Camping near Shadow Mountain Lookout

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Shadow Mountain Lookout adventure.

Discover the historic Shadow Mountain Lookout amid Colorado's peaks.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Shadow Mountain Lookout

92%
(172)

Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Black Hawk, CO
Wideawake Ranch and Waterhouse (formerly known as Uncle Charlie's Ranch) is an escape from the big city being only a 50 minute drive from Denver. Our property hosts the experience of Colorado’s nature and so much more! Our larger pond is paddleboard and swimming friendly, the property has easy access to National Forest trails, and we are a short drive from additional hiking/biking trails. While we do not offer fishing in our ponds, there are several locations nearby to fish. **We also offer on-site natural spring water hot soaks (or cold plunges), warmed via our traditional wood burning stove, and fresh mountain spring drinking water available for sale. Check out our website for additional details on our Waterhouse. We look forward to hosting yourself, your family and friends, and your fur babies for a fun camping trip! Check us out on Instagram! We would love to be tagged in your fun camping trip posts! @Wideawakeranchwaterhouse **Hot soaks coming soon! We are currently remodeling our soaks, so please stay tuned! They should be available in August of 2025
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$63
 / night
89%
(265)

Prospector’s Rush

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Central City, CO
Welcome to Prospector’s Rush campground located on a 5-acre old mining claim near Idaho Springs, Colorado. This unique rustic campground offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature while experiencing the rich history of the area. 4WD or AWD is necessary and mandatory to access our property!!! Accessing the campsite is an off-road adventure. Please only book if you are comfortable with off-road driving. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by the untouched beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the sound of a nearby stream. The campground is surrounded by towering pine trees and a variety of wildlife (moose, deer, elk, turkeys and black bear), providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Prospector’s Rush campground offers tent sites and RV sites, each with plenty of space for campers to spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings. While we do not have running water on site, we do have a pit toilet. This is a true camping experience, allowing you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the simplicity of nature. As you explore the area, you'll discover remnants of the old mining operation, including abandoned mineshafts. You can also hike the nearby trails, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the starry night sky. At Prospector’s Rush campground, we pride ourselves on offering a true wilderness experience, with limited amenities to ensure that you can fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Come visit Prospector’s Rush campground and discover a piece of Colorado's rich history while immersing yourself in the peace and tranquility of pure nature. 4WD / AWD is mandatory!!
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$34.30
 / night
91%
(305)

Arapaho Valley Ranch

68 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Granby, CO
Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time. Guests must be at least 18 years of age or older to book and stay at Arapaho Valley Ranch.
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$65
 / night
99%
(313)

Rocky Mountain Glamping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs5 acres · Lyons, CO
A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience! Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies:  If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.
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$55
 / night
96%
(177)

Boulder Chicken Ranch

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Boulder, CO
Welcome to our charming 2-acre farm nestled in East Boulder. Just minutes from town - near road biking trails, shopping and restaurants. A great pitstop on your way to the mountains - or base camp for the Front Range. We aren't fancy, but we are convenient, cozy and safe. Gate code will be provided 48 hours before arrival. NOTE: MOSQUITOES ARE BAD COME SUNSET - Nothing a campfire can't fix. We have spots in the meadow for RVs, Vans, Trailers, Rooftops and Tents. The grounds are a bit sloped but I provide leveling boards (please leave them behind). You may have neighbors, as it is literally an open meadow. We have a 4 meter canvas tent complete with a queen sized bed, fans, chairs, and a wood burning stove. We can handle RVs around 45 feet - truck and trailer. It’s a big field, but a narrow, winding and steep ramp to get in and out. If you are a nervous driver, perhaps choose another place to rest your head. We have a community fire pit with a pile of free burn wood, though the big logs are getting few and far between; bringing your own firewood is recommended, as well as an ax or saw 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. We have a cold water plunge pool continually refreshed from the creek. I just built a new filter!! It’s a saving grace in the summertime. We have a community gas grill - please donate to the propane fund. We have fresh eggs up at the coop. Please help yourself. Watch out for the rooster. The chickens free range during the day, so KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR DOGS; leash if necessary. Our toilet is a porta john, pumped clean every Thursday. THE GOOD: *Easy in and out location close to town *Lots of sun *Outdoor solar shower *Cold creek water plunge pool *Fresh eggs *Good view of small airplanes *Community fire ring *Community gas grill THE BAD: *Mosquitoes!!! (bad right now - come evening they will carry your firstborn away) *Daytime road noise *Small airport nearby *No Generators *Almost zero shade *Shower only hot when the sun shines - almost zero privacy *Good Morning Rooster *5 day max stay Please reach out with any questions you may have. Safe travels! Sincerely, Patrick and Brooke
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$35
 / night
92%
(250)

A-Lodge Boulder

59 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Boulder, CO
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. 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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$49
 / night
99%
(48)

