Lake Camping Near Thornton, Colorado, US: 20 Best Lake Campsites 2026

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Thornton, Colorado, with a lake as your preferred activity/terrain, we've got you covered. With over 185 options in the area, you're bound to find the perfect lakeside campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're into wildlife watching, boating, or wind sports, there's something for everyone. Some of our top campsites near Thornton include Little Cabin with a View (108 reviews), Camp Wilder (120 reviews), and Redstone Ridge RV Ranch (98 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities like trash, pet-friendly sites, and showers to make your camping experience even more enjoyable. With an average price per night of $75 and options as low as $17, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

93% (852) • 122 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Thornton

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking for a camping experience near Thornton, Colorado, with a lake as your preferred activity/terrain, we've got you covered. With over 185 options in the area, you're bound to find the perfect lakeside campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're into wildlife watching, boating, or wind sports, there's something for everyone. Some of our top campsites near Thornton include Little Cabin with a View (108 reviews), Camp Wilder (120 reviews), and Redstone Ridge RV Ranch (98 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities like trash, pet-friendly sites, and showers to make your camping experience even more enjoyable. With an average price per night of $75 and options as low as $17, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

93% (852) • 122 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Thornton

1. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%

(380)

45mi from Thornton · 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.

2. Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

91%

(268)

31mi from Thornton · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse (formerly known as Uncle Charlie's Ranch) is an escape from the big city being only a 50 minute drive from Denver. Our property hosts the experience of Colorado’s nature and so much more! Our larger pond is paddleboard and swimming friendly, the property has easy access to National Forest trails, and we are a short drive from additional hiking/biking trails. While we do not offer fishing in our ponds, there are several locations nearby to fish. **We also offer on-site natural spring water hot soaks (or cold plunges), warmed via our traditional wood burning stove, and fresh mountain spring drinking water available for sale. Check out our website for additional details on our Waterhouse. We look forward to hosting yourself, your family and friends, and your fur babies for a fun camping trip! Check us out on Instagram! We would love to be tagged in your fun camping trip posts! @Wideawakeranchwaterhouse **Hot soaks coming soon! We are currently remodeling our soaks, so please stay tuned! They should be available in August of 2025

3. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%

(354)

32mi from Thornton · 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.

4. St. Vrain State Park

100%

(1)

78 sites · Firestone, Colorado

Get outdoors without driving far at this state park between Denver and Fort Collins.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

5. Cherry Creek State Park

100%

(9)

131 sites · Cherry Creek, Colorado

Grab your camping gear and head out to this Denver-area park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Laughing Valley Retreat

96%

(113)

34mi from Thornton · 2 sites · Lodging

Solitude, views, mining history, near many summer tourist activities.

7. FourFigs Farm

95%

(21)

22mi from Thornton · 1 site · Lodging

Serenity uniquely situated in the middle of hundreds of acres of County Open Space farmland, our micro-tiny house is seated at the edge of our heart-shaped pond in the back corner of our five acre farm. Unobstructed views of the Front Range and Longs Peak, songs of prairie birds and the occasional Blue Heron or Osprey fishing for dinner in the pond, endlessly brilliant sunsets, and the glimmer of a night sky full of stars await you in this peaceful retreat.

8. Red Fox Respite

94%

(16)

45mi from Thornton · 1 site · RV

We have space for one RV between two rows of trees; great privacy and you will be the only campers on our property! No tents please. We are directly next to a natural area complete with hiking/biking trails and restroom facility (no shower). It is an excellent place to walk your dog on leash, visit the horses, observe wildlife including many species of birds! We are just a few miles from Horsetooth Resevoir where you can paddle, kayak, etc and just a mile from CSU campus! Bike on a dedicated trail to Old Town to complete your trip with awesome restaurants and a paddle park on the Poudre River!

