The best camping in Colorado

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With 42 state parks and four national parks, Colorado has long been a shining star among lovers of the great outdoors. This western state offers a wide variety of landscapes, with ancient mountains, massive canyons, ski resort towns that range from quaint to ultraluxe, many within easy access of the capital city of Denver. Camping areas abound throughout the state, ranging from simple backcountry tent sites to developed campgrounds with full hookups and dump stations, many managed by Colorado State Parks. Best of all, pretty much every outdoor activity under the sun is available, from biking and horseback riding to birding and stargazing.

95% (21.9K) 24,116 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Colorado

Little Scraggy Camp

1. Little Scraggy Camp

93%
(861)
Pine, CO · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 16 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2025 - two separate, professionally designed 18-hole disc golf courses with PDGA regulation baskets, and a Pro Shop with a free 9-hole putting course, which is great for those who have never played disc golf and want to try it out, (we have free loaner discs). Our Hipcamp guests get a 10% discount on player fees, their children play free. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. We also have several cornhole toss games set up. Friendly, well-mannered dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. We are an ideal basecamp for hiking or biking trail enthusiasts,with direct access to the Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Little Scraggy Trailhead is 3.5 miles away, with easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train Shire draft horses and also ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request.
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Serenity in the Foothills

2. Serenity in the Foothills

99%
(1362)
Conifer, CO · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
We now offer disc golf to our guests for a $5 fee per person, course open in the morning to our guests and afternoons to public, ask about this when you check in. It is seperate from Hipcamp ***NO BOOKINGS ACCEPTED UNTIL YOUR CAR INFORMATION IS PROVIDED*** Basic car information will help us ensure you and your party have no issues driving on our forest roads. If you are looking to plan an outdoor event, send us a message. We would love to host your event! YEAR LONG FIRE BAN- propane fire rings are allowed. Propane fire rings and gas tanks available for rent. We are a working horse ranch, so horses may be encountered on roads. Welcome to Serenity in the Foothills. Located an hour west of Denver, this 3600 acre ranch features 12 spaced out campsites that offer quite a bit of privacy. There are tons of trails/ roads to hike and bike around on, as well as many amazing views. Resort Valley Ranch was combined from around 15 homesteads by the Corbin family. You will see lots of relics and evidence related to those homesteads across our property! Please do not disturb any artifacts or relics on our property. Come enjoy this hidden private jewel in the pines of Jefferson County, Colorado! We want to ensure your vehicle and trailer won't get damaged while commuting to your campsite. Please read about our campsites and make sure the one you pick works for your car/trailer. -NO fifth wheels (ALL sites). -Maximum length of trailers is 22ft(Select campsites) -Trailers must have adequate clearance: 8 inches or higher with no low hanging plumbing. -Sites 1, 2 : 4WD/ SUV- Short camper trailers only (12 foot max) -Sites 3 and 7 : 4WD/SUV vehicles only -Sites 4-12(excluding sites 7 and 11): 4WD/SUV with good clearance are recommended as well as trailers (22 foot max) -Site 11 : 4WD vehicles only. If your trailer is bigger than 22 feet, our sister camp-site Resort Valley Ranch may be able to accommodate you. (Also located on Hipcamp) **When booking, please include basic information about your car/ trailer clearance to ensure that your campsite you've selected will accommodate it!**
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Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

3. Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

91%
(296)
Black Hawk, CO · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Wideawake Ranch & Waterhouse is a true Colorado gem—family-owned and operated, and rooted in a love for the land. Just 50 minutes from Denver, our ranch offers an authentic Colorado experience where nature, relaxation, and adventure come together. Guests can enjoy our spring-fed pond for swimming and paddleboarding (boards provided!), easy access to nearby National Forest trails, and close driving proximity to additional hiking, biking, and local fishing spots. Whether you’re here to unplug, explore, or soak it all in, Wideawake Ranch is the perfect home base. We can’t wait to welcome you—along with your family, friends, and furry companions—on your next camping getaway. 📸 Instagram: @WideawakeRanchWaterhouse — We love being tagged in your Wideawake adventures! 🌐 Website: www.wideawakeranch.com — Visit us to learn more about our artesian water and hot soaks.
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White River National Forest

