mountains, Nederland is a quaint outdoor adventure town about an hour from Denver. Nederland sits on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, a spectacular scenic route from Estes Park to Interstate 70. Camping is abundant within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest surrounding the town and in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Popular campgrounds include the Kelly Dahl Campground and the dispersed camping area near Gordon Gulch.

Estes Park

Ester Park is just a little over an hour from Sugarloaf via the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and the town itself offers its fair share of hiking, biking, and water sports fun. The town has several RV parks with some offering cabin and yurt rentals and plenty of opportunities for tent, RV, and backcountry camping in Rocky Mountain National Park.

When to go

Given its lower elevation and the fact that the Boulder area boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year, Sugarloaf is worth a visit in any season. Summer is definitely the most popular season for hiking, biking, and camping adventures but fall is especially nice when the aspens around town turn a brilliant gold. Colors tend to peak along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway in late September.

Know before you go

  1. There are no services in Sugarloaf, but you can find everything you need in nearby Boulder. 
  2. Camping near Sugarloaf is incredibly popular given its proximity to Denver. Book campground reservations ahead of time if you can. 
  3. Dispersed camping is typically only allowed in designated sites in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest near Sugarloaf. Make sure camping is allowed before you set up your tent.  
  4. Fire restrictions may be in effect at any time of the year. Check current restrictions before building a campfire.  

Popular Sugarloaf glamping styles