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% (23.8K) • 24,098 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Colorado

Boulder Chicken Ranch

1. Boulder Chicken Ranch

96%
(390)
Valmont, CO · 3 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- as of 11/4/26 there is no toilet; it's closed for the season. Those staying need to be self-contained. 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 (help yourself up at the coop), a few walking paths through tall wild grasses, a campfire ring, solar shower, small sink, and gas grill. 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; your own firewood is recommended. 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). Well behaved dogs under voice control are welcome off-leash. If you find your dog to be problematic, please keep them on-leash. We have a sweet, old dog who is always off-leash. The chickens free range during the day, so please mind your dog. There is a 3-figure dead or injured chicken fee. THE GOOD: *Easy in and out location close to town *Lots of sun *Outdoor solar shower *Fresh eggs *Good view of small airplanes *Community fire pit *Gas grill THE BAD: *Daytime road noise * No toilet, must be self- contained *Small airport nearby *No Generators - no exceptions *Almost zero shade *Shower only hot when the sun shines *Good Morning Rooster * No access to the pond on adjacent property Please reach out with any questions you may have. Safe travels! Sincerely, Brooke and Patrick
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Neverland Camp Wilder

2. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%
(404)
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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Toilets
Serenity in the Foothills

3. Serenity in the Foothills

99%
(1068)
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 ensur 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. Unless state regs chang 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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Potable water
White River National Forest

4. White River National Forest

93%
(71)
National forest in Colorado · 1193 sites
Unspoiled scenery and year-round recreation abound in the nation’s most visited national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Rio Grande National Forest

5. Rio Grande National Forest

87%
(30)
National forest in Colorado · 691 sites
Explore the many ecosystems of south-central Colorado in this massive national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Yeti Sanctuary

6. Yeti Sanctuary

93%
(222)
Florissant, CO · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated on almost 4.5 acres of partially wooded acres, with a small pond, We have 6 beautiful campsites. Two can be used by an RV, two cabins, and the others for tents. There are great hammocking spots amongst the trees and bolders.. Enjoy the rugged beauty in Florissant, CO, with seasonal Aspen foliage and wildflowers, and a lot of birds, for the avid bird watchers. Florissant Fossil Beds Natl Monument is 7 miles away, with a Night Sky program, at every new moon. Plenty of winter activities … Ice skating on the lake, Snowshoeing and cross country skiing in Pike National Forest only 2 miles away. Florissant Mercantile is 5 miles away, for your needed supplies. Come and enjoy the quiet beauty and peaceful atmosphere, of Colorado's beautiful mountains.
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Toilets
Campfires
A-Lodge Boulder

7. A-Lodge Boulder

93%
(345)
Boulder, CO · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. A-Lodge has a 7-day non-refundable cancellation policy. If you cancel within 7 days of your arrival, 50% of the total is non-refundable. 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."
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Electrical hookup
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The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

8. The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

99%
(102)
Ward, CO · 2 sites
We border a national forest where you can hike and just enjoy the outdoors. The Ceran Saint Vrain trailhead is less than one mile away and Brainard Lake is a short 20 minute drive. If you feel as you need to go to town, Boulder, Estes Park, and Nederland are all a 30 min drive. Away, yet close enough!
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Placer Camp

9. Placer Camp

98%
(104)
Alma, CO · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Heated tent glamping with all amenities. High-elevation Forest property at 11,000' bordering National Forest, surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks. Enjoy world class hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, rafting, fishing, and 4x4 access in summer, and snowshoeing and backcountry skiing in winter. Located just 2 miles from Alma, CO the highest town in the North America (Highest record temperature of 78 deg F) The property offers easy access to some of Colorado’s most iconic 14ers, including Mt. Democrat, Mt. Lincoln, Mt. Bross, Mt. Cameron, and Mt. Quandary, all within a short drive along with endless moderate hiking trails. Located on the border of Park and Summit Counties, the front ranges summer and winter playground. Just 30 minutes south is Buena Vista for whitewater rafting and hot springs. Alma is 1.5 hours from Denver and 30 minutes from Breckenridge, offering a scenic alternative to I-70 via Highway 285 from southwest Denver. The property features 3 glamping sites with hot tent accommodations for year-round camping. Each 2-person tent includes a wood stove and propane heater (firewood and propane included), a queen memory foam bed with bedding, a cook stove with supplies, and a cooler. Water is delivered to each site. Cassette toilets are provided in each tent during the winter season. Due to fire restrictions each Glamping Site has a propane fire pit. The 3 campsites have propane fire pits with $20 propane tank fee or campsite guests can provide their own propane tank.
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Toilets
Campfires
San Isabel National Forest

