The best star host camping near Wheat Ridge

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Looking to go camping near Wheat Ridge, Colorado? Hipcamp has over 1272 options available for you to choose from. Whether you prefer a resort-style campground, a rustic ranch, or something in between, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your preferences. With popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll love the variety of activities available, including paddling, boating, and fishing. And if you're unsure where to start, check out the top-rated campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Historic Ranch at Mt. Princeton (196 reviews) to get started. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (3.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Bliss Pond reflect the glory of Fall colors.

1. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%
(363)
32mi from Wheat Ridge · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lyons, CO
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
Site #3

2. Resort Valley Ranch East

98%
(955)
24mi from Wheat Ridge · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Conifer, CO
Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$30
 / night
Gold Nugget Tree House

3. Gold Nugget Tree House

99%
(204)
26mi from Wheat Ridge · 1 site · Lodging · Gold Hill, CO
Come visit our sweet little treehouse in the woods. Our property is just steps away from the bustling historic town of Gold Hill, a destination for tourists and road bikers alike. The treehouse is a glamping experience with just enough amenities to keep you comfortable. Food - Bring your cooler with food supplies or take out in Boulder before you head up the mountain. Or grab a coffee, pizza, snack or a glass of wine at the Gold Hill store. If you'd like a full service dining experience, make a reservation for a 5 course meal at the Gold Hill Inn. What To Do: Walk around the historic town of Gold Hill. We promise you will be entertained. Ask a local about the museum, the cemetery, or the historic two room school house, or any other favorite spots they have around the area. Love the woods and nature, but would like a little action? Attend a local live music concert at the Gold Hill Store or the Gold Hill Inn on a beautiful summers night. Drive to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park to explore for the day. Boulder - 20 minutes Nederland - 35 minutes Estes Park - 45 minutes The Treehouse is furnished with Queen size bed and plenty of blankets to keep you warm, but feel free to bring your sleeping bag if you prefer. A roll out twin size feather bed for the floor is available upon request if you have a few more folks joining. We provide a portable toilet with WagBags. Please always pack out all human solid human waste. Gold Hill Store offers a toilet for a minimal fee and the Gold Hill Inn has a toilet for customers. A camp stove is available for outdoor use. The camp stove and the propane heater both use 1 lb propane canisters, so feel free to bring your own fuel to cook and keep you warm. A can of propane is always available for your use of the stove. * A note to novice campers and regular hotel patrons: Though you are in a shelter, you are still exposed to the elements. The treehouse is not insulated. Wind, bugs, and critters may all be a part of the variable treehouse experience mother nature has planned for you. If you are not comfortable camping, getting dirty, swatting flies, being too hot, being too cold, hearing the noises of animals at night, waking up to the sound of magpies, and who knows what else, this experience may not be for you.
Toilets
Wifi
Potable water
from 
$139
 / night
The cabin is tucked away in the pine trees

4. Rustic Glamorous Artist's Cabin

98%
(427)
33mi from Wheat Ridge · 3 sites · Lodging · Bailey, CO
The first time I saw this beautiful heavily wooded 12-acre property, I immediately put in an offer. That was 18 years ago. I spent the next 11 years chasing corporate goals which I finally realized were inconsistent with my soul. I started a family and decided to sell this property. I brought my then 2 year old daughter here so she could see it once before I sold it. As we drove up highway 285 through vistas each more stunning than the last, I was moved to tears by the beauty. By the time we reached the property, I knew that we would be moving back here. Nearly 3 years later, we finally moved back with 3 dogs and 2 cats in tow. We love it here and truly belong in this place we call home. Part of the former Ute tribe summer hunting area, and backing to the Pike National Forest and Lost Creek Wilderness; this fascinating area is both beautiful and full of things to do. Fresh clean mountain air. No people. Get away to the quiet beauty of your private wooded cabin. Enjoy a campfire, amazing mountain views, and killer hiking right out your cabin door. Spend an amazing night with millions of stars overhead. Recharge your soul in silent mountain peace. A rare opportunity to stay tucked in private woods and steps from 1000s of acres of national forest. Featuring dual heaters, sleeping loft, outdoor cooking area, solar, and indoor camp toilet facilities, this is luxury glampingSpend an unforgettable night watching millions of stars in the crisp clean mountain air.  Feel yourself relax and recharge as you enjoy the woods and the stunning mountain views. The cabin is furnished with many of the pieces from the Lost Creek Cabin Studio and features solar electricity and indoor camp toilet facilities. Fresh water is provided. The artist's retreat is a luxury glamping cabin.As long as there is no fire ban, you are welcome to enjoy a campfire in the outdoor fireplace.  We require guests to diligently tend their fire and completely extinguish the campfire when guests are not near.  There is firewood to gather on the property and we have firewood for purchase as well.  We do not allow guests to bring in firewood as the area has begun to see invasive species of insects and we do not want to contribute to this potentially devastating situation. 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
120 Acre Animal Sanctuary

