- Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
National Park
The best camping in Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, CO
The best camping in Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, CO
Prairie Oasis
1. Prairie Oasis
83%
(3)
29mi from Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
Very secluded Prairie perfect for stargazing A very natural Prairie environment seclusion no amenities very isolated perfect for meditation self-awareness Personal one-on-one connection a vast array of easy to travel to areas” Dinosaur tracks, Santa Fe Trail, Bent's Old Fort, and much more. If you are coming from the East traveling West on highway 50 On the West side of La Junta, CO You would make a left onto highway 10 Highway 10 goes towards Walsenburg, CO You will be traveling West by Southwest Until county road 11 You would make a left heading South on County road 11. The small sign will probably say CR11 But if you are coming from the West. When you come to the west end of the town of Manzanola, CO You will turn on to county road 11 When you come to a stop sign that will be Highway 10 You will cross highway 10 and continue down CR 11 After crossing three cattle guards As soon as you cross the third one There Is going to be a road to your right It may or may not have a sign But it will be county road T. You will travel down (West) that road And come to a gated fence It will State that it is a federal game reserve and no vehicles beyond this point We have permission To use the roadway You cannot camp in the reserve Or go off roading The road is a byway to our property. Remember To hook the bottom of the post first before hook in the top Of the gate It is easier that way Once you get to the watering trough You will be traveling Southwest on a pathway for vehicles You will come to a gateway Once you pass the gateway you will be back on private property From that gateway The prairie Oasis Is to your right The gateway is at the very most Southeast Corner of the property Everything South of that gateway Is someone else's private property. I hope you enjoy. Known wildlife in the area: Antelope, Coyotes, Jack rabbits, Tarantulas, Prairie dogs, Owls, Hawks, Prairie mice, Snakes, Including the prairie rattlesnake. But the chances of running into one of them would be rare. And because the rest of the property is unfenced There are occasionally cows roaming around freely. If you plan on building a fire You will have to bring your own wood. Be sure to put any fire out thoroughly. Have fun
Thanks again.
Mike Blanchard
970-382-1030
Pets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Lazy Cat Valley
2. Lazy Cat Valley
100%
(1)
43mi from Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful views, stargazing, gem hunting, seclusion. We have just started and have Lots of plans to grow, but right now we are just land. Solar system in place to charge phones, there is outdoor water to cook with and drink. No wood fires are permitted at this time, but you're welcome to bring over a propane firepit. Our property is on a 7 mile dirt road, so please keep that in mind prior to booking. Your RV/Car can make it, you just need to go slow. There are so many prairie dogs on the beautiful drive to our property, lots of cows too. On our property there are bunnies, mule deer, and more!
420 Friendly
We now have a porta-potty for your convenience!
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$20
/ night
Fowler RV Park
3. Fowler RV Park
33mi from Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site · 27 sites
Fowler RV Park stands out as a family-owned gem in southeastern Colorado, managed by the Ridgway family since 2011. This welcoming campground offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure, making it an ideal base camp for those looking to explore nearby attractions.
Situated conveniently for day trips, Fowler RV Park provides easy access to the vibrant cities of Pueblo, Colorado Springs, and La Junta. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the stunning natural landscapes that the region has to offer.
In addition to its prime location, the park features spacious sites that ensure privacy and comfort for all visitors. Whether you're looking to unwind by the campfire or embark on an exciting day of exploration, Fowler RV Park is the perfect starting point for your Colorado adventure. With local restaurants and shops just a short drive away, you'll have everything you need for a memorable stay.
Sportsman RV Park
4. Sportsman RV Park
42mi from Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site · 11 sites
Nestled in a picturesque setting, this campground stands out for its serene atmosphere and abundant natural beauty, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers. Spanning over a generous acreage, the site offers ample space for guests to enjoy privacy while immersing themselves in the great outdoors.
Visitors can take advantage of a variety of amenities designed to enhance their stay, including well-maintained restrooms, picnic areas, and fire pits perfect for evening gatherings. The campground is also conveniently located near stunning natural features, such as tranquil swimming holes and scenic hiking trails, providing endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
For those looking to explore beyond the campground, nearby attractions include charming local restaurants and unique shops that showcase the area's culture. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this campground offers a perfect blend of both, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
Sundance-High Plains RV Park & Cabins
5. Sundance-High Plains RV Park & Cabins
44mi from Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site · 35 sites
Discover the unique charm of Sundance High Plains RV Park and Cabins, a hidden gem in the heart of Lamar, Colorado, where rustic beauty meets modern comfort. This picturesque campground offers a variety of accommodations to suit every camping style, including 22 fully equipped RV sites, spacious tent camping under the stars, and cozy cabins adorned with delightful wood decor and private bathrooms.
At Sundance High Plains, you’ll be captivated by the stunning sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant colors. Spanning over 4 1/2 acres, our park is surrounded by expansive desert plains, lively rodeos, and a wealth of outdoor attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a family looking for adventure, or a pet owner seeking a welcoming environment, our family friendly and pet friendly RV park caters to all.