4. White River National Forest

93%
(69)
National forest in Colorado · 1193 sites
Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Rio Grande National Forest

5. Rio Grande National Forest

86%
(29)
National forest in Colorado · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rose Ranch Retreat

6. Rose Ranch Retreat

Mead, CO · 1 site
Welcome to Rose Ranch Retreat, a peaceful 2.5-acre rural estate surrounded by open space, wildflower gardens, and beautiful Colorado views. Located in a quiet acreage community along the Front Range, Rose Ranch is the perfect place to relax for a night or use as a convenient basecamp for your Colorado adventures. Enjoy the serenity of the countryside while staying within easy reach of Estes Park, Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, and countless parks, trails, and outdoor recreation areas. Whether you're hiking, biking, sightseeing, attending a sporting event, or simply passing through, our location offers a great jumping-off point for exploring the region. With open skies, rural charm, and a peaceful atmosphere, Rose Ranch is ideal for travelers seeking a quiet and comfortable stay while experiencing the natural beauty of Colorado. Because we are located in a residential rural community, we ask all guests to be respectful of our neighbors and fellow visitors by observing quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. This is a place to unwind, enjoy nature, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Well-behaved pets are welcome and must remain on a leash while on the property. Please help us keep the grounds beautiful by cleaning up after your pets and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Trash service is limited, so guests are encouraged to pack out whatever they pack in whenever possible. For the privacy and enjoyment of everyone, your reservation includes only the designated campsite area. The private property beyond the fence is not part of the campsite and is off-limits to guests. Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere on the property. Water and electricity may be available upon request. Please note that there are no restroom facilities on-site. Thank you for helping us preserve the peaceful character of Rose Ranch Retreat. We look forward to hosting you and hope you enjoy your Colorado stay.
Electrical hookup
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Rustic Creek Ranch

7. Rustic Creek Ranch

98%
(1357)
Bailey, CO · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
The 160 acre ranch was homesteaded by my grandfather over 100 years ago. He was an engineer. **Please note that the GPS will take you 300 feet away from my property, please follow my clear instructions that are sent in your welcome email. There is signage that you can also follow. ** The plan was to use this property as summer grazing for his cattle. The cattle were wintered at the other ranch about 10 miles away, which was homesteaded by my great grandfather. Because my grandfather could survey, he made sure the property lines zigzaged up the valley so the small creek was in the middle to provide water for the animals. He chose well. It is a beautiful, quiet place with elk, deer and wild turkeys. There are tons of wild flowers in the summer. Columbines, the Colorado state flower, wild roses, paintbrushes and lots of wild chokecherries. With nice views of nearby mountains, open pastures, evergreen forests and aspen groves, it looks like it did 100 years ago. Plus, there are a couple of ponds for your dogs to cool off in. Since the first cattle, the ranch has also been home to goats, chickens, horses, and now more goats, alpacas and llamas. And of course the Great Pyrenees ranch dogs. I had a house built a few years ago and live on the property full time. The ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest with the Colorado Trail connecting the property in a number of places. Some of the highest ranked mountain bike trails are nearby. There are lots of places on and off the property to hike, mountain bike and ride your horse. On a clear night you can see thousands of stars and hear coyotes howl. For a drone video of the ranch check out: YouTube's Midsummer 2020 Flyover. Elevation 8,000 feet, Average Summer Temperatures: Days 60-80 f, Nights 45-60 f, Sunshine Average 73-80%, Colorado Trail Segment 3, USGS Maps: Windy Peak; Green Mountain quadrangles. This is the official info. Basically, the weather is usually similar to the Denver area - just 10 degrees cooler. About 8 miles away is the small town of Bailey. It has just about everything you might need: small grocery store, coffee shops, gas, laundry, a dollar store, hardware store, camping and sports equipment, brew pub, winery, a few restaurants, potable water station and more.
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Sweetwater River Resort