5. 120 Acre Animal Sanctuary

100%
(33)
35mi from Wheat Ridge · 6 sites · Tents · Elizabeth, CO
Camp for a Cause. Glamp to Give Back. Every stay supports rescued horses and the healing they offer. Unplug under the stars. Reconnect with purpose. Rest in gratitude. Whether you’re bringing your RV, pitching your own tent, or staying in one of our cozy glamping tents, your stay helps make a difference. Raison d’être Ranch—French for “reason to be”—is more than just a name. It’s our mission, our heartbeat, and our why. Here on 120 peaceful acres, we’ve created a sanctuary for over 95 rescued horses, along with santuaried cows, goats, and a myriad of wildlife who call this sacred land home. From deer, pronghorn, and porcupine to coyotes, bald eagles, waterfowl, hawks, meadowlarks, mourning doves, and more—we honor all life here. Every night you spend here supports the lifelong care of our animals and the equine-partnered wellness programs that help people heal through their connection with these sentient beings. Dry camping. Tent camping. Glamping. Choose your style—and know that wherever you sleep, you’re standing for something bigger. While planning your stay, don’t forget to check out our special add-ons and romance packages! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, a proposal, or simply want to create a ‘just because’ moment, we offer picnic setups, romantic touches, and more to make your time here magical. Want to go even deeper? Book one of our unique experiences—like meeting the herd, hearing their rescue stories, walking or grooming a horse, or participating in a private equine-partnered wellness session. We encourage you to book in advance to ensure availability. This isn’t just a stay—it’s a sanctuary experience. Camp with purpose. Glamp with gratitude. And give back to what matters. Please note: Check-In Policy Our standard check-in window is between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Arrivals between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM may be accommodated with prior notice and are subject to a $10 late check-in fee. Due to the nature of our property as a working ranch, and in respect for our animals and fellow guests, we are unable to accommodate any check-ins after 10:00 PM. Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM, and for the safety and well-being of all on site, late arrivals beyond this time
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$38
 / night

Looking to go camping near Wheat Ridge, Colorado? Hipcamp has over 1272 options available for you to choose from. Whether you prefer a resort-style campground, a rustic ranch, or something in between, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your preferences. With popular amenities like potable water, campfires, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll love the variety of activities available, including paddling, boating, and fishing. And if you're unsure where to start, check out the top-rated campsites like Glen Isle Resort (461 reviews), Rustic Creek Ranch (363 reviews), and Historic Ranch at Mt. Princeton (196 reviews) to get started. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (3.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Bliss Pond reflect the glory of Fall colors.

1. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%
(363)
32mi from Wheat Ridge · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lyons, CO
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
Site #3

