Want to get away for the weekend? Duh. Haven’t been camping in a while? Perfect. Get your gear ready because we’re leaving the big city for a few days. No need to stress about where to go either: We made a list of 25 great campgrounds within two hours of Denver, Colorado, so all you have to do is decide which of them best fit your camping style.
With a variety of campers in mind, we found a campground to suit your every need, whether that’s basic primitive tent camping or deluxe-cabin glamping. These Denver-area campgrounds also offer a variety of adventurous outdoor activities, from mountain biking to windsurfing to rock climbing. The incredible views of the Rocky Mountains or any of the many pristine Colorado lakes aren’t so bad, either.
DENVER METRO AREA
Chatfield State Park: Littleton, CO
It’s hard to believe that this campground is located just outside the Denver metro area. Chatfield State Park is situated in Littleton, CO and is home to beautiful rolling foothills and abundant wildlife. The park’s reservoir waters make for excellent boating, skiing, sailing or fishing, and the 26 miles of hiking and biking trails will keep everyone busy all afternoon. There are 197 campsites to choose from, all with electrical hookups and many with water and sewer hookups as well. It’s best to call ahead and make a reservation if you plan to stay during the summer. If you aren’t afraid of heights, hot-air ballooning has become popular at Chatfield State Park, so feel free to BYOB (bring your own balloon).
Recent Campers say: “The staff was very nice and helpful.” “Definitely ‘city camping.'” “Trailer parking was spaced out well.”
Chatfield State Park
11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd.
Littleton, CO 80125
For reservations, please call 1-800-244-5613
Cherry Creek Campground: Aurora, CO
This campground offers a great weekend getaway for the whole family. Just a little East of Denver, Cherry Creek Campground is centered around the 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir and offers a variety of recreational water activities including jetskiing and swimming. If you’d rather stay dry, there are horseback riding trails throughout the grounds, several shooting ranges and a space to fly model airplanes. Cherry Creek has 131 campsites that accommodate tents and RVs with 50-amp full hookup pull-throughs. There is also WiFi on site and a designated dog park area.
Recent campers say: “The campgrounds are very nice…very clean.” “The view and parking spots are wonderful.” “Limited light during nighttime.”
Cherry Creek Campground
4201 S. Parker Rd.
Aurora, CO 80014
For reservations, please visit the website
Hillcrest Village RV Resort: Aurora, CO
Hillcrest Village RV Resort offers a small-town, homey feel just miles away from the big city. The large, tree-lined RV sites are equipped with a lawn and large concrete pad, and some of them also have a carport or storage shed for your extra belongings. There’s a playground for the kids, a swimming pool to cool off from the heat and a spa to relax after a long day. Hillcrest Village is very close to many excellent shopping centers and is only a short drive from the Rocky Mountains—a perfect place to do some outdoor exploring. Don’t forget to bring your pet—they’re welcome, too.
Recent campers say: “Good location.” “Facilities need improvements.”
Hillcrest Village RV Resort
1600 Stable Blvd
Aurora, CO 80011
For reservations, please visit the website
Camp Dick Campground: Aurora, CO
This is a fun place for all of you history lovers. Located an hour and a half from Denver, Camp Dick Campground was established in the 1930s as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp. It sits on the banks of the Middle Saint Vrain Creek, a well-known spot for fly fishing. Mountain biking along the many scenic trails is another popular activity at Camp Dick. All campsites accommodate both tents and RVs, each including a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill rack. There are no showers on site, so if you need to rinse off you can in one of the nearby lakes.
Recent campers say: “Great campground.” “Attentive camp host.” “Water is turned off in the off season.”
Camp Dick Campground
Roosevelt Way
Aurora, CO 80011
$33.00+ per night
FRONT RANGE
Cold Springs Campground: Idaho Springs, CO
Located in the Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest, Cold Springs Campground is another great campground within two hours of Denver. The 38-mile drive on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway will get you excited before you even arrive. The grounds offer a variety of hiking trails that vary in difficulty: an easy trail leading out of the campground for families with small children and a steep but shorter trail that will reward hikers with a spectacular view at the top. Cold Springs has 38 campsites available for tents and RVs, however, RVs with slide-outs will not fit. Vault toilets are also accessible on site. If you’re traveling by Jeep, Cold Springs also has awesome off-road trails.
