Camping near Roosevelt National Forest

83% (41 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Roosevelt National Forest adventure.

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Roosevelt National Forest

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Roosevelt National Forest

Olive Ridge Campground

53 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Narrows Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Browns Park Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

This isn't exactly the view from the campsite, but Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak are spectacular. The trailhead is just down the road

Meeker Park Overflow Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

West Lake Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Kelly Dahl Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(1)

Camp Dick Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Dutch George Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Jacks Gulch Campground

64 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(1)

Kelly Flats Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Long Draw Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(2)

North Fork Poudre Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Sleeping Elephant Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(1)

Tom Bennett Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(11)

Brainard Lake Recreation Area

47 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

90%

(5)

Peaceful Valley Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Mountain Park Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

67%

(4)

Rainbow Lakes Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Aspen Glen Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(1)

Stove Prairie Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Big South Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Some great adventures and made lasting memories

Grandview Campground

9 sites In Roosevelt National Forest

Tunnel Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Stub Creek Cabin

1 site In Roosevelt National Forest

Pawnee Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(4)

Ansel Watrous Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Bellaire Lake Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(2)

Chambers Lake Campground

51 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

67%

(3)

Dowdy Lake Campground

62 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(2)

Lower Narrows Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Big Bend Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Roosevelt National Forest

98%

(139)

Boulder Chicken Ranch

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Boulder, CO

Welcome to our charming 2-acre farm nestled in East Boulder with a view of Long’s Peak. Just minutes from town - near walking trails, shopping and restaurants. A great pitstop on your way to or from the mountains. We offer authentic Tintypes services here at the ranch, original 1850's portraits made of pure silver on 8x10 inch metal plates. Sittings are at 3pm, for those interested, and cost $250. We have a 4 meter Glamping tent complete with a queen sized bed, chairs, and a wood burning stove - as well as spots in the meadow for RVs, vans, teardrops, rooftop tents, and ground-dwelling tents. We can handle RVs around 45 feet in TOTAL LENGTH - truck and trailer. It’s a big field, but a narrow, winding and steep ramp to get in and out. If you are a nervous driver, perhaps choose another place to rest your head. If you are a great driver, you can go even bigger. We have a community fire ring with a big pile of free burn wood, though the big logs are getting few and far between; bringing your own firewood is recommended. Bring an ax or saw. If it's windy, skip the fire... the BFD is very strict about this!! We have well water to offer up by the house, but don't drink it without purification… makes for a great solar shower. We have fresh eggs at the coop! Watch out for the rooster. The chickens free range during the day, so PLEASE keep an eye on your dogs… leash if necessary. Our gals won’t run away. Venmo code at the coop for your convenience. THE GOOD: *Easy in and out location *Most affordable rates in all of Boulder *Beautiful view of the Longs Peak *Lots of sun *Outdoor solar shower *Fresh eggs!!! *5 day maximum stay *Good view of small airplanes flying THE BAD: *Daytime road noise (pretend ocean waves??) *Small airport nearby *Almost zero shade *Shower is only hot when the sun shines - almost zero privacy *Total RV length 45 feet - Truck AND Trailer - due to a steep and winding entrance and exit *Good Morning Roosters *Midsummer Mosquitoes * 5 day max stay Please reach out with any questions you may have. I’ll do my level best to help in any way I can. Safe travels! Sincerely, Patrick

95%

(336)

Creekside Paradise

6 sites · Lodging, Tents42 acres · CO

Located perfectly between Boulder, Nederland, and Rocky Mountain National Park, and very close to other stunning hikes, this spot is a great landing pad to have easy access to some of the most beautiful places in the Rockies as well as offering it's own breathtaking scenery. This land is the sacred land of the Arapaho tribe. Chief Niwot and his tribe spent winters here. It is a very special place. The property is a mile long so there is plenty of space with the tent sites being 1/2 mile from the yurt and separate entries for each. There are currently 2 tents sites available, a bell tent, and a yurt.

90%

(266)

Arapaho Valley Ranch

68 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Granby, CO

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.

