Waterside camping near Winter Park

With a name like Winter Park, this Colorado resort town is perhaps best known as a winter sports destination. In summer, however, Winter Park transforms itself into an adventurous summer sports haven. From hiking, mountain biking, and white water rafting to golfing, ziplining, and scenic gondola rides, Winter Park has it all, and it’s less than a 90-minute drive from downtown Denver. Campers will also find plenty of options near Winter Park and in nearby Granby, Grand Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s no wonder that Winter Park is consistently rated as Colorado’s top adventure town. 

Winter Park Resort

Winter Park is made up of two interconnected ski mountains: Winter Park and Mary Jane. Both offer fantastic skiing in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Camping is limited in town to a few private spots but there are several National Forest campgrounds just outside of the town including the Robbers Roost and Idlewild Campground. 

Granby

This small mountain town is only 25 minutes from Granby. It’s a bit quieter than nearby Winter Park and Grand Lake, and it offers a ton more camping options. Lake Granby has several campgrounds spread out across its shores and even more options in the neighboring Arapaho National Forest.      

Grand Lake 

Located about a 45-minute drive north of Winter Park, Grand Lake is a charming little mountain town at the doorsteps of Rocky Mountain National Park. The town’s namesake lake sits just a block beyond Main Street and offers all sorts of water sports fun. Kayak, paddleboard, and pontoon boat rentals are available at the lake. Campers will find a couple of RV parks in town and tent camping at the Sunset Point Campground.     

Rocky Mountain National Park

The Grand Lake Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park is only a 45-minute drive from Winter Park. The park features endless hiking trails, numerous alpine lakes and waterfalls, and one of the most scenic drives in the country, the Trail Ridge Road from Grand Lake to Estes Park. Campers will find several established campgrounds in the park and unlimited opportunities for backcountry camping. The Timber Creek Campground is the closest campground in the park to Winter Park. 

Winter Park is a year-round outdoor sports destination. The best time to hike, bike, whitewater raft, and camp in Winter Park is June through September. Fall is a wonderful time to visit and colors typically peak around late September. Ski season typically kicks off around Thanksgiving and runs through mid-April. The Grand Lake Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park remains open through the winter but Trail Ridge Road typically closes for the season between mid-October and mid-November depending on early season snow. 

1. You can find plenty of gear shops, outdoor rentals, and specialty shops in Winter Park. Shops in Fraser, 10 minutes north of Winter Park, cater more to locals. 
2. The Robbers Roost and Idlewood campgrounds just outside Winter Park do not take reservations. Arrive early in the day for your best chance of scoring a spot.
3. Summer festivals are a common occurrence in Winter Park. Check the resort calendar to see what events are happening during your visit 
4. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Winter Park in July and August. Start hiking early in the morning.