Discover Colorado's Camping Gems
Whether you're seeking solitude in the wilderness or a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions, these locations cater to a wide range of preferences. Let's dive into our top picks:
Location Why It's Great Activities Reservations Rocky Mountain National Park Iconic scenery, abundant wildlife, and challenging trails. Perfect for experienced hikers and nature lovers. Offers both developed campgrounds and backcountry camping. Hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, fishing, rock climbing. Highly recommended, especially during peak season. Recreation.gov. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve Unique landscape featuring towering sand dunes against a backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. A truly surreal camping experience. Sandboarding, hiking, stargazing, splashing in Medano Creek (seasonal). Piñon Flats Campground requires reservations. Backcountry dune camping permits also necessary. Recreation.gov. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Home to the iconic Maroon Bells, two of the most photographed peaks in North America. Stunning alpine lakes and wildflower meadows. Hiking, backpacking, photography, fishing. Dispersed camping available with permits in some areas. Developed campgrounds nearby require reservations. Recreation.gov. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Dramatic canyon carved by the Gunnison River, offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs. A must-see for adventurous campers. Hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, ranger programs. Reservations recommended at South Rim Campground and North Rim Campground. Recreation.gov. State Forest State Park Vast wilderness area with over 71,000 acres of forests, lakes, and mountains. Excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. Hiking, fishing, boating, horseback riding, moose watching. Reservations required for most campgrounds and yurts. Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Golden Gate Canyon State Park Close proximity to Denver, offering convenient access to hiking trails, panoramic views, and peaceful campgrounds. Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rock climbing. Reservations highly recommended. Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Guanella Pass Located in the Front Range, offering easy access to high-altitude hiking trails and stunning alpine scenery. Great for a quick weekend getaway. Hiking, fishing, scenic drives, wildflower viewing. Several campgrounds available, some requiring reservations. Recreation.gov. Ridgway State Park Located near Ouray, known as the "Switzerland of America," with beautiful mountain views and a scenic reservoir. Boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing. Reservations required. Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. White River National Forest Expansive national forest encompassing the Flat Tops Wilderness, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, and many other scenic areas. Offers countless camping opportunities. Hiking, backpacking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding. Many campgrounds available, some requiring reservations. Recreation.gov. Dispersed camping is also permitted in some areas. Dinosaur National Monument Unique geological formations and dinosaur fossils. A fascinating destination for campers interested in history and paleontology. Hiking, rafting, fossil viewing, stargazing. Campgrounds available on both the Colorado and Utah sides. Reservations recommended. Recreation.gov. Steamboat Lake State Park Picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, offering excellent fishing and boating opportunities. A great family-friendly camping destination. Boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing. Reservations required. Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. Mueller State Park Located near Pikes Peak, offering stunning views and access to miles of hiking trails. A great base for exploring the surrounding area. Hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, picnicking. Reservations highly recommended. Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.