92%

(232)

A-Lodge Boulder

59 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Boulder, CO

A-Lodge Boulder is a 30 room lodge just 2 miles above downtown Boulder, Colorado. We are located in a wilderness area of Boulder Canyon, right at the junction with Fourmile Canyon. We have three #vanlife sites and four tentsites for offer on Hipcamp. We have a BRAND NEW barrel sauna, hot tub, grills, seasonal pool (Memorial Day to Labor Day), meeting space, outdoor beer garden, bathrooms and showers for campers and a wonderful trail to Betasso Preserve right from your campsite. The Fourmile Creek runs through our property along our large lawn area. Great views and you might see bear, deer, elk, moose, foxes, or even a mountain lion! Walk-in sites are just a short hike, about 100 feet, on an unmanicured trail to our platforms. We provide the platform for your tent as well as access to all of our lodge's amenities; front desk, lobby, bar & beer garden, fire pits, grills, bathrooms, shower, outdoor common areas, free wifi, etc. Our guests love us too! Check out what a fellow camper had to say: "First time Hipcamper and A-Lodge visitor here, I’d definitely recommend checking this place out if you’re traveling to the Boulder area. The tent platforms were easy to get to and spaced far enough apart for privacy and generally a nice break from setting up a tent on a gravel pad. WiFi was stable throughout my visit and I was able to get some work done before heading home."

99%

(1405)

Logan Ranch Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Tie Siding, WY

Welcome to our property! This is a very scenic property, that is rich with history. The Virginia Dale Stage Station is about three miles away and the overland trail has several branches going through here. We are also a fifth generation cattle ranch. We are in Wyoming, on Highway 287 between Fort Collins, CO. and Laramie, Wyoming. We are still building out our property with a General store, and Western Themed Town coming soon. We have campsites for RV’s or Tents. We have an amazing 1000 acres to have your own hiking, wildlife, birdwatching, adventure. We have great hiking and wildlife viewing, marmots, pronghorn, antelope, deer, elk, and an occasional moose. Birds of every feather gather here so bring your binoculars. Hikes include balancing boulders and rock formations. Wonderful stargazing, our stars are so bright it seems like you can reach up and touch them. We are a working ranch and do have livestock. Don’t mess with the bull!Firewood, for $7.00 per bag delivered to your campsite. The bags make a great trash bag when empty! Do not bring your own firewood, as we don’t want more pine beetles and noxious weeds. Due to the high volume of people coming in separate vehicles, after two vehicles per site, its $10.00 per vehicle extra per night. We have portable outhouses available.

100%

(601)

Buford Canyon

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Buford, WY

We purchased 40 acres several years ago and built our home on the west side. We wished we could better access and appreciate the amazing views on the east side so we built two off grid cabins and a campsite. We have been encouraged to share this very special location with others. We have found it very rewarding to share this spot with others.

99%

(804)

Camp Rendezvous

15 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Tie Siding, WY

Welcome to Camp Rendezvouz! We are in Wyoming, on Highway 287 between Fort Collins, CO. and Laramie, WY. When you book, make sure you are committed as we have a strict cancellation policy. We are making this campground more for families and family reunions, or friends that want to be together yet have your own space. It’s high with trees and rocks, beautiful views and amazing starry nights. Camp sites 1 2 3 4 are fairly close together for a family or to circle the wagons. Very nice close hike to a creek. Camp site's 5 and 6 are secluded. They would be best for someone who is self contained, as they don’t have an outhouse nearby. Sites 7 8 9 have some seclusion. Site's 10 11 12 13 14 15 are perfect for families, where you can all be together but separate. We are a work in progress but we will try to accommodate anything you may need. Please talk to us! We have firewood $7.00 per bag delivered to your campsite. Do not bring your own firewood. We don’t want more pine beetles and noxious weeds. More than 2 vehicles per site $10.00 per vehicle per night. A vehicle pulling a trailer counts as 1. A motor home pulling a car or trailer counts as 1. We look forward to hosting you!

97%

(81)

Basecamp On The Poudre

4 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Bellvue, CO

At the base of the Poudre Canyon this location makes a perfect quick getaway for any camper, Only 15 minuets from down town Fort Collins your adventure awaits. You will be met with beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains, The comforting sounds of the Cache La Poudre, and if your lucky a glimpse at some of Colorado's amazing wildlife. Base Camp provides space for many camping styles, from pitching a tent and enjoying a breathtaking view sleeping under the stars. Or hauling in your camper for a more comfortable stay. Enjoy a view of the Poudre River right from your from your picnic table next to your cozy campfire, your next adventure awaits you here!