10. San Isabel National Forest

89%
(83)
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

98%
(44)
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

85%
(47)
National forest in Colorado · 800 sites
Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Gunnison National Forest

13. Gunnison National Forest

94%
(41)
National forest in Colorado · 423 sites
Venture into the wild mountain wilderness of western Colorado.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Montgomery Homestead

14. Montgomery Homestead

99%
(122)
Lafayette, CO · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
A 6th generation 160 acre working farm, with a beautiful view of the Colorado front range. Minutes away from multiple municipalities. Our camping sites are located in a quite area near a water storage 1 acre pond. Great for an evening stroll or sit back and enjoy the sounds and sights of Colorado birds and wildlife. Please note 2026: due to the drought there is no water in the pond and no open fires allowed.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

15. Monarch Spur RV Park and Campground

99%
(247)
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. *Cell Service/Internet: We are located in the beautiful Rocky Mountains right on the South Arkansas River surrounded lots of shady trees, amazing nearby hikes, fishing & much more. This is the perfect environment to relax and be immersed in nature but not so perfect to be fully connected like you are at home as there is no Cell Service provided by any of the large carriers, (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc…). We do provide free WIFI that will help send a text, make a call or check an email, but that is about it. The free WIFI works best near the camp store and some of the closer RV sites. It does not work at all at the tent sites. We highly suggest you bring your own internet (Your personal Starlink will work great here) if you are wanting stay fully connected, work remotely or do other heavy internet tasks. We want your stay to be as enjoyable as possible so please do not come here and have the unrealistic expectation that our free WIFI will meet your streaming, remote working or internet heavy needs.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Apollo Ranch

16. Apollo Ranch

100%
(204)
Bennett, CO · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Gated-entry 5-acre property featuring a 50-foot asphalt pad with water and 50/30/20-amp electrical hookups. The RV site accommodates rigs up to 38 feet, and additional tent sites welcome smaller RVs, camper vans, fifth wheels, and traditional tent campers. Enjoy an easy pull-through setup, wide-open country vibes, and beautiful views of Pikes Peak. Despite the privacy, you’re only 35 minutes from downtown Denver, 5 minutes off I-70, 28 minutes from Denver International Airport, and 20 minutes from Aurora Reservoir. Groceries, fuel, and local diners are just 5 minutes away. With minimal light pollution, this is a great spot for stargazing. Dogs are welcome, and an off-leash area is provided. Dry/split firewood is available for purchase at $10 per tote.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tater's Black Canyon Campground

17. Tater's Black Canyon Campground

98%
(311)
Crawford, CO · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
North Rim of Black Canyon National Park has re-opened. Hot showers and toilets! Tater's was voted a 2024 top runner up as 'Best Hipcamp in Colorado'. 35 acres of bliss shared with 2 humans, 2 dogs, 2 cats, 3 horses and 4 chickens [Eggs may be available upon request]. Black Canyon National Park is a short drive to the west. Conveniently located to Crawford and the North Fork Valley to wineries, music fests and local eateries.  Incredible views and dark skies make the perfect respite for just hanging out, climbing in the Black, foodie time in the North Fork Valley or pretty much whatever you like to do. Hunters are welcome as this is a perfect base camp to Unit 63.
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Toilets
Showers
Idaho Springs RV Campground

18. Idaho Springs RV Campground

94%
(95)
Downieville Lawson Dumont, CO · 8 sites
Welcome to our RV park! If you're looking for a full-hookup RV site, please visit our website to book directly. This Hipcamp listing is specifically for a non-hookup car camping site. Car camping parking spot with WIFI and access to our private showers. You'll enjoy the beauty being fully surrounded by mountains while being located right off I-70 for an easy in-and-out.
Pets
Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

19. Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

98%
(130)
Cortez, CO · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Zuma Bike Ranch invites you to ride.relax.repeat in the high desert of Dolores and Cortez Colorado. Surround yourself with views of Mesa Verde National Park, Sleeping Ute and the San Juan mountains straight from your tent or camper van. The ranch offers camping, and borders Phil's World mountain bike trail network. Our goal is to encourage community among campers and bikers and connection with the land and its rich history. Zuma Bike Ranch resides on native lands of Puebloan and Ute peoples. At Zuma Bike Ranch we provide professional mountain bike instruction and guided rides for individuals and groups. You have immediate access to over 60 miles of world class singletrack at Phil’s World trail network. More mountain bike trails can be found nearby at the Aquaduct trail system in Mancos, Boggy Draw in Dolores and Sand Canyon at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. In less than an hour you can be riding high alpine terrain with access to the Colorado Trail. We’re 45 minutes from Durango and 120 minutes from Moab, UT. We keep things simple at Zuma Bike Ranch. This is to minimize impact on the land and our environment. Each camp site can accommodate one vehicle or van/truck bed camper. Camp sites fit two tents. We have a nice rinse station, potable water source, and porta potty on site. There are no lights but there are plenty of stars! Please pack out what you pack in. Visit our website for questions or to book a group or private lesson.
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Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

