- Roosevelt National Forest
The best camping in Roosevelt National Forest, CO
83% (44)
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Alyssa
2 weeks ago
1 night at Buford Canyon
Beautiful view and wonderful hosts. The cabin was well built - we stayed cozy even on a very windy and cold night. Will definitely be back.
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allison
2 weeks ago
26 ft travel trailer
We were able to check in last minute and early to this wonderful place. Patrick was an excellent communicator and everything was great. Loved to hear the chickens in the morning. We will definitely be back next time we need to stay in the Boulder Area.
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Shortie
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to A-Lodge Boulder
Deer came right down to the Lodge, plenty of creature comforts in the kitchen, jacuzzi tub, hot tub, with wifi and central heat. Everything was clean and nicely decorated. Trailhead on site for a good hike, or another right across the hwy. King Suite was spacious, check in was easy, be ready for an extra deposit fee.
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Neil
2 weeks ago
Tent
Very friendly and flexible staff helped me plan a memorable marriage proposal! We upgraded to a Yurt which was really lovely
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Julia
2 weeks ago
23 ft campervan
With pets
Patrick and Brooke were super kind and this spot was in a perfect location — close to everything in Boulder I needed and easy to get to.
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Chris
2 weeks ago
23 ft Class B
With pets
Great place to camp with a van. Super easy to get set up with very clear instructions from the host.
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Paulina
3 weeks ago
22 ft pop-up camper
Everything was absolutely wonderful! It was quiet, the grounds well maintained, and a lovely view of a lake. Look forward to coming back!
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Fabian
3 weeks ago
Tent
I booked a tent site at A-Lodge and it exceeded every expectation. The property is tucked into a peaceful mountain pocket with just the right mix of wilderness and comfort. You get the feeling of camping in nature, but with clean facilities, hot showers, and a friendly staff that actually cares about your stay.
The tent sites are spaced out perfectly—private enough to feel like you’re on your own adventure, but close enough to walk to amenities. Waking up to the sound of the creek and the cool morning air was the best way to start the day. Trails are right next to the lodge, so I was able to hike straight from my campsite without ever getting in my car.
The staff deserves special mention. They were welcoming, knowledgeable about the area, and gave genuinely helpful tips for hikes, food, and local spots. The community vibe around the lodge, especially in the evening, made the experience even better—quiet when you want rest, relaxed when you feel social.
If you’re looking for a tent camping spot that balances nature, comfort, and adventure, A-Lodge is the place. I’ll definitely be coming back.
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Aryel Terese
November 2025
Tent
We booked through HipCamp last minute and I am glad they were still able to accommodate us. The drive to the ranch was just beautiful! You’ll pass by a couple of ski resorts and beautiful small towns that are worthy of visiting!
The ranch it self was surrounded by water, we booked Camp 24 and it was just perfect for me and my boyfriend and his Sprinter Van. It was also in front of the lake/river so that was a great plus!
We didn’t book any rooms so my 5 star rating is for the toilet that was well maintained and cleaned.
We arrived after 5pm so there was no one to check us in but we really appreciate the welcome map addressed to me that led us to our campsite. Another 5 star.
And lastly, the ranch is just perfect for first timers like us as it was very accessible. There’s a small town 25mins away that has a City Market and pretty much everything you’ll need. We bought 2 bags of wood but that was definitely not enough. Luckily there were a lot of old woods on the ground that we were able to use.
We also tried to fish but no luck on that. Overall, the experience was amazing and I can’t wait to go back with our friends there.
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Michael
November 2025
Tent
I drove out to Colorado all the way from Connecticut to go camping at Arapaho Valley Ranch. Everything about the experience was amazing. Very peaceful, beautiful views and a great staff. Will definitely be camping there again in the future.
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MerryCline
November 2025
With pets
Such a special place! The views and privacy were just what I needed. I only wish I had booked for longer.
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Craig
November 2025
22 ft campervan
Private and easy in and out. The host is correct that you have to charge up the hill getting out.
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Jenny
November 2025
With pets
Really beautiful spot! The cabin is the perfect size and well built. Huge windows overlook the view. You can’t see any neighbors which was perfect for us. Propane firepit was fantastic and Chas was a wonderful host! Very comfortable place - we hope to go back!
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Kortney
November 2025
With pets
Loved this cabin and this experience. It was my first time using Hipcamp so I was slightly concerned. Turns out this concern was for nothing! Chas was great, very helpful, availar and so nice. 10/10 highly recommend. Will definitely be back!!
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Cal
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Very cool spot. The drive in was beautiful. We went the first weekend of November and basically had the place to ourselves. The lodge with the pool table was a major plus as well. Would defiantly come back.