9. Horsetooth Lake Retreat

75%

(4)

44mi from Thornton · 1 site · Lodging

🌄 RV Retreat with Stunning Horsetooth Views – Fort Collins, CO Relax and recharge in this unique solar-powered RV. Epic views of Horsetooth Rock, Horsetooth Reservoir, and Fort Collins. Enjoy unforgettable sunrises and sunsets, just minutes from the marina, boat ramp, world-class hiking, and mountain biking trails. ✨ Features: 3 cozy beds, small kitchen, 1 bathroom Outdoor firepit, tiki torches, BBQ grill, picnic table, cornhole 2 kayaks, 2 paddleboards & life jackets included Quiet setting with plenty of parking + tent space Dog-friendly! Perfect for families, couples, or friends looking to unwind, stargaze, and explore the outdoors.

10. Chatfield State Park

93%

(14)

189 sites · Columbine, Colorado

Woodland walks, wildlife watching, and water sports await at Chatfield.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Roosevelt National Forest

83%

(44)

800 sites · Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Arapaho National Forest

94%

(42)

619 sites · Tabernash, Colorado

1.5 million acres of woodlands, wilderness areas, and backcountry camping.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Boyd Lake State Park

100%

(4)

138 sites · Loveland, Colorado

Swim, fish, jet ski or kayak in this urban lakeside park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Camper or tent w/ great view!

100%

(7)

33mi from Thornton · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land:Convenient rural location with views of Rocky Mountains and adjacent lake, small pond with waterfall and fire pit. Less than an hour to Rocky Mtn National Park.

15. Colorado Meadows & Fishing Pond

100%

(17)

49mi from Thornton · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land: Elevation 7,000 feet. Flat to slightly rolling grass field and pond. Camping is allowed on east or west side of pond. No vehicle access to east side of pond. East of the pond area has *firepit, picnic tables and chairs. Camping on either the east or west side of the pond in mowed grassy areas only. Vehicles are not permitted over the berm, which is access to the east side of pond. Walking access only. Please adhere to this requirement. A small wagon is available to transport camping items. Tents are allowed on either west or east side of pond. Trailers and campers are only allowed on the west side of the pond in the mowed grassy area. *For the 2025 season fire requirements and permits are followed. If a Fire Ban is in effect, there are no fires, charcoal grills, gas firepits, gas BBW, gas stoves, or smoking. At no time are fireworks or firearms allowed. Please consider other options when on the site. This Fire ban is strictly enforced. Any violators will be asked to leave with no refund. No Port-a-Potty on site. Campers, trailers or guest portable potty only. No vehicles over berm area (access to east side of pond). No exceptions. Pond available for fishing. No swimming, wading or watercraft of any kind on pond. Children and pets must be supervised at all times and water safety strictly adhered. There is a small country market in Larkspur for light meals and coffee, about 3 miles away.. There is one horse on site at this time. There may be cattle within one of the pastures, as well. Please do not enter the pastures. The entrance to Sandstone Open Space with hiking trails is approximately 1 mile north on the west side of Perry Park/Highway 105. The Renaissance Festival is approximately 3 miles from the property.

16. Barr Lake RV Park

8.4mi from Thornton · 41 sites

Nestled just outside Denver, CO, this RV park stands out for its convenient access to both urban amenities and the stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. With 70 spacious full hookup pull-through sites, it offers a perfect blend of comfort and accessibility for travelers seeking a memorable outdoor experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing in the nearby scenic areas. The park's location also provides easy access to local restaurants and shops, ensuring that all your needs are met during your stay. Whether you're looking to explore the vibrant city life of Denver or unwind in nature, this RV park serves as an ideal base for your adventures. Experience the best of both worlds in this unique and welcoming campground.

17. Rainbow Trout Ranch & Campground

38mi from Thornton · 21 sites

Welcome to Rainbow Trouch Ranch & Campground, a hidden gem in Colorado that combines serene camping experiences with exceptional fishing opportunities. Nestled just a mile from the stunning Staunton State Park, our campground offers visitors unparalleled access to a variety of outdoor adventures. At Rainbow Trouch Ranch, you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying activities such as hiking, rock climbing, biking, and horseback riding. The nearby park is also a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, allowing you to connect with the local fauna in their natural habitat. Our campground is designed to provide a peaceful retreat, ensuring privacy and comfort for all our guests. Whether you're looking to cast a line in our well-stocked fishing spots or explore the breathtaking landscapes of Staunton State Park, Rainbow Trouch Ranch & Campground is the perfect destination for your next outdoor getaway. Come and experience the beauty of Colorado with us!