8. Sweetwater River Resort

91%
(415)
Cotopaxi, CO · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sweetwater River Resort is located right on the Arkansas River, 30 minutes from Canyon City and 30 minutes from Salida where Hwy 50 follows the river through Bighorn Canyon. Skiers, we are only 40 miles from Monarch Ski Resort Sweetwater is the perfect getaway for anglers, hikers, rafters or nature-lovers. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind on our private 1/2 mile stretch of the Arkansas. At night you’ll find the clearest skies around, perfect for stargazing. Experience a range of accommodations at Sweetwater River Resort, from budget-friendly cabins to glamping tents to old-timey cabins and RV sites. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. Sweetwater is a short drive from 45 miles of 4x4 and ATV trails at Texas Creek, the Arkansas Headwaters Hiking Area, Vallie Bridge, Loma Linda, Lone Pine, Hayden Creek, Royal Gorge and Rainbow Trail near Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season as well as a private stretch of blue-ribbon water for trout fishing. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!
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Full hookups
Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

9. Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

100%
(155)
Salida, CO · 17 sites
Nestled in a small valley in the San Isabel National Forest along the south fork of the Arkansas River, Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground is at 8,620 feet above sea level – literally in the Heart of the Rockies. We offer free Wi-Fi access, clean laundry and shower facilities, and a camp store with last-minute supplies, snacks & souvenirs. Most of our large tent campsites are right on the south fork of the Arkansas river offering a peaceful & relaxing setting.
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San Isabel National Forest

10. San Isabel National Forest

91%
(78)
National forest in Colorado · 912 sites
Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
San Juan National Forest

11. San Juan National Forest

97%
(41)
National forest in Colorado · 696 sites
Hike through the rugged wilderness or take a scenic drive in this expansive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Roosevelt National Forest

12. Roosevelt National Forest

84%
(45)
National forest in Colorado · 800 sites
Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.
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Electrical hookup
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Gunnison National Forest

13. Gunnison National Forest

96%
(37)
National forest in Colorado · 423 sites
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
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Electrical hookup
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Neverland Camp Wilder

14. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(359)
Nederland, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, 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.
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Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon

15. Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon

88%
(13)
Black Hawk, CO · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon! We are your mountain home away from home. Just 45 minutes from the Denver metro area and 30 minutes from Golden, we offer RV sites, cabins, and tent sites nestled between colorful aspens with beautiful mountain views. Nearby activities include; fishing, hiking, and biking trails, Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Casinos at Black Hawk and Central City, indoor, year-round swimming with a water slide at The Gilpin County Community Center, and we are just off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway with its breathtaking views! Choose from a variety of accommodations: RV sites, tent sites or glamping cabins! Whether you're seeking adventure or a relaxing getaway under the stars, Base Camp is the perfect destination for your next camping trip.
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Full hookups
Creekside Paradise

16. Creekside Paradise

95%
(438)
CO · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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 3 tents sites available, a bell tent, and a yurt. Please read the entire description for your specific site before booking.
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Rocky Mountain Glamping

17. Rocky Mountain Glamping

99%
(374)
Lyons, CO · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging
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.
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Glen Isle Resort

18. Glen Isle Resort

98%
(920)
Bailey, CO · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
🌲 Glen Isle Campgrounds – A Historic Riverside Retreat Welcome to Glen Isle, a 125-year-old mountain resort along the North Fork of the South Platte River, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally reached by train, Glen Isle remains one of Colorado’s last surviving turn-of-the-century resort properties and offers a camping experience rich in history, natural beauty, and community. Because Highway 285 follows the original railroad corridor that once brought visitors here, it runs nearby. We encourage guests to review the map before booking to be sure our location is the right fit for their camping style. Many guests appreciate the easy access along with the beauty of the river, surrounding forest, and nearby mountain trails. 🎣 Activities & Amenities Campers enjoy: • Fishing along the South Platte (no rod fees required) • A 21-hole wooded disc golf course (free for campers) • Rescue horses, miniature donkeys, and miniature goats • Optional guided mini-donkey walks (paid experience) • Bingo nights, camper music nights, and outdoor movie evenings (when scheduled) • Recreation room with games • Guided historic lodge tours and gift shop • Tuesday Food Truck nights • Trailhead ½ mile behind the property • Walking distance to the Coney Island hot dog stand • About 30 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheatre Glen Isle is a historic gathering place rather than a remote backcountry campground, and guests may see other campers and activity around the lodge, especially on summer weekends. Seasonal insects are part of the natural river environment during warmer months. Campsites are currently first-come, first-served within designated camping areas as we transition toward reservable individual sites. 🔥 Fire Policy Due to drought conditions and wildfire risk, wood fires and charcoal are not permitted. Propane fire rings and cooking equipment are welcome. Propane tanks are available to rent for $25. A community fire ring may be used when restrictions allow. 🚗 Important Arrival Note Please do not turn at the Coney Island Boardwalk. Glen Isle is located ½ mile farther west on the same side of Highway 285. The road behind Coney Island is not maintained for passenger vehicles and should not be used to access the property.
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Boulder Chicken Ranch