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Santos
October 2025
Tent
Very nice atmosphere and very nice people. If you get the chance I would definitely visit A-Lodge.
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Jared
October 2025
19 ft campervan
Was great for a last minute spot to park for the evening. Instructions to get in / out were detailed and got them immediately from the host
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David
October 2025
21 ft campervan
Camping was fine. As described. Access and exit through gate could be difficult for a towed rig ot large RV. Valmont is a busy road and there is little room before entering gate to property.
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Travis
October 2025
20 ft campervan
Byron and Dot were incredibly friendly and welcoming hosts — you can tell they truly enjoy sharing their space. They made me feel right at home and had some great recommendations for local trails and scenic spots that really made my stay even better. The property was peaceful, well-kept, and a perfect base to explore the area. Would definitely stay again!
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James
October 2025
1 night at The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch
Top tier stay. The view is spectacular and the cabin was really complete feeling for the size of it. We would definitely come back and recommend it to others. We bumped into the owner and he seemed like a very nice guy too!
The wood stove brought us much joy and inspired many ideas.
See moreTop public campgrounds in the park
Stay at a public campground in Roosevelt National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds
The best camping in Roosevelt National Forest, CO guide
Overview
About
Administered in conjunction with the Arapaho National Forest and the Pawnee National Grassland, the Roosevelt National Forest is a popular getaway from nearby Fort Collins, attracting campers and day trippers alike throughout the year. The Cache la Poudre River, the only designated Wild and Scenic River in Colorado, winds through the forest, and attracts experienced white-water rafters and kayakers in search of thrills as well as its fair share of anglers, particularly in spring and summer. The greater Arapaho-Roosevelt-Pawnee area offers 53 designated campgrounds plus 10 wilderness areas ideal for backcountry adventures.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for RV camping: North Fork Poudre Campground can accommodate RVs measuring up to 35 feet in length.
- Best for short breaks from the city: Sleeping Elephant Campground is just over an hour from Fort Collins.
- Best for planning ahead: about half of the sites at the Peaceful Valley Campground can be reserved during high season
Tips for snagging a campsite
- The Roosevelt National Forest offers a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served (FCFS) campsites. If you’re looking for an FCFS site, it’s usually best to arrive early in the morning to beat crowds or to nab a site from a departing camper.
- Arrive mid-week for the best shot of securing a good site, particularly if you want to camp in the busy summer season.
- Reservable sites open for bookings at 8am Mountain Time, six months in advance. If you’re trying to book a popular spot or a cabin, try to reserve as soon as it’s released.
When to go
The Roosevelt National Forest is a year-round destination, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure no matter the season. Popular wintertime activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. Early spring and summer are popular for white-water rafting along the Cache la Poudre River, while July and August see the biggest crowds when it comes to camping and hiking; if you want a bit more forest to yourself, September is a great alternative.
Know before you go
- Cell service can be spotty at best in the Roosevelt National Forest. Be sure to download offline maps before heading out. Having a paper map as a backup is wise, too.
- Forest fires are an issue in Colorado, particularly in the summertime. Be prepared for burn bans and potential road and campground closures.
- Check ahead for the latest information on snow-related road closures if you’re visiting during the wintertime. It’s a good idea to also pack chains or get snow tires if driving in higher altitudes during the cooler months.
- Bicycles are not allowed in wilderness areas, and dogs must be kept leashed at all times.
Nearby attractions
Experience the beauty of camping in Poudre Canyon, a picturesque mountain getaway. Set up camp amidst towering cliffs, hike scenic trails, and listen to the soothing sounds of the Poudre River. Enjoy fishing, spot wildlife, and create lasting memories in this tranquil natural paradise.
83%
44 ratings · 21 reviews
Not recommend
· January 2021
This is a small campground that offers little hiking without trespassing on private property! There is a twenty acre active mine above this campground. Trespassing is not only illegal it's dangerous! New fencing & signs will be going up this summer.
Kim S.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2019
Beautiful lake. Very peaceful. Campground host was wonderful. Campground is clean.
The Free Birds- #livefree
www.livefreebirds.com
IG: thefreebirdsrv
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Gwendolyn M.
6 years on Hipcamp
September 2019
Small campground by creek. Lots of room between sites. Very pretty location.
-The Free Birds RV-
https://livefreebirds.com
IG: thefreebirdsrv
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Gwendolyn M.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2019
Open camping. arrive early in the week
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Sunni M.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2019
A very nice campground with electric hookups and a easy hiking trail around the camp.
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Jackie S.