Recent campers say: “Spots are spread out. Clean bathrooms.” “Good campground overall.” “Small, basic campsite.”
Cold Springs Campground
PO Box 3307
Idaho Springs, CO 80452
For reservations, please visit the website
Rainbow Lakes Campground: Nederland, CO
TEMPORARILY CLOSED
This is the definition of a small, primitive campground for those that want a true camping experience. Rainbow Lakes Campground is a little over an hour north of Denver and suitable for tents only. The Rainbow Lakes Trail will take you on a short hike to a string of ponds that are great for fishing. Take the Glacier Rim Trail up the ridge instead of a beautiful overlook of the Arapaho Glacier. This campground has 18 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring, that are all first-come-first-served. Vault toilets are accessible as well. Rainbow Lakes doesn’t have drinking water available, so pack plenty.
Recent campers say: “A very clean campground.” “Came with bear box, fire pit, picnic table.” “Beautiful area.”
Rainbow Lakes Campground
Nederland, CO 80466
$17+ per night
Kelly Flats Campground: Fort Collins, CO
TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Also in the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest, Kelly Flats Campground gives off a rather peaceful ambiance. It has 29 sites available: 19 that accommodate RVs up to 65 feet with no hookups and the other 10 are tents only. The tall conifer trees provide plenty of privacy between each site. The Cache La Poudre River runs right through Kelly Flats Campground and is the only river in Colorado designated as a “Wild and Scenic River” by the National Park Service, allowing for many fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch several types of trout including rainbows, browns, cuttbows and cutthroats.
Recent campers say: “Our favorite campground in Poudre County.” “Absolutely LOVE this place.” “Spots are first come, first served.”
Kelly Flats Campground
Fort Collins, CO 80521
$17+ per night
Moraine Park Campground: Estes Park, CO
Northwest of Denver, Moraine Park Campground lies in Rocky Mountain National Park and offers countless opportunities for adventure. Within the park, there are 355 miles of hiking trails, three lakes for water activities and multiple waterfalls to keep you busy all weekend. There are 245 sites at this campground that are available on a first-come-first-served basis. They can accommodate tents, RVs and trailers, but there are no hookups at any of the sites. Group sites range from small to large that are suitable for 10 to 40 people.
Recent campers say: “Such a great campground with amazing views.” “Campsites are close together.”
Moraine Park Campground
1000 Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517
Guanella Pass Campground: Idaho Springs, CO
Located an hour and 15 minutes west of Denver, Guanella Pass is a little campground with only 18 sites. Twelve of these sites are compatible with RVs and the other seven are better for tents. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire grate and tent pad, and restrooms are available throughout the grounds. Guanella Pass sits at an elevation of 10,900 feet in the Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest—awesome for wildlife viewing. If you hike the Silver Dollar Lake Trail above the tree line, you can see panoramic views of the pristine lake. Also worth it: venturing to nearby Georgetown, a historic mining town is just down the road.
Recent campers say: “Well maintained.” “Absolutely amazing campsite. Gorgeous creeks.” “Bathrooms cleaned daily.”
Guanella Pass Campground
Guanella Pass Rd.
Idaho Springs, CO 80452
$31+ per night
Aspenglen Campground: Estes Park, CO
Located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspenglen Campground offers a tall mix of trees that provide plenty of shade for all of your daily activities. Hiking, biking, swimming and fishing are just a few of the many things to do at Aspenglen. This campground has 53 campsites for both tents and small RVs up to 30 feet, but there are no water, electric or sewer hookups available. The campground is only open from late May to late September so reserve a spot early!
Recent campers say: “The most beautiful campsite I’ve ever stayed at.” “Small enough that it never feels too busy.”