18. Spruce Lake RV Park

44mi from Thornton · 159 sites

Discover the unique charm of Spruce Lake RV Resort, where the beauty of nature meets tranquility. Nestled amidst expansive lush meadows, this serene retreat offers guests the opportunity to unwind by a pristine, crystal-clear lake while enjoying the soothing sounds of the nearby Big Thompson River. Spanning a generous acreage, our resort provides ample privacy for visitors seeking a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re looking to fish in the lake, hike scenic trails, or simply relax in the great outdoors, Spruce Lake RV Resort is the perfect base for your adventures. Nearby, you’ll find a variety of attractions, including inviting swimming holes, outdoor activities, and local restaurants and shops that showcase the best of the area. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation at Spruce Lake RV Resort, where every moment is an opportunity to connect with nature.

19. Rocky Mountain National Park

97%

(175)

553 sites · Grand Lake, Colorado

Explore one of America’s most beloved alpine landscapes in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Neil

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arapaho Valley Ranch

Very friendly and flexible staff helped me plan a memorable marriage proposal! We upgraded to a Yurt which was really lovely

A

Aryel Terese

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Arapaho Valley Ranch

We booked through HipCamp last minute and I am glad they were still able to accommodate us. The drive to the ranch was just beautiful! You’ll pass by a couple of ski resorts and beautiful small towns that are worthy of visiting! The ranch it self was surrounded by water, we booked Camp 24 and it was just perfect for me and my boyfriend and his Sprinter Van. It was also in front of the lake/river so that was a great plus! We didn’t book any rooms so my 5 star rating is for the toilet that was well maintained and cleaned. We arrived after 5pm so there was no one to check us in but we really appreciate the welcome map addressed to me that led us to our campsite. Another 5 star. And lastly, the ranch is just perfect for first timers like us as it was very accessible. There’s a small town 25mins away that has a City Market and pretty much everything you’ll need. We bought 2 bags of wood but that was definitely not enough. Luckily there were a lot of old woods on the ground that we were able to use. We also tried to fish but no luck on that. Overall, the experience was amazing and I can’t wait to go back with our friends there.

M

Michael

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Arapaho Valley Ranch

I drove out to Colorado all the way from Connecticut to go camping at Arapaho Valley Ranch. Everything about the experience was amazing. Very peaceful, beautiful views and a great staff. Will definitely be camping there again in the future.

C

Cal

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arapaho Valley Ranch

Very cool spot. The drive in was beautiful. We went the first weekend of November and basically had the place to ourselves. The lodge with the pool table was a major plus as well. Would defiantly come back.

N

Nate

October 2025

4 nights at Laughing Valley Retreat

We had an awesome time at the Laughing Valley Ranch! Bill showed us around and we loved looking at the animals, he’s a very knowledgeable and kind man. The campsite was an a gorgeous outlook that made for fantastic views. We are birders, so loved all of the cool birds around. Joe also made our stay super easy and comfortable! He gave us rides to the site, made sure we had wood and water, and showed us some cool spots around the land. Big shoutout to Joe! Overall we really enjoyed our time here, great place to get away and take in the mountain view’s for a couple of days, while not being super far from Denver and the cute town of Idaho Springs. Recommend this spot for any hiking, camping, or overall nature lovers.

S

Stephen

October 2025

21 ft Class B

With kids

1 night at Arapaho Valley Ranch

Awesome place at the end of a fairly rough dirt road. Original lodge with pool table. Dark sky, lots of stars. Definitely going back. Probably stay in in one of the tent “cabins” facing the pond with showers!

M

Megan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arapaho Valley Ranch

So beautiful, we want to come back!! Check in and finding our campsite was easy

Matt being awesome and filling up our soak!