6 years on Hipcamp
June 2018
If you are a straight couple/family etc.. you will have a great time. Rick will be warm and welcoming, friendly, and inform you how to deal with bears and moose nearby. My girlfriend and I (two women in our 20s) on the other hand had the worst experience. One of the first lines out of his mouth was homophobic, so luckily we both ‘pass’ as straight. He asked us if we were together in which we had no other choice but to say no. He came back multiple times throughout the night, telling us ironic/suggestive stories of “young women” trying to get his money. I am exhausted having to protect myself from men who treat women this way. If one of us had been a boy, he wouldn’t have given us a second glance. I am so sad a man like this has authority.
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Anonymous A.
7 years on Hipcamp
Mixed feelings
· January 2018
The better campground is Camp Dick which you access by driving through Peaceful Valley. All fill up fast in the summer months due to the proximity to Boulder and Denver.
Terry G.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2017
Large area is designated for a boy scout summer camp program. There are other spots near and around that are for the public and it has incredible views with little light pollution.
Spencer T.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
Great campsites and the camp host, Rick, is a great guy who will go to great lengths to make sure your stay is pleasant.
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Ralph I.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
Bring cash to pay for the site
Abby S.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· August 2017
The camping we found was dispersed and you could bring your car up to the sites.
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Zak L.
8 years on Hipcamp
August 2016
Nice small campground with only 9 sites. The tent sites are in a cluster of cottonwood trees, and the RV sites have "some" trees at the back of the sites.
Each site has a path to the river, which is nice! There were a lot of people launching tubes right out of camp and going down half a mile, walking up, and doing it again. Fishing was good with flies and worms, nothing big, but that may have been me. This is a good site where you won't be overwhelmed with people since it's small.
It's on our return to list for Cache la Poudre camping.
G S.
9 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
Wonderful campground though not all sites are created equal - some are fully exposed (ie no tree canopy) and are very close to each other. I would highly recommend reserving the walk-in sites as the are more secluded and surrounded by trees.
The area around the campground is beautiful, and chock-full of hiking trails. Wildlife can often be spotted, whether a fox crossing the road, or a moose drinking water by Brainard Lake.
Elena E.
10 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
If Peaceful Valley is full, try Camp Dick. Terrible name, but it is right behind Peaceful Valley. For an even better experience, go into the backcountry, permit required. This is a great jumping off point for crossing the continental divide...although its a bit of a hike, so be prepared!
Jody C.
5 reviews
October 2015
The road to Brainard Lake is only open in the summer. Mid-June through early fall. If the road is blocked/locked, there is no fee, but there is a 2 mile hike from the parking lot at the fee station, so be prepared for that. Also, this is a very popular area, so be prepared for lots of people. No backcountry camping in this area.
Jody C.
5 reviews
October 2015
Love this place! Brainard Lake is a great place enjoy the great outdoors in the quintessential Colorado setting. Glacier fed lakes, soaring mountain peaks, and babbling brooks make this the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Also, this place is a known hot spot for the growing Colorado moose population, so keep your eyes out. There is a entrance fee ($10 per passenger car, good for three days), so make sure you have cash, but trust me, it's worth it!
Johnathan V.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
This might be the nicest campground in Colorado, at least in the loop that did not suffer the blow down from high winds. The campground itself is all newly redone. Sites are huge and clean with a bear box in each site. Accommodations from walk in tent sites to sites that have a 75 foot long parking spot. It is only a few hundred yards to Brainard Lake and the jewel that is the Indian Peaks Wilderness just past that. There is near endless hiking here with pristine alpine lakes and even access to the continental divide. You can't go wrong.
Tom N.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
The staff was so friendly and helped us get paid and oriented. Our site was quiet and clean and the previous campers left us some firewood. They did not sell any wood at the campground so pick some up in Ward. Access to Brainard Lake and the lakes beyond for hiking was the highlight for us.
Evan W.
10 years on Hipcamp
August 2015
This is a great smaller campground when you want a quick escape from Denver but still close to fun Ned and great trails. Vault toilets and campsites very clean. Don't be fooled by the description, the small playground is old and our kids didn't stay very long.
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Mary Jane V.
10 years on Hipcamp
June 2015
A nearby lake called Creedmore Lake is a bit quieter than Dowdy and offers a more secluded environment for fishing, hiking or tent camping (you don't need to reserve a spot, just be ready to carry your things for .5 miles) Definitely worth checking out!
Amy B.
2 reviews
May 2015
We stayed here the night before attempting Meeker and Longs (meaning 2:30-3:00 AM departure from camp). Super convenient for that, but also super busy...and therefore loud! The caretaker is awesome, though! Just a friendly old lady who lives there
Mitch W.
10 years on Hipcamp