93%

(291)

Neverland/Camp Wilder

5 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Nederland, CO

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.

100%

(2)

Riverview RV Park and Campground

101 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents24 acres · Loveland, CO

Riverview RV Park and Campground is set in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the Big Thompson River. The quiet countryside setting of our family-oriented park, with its’ gorgeous surroundings and charming wood carvings, is a favorite for groups or a romantic getaway. Hidden beneath the cottonwoods at 5100 ft elevation, Riverview RV Park and Campground is near the Big Thompson Canyon entrance. We are 30 minutes from the beauty of Estes Park and 20 minutes from unique shops, art district, and numerous family friendly activities within Loveland and Ft Collins. Cheyenne and Denver are about an hour’s drive from Loveland on I-25.

95%

(42)

North Shore RV Park & General Store

20 sites · Lodging, RVs3 acres · Loveland, CO

Located west of Loveland, Colorado, next to Carter Lake, North Shore RV Park and General Store offers full 20/30/50 amp, water and sewer sites along with cabin rentals for those seeking something a little different. One may enjoy the many amenities offered that include laundry facilities, fire ring/grill, trash services, general store to name a few. Spend the day outside enjoying outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, canoeing, stargazing, waterskiing and wildlife viewing. Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are a short 45 minutes away, shopping, hiking, and wild life such as elk, moose, bears, and many restaurants to enjoy. For Rocky Mountain National Park you must book online for a timed entrance in advance. Go to www.nps.gov to book. Whether it’s for a night or two, we hope to see you soon!

85%

(66)

Terry Bison Ranch Resort

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cheyenne, WY

Terry Bison Ranch has a history all the way back to the 1800's. The ranch was once owned by F. E. Warren (The first governor of the state of Wyoming). President Teddy Roosevelt was also a guest at the ranch and a picture of him in the main house, hangs on the wall in the Senators Steakhouse. For more in depth history of this amazing ranch, come visit and ride the bison train tour, let your kids take a pony ride, or enjoy a family fun trail ride! Learn more about this land: Terry Bison Ranch Resort is a functioning bison ranch with adventures to explore. We have a bison train tour that takes you out to feed the bison, a steak house, horseback trail rides, and plenty of animals to look at. The dry camping is in the fields surrounding the park.

The best camping near Roosevelt National Forest guide

Overview

About

Administered in conjunction with the Arapaho National Forest and the Pawnee National Grassland, the Roosevelt National Forest is a popular getaway from nearby Fort Collins, attracting campers and day trippers alike throughout the year. The Cache la Poudre River, the only designated Wild and Scenic River in Colorado, winds through the forest, and attracts experienced white-water rafters and kayakers in search of thrills as well as its fair share of anglers, particularly in spring and summer. The greater Arapaho-Roosevelt-Pawnee area offers 53 designated campgrounds plus 10 wilderness areas ideal for backcountry adventures.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RV camping: North Fork Poudre Campground can accommodate RVs measuring up to 35 feet in length.
Best for short breaks from the city: Sleeping Elephant Campground is just over an hour from Fort Collins.
Best for planning ahead: about half of the sites at the Peaceful Valley Campground can be reserved during high season

Tips for snagging a campsite

The Roosevelt National Forest offers a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served (FCFS) campsites. If you’re looking for an FCFS site, it’s usually best to arrive early in the morning to beat crowds or to nab a site from a departing camper.
Arrive mid-week for the best shot of securing a good site, particularly if you want to camp in the busy summer season.
Reservable sites open for bookings at 8am Mountain Time, six months in advance. If you’re trying to book a popular spot or a cabin, try to reserve as soon as it’s released.

When to go

The Roosevelt National Forest is a year-round destination, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure no matter the season. Popular wintertime activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. Early spring and summer are popular for white-water rafting along the Cache la Poudre River, while July and August see the biggest crowds when it comes to camping and hiking; if you want a bit more forest to yourself, September is a great alternative.