Crystal Ranch

8 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Golden, CO
Hello campers, wanderers, and travelers alike! We are nestled in the Coal Creek Valley up here at 8,000 ft. Gorgeous views with stunning sunrises and sunsets. We have two adorable tiny A-frames for rent with a seasonal outdoor shower and Porta Potty. We share this family home and love welcoming travelers into our little world we've created. Thank you for stopping by and we can't wait to meet you! A few Notes: - Quiet Hours between: 10pm - 8am - Wifi close to the home (password given on arrival) - BYOB (Bring your own bedding, sleeping bags, pillow) - You are responsible for packing in/out...all respectful land stewards welcomed - Bring your own towels if you're planning on using the outdoor shower. - Keep all food locked up appropriately. This is bear country, and while we've never had an incident, they are curious little guys. - No Kitchen. bring your own supplies if you'd like to cook in the fire pit. - Bring your own wood for the fire pit. All local fire ban laws apply when appropriate. ** No Smoking on the property **Outdoor Shower; Water is Turned off for the Season when Temps drop. ** Hot Tub is private and not available for use.
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$40
 / night
90%
(54)

Camp Always Choose Adventures

29 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Central City, CO
Please: Must text or call your ETA!!! Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures, the nation's first off-grid outdoor educational campground. Situated at an elevation of 9,300 feet in Central City, Colorado, we're just a 15-minute drive from Idaho Springs. Our unique campground offers a Tipi and dispersed camping sites amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, where you can often spot elk, moose, deer, and bears in their natural habitat. No RVs or Campers. We have one on site, but cannot accommodate an additional one unless you call us first. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Road Highway Vehicle area in the Front Range of Colorado, with numerous hiking trails nearby. For your convenience, we offer rental options for outdoor gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and almost anything else you might need. You can arrive empty-handed and still enjoy a full camping experience in the Rockies. We offer a one-stop-shop for all of your Colorado bucket-lists! Camping in The Rocky Mountains WITH premier outdoor gear provided, 4x4 adventures, and everything in-between! Accessibility: At Camp Always Choose Adventures, we are thrilled to offer Extreme Motus wheelchairs to our guests, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest. These all-terrain wheelchairs are designed to navigate the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, providing unparalleled mobility and freedom. Whether you're exploring our scenic trails, joining an off-road adventure, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of our campground, the Extreme Motus wheelchairs empower individuals with disabilities to participate fully in all our outdoor activities. We are committed to making outdoor adventures accessible to all, breaking barriers, and fostering an inclusive environment for everyone. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our mission is to break barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds raised from our campground directly benefit underserved youth and those with disabilities, supporting our goal to make the great outdoors accessible to all. We thank you for your donation. For more information about us please visit: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org
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$27.50
 / night
93%
(301)

Neverland/Camp Wilder

5 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Nederland, CO
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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$49.50
 / night

Camping near Shadow Mountain Lookout guide

Overview

About

Imagine a camping experience that not only immerses you in nature's vastness but also offers a peek into history. Camping near Shadow Mountain Lookout, the last standing fire lookout in Rocky Mountain National Park, is just that. Erected in the 1930s, this rustic edifice once played a crucial role in identifying and observing forest fires. Although the Shadow Mountain Lookout Tower is off-limits for climbing, the surrounding environment more than makes up for it. The trail leading to the lookout is a treat for all campers, offering expansive views of Shadow Mountain Lake, Grand Lake, and Lake Granby. Picture waking up in the morning, unzipping your tent, and embarking on a scenic hike that unfolds panoramic views of these three magnificent lakes. The journey becomes even more spectacular during the autumn months. The trail transforms into an artist's palette as trees begin to showcase their fall colors. A kaleidoscope of vibrant hues reflected in the tranquil waters of the lakes presents a sight to cherish. You can access the trail leading to the lookout from either the Grand Lake or Shadow Mountain Dam trailheads for the East Shore Trail. Camping near Shadow Mountain Lookout thus presents a unique opportunity: to embrace the splendid natural scenery and explore a piece of fire service history. Embark on a Shadow Mountain Lookout camping adventure, where the past and present converge against the backdrop of an awe-inspiring landscape. Here, every camper's day is an invitation to take a walk on trails drenched in beauty, history, and serenity.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Shadow Mountain Lookout is during the summer and early fall, from late May to October. This period offers the best weather for hiking. Winter months can be harsh, with trails covered in snow and less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check weather forecasts before your hike, as mountain conditions can change rapidly.
  • Timed Entry Permit Reservations are required from late May to late October to enter the park.
  • The lookout tower is closed to the public; please respect the site and do not climb.
  • Prepare for a rugged trail with an elevation gain of 1,635 feet; it's not suitable for all visitors.
  • Remember, pets are not allowed on the trail, ensuring the preservation of the park's natural state.
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