20. Standiford Goat and Equine Ranch

99%
(517)
Larkspur, CO · 6 sites
Our family-owned noncommercial ranch/campground nestled against the Raspberry ButIt is a working ranch with several horses, donkeys, goats, and dogs. Due to the fire risks in our area there are NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED which includes propane fires Thirty acres of our property are fenced for the horses and located directly behind the campsites. In addition, we have lots of wildlife including but not limited to: Deer, Elk, Coyotes, Bobcats, Wild Turkeys, Mountain Lions, Snakes, and Bears. We are approximately 2 miles from the town of Larkspur between Spruce Mountain Road and Perry Park Road. (Please note Google Maps will try and send you to a location on Perry Park Road which is incorrect. Please refer to the map located on this website.) Due to our remote location, we have spotty Wifi. Typically ATT, Starlink, and TMobile work best. Verizon reception can be located at certain spots around our ranch. There are three restaurants located in the town of Larkspur including pizza, Mexican food, and a pub. There is also a large park with lots of kids' play equipment. During the summer there are concerts at the park on the weekends. We are approximately 2 miles from the Colorado Renaissance Festival located in Larkspur. The Renaissance Festival typically runs between June and . Campers will be required to sign a Waiver and Release of Liability when camping with us. The following is a copy of the Waiver: WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY (Please email to: TeresaSOrtez@msn.com) IN CONSIDERATION OF the risk of injury that exists while participating in CAMPING (hereinafter the “Activity”) at Standiford Ranch LLC with restricted access to horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, and other various farm animals, and IN CONSIDERATION OF my desire to participate in said Activity and being given the right to participate in the same: I, for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives (hereinafter collectively, “Releasor,” “I,” or “me,” which terms shall also include Releasor’s parents or guardian if Releasor is under 18 years of age), knowingly and voluntarily enter into this WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY and hereby waive any and all rights, claims, or causes of action of any kind arising out of my participation in the Activity. I hereby release and forever discharge Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) located at 1225 Fox Farm Road, Larkspur, Colorado 80118, their affiliates, managers, members, agents, attorneys, staff, volunteers, heirs, representatives, predecessors, successors, and assigns (collectively “Releasees”), from any physical or psychological injury that I may suffer as a direct result of my participation in the aforementioned Activity. I am voluntarily participating in the aforementioned Activity at my own risk. I am aware of the risks associated with participating in this Activity, which may include but are not limited to physical or psychological injury, pain, suffering, illness, disfigurement, temporary or permanent disability (including paralysis), economic or emotional loss, and death. I understand that these injuries or outcomes may arise from my own or others' negligence, conditions related to travel to and from the Activity, or from conditions at the Activity location(s). Nonetheless, I assume all related risks, both known and unknown to me, of my participation in this Activity. I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Releasees against any and all claims, suits, or actions of any kind whatsoever for liability, damages, compensation, or otherwise brought by me or anyone on my behalf, including attorney’s fees and any related costs. I acknowledge that Releasees are not responsible for errors, omissions, acts, or failures to act of any party or entity conducting a specific event or activity on behalf of Releasees. If I require medical care or treatment, I authorize Clint, Amy, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC) to provide all emergency medical care deemed necessary, including but not limited to, first aid, CPR, the use of AEDs, emergency medical transport, and sharing of medical information with medical personnel. I agree to assume all costs involved in my medical treatment and to indemnify, save, and hold harmless the Releasees from any loss, liability, damage, or cost, including bodily injury or death. I understand that my access and the access of any members of my party are limited to our designated camping area also referred to as campsite which is marked with a designated number(s). We are prohibited from entering any other areas of the property without express permission and must be accompanied by an authorized member of Standiford Ranch LLC. This restriction applies to all members of my party, including but not limited to family members, guests, and any other individuals who accompany me. I acknowledge that any violation of this rule may result in immediate removal from the property and potential legal action. I agree to inform all members of my party of this restriction and ensure their compliance and will not hold Standiford Ranch LLC liable for any unintended or unaccompanied use of the property. I understand that myself and my party are financially liable for any damages, injuries, or loss as a result of our actions, intentional, negligent, or otherwise. This includes all property, equipment, tools, structures, trees/agricultures, residents, guests, campers, or animals, whether intentionally or as an act of negligence. This includes any unauthorized use of the property including such as hunting, hiking, climbing, illegal dumping, or pollution. I understand that myself and my party must have insurance for any and all vehicles brought onto the Standiford Ranch property to cover any accidents and damage to vehicles caused by fallen trees. In the instance of a dispute arising between the user(s) and Standiford Ranch LLC, both parties agree to seek arbitration as a means to resolve such disputes. The parties shall agree on a single neutral arbitrator to conduct such counsel. If the parties cannot agree on a single arbitrator, they will each select one arbitrator who will then agree on a single arbitrator to resolve the dispute. The arbitrator will under no circumstance be allowed to modify or change this limitation of liability agreement. Furthermore, the arbitrator’s decision shall be final, and the user(s) will be responsible for all fees incurred during the arbitration. Any disputes will be handled in Colorado court. I agree that in the event of any injury or loss of life arising out of my participation in the Activity, including the event of negligence on behalf of Amy, Clint, and Teresa Standiford (Standiford Ranch LLC), the total damages to which I, my heirs, executors, administrators, assigns, or personal representatives may be entitled shall not exceed $10,000. I HAVE READ THIS RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT. I FULLY UNDERSTAND ITS TERMS, UNDERSTAND THAT I HAVE GIVEN UP SUBSTANTIAL RIGHTS BY SIGNING IT, AND HAVE SIGNED IT FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY WITHOUT ANY INDUCEMENT, ASSURANCE, OR GUARANTEE BEING MADE TO ME. I INTEND MY SIGNATURE TO BE A COMPLETE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF ALL LIABILITY TO THE GREATEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. I FURTHER ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM SIGNING THIS AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF MYSELF AND ALL MEMBERS OF MY PARTY, AM AUTHORIZED TO DO SO, AND I CERTIFY THAT I AM AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE. IF A MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY DOES NOT AUTHORIZE YOUR SIGNATURE ON THEIR BEHALF, THEY MUST ALSO SIGN AND AGREE TO THIS AGREEMENT BELOW. BY SIGNING, YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT FULL LIABILITY ON BEHALF OF YOUR PARTY AND ACKNOWLEDGE YOU HAVE RECEIVED AUTHORIZATION FROM EACH MEMBER OF YOUR PARTY. Authorized Signer: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Campsite Number: ___________________ Additional Signer(s) Who Do Not Authorize the Individual Above: Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________ Print Name: ________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________
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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