Aspenglen Campground
1000 Highway 36
Estes Park, CO 80517
$35+ per night
Denver East KOA: Strasburg, CO
Whether you want to stay in a cabin, RV, trailer or tent, Denver East KOA can accommodate every camper’s style. It’s “big rig–friendly” sites have pull-throughs and back-ins up to 73 feet and offer 30- and 50-amp full hookups. Among the many campground amenities including a playground for the kids, a hot tub, clean restrooms and hot showers, Denver East KOA even has an RV wash (like a car wash but for your RV).
Recent campers say: “Would absolutely stay again.” “Great campground with many different ways to stay.” “Close to highway, can be noisy”
Denver East LOA
1312 Monroe Street
Strasburg, CO 80136
Prices vary
Carter Lake Campground: Loveland, CO
Carter Lake is an extremely popular park for many travelers and long-term residents. It’s right on the edge of the Columbia River with excellent views of the water. All of the sites are paved and have a 20-amp, 30-amp or 50-amp full hookup option. This park is in close proximity to downtown Portland and within walking distance to lots of dining and shopping. Columbia Edgewater Golf Course is also just down the road. This park offers free WiFi, a place to do laundry and an area for your pets to run without a leash. Reservations are required so be sure to call ahead.
Recent campers say: “Southside Campground is the busiest.” “We love coming here!” “Water is turned off in the off season.”
Carter Lake Campground
1800 South Country Rd. 31
Loveland, CO 80537
For reservations, please visit the website
Bellaire Lake Campground: Red Feather Lakes, CO
Bellaire Lake Campground is part of the Red Feather Lakes area that offers an outdoor playground for everyone all year long. There you’ll find several beautiful lakes, rolling hills, unique rock formations and pine forests. Canoeing, fishing, hiking and horseback riding are just a few popular pastimes to keep the whole family busy. Bellaire Lake Campground has single, double and triple family sites with electrical hookups and five sites designated for tent-only camping. If you want to venture offsite, Red Feather Lakes Village is just down the road and offers multiple dining and shopping options, as well as a library, post office and golf course.
Recent campers say: “Great campground and the lake is a gem.” “[Sites] are well spaced out.” “Awesome camp hosts.”
Bellaire Lake Campground
4545 Manhattan Road
$43+ per night
SOUTH CENTRAL
Painted Rocks Campground: Woodland Park, CO
This rustic campground is named after the nearby sandstone outcroppings covered in streaks of color that resemble those of an artist’s paintbrush. Painted Rocks Campground is situated on the edge of a grassy meadow, not too far from Manitou Lake. If you like bird watching, this is the campground for you as the area is rife with waterfowl and songbirds. There are also a couple of ATV trails for off-road enthusiasts. Painted Rocks offers single-family tent and RV sites that come equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Vault toilets and drinking water are accessible from the campsites.
Recent campers say: “Great campgrounds, with some cool rock features.” “Most likely the best campground I’ve been to.” “Great for kids and pets.”
Painted Rocks Campground
CO Highway 67
Woodland Park, CO 80903
$33+ per night
Buffalo Creek Campground: Bailey, CO
An hour’s drive southwest of Denver, the spectacular views along the way will get you even more excited for your outdoor getaway. Buffalo Creek Campground has 37 single sites, some for RVs and others for tents only. Toilets and drinking water are accessible but no hookups are available. This campground is home to over 40 miles of scenic trails for hikers, cyclists and horseback riders. Buffalo Creek is also a popular fishing spot for brook trout. This is a wonderful campground for individuals or families to escape and enjoy the great outdoors.
Recent campers say: “Great little campground… busy on the weekends.” “A very nice place to camp with many trails.”
Buffalo Creek Campground
28718 Redskin Creek Rd
Bailey, CO 80421
$31+ per night
Parry Peak Campground: Leadville, CO
Some of the best creek-side camping near Denver. Parry Peak has many shaded sites with plenty of privacy that are available on a first-come-first-served basis. The sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 32 feet but there are no hookups. Recreational activities in Parry Peak include boating, swimming and fishing on the large Twin Lakes, as well as hiking on the Colorado trail