Take advantage of the nearby natural features, including swimming holes and hiking trails, as well as local restaurants and shops that enhance your stay. Come and experience the tranquility and excitement that Sundance High Plains RV Park and Cabins has to offer, where unforgettable memories await!
Cardinal RV Park
6. Cardinal RV Park
767mi from Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site · 61 sites
Cardinal RV Parks in Beaumont, Texas, stands out as a unique destination for travelers seeking both a restful stop and a comfortable place to settle while working nearby. Conveniently situated along US Highway 96 and just 85 miles from Houston, this park is nestled in the scenic “Golden Triangle” area, making it an ideal location for exploring the beauty of Southeast Texas.
At Cardinal RV Parks, you'll find a variety of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Our full hookup RV sites ensure you have all the essentials for a restful night, while complimentary Wi-Fi keeps you connected. Clean restrooms with showers and on-site laundry facilities provide added convenience for your travels.
Whether you're looking to unwind after a long journey or need a temporary home base while you explore the local attractions, Cardinal RV Parks offers the perfect blend of comfort and accessibility. Enjoy nearby outdoor activities, local restaurants, and shops, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of the region.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
A
Aaron
August 2025
Tent
This spot is really great for naturalists. The essence of the wild plains is here. In order to navigate around the property to find a good spot to set your tent, you will be driving on un-maintained two-track in sand -- if you don't know how to drive in sand do not try it. Rainy conditions would make these tracks too difficult and even if you could make it through you'd be making the ruts worse for others. Sometimes, the ruts are deep and occasionally the track goes over a water diversion berm -- if you have a high-clearance 4x4 but it has a long wheelbase, passing here may be impossible. The property is within ten or twenty miles of the Mountain Route of the Santa Fe Trail -- you can see the Spanish peaks to the west and you can see a prominent table mesa to the east, which is right next to Bent's Old Fort. I've heard you can see Raton Mesa from Bent's on a clear pressure-inversion day! Many burrowing owls, fox, coyotes, jackrabbits, bugs, and zero mosquitoes. We set tent on a lucky find high-ground sand patch next to the two-track, as, the bunchgrass prairie is too lumpy.
See moreS
Sarah
May 2025
1 night at Prairie Oasis
We made it to the site. Wonderful, private and peaceful place. The last quarter mile is a dirt road (no gravel) with deep ruts. Made it in fine with our Sprinter, but unfortunately decided to bail on the site as 2" of rain was expected overnight. It would have made the exit sketchy with the slick clay. Will try again if in the area.
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R
Ryan
March 2025
15 ft pop-up camper
With kids
We were the very first people to camp here, and booked the day before, so we really caught the hosts off guard. Getting there was many miles of dirt roads. With our minivan and teardrop camper, we did fine, though I wouldn't want to even attempt it after heavy rain. When the way in got confusing, the hosts came out to get us and lead us the rest of the way to our site. They were very responsive despite the spotty cell service. They even helped us push our camper into position for the best view, and oh, what a view! We were at site #1, which was recently cleared with a skidsteer and quite lumpy, but close enough to level for us, and a short walk away from a port-a-potty. (Not a good tent camping site until and unless it gets flattened and tamped down.) It overlooks a miles-wide valley with a 180 view of nearly uninhabited land. Absolutely beautiful- one of the prettiest places I've ever camped. Great sunsets. Great stargazing. Very quiet, though the host did run their generator for a bit right at bedtime. Our 6yr old was enamored with the outdoor kitties, and the hosts were very friendly. While there are some kinks to be worked out, I wouldn't hesitate to camp here again someday.
See moreThe best camping in Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, CO guide
Overview
About
Before the Wild West, there was Bent's Old Fort near the Arkansas River in La Junta, Colorado. The site was one of the first European settlements out west. It served as a peaceful trading post for trappers, traders, travelers, and members of the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. Although "fort" is in its name, this adobe building wasn't necessarily a military installation. The U.S. Army didn't use the fort full-time until 1846.
Originally built in 1833, you can travel to Bent's Old Fort to see a reconstruction of the original structure. The building is unmistakable. It's the muddy-brown building with a round tower on two corners. It's like a short castle with an open courtyard on the inside.
Take a tour to see what trading was like in the early 1800s, before a flood of settlers came here after the Civil War. White settlers traded their goods with Native American tribes who supplied buffalo robes and buffalo skins. Inside the fort, see where people kept their horses in the shade and out of the hot sun. Rooms, where people slept, had wooden windows for air circulation, but they were expertly hidden beneath the main walls of the fort for protection and comfort.
When you're here, talk to some of the guides dressed in period costume. They truly bring this remote outpost to life. One of the men might represent William or Charles Brent, two brothers from St. Louis who went west to seek their fortunes. They built this fort in Colorado as a place for anyone and everyone, regardless of color, creed or ethnic background.
The fort was a vibrant place until 1849 when it was abandoned after 16 years. Too bad, because the history of the west might have happened differently had Bent's Old Fort survived.
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