19. Boulder Chicken Ranch

97%
(294)
Valmont, CO · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our charming 2-acre meadow nestled in East Boulder. Just minutes from town - near bike trails, shops and restaurants. A great pitstop on your way to or from the mountains - or base camp for the adventures in Front Range. We aren't fancy, but we are convenient, cozy and safe. Gate code will be provided 48 hours before arrival. PLEASE NOTE: We have entered MOSQUITO SEASON!!! Our meadow is surrounded by wetlands. It’s the worst when the sun is setting. Highly recommend bug spray. We have spots in the wide open meadow for Tents, Motorhomes, Vans, Trailers, and Rooftop setups. The grounds are a bit sloped but we've got leveling boards (please leave them behind). We've got Boulder's best eggs, a few walking paths through tall wild grasses, a campfire ring, solar shower, small sink, gas grill, and a lovely porta-jon that’s cleaned weekly. We can handle RVs up to 45 feet - truck and trailer. It’s a big field, but a narrow, winding and steep gravel ramp to get in and out. We have a community fire pit with free burn wood, though the big logs are few and far between; your own firewood is recommended - as well as an ax or saw. If it's windy, please skip the fire... the BFD is very strict about this!! We have well water feeding a solar shower (only hot when the sun shines) and sink (non potable unless you have a filter). We have a wading / dog pool continually refreshed from the creek. It’s a saving grace in the summertime. Please help yourself to eggs up at the coop - look for the Venmo QR. The chickens free range during the day, so please MIND YOUR DOG. THE GOOD: *Easy in and out location close to town *Lots of sun *Outdoor solar shower *Cold creek water plunge pool *Fresh eggs *Good view of small airplanes *Community fire pit * Gas grill THE BAD: *Mosquitoes... they have arrived, recommend bug spray *Daytime road noise *Small airport nearby *No Generators - no exceptions *Almost zero shade *Shower only hot when the sun shines *Pool is fed from a creek *Good Morning Rooster Please reach out with any questions you may have. Safe travels! Sincerely, Brooke and Patrick
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Four Seasons RV Park

20. Four Seasons RV Park

93%
(37)
Salida, CO · 19 sites
We are excited to be your beautiful basecamp for countless outdoor activities or a peaceful pad to simply unwind and relax next to our rambling river. Four Seasons is located just a mile outside the vibrant Mountain Town of Salida, and inside the historic Area of Cleora. The settlement started as a stagecoach stop on the Barlow Sanderson Stagecoach line. Explore natural landmarks, hiking trails and a range of activities for the whole family.
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Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Colorado camping guide

Where to go

Western Colorado

Western Colorado shares quite a bit in common with neighboring Utah to the west, with massive sandstone rock formations—including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park—plus fantastic opportunities for winter and summer recreation alike. Towns worth checking out include Steamboat Springs and Aspen—both popular ski resorts—as well as cute towns such as Montrose and Durango that make excellent bases for exploring the wilds of the San Juan Mountains. If you’re interested in history or archaeology, don’t miss the chance to visit the Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

Denver and North-Central Colorado

Stretching from Fort Collins near the Wyoming border all the way down just past Denver, this region is largely urban but still offers plenty for campers. You can take in fantastic views of the region from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or by driving the Trail Ridge Road scenic byway through Rocky Mountain National Park. Or, pack up your tent and head out on a backcountry camping trip in the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests.

