The best camping in Colorado

Name: Colorado
Address: Colorado
Rating: 4.7315000000000005

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% (23.7K) • 24,100 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Colorado

Boulder Chicken Ranch

1. Boulder Chicken Ranch

96%

(391)

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 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 (Venmo code at 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). The outdoor temperatures have started to dip towards freezing; the sink and shower will soon be closed for the season. 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

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Neverland Camp Wilder

2. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%

(406)

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.

Pets

Toilets

The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

3. 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!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

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

A-Lodge Boulder

6. A-Lodge Boulder

93%

(346)

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."

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Serenity in the Foothills

7. 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!**

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Idaho Springs RV Campground

8. 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

Yeti Sanctuary

9. Yeti Sanctuary

93%

(223)

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.

Pets

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

Sweetwater River Resort

14. Sweetwater River Resort

90%

(475)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Apollo Ranch

15. 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

Agora Adventure Salida

16. Agora Adventure Salida

89%

(19)

Salida, CO · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Cabins. RV. Camping From cozy riverside cabins to full-hookup RV spots and peaceful creekside tent sites, A-Lodge Salida offers a variety of stays for every kind of adventurer. Whether you’re looking for comfort or a more primitive experience under the stars, our property gives you direct access to nature without sacrificing location—just minutes from historic downtown Salida.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Creekside Paradise

17. Creekside Paradise

95%

(502)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Mountaintop Camping

18. Mountaintop Camping

89%

(133)

Conifer, CO · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

500 acres of mountaintop land, aspen and evergreen forests, rocky outcroppings, 180deg views, serenity, room to roam, all this just an easy 35min drive from downtown Denver!

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Pikes Peak Drive Peaceful Acres

19. Pikes Peak Drive Peaceful Acres

96%

(35)

Florissant, CO · 1 site · Tent, RV

Peaceful RV/Camper Parking!! 30 amp, 50 amp, 110 electric, water hook up and dumping station included. Looking for peace and quiet or tons to do? This is the perfect place for either! Complimentary WIFI available as well!! Pets are allowed, we ask that you keep them off of the road, do not allow them to roam free, please pick up after them. THERE ARE NO TOILETS, SHOWERS, LAUNDRY FACILITIES ***Extra Guest Fee Explanation*** 1 Guest = 1 camper trailer or up to 2 tents, 2 Guests = 2 campers or tents, etc Self service check-in and check-out The Lot is 20 feet wide by 50 feet long, so plenty of space to pull up and back in or pull straight in. NOT A PULL THROUGH. Close to hiking, fishing, camping, boating and only a 40 minute drive from Colorado Springs with shopping, dining and tourist attractions like Garden of the Gods, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, and Cave of the Winds to name a few. Local attractions include 11 mile canyon, Mueller State Park, Fossil Beds, etc. 1 notable "house" rule: SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME POLICY No smoking of any kind anywhere on the property. Smoking at the end of the driveway is also unacceptable. No open flames of any kind in the space or on the property. Fire danger is great in our dry climate. This is mountain living so take care when on the property. Lots of uneven ground around the property. The views are spectacular but with that comes the risk of a windy day once in a while too. COLORADO WINTER TRAVEL: There is a possibility of snowy roads anytime from September through March. It's such fickle weather. One day can be sunny and 50 degrees and the next day a 6-inch snowfall. Generally, the roads clear up within a day or two of a snowfall so the impact isn't too troublesome. If you rent our place in this time frame, good all season tires are advisable. Our driveway is fairly flat and the county road to the house is plowed often. If there is a snowfall during your stay, we will have the driveway plowed out if we get more than 4 inches of snow and after the snow has stopped falling. If a snowfall lasts more than a single day, we may have it plowed out each day of a snowfall if more than 4 inches accumulate. Use caution during any snowfall as ground can become unexpectedly slippery. Message us if you have any issues.

Pets

Potable water

Full hookups

Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

20. 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.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

The best family-friendly campsites in Colorado

Boulder Chicken Ranch

96%

(391)

Valmont, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Neverland Camp Wilder

92%

(406)

Nederland, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Serenity in the Foothills

99%

(1068)

Conifer, CO · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Yeti Sanctuary

93%

(223)

Florissant, CO · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Sweetwater River Resort

90%

(475)

Cotopaxi, CO · 28 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Apollo Ranch

100%

(204)

Bennett, CO · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The best dog-friendly campsites in Colorado

Boulder Chicken Ranch

96%

(391)

Valmont, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Neverland Camp Wilder

92%

(406)

Nederland, CO · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

99%

(102)

Ward, CO · 2 sites

Pets

Toilets

Showers

A-Lodge Boulder

93%

(346)

Boulder, CO · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Serenity in the Foothills

99%

(1068)

Conifer, CO · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Idaho Springs RV Campground

94%

(95)

Downieville Lawson Dumont, CO · 8 sites

Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Aaron

3 days ago

Tent

1 night at WyndyRidge Prairie

Host was very responsive and helpful! Site itself had absolutely stunning views! Worth going for stargazing or watching the sunrise!