2. Resort Valley Ranch East

98%
(955)
24mi from Wheat Ridge · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Conifer, CO
Historic Ranch Resort Valley Ranch was homesteaded mainly by the Corbin family starting.in 1884 They had moved their cattle here from nearby Pleasent Park during a particularly hard winter, as a "last resort", leading to the creeks being named Last Resort and West Resort. Hard times in the 1930's and drought conditions, convinced the Corbin's to sell out and move to lusher climes. Tom’s father, Dr. O.J. Butterfield was another doctor that invested his spare money in cattle ranching. Purchased mainly before. 1945, Tom's older brother Rupert tried to make a living raising trout on the Resort Creek property in the late '40's. Otherwise, the place was occupied by various old-timers who caretook the place until 1955, when Barbara and Tom moved here to oversee the cattle business. The second slope of the driveway frequently had to be dug out by hand for access. The years of drought had left the place overgrazed and barren. Times were hard, and the horses needed to work the cattle ate plenty. The opportunity arose to lease them out in nearby Foxton--Foxton Stables was born. An old livery and other outbuildings provided the facilities needed. Mutual benefit was derived from the business as customers to the general store also would take advantage of the riding horses just across the bridge. Workers and helpers came from off-duty air force boys, as well as volunteer children from the local summer cabins. Guided rides were offered, as well as moonlight rides when appropriate and by appointment. There were also "Chuck Wagon" cookouts which included a horse-drawn hay ride to and from. Tom and Barbara also put on a Trail Horse Trials which was an annual competition over obstacles, judged, set up to simulate obstacles a horse might encounter while out riding. This became more widely attended the second year, coming to the notice of horse breeders like Mary Woolverton, who competed in it for the first time in 1963. (That's when Nan first fell in love with Prince of Pride, a golden palomino Morgan stallion who always looked like the perfect horse showing how to do it perfectly.) 1963 is the last year this event, and the stable business, was held in Foxton. From then on, the stable was run from the barn at the ranch, and the Trail Horse Trials was not put on again until 1966, when it was sponsored by the 4-H Trail Dusters and put on in conjunction with the first annual Top of the World Competitive Trail ride which was head-quartered on the west end of the property. As the stable became busier, more horses were purchased or leased to meet the need. Many of these horse were grade individuals from known breeds. The better mares did double duty by raising foals each year, that would be sold or auctioned off. Some of the mares were bred to our Shetland pony stallion, Tarzan, he was called a chocolate-dapple. Several years we had Appaloosa offspring from a friend's stallion. For a short time, a Moroccan Paint stallion was used, but he tended to throw the lethal white gene, as well as breaking Tom Butterfield's knee with his bad behavior. He soon found his way back to auction! A couple of the leased mares were Morgans. They proved to be easy to work with as well as hardy individuals that kept well, and the foals proved easier to halter break than the other horses. They made a good enough impression that a young gelding was purchased, and one nice mare was bred to the Morgan stallion Julio--descended from Juzan. The resulting colt, Julian, was kept as stallion until age eight, before being gelded and living out his years as a family favorite. Julian did a lovely running walk. Unfortunately, none of his offspring were kept, including the two from the half Shetland mares kept for the family. It may seem that the cattle operation got dropped by the wayside. In actuality, that's not far from the truth. The fact that the registered Herefords purchased by Tom and Barbara, turned out to carry dwarf genes, which soon became apparent each calving season. This rather limited the value and productivity of the herd. Financial concerns brought on by Dr. Butterfield's death in 1967, subsequently led to the dispersal of the cattle herd. It was fortunate that the Stable had become established enough to become one of the mainstays of the family fortunes. Diversification was always a necessity. Horses were leased to the Forest Service when they needed them. The entire string would be utilized for company picnics, with the horses being brought to the site. Churches were sent flyers promoting group rides and hayrides. Boy Scout troops were welcomed to camp, ride and work on both Horsemanship and Conservation Merit Badges--which benefited in valuable erosion control work. Many times, ranch hands were obtained from these sources, both for fencing and Christmas tree cutting. There were many winters that the place carried over a hundred head of horses, as several camps in the area would winter their horses here. Dad would haul them back and forth, pull their shoes, etc. Our pinto line originated with Barbara's mare Calico, a pinto mare of unknown breeding, though Tennessee Walker was suspected due to her gaits. Having been diagnosed with Navicular disease, she was bred to the Shetland, Tarzan, a chocolate-dapple--producing the mare Feather (Nan's pony). This line has been bred only to Morgans since '66, when Feather was bred to General James, producing the mare Calico Doll, granddam to our stallion RV Eagle Feather. Doll was only 14.2, but she had heart, stamina and intelligence. Having learned much at the knee of the Shetland, Feather, Nan began training Doll in 1970. This mare was just four years old when she took the High Point Champion in the '71 Trail Horse Trials, over some tough competition, including Mary Woolverton's Prince of Pride. She could side-pass, two track, drag a log, pull a cart without blinders, open gates, work livestock and run all day. She also would gait occasionally, a trait that skipped a generation. Calico Doll was bred to Prince of Pride five different times, prior to his death in 1973(?). She would get in foal but never carried to term. Nan did some riding for Mary in exchange for these breedings, working Victory Vagabond. Finally the arrangement was settled by getting Calico Doll in foal to her stallion, Great Hills Richmond. Calico Doll's brown colt from this cross was sold on to the Tumbling River Ranch for cattle work. In the 1970's, a local breeder came to our attention with her stallion, Topside Midnight, when she competed him in the Top of the World Competitive Trail Ride. The crossing of Calico Doll with Midnight produced the black 3/4 Morgan stallion, Jaspar, in 1974. He was used for breeding four or five years, overlapping the transition to pureblooded Morgans in 1977. I always thought it unfortunate that he wasn't pure-blooded as he had wonderful manners, was very solid and typey and a generous sire. We sold his offspring until 1985 and still have a great-granddaughter. He was gelded in '81, and sold in '82. A few of the solid colored part-bloods come down from this line of the family. One of his daughters has competed as a grade horse in Competitive Trail riding for the past ten years. Three major land sales were required for operating expenses during the late '60's and early '70's. The Indian Park Ranch was decreased to 280 acres, Resort Valley Ranch decreased from 5,000 acres to its present 4,000. The Camp Fire Girls purchased the property adjacent to the driveway, leading to their utilizing horses from our string for their horse program. As the Camp increased its horse program, the public stables was gradually phased out. This freed up the Butterfield's lifestyle enough for them to focus on starting raising the pure-blooded Morgans, beginning with their purchase of SH Crescent in 1976.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$30
 / night
Gold Nugget Tree House