M

Maddison

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

We recently had the pleasure of camping at Wideawake Ranch & Waterhouse and it was easily one of the most thoughtful and rejuvenating camping experiences we’ve ever had. From the start, Simmons went above and beyond. Before we even arrived, she reached out to ask if we wanted to schedule a soak or use paddleboards since we were among the last guests before the season’s close. She even offered a sample of their incredible spring water and made sure we had everything we might need—including towels. When we arrived, she guided us to our campsite, making us feel completely cared for from the moment we got there. Later, Gwen and Matt came to set up our soak, and they were equally amazing. They walked us through how everything worked, shared local tips and recommendations, and their kindness made the experience even better. The whole team clearly loves what they do, and it shows in every interaction.The landscape was stunning, the soak was unforgettable, and every part of the stay felt curated with care and authenticity. WA’s mission of helping guests reconnect with nature, others, and themselves really shines through. Pros: • Exceptional, genuine hospitality from the entire team • Thoughtful amenities • Peaceful, beautifully maintained property • Seamless balance of comfort and nature All in all: 5/5. We left feeling refreshed, connected, and incredibly grateful. If you’re seeking more just a campsite- Wideawake Ranch & Waterhouse is exactly that.

B

Brett

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Arapaho Valley Ranch

Well kept grounds. I'm pretty sure we were one of only a few staying on the property. Definitely the only ones staying in our campsite area. Keep in mind the bathhouses are only for those paying for the glamping or cabins.

S

Sarah

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Laughing Valley Retreat

We had a fantastic stay at Laughing Valley a few weeks ago. The tent, campsite and amenities were impressive, making our experience comfortable and enjoyable. What truly stood out was our engagement with Joe, who took us on a tour and showed us all the cool ranch animals — his enthusiasm and kindness made the visit memorable. When a storm was approaching, Joe went above and beyond to ensure our tent was securely latched and that we felt safe and comfortable. Overall, we felt genuinely taken care of and already look forward to returning for another trip. Highly recommend!

M

Max

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to FourFigs Farm

A nice farm escape. Fun to walk laps around the pond and relax on the deck of the tiny house. Beautiful view of the mountains.

Briar

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Neverland Camp Wilder

Second time camping here and another relaxing weekend! Easy to find with the host’s directions and is very quiet but close enough to town. Able to get to site with a FWD SUV but would not want to attempt in snow or heavier mud/rain. Will likely be back again!

A

Anna

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Laughing Valley Retreat

William was great with my son showing him all the animals! Thank you!! The tent was well stocked and cozy. We had a great evening under the stars at this little slice of Heaven.

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

We loved our experience! We made it in time to peep the fall leaves and also got to experience a beautiful pink sunset. The tent site was large enough to pull our VW van into and gave us room to pop the top. Despite other campers staying in the cabin across the way, it was quiet and we felt very secluded (what we were looking for!). Our two dogs also had a blast and spent a ton of time exploring the woods. 10/10 recommend. Will absolutely be back to both the tent site and are already looking to make plans to book the cabin site soon. Thank you so much for opening up your space to us!

H

Hannah

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

Camping here was absolutely wonderful! From the drive up to the view from the porch, the scenery was gorgeous. The site itself is a bit tricky to find which was my only issue. Otherwise the location is perfect, and the lodging was stocked with a multitude of useful resources. I would definitely visit again!

C

Chris

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Arapaho Valley Ranch

Fantastic time. Site was perfect for our RTT needs. Will come back again!

A

Adam

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

Excellent location. Friendly host. Beautiful views! And very private.

N

Nick

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arapaho Valley Ranch

The camp site was smaller than I initially expected but it was very secluded and private. I would absolutely stay here again!

P

Priscilla

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

We originally booked Pond Meadow #1 but when we got there, we wanted to switch to another site and the host was so gracious and let us take our pick of available sites. He was so nice and even let us buy some firewood from him since we missed the stop on the way to the campground. We ended up staying on site #5, which was perfect for us! It was nice and flat, plenty of room to pitch our 6-person tent. There was a fire pit at each campsite, multiple toilets, and paddle boards available for use. The different campsites are somewhat close together, so if there are large groups around you, it can get kind of noisy. Word of advice, we came from the direction of Netherland and I don't recommend coming this way unless you are in an off roading vehicle. There was about 5 miles leading to the campground that was not maintained and pretty rough. I'm actually surprised our minivan was able to make it. I recommend coming from the Golden direction, the roads were much better that way. Otherwise, the campsite was great! Very secluded and beautiful. Would definitely stay again.