1 week ago

18 ft campervan

3 nights at Montgomery Homestead

Spectacular stay, love the atmosphere of an original homestead family and farm life. The smell of alfalfa in the morning brought back fond memories of childhood ranching. I will be back soon. Thanks Bonnie!

Mike

1 week ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Agora Adventure Salida

We stayed in the deluxe cabin and thoroughly enjoyed it. The cabin was clean, comfortable, and location was great!

Jerry

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity in the Foothills

Jeff is a fine, responsive host. He suggested campsite #12. My son and I had the best weekend. It was such a pleasant surprise to have Cell service!!! So nice to get Conifer weather updates, as it was raining off and on. We'll be back again for sure!! Be sure to leave it as nice as you found it, or cleaner!

jake

2 weeks ago

22 ft truck camper

4 nights at Montgomery Homestead

Thank you for having us, I’m sure we’ll be back!!

JoJo

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Montgomery Homestead

One of the most beautiful views I’ve seen and kindest hosts I have ever met!!

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sweetwater River Resort

The host was a friendly and outstanding. The campgrounds are well kept and clean. We wait to go again.

George

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Sweetwater River Resort

We will definitely be staying here again. The campgrounds were well kept, had easy access to the river, and we're very accessible! When we got in, they let us have our pick of sites and directed us to some newer sites on the north side of the campgrounds, these were perfect for our needs! Enough space for us and our 4 dogs to spread out, hookups for our teardrop camper, and plenty of privacy.

Blaire

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Gold Nugget Tree House + Cabin

The treehouse was a perfect night getaway with beautiful views and a great host!

Morgan

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Serenity in the Foothills

Beautiful, quiet, private camp site.

A Van Spot - for teardrop trailers, rooftop tents, car camping, etc...

Scott

2 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

1 night at Boulder Chicken Ranch

This was really cool. It’s close to Boulder, quite quiet, and clean.

Karen

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

1 night at Serenity in the Foothills

Beautiful campsites for shoulder season camping (our van has a heater which we did need). We dis not see a soul while camping- but even during busy season, campsites are far apart so they are private. Host provided a good map and we were all set!

Kate

2 weeks ago

21 ft rooftop tent

1 night at Pikes Peak RAD Hostel Van Camping

Not marking this as noisy because I am upset. Just a warning! This is a social able place, you have privacy but there is also a lot of socializing every where! Wonderful for my extroverted husband, but I needed headphones!

View of the cabin, fire pit. swing and chairs

Alyssa

2 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

Loved staying here!! Such a unique get away! Celebrated my boyfriend’s birthday here with our two dogs and it was great! Spectacular views!! Will be back

Dawn

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at A-Lodge Boulder

If your tent camping you will hear the traffic on 119 and four mile canyon . It does get quieter in the middle of the night but that was a bit of a bummer

Tristan

2 weeks ago

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

Amazing night 🌙

Sunset runs LATE so you sooo much time to enjoy the sunset and golden hour.

Simon

2 weeks ago

3 nights at The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

The Blue Bear was a very enjoyable stay, with a Beautiful sight of the Indian Peaks.

Claudio

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Hartwork Ranch

Great location and fantastic views. Take the back county road into Telluride unless winter weather prohibits that - incredibly scenic. Would stay again.

Stephen

3 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Zuma Bike Ranch & Camping in Cortez

Nice little campground on North Phil’s World. They ando have a few miles of private trails to play on. Shower hut and a Port-A-John on the site. Nothing fancy but nice quiet location.

Emma

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Apollo Ranch

Andy was wonderful!! He greeted me at the entrance, provided firewood, and even let me bring my cat! Will definitely be back.

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.

Top camping destinations around Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

56 campgrounds

San Isabel National Forest

71 campgrounds

Red Rocks Amphitheater

59 campgrounds

White River National Forest

69 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Colorado have free camping?

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.

Is boondocking legal in Colorado?

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.

Do you need a permit to camp in Colorado?

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.

What parts of Colorado have cabins?

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:

State Forest State Park
General Colorado Cabins
Colorado Springs
Routt County
San Luis Valley

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.

Is it legal to camp anywhere in Colorado?

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.

How much does it cost to go camping in Colorado?

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.

What time of year is best to camp in Colorado?

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:

Can you camp anywhere in the mountains 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.

What states have the most beautiful fall colors?

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.