The best camping near San Isabel National Forest

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

The best camping near San Isabel National Forest

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

Camping near San Isabel National Forest

89% (72 reviews)

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

Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.  

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Community favorites near San Isabel National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in San Isabel National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near San Isabel National Forest

89%
(108)

Sweetwater River Resort

67 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents31 acres · Cotopaxi, CO
Sweetwater River Resort is located 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. You’ll enter a different world–a sanctuary away from the fast pace and pressures of ordinary life. Sweetwater River Resort is a nature-lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and fly fishing fanatic’s dream nestled on the banks of the beautiful juniper-lined Arkansas River. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind with plenty of rivers to explore outside the confines of city life. 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 and even RV sites. Choose from Rustic Cabins, Pioneer Cabins, Deluxe Cabins, or Glamping Tents to call Sweetwater your home away from home. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. At Sweetwater River Resort, there's something for everyone. Fish along our private half-mile of river frontage, go whitewater rafting or kayaking, soak in nearby hot springs, hike or mountain bike through the mountains, pan for gold, stargaze at night, and spot eagles, osprey, and other birds. Keep an eye out for Big Horn sheep, pronghorn, and elk, and marvel at the beauty of Colorado's aspen trees in the fall. Explore a nearby ghost town or simply relax by the water. Located near numerous attractions, Sweetwater River Resort 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 The Bluff Trail Hiking in Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!
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from 
$35
 / night
92%
(33)

Yeti Sanctuary

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Florissant, CO
Situated on almost 4.5 acres of partially wooded acres, with a small lake, 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 sking 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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from 
$30
 / night
97%
(58)

Creekside Chalets

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Salida, CO
Welcome to Creekside Chalets Escape from the stresses of everyday life with a rejuvenating mountain vacation. Here you can revel in the beauty of the mountains, relax to the sounds of the river, and experience an unforgettable trip. Our cozy and charming cabins & campsites offer stunning views, wonderful amenities, and an unbeatable location. Nestled among picturesque peaks, there is no shortage of lovely sights when you stay in our campsites & cabins. Every season is equally lovely. From snow-capped peaks in the winter to bright gold aspen leaves in the fall, you’ll never be left wanting when it comes to picture-perfect surroundings. We are just minutes from Monarch Mountain, which boasts 800 ski-able acres and an annual average snowfall of over 350 inches. Just a short drive east of our cabins is Salida, Colorado known as the ‘Gem of the Rockies’. This small but vibrant town offers a number of restaurants and shops as well as festivals and events throughout the year. New for 2023 Creekside Chalets has added 3 Creekside Camping spots all with access to the North Fork of the South Arkansas creek that flows through the property. The sites are located in an aspen grove along the creek with a picnic table provided and room to park one vehicle up to 20 feet long and space for a tent. 30 amp power is provided to each site, a porta-potty within 250 feet and water from a camp spigot. The campsites are pet friendly, $30 per pet per stay, max 2 pets.
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from 
$50
 / night
100%
(111)

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO
Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. No fireworks are permitted at any time.
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from 
$30
 / night
100%
(205)

Frenchman's Creek Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Buena Vista, CO
We have a 100+ acre working ranch with access to the Arkansas river for fishing, kayaking or just dipping your feet in. We have great views of the Collegiate Peaks 14ers and the Harvard trail is just up the hill. Frenchman's creek runs through the ranch which has hay fields, aspens, cottonwoods, pinons, cows, chickens, sheep and pigs. Deer, elk, coyotes and bobcats also wander through. We are 15 minutes from BV, 10 minutes from Clear Creek Reservoir, 20 minutes from Twin Lakes and 30 minutes from Leadville.
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from 
$50
 / night
100%
(7)

High Mountain Lodging and camping

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Hartsel, CO
We offer an off-grid campground and Tiny house. We are Cannabis friendly. We also have high speed Starlink Internet included with the pricing! Tiny Cabin- Everything you need in a 8x16 tiny cabin including a microwave, fridge, shampoo, conditioner and utensils. 1 bed that could potentially fit two people like a small couple or a kid and parent.
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$25
 / night
95%
(20)

Cutty's Hayden Creek Resort

132 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents157 acres · Coaldale, CO
Cutty’s offers a camping experience you won’t find anywhere else. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, you and your loved ones can enjoy an abundance of activities while surrounded by incredible scenic views. We offer many activities and amenities to keep the whole family entertained. Go swimming in the indoor or outdoor pool. Play a round of mini golf. Shoot some hoops on the basketball court. Try your hand at poker in the adult lounge upstairs in the lodge. Throw some horseshoes. Rent a golf cart and cruise around the resort with ease. Take a walk next to Hayden Creek. Take in the views. Or just relax at your campsite. Cutty’s Resort will provide the vacation you desire and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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from 
$39
 / night
95%
(66)

Twin Bridges Campground

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Coaldale, CO
Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 20 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) along the Arkansas River (Gold Medal fishing) with access for all campers for fishing and floating. Many of our sites are great for star-gazing, watching meteors, looking for fireflies, and seeing the birds zip on by. We are conveniently located on Hwy 50, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and have all sorts of rental options for your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you want to pitch a tent, try out the glamping experience, enjoy the convenience of an RV, or rent one of our fully equipped RVs, we have the perfect spot for you. We have four entrances marked by sail flags into the campground, two by the lake, one near the bathhouse, and one by the post office (on our property). The map of the Arkansas River has our campground listed! Adventure awaits with home to the highest mountain peaks in Colorado and the river and 102 miles of Trout Gold Medal Water. There is access to white water rafting, guided fishing, and fishing lessons. There are at least 5 hot springs within 60 miles of Twin Bridges Campground. Salida is considered the white-water rafting capitol of the US by some and has a whitewater park and surfing wave. Salida area is also home to a ton of hiking (14'ers anyone?) and mountain biking trails. The Royal Gorge is a quick 30 minute drive with restaurants and other fun near Canon City. The Sand Dunes are 90 minutes and Monarch Ski Area is 45, we have some of the best bird watching! Warbling Vireo, Western Wood-peewee, Cassin's Kingbird to name a few.
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from 
$22.50
 / night
98%
(46)