Know before you go

Cell service can be spotty at best in the Roosevelt National Forest. Be sure to download offline maps before heading out. Having a paper map as a backup is wise, too.
Forest fires are an issue in Colorado, particularly in the summertime. Be prepared for burn bans and potential road and campground closures.
Check ahead for the latest information on snow-related road closures if you’re visiting during the wintertime. It’s a good idea to also pack chains or get snow tires if driving in higher altitudes during the cooler months.
Bicycles are not allowed in wilderness areas, and dogs must be kept leashed at all times.

Nearby attractions

Experience the beauty of camping in Poudre Canyon, a picturesque mountain getaway. Set up camp amidst towering cliffs, hike scenic trails, and listen to the soothing sounds of the Poudre River. Enjoy fishing, spot wildlife, and create lasting memories in this tranquil natural paradise.

83%

41 ratings · 21 reviews

Not recommend

· January 2021

Kelly Dahl Campground

This is a small campground that offers little hiking without trespassing on private property! There is a twenty acre active mine above this campground. Trespassing is not only illegal it's dangerous! New fencing & signs will be going up this summer.

Kim S.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2019

Dowdy Lake Campground

Beautiful lake. Very peaceful. Campground host was wonderful. Campground is clean. The Free Birds- #livefree www.livefreebirds.com IG: thefreebirdsrv

Gwendolyn M.

5 years on Hipcamp

September 2019

North Fork Poudre Campground

Small campground by creek. Lots of room between sites. Very pretty location. -The Free Birds RV- https://livefreebirds.com IG: thefreebirdsrv

Gwendolyn M.

5 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2019

North Fork Poudre Campground

Open camping. arrive early in the week

Sunni M.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· January 2019

Jacks Gulch Campground

A very nice campground with electric hookups and a easy hiking trail around the camp.

Jackie S.

6 years on Hipcamp

June 2018

Rainbow Lakes Campground

If you are a straight couple/family etc.. you will have a great time. Rick will be warm and welcoming, friendly, and inform you how to deal with bears and moose nearby. My girlfriend and I (two women in our 20s) on the other hand had the worst experience. One of the first lines out of his mouth was homophobic, so luckily we both ‘pass’ as straight. He asked us if we were together in which we had no other choice but to say no. He came back multiple times throughout the night, telling us ironic/suggestive stories of “young women” trying to get his money. I am exhausted having to protect myself from men who treat women this way. If one of us had been a boy, he wouldn’t have given us a second glance. I am so sad a man like this has authority.

Anonymous A.

6 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· January 2018

Peaceful Valley Campground

The better campground is Camp Dick which you access by driving through Peaceful Valley. All fill up fast in the summer months due to the proximity to Boulder and Denver.

Terry G.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2017

Peaceful Valley Campground

Large area is designated for a boy scout summer camp program. There are other spots near and around that are for the public and it has incredible views with little light pollution.

Spencer T.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2017

Rainbow Lakes Campground

Great campsites and the camp host, Rick, is a great guy who will go to great lengths to make sure your stay is pleasant.

Ralph I.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2017

Rainbow Lakes Campground

Bring cash to pay for the site

Abby S.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2017

North Fork Poudre Campground

The camping we found was dispersed and you could bring your car up to the sites.

Zak L.

7 years on Hipcamp

August 2016

Stove Prairie Campground

Nice small campground with only 9 sites. The tent sites are in a cluster of cottonwood trees, and the RV sites have "some" trees at the back of the sites. Each site has a path to the river, which is nice! There were a lot of people launching tubes right out of camp and going down half a mile, walking up, and doing it again. Fishing was good with flies and worms, nothing big, but that may have been me. This is a good site where you won't be overwhelmed with people since it's small. It's on our return to list for Cache la Poudre camping.

G S.

8 years on Hipcamp

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Poudre Canyon have first-come, first-served camping?

Yes, there are several campgrounds in Poudre Canyon that offer first-come, first-served camping. Some of these campgrounds include Ansel Watrous, Stove Prairie, and Mountain Park. However, it is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak camping season, as these sites can fill up quickly. Keep in mind that some campgrounds may also have a limited number of reservable sites available. Always check the specific campground for its policies and current availability before planning your trip.