South and South-Central Colorado

This part of the state offers a mix of wide-open plains and towering massifs, including Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, a scenic mountaintop that served as the inspiration for the patriotic tune America the Beautiful. Popular area activities include fishing and whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande and sledding down the sands at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. If you want to soothe tired muscles after a weekend of adventure, head to the hot springs towns of Buena Vista and Salida—both just outside the Pike and San Isabel national forests.

Eastern Colorado

Quiet Eastern Colorado features a mix of grasslands and canyons, with massive expanses of grazing lands and farms that give way to charming small towns. You can learn about life in the 19th century at the Old Fort National Historic Site and the Boggsville Historic Site, or head down to the John Martin Reservoir, a great place for birdwatching and boating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Colorado has free camping options, primarily in its national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. These dispersed camping sites are usually primitive and without facilities, so you'll need to be prepared for a more rugged experience. Some popular areas for free camping in Colorado include Pike National Forest, Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, and White River National Forest. Always check local regulations and restrictions before camping, as some areas may require permits or have specific rules to follow.

Yes, there are numerous boondocking opportunities in Colorado, which involve camping on public lands like national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas without any hookups or amenities. Some popular boondocking locations in Colorado include areas near Pike National Forest, San Isabel National Forest, and Arapaho National Forest. Additionally, you can find several private boondocking sites on Hipcamp. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and adhere to local regulations when boondocking to help preserve these beautiful natural areas.

Whether you need a permit to camp in Colorado depends on where you plan to camp. For most developed campgrounds and public lands, such as state and national parks, you will need to reserve a campsite and pay the associated fees. Some areas may also require a backcountry permit for dispersed camping or backpacking. For example, if you plan to camp in Rocky Mountain National Park, you will need a permit for backcountry camping, which can be obtained through the park's Backcountry Camping page. However, if you're camping on private land, such as those found on Hipcamp, you will need to follow the specific reservation and fee requirements set by the landowner. Always check the specific regulations and requirements for the area where you plan to camp to ensure you have the necessary permits and follow all rules.

Colorado has cabins spread throughout various parts of the state, offering a wide range of options for your stay. Some popular areas with cabin accommodations include:

These areas offer a diverse range of cabin experiences, from rustic and remote to more luxurious and modern. You can find cabins in state parks, national forests, and privately owned properties, ensuring that you'll find the perfect Colorado cabin for your needs.

It is not legal to camp everywhere in Colorado. Dispersed camping is allowed on certain public lands, including designated campgrounds, national forests, state parks, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, but you must follow specific rules and regulations. Additionally, some private lands offer camping opportunities. It's important to research the area you plan to camp in and ensure that you are following all local laws and guidelines. For a list of campsites in Colorado, visit Hipcamp's Colorado camping page.

Camping costs in Colorado can vary widely depending on the location, amenities, and type of campsite. Prices can range from free for dispersed camping in some national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas to over $100 per night for RV parks and private campgrounds with full amenities. On average, you can expect to pay around $20 to $40 per night for a basic tent or RV campsite in a public campground. To explore a variety of camping options in Colorado, visit Hipcamp's Colorado camping page.

The best time of year to camp in Colorado is from late spring to early fall, specifically between June and September. During these months, the weather is generally warm and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F in most areas. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Additionally, wildflowers are in bloom during the summer months, adding to the beauty of the landscape. However, keep in mind that high-altitude locations may still experience snow and colder temperatures, so it's essential to check the specific area you plan to visit. Here are some popular camping locations in Colorado:

You cannot camp anywhere in the mountains in Colorado, but there are many designated areas for camping, including national forests, state parks, and private campgrounds. Dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas of national forests and on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, but you must follow specific regulations and guidelines. It's important to research and plan ahead to find suitable camping locations and ensure you are camping legally and responsibly.

Many states in New England, including Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, are known for their exceptionally beautiful fall colors. Colorado is also considered one of the best states for stunning fall foliage.

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

Top regions in and near Colorado