PHANTOM CANYON HIDEOUT

5 sites · Lodging40 acres · Victor, CO
Enjoy 40 acres of semi-backcountry themed camping next to a 18-hole disc golf course. Stay in an airplane, VW bus, or shepherds wagon. Remote and private far away from the hustle and bustle but close enough to civilization if needed. There are several rock outcroppings, tons of trees and a seasonal creek and waterfall. There is a moderate hike to/from the sites, we can take you and your gear to it via utv or if you have Awd SUV or 4wd, you can drive to the sites. Close to the historic gold-mining towns of Victor and Cripple Creek. Take the Gold-belt byway scenic driving loop down Phantom Canyon to Canon City and back via Shelf Road. Fishing is 20 minutes away at Skagway Reservoir.
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$80
 / night
100%
(7)

Camp Knock Out: Has ELECTRIC

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Como, CO
Views, Views and more Views! Electric Hookup! Welcome to your private getaway nestled on a picturesque 5-acre mountain property, just 65 miles southwest of Denver. Located off the scenic 285 freeway, this hidden gem is conveniently situated 20 minutes beyond Bailey and 20 minutes before reaching Fairplay. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking mountain and meadow views that surround this tranquil haven Come and experience these outstanding Mountain Views with a nice mix of evergreen trees and Aspens as well. Although steep, (14 degree grade in spots) the driveway allows for large trucks and travel trailers. It’s all setup for you to show up with your camping rig, plug in and have the comforts of home! Although secluded, the vibrant town of Fairplay is only a scenic 30-minute drive away. Indulge in the convenience of a nearby grocery store, discount stores, restaurants, banking services, charming shops, and even a fascinating museum. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the wonders of nature and create lasting memories. Book your stay at this enchanting mountain retreat today!
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$26
 / night
96%
(25)

Mountain-Life Camping @ Pike's Peak

5 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Divide, CO
Enjoy camping in the mountains on the backside of Pike's Peak with our Treehouse, your own tent, have us set up and break down ours for you, or enjoy our fully setup "Glamping" site which includes a large canvas cabin tent and MUCH more! You will be close to all the mountains have to offer! A little slice of heaven in the mountains for your campsite which is close to many local and tourist popular destinations! Less than a mile to Mueller State Park, just over 3 miles to Trailhead of Pike's Peak, 5 miles to Horsethief Park Trailhead, short distance to Cripple Creek, and not far from many other popular locations in the area!
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$35
 / night
100%
(14)

Pronghorn Oasis

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Johnson Village, CO
A brand new Hipcamp site in 2024, on one of the most unique properties in Park County. With only a single Hipcamp site on a large 40 acre property and no neighbors nearby, you'll enjoy a private camping experience in one of the most scenic locations in Colorado. The property is partially wooded, and there is a spectacular view from the top of a prominent hill on the property which is some of the highest ground for miles in all directions. Upon completion of the City of Aurora's Wild Horse Reservoir in the 2030's, this will be a "waterfront" property. On site picnic tables (the lighter colored bench can fold into a table) and a port-a-potty are provided. The campsite is equipped with a unique dual purpose wood/propane fire ring - bring your own propane to enjoy campfires while burn bans are in effect. Great hiking opportunities may be found right on the property, and numerous nearby seldom used dirt roads provide exceptional mountain biking opportunities. Close to recreational opportunities in Buena Vista and Salida, as well as Antero, Eleven Mile, and Spinney Mountain Reservoirs. A level site with great access, and can accommodate large RV's and campers. And keep your eyes out - you might just see some Pronghorn passing through the property! Directions from the town of Hartsel: Proceed 2 miles South on State Hwy 9. Turn right (South) on CR 53. Stay right at the fork at 1.3 miles. At 3.9 miles, turn left (East) onto lightly used Shawnee Trail (Note: On occasion due to County grading on CR 53, there will be a small mound to drive over as you enter this left turn). Proceed about one-quarter mile (and past the the POSTED NO TRESPASSING sign just inside the property entrance) to the campsite a bit further on the left.
Pets
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from 
$39
 / night

The best camping near San Isabel National Forest guide

Overview

About

This park's location in the Rocky Mountains makes it a magnet for mountain climbers. You've got 19 14'ers to choose from! The big one is Mount Elbert, the highest summit in all the Rockies at 14,440 feet. You can also hit the second-highest, Mount Massive, and the fifth-highest, La Plata.

If you've got kids with you on your adventure, definitely hit the Picketwire Canyon Trail. This trail takes you to the largest known sample of dinosaur tracks in the country! Getting all the way through this 10.6-mile haul is a serious undertaking, so pack plenty of water.

Prefer a less strenuous, more relaxing San Isabel experience? High-altitude fishing at Chalk Creek or Cottonwood Creek is great for landing trout. Be sure to come between July and September. These alpine lakes often ice over during the colder months of the year.

With over 300 days of sunshine, we're sure you'll be baggin' peaks and takin' names in no time!

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