3. Gold Nugget Tree House

99%
(204)
26mi from Wheat Ridge · 1 site · Lodging · Gold Hill, CO
Come visit our sweet little treehouse in the woods. Our property is just steps away from the bustling historic town of Gold Hill, a destination for tourists and road bikers alike. The treehouse is a glamping experience with just enough amenities to keep you comfortable. Food - Bring your cooler with food supplies or take out in Boulder before you head up the mountain. Or grab a coffee, pizza, snack or a glass of wine at the Gold Hill store. If you'd like a full service dining experience, make a reservation for a 5 course meal at the Gold Hill Inn. What To Do: Walk around the historic town of Gold Hill. We promise you will be entertained. Ask a local about the museum, the cemetery, or the historic two room school house, or any other favorite spots they have around the area. Love the woods and nature, but would like a little action? Attend a local live music concert at the Gold Hill Store or the Gold Hill Inn on a beautiful summers night. Drive to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park to explore for the day. Boulder - 20 minutes Nederland - 35 minutes Estes Park - 45 minutes The Treehouse is furnished with Queen size bed and plenty of blankets to keep you warm, but feel free to bring your sleeping bag if you prefer. A roll out twin size feather bed for the floor is available upon request if you have a few more folks joining. We provide a portable toilet with WagBags. Please always pack out all human solid human waste. Gold Hill Store offers a toilet for a minimal fee and the Gold Hill Inn has a toilet for customers. A camp stove is available for outdoor use. The camp stove and the propane heater both use 1 lb propane canisters, so feel free to bring your own fuel to cook and keep you warm. A can of propane is always available for your use of the stove. * A note to novice campers and regular hotel patrons: Though you are in a shelter, you are still exposed to the elements. The treehouse is not insulated. Wind, bugs, and critters may all be a part of the variable treehouse experience mother nature has planned for you. If you are not comfortable camping, getting dirty, swatting flies, being too hot, being too cold, hearing the noises of animals at night, waking up to the sound of magpies, and who knows what else, this experience may not be for you.
Toilets
Wifi
Potable water
from 
$139
 / night
The cabin is tucked away in the pine trees

4. Rustic Glamorous Artist's Cabin

98%
(427)
33mi from Wheat Ridge · 3 sites · Lodging · Bailey, CO
The first time I saw this beautiful heavily wooded 12-acre property, I immediately put in an offer. That was 18 years ago. I spent the next 11 years chasing corporate goals which I finally realized were inconsistent with my soul. I started a family and decided to sell this property. I brought my then 2 year old daughter here so she could see it once before I sold it. As we drove up highway 285 through vistas each more stunning than the last, I was moved to tears by the beauty. By the time we reached the property, I knew that we would be moving back here. Nearly 3 years later, we finally moved back with 3 dogs and 2 cats in tow. We love it here and truly belong in this place we call home. Part of the former Ute tribe summer hunting area, and backing to the Pike National Forest and Lost Creek Wilderness; this fascinating area is both beautiful and full of things to do. Fresh clean mountain air. No people. Get away to the quiet beauty of your private wooded cabin. Enjoy a campfire, amazing mountain views, and killer hiking right out your cabin door. Spend an amazing night with millions of stars overhead. Recharge your soul in silent mountain peace. A rare opportunity to stay tucked in private woods and steps from 1000s of acres of national forest. Featuring dual heaters, sleeping loft, outdoor cooking area, solar, and indoor camp toilet facilities, this is luxury glampingSpend an unforgettable night watching millions of stars in the crisp clean mountain air.  Feel yourself relax and recharge as you enjoy the woods and the stunning mountain views. The cabin is furnished with many of the pieces from the Lost Creek Cabin Studio and features solar electricity and indoor camp toilet facilities. Fresh water is provided. The artist's retreat is a luxury glamping cabin.As long as there is no fire ban, you are welcome to enjoy a campfire in the outdoor fireplace.  We require guests to diligently tend their fire and completely extinguish the campfire when guests are not near.  There is firewood to gather on the property and we have firewood for purchase as well.  We do not allow guests to bring in firewood as the area has begun to see invasive species of insects and we do not want to contribute to this potentially devastating situation. 
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$145
 / night
120 Acre Animal Sanctuary

5. 120 Acre Animal Sanctuary

100%
(33)
35mi from Wheat Ridge · 6 sites · Tents · Elizabeth, CO
Camp for a Cause. Glamp to Give Back. Every stay supports rescued horses and the healing they offer. Unplug under the stars. Reconnect with purpose. Rest in gratitude. Whether you’re bringing your RV, pitching your own tent, or staying in one of our cozy glamping tents, your stay helps make a difference. Raison d’être Ranch—French for “reason to be”—is more than just a name. It’s our mission, our heartbeat, and our why. Here on 120 peaceful acres, we’ve created a sanctuary for over 95 rescued horses, along with santuaried cows, goats, and a myriad of wildlife who call this sacred land home. From deer, pronghorn, and porcupine to coyotes, bald eagles, waterfowl, hawks, meadowlarks, mourning doves, and more—we honor all life here. Every night you spend here supports the lifelong care of our animals and the equine-partnered wellness programs that help people heal through their connection with these sentient beings. Dry camping. Tent camping. Glamping. Choose your style—and know that wherever you sleep, you’re standing for something bigger. While planning your stay, don’t forget to check out our special add-ons and romance packages! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, a proposal, or simply want to create a ‘just because’ moment, we offer picnic setups, romantic touches, and more to make your time here magical. Want to go even deeper? Book one of our unique experiences—like meeting the herd, hearing their rescue stories, walking or grooming a horse, or participating in a private equine-partnered wellness session. We encourage you to book in advance to ensure availability. This isn’t just a stay—it’s a sanctuary experience. Camp with purpose. Glamp with gratitude. And give back to what matters. Please note: Check-In Policy Our standard check-in window is between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Arrivals between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM may be accommodated with prior notice and are subject to a $10 late check-in fee. Due to the nature of our property as a working ranch, and in respect for our animals and fellow guests, we are unable to accommodate any check-ins after 10:00 PM. Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM, and for the safety and well-being of all on site, late arrivals beyond this time
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$38
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field