The best waterside camping near Woodland Park
Colorado's "City Above the Clouds" entices with supreme access to the outdoors.
The best waterside camping near Woodland Park guide
Where to go
Woodland Park Town Center
Several RV parks are located right in Woodland Park, but for those looking to camp a bit closer to nature, the South Meadow Campground is located in the Pike National Forest just a few minutes outside of town. Other popular camping options close to Woodland Park include the Meadow Ridge Campground and the campgrounds at the Rampart Reservoir.
Colorado Springs
Colorado’s second largest city, Colorado Springs, is just 30 minutes southeast of Woodland Park. Colorado Springs is home to the Garden of the Gods, a gorgeous landscape of red rock towers and balanced rocks. It’s one of the state’s most visited natural attractions, and hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular ways to explore the park.
Cripple Creek
Cripple Creek is a historic old mining town 25 miles south of Woodland Park. It’s downtown area has maintained much of its old western character and is lined with saloons, casinos, and historic buildings like the old jail. A visit to Cripple Creek is like stepping back into the days of the gold rush and tours are offered of area mines.
When to go
Considering Woodland Park’s high elevation, summer is the best time for camping, hiking, and biking adventures. Many of the high elevation campgrounds in Pike National Forest are only open from Memorial Day to just after Labor Day weekend. Woodland Park is also wonderful in fall. The Pikes Peak area puts on some of the best fall color shows in Colorado and colors often peak by early October. Some area campgrounds such as the one at Mueller State Park remain open year-round.
Know before you go
- Woodland Park has grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and several outdoor gear and fly fishing shops.
- There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Woodland Park including the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center and the nearby Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center.
- Many of the national forest campgrounds surrounding Woodland Park take reservations. Book ahead of time if you plan to camp on a weekend.
- In addition to tent and RV sites, Mueller State Park also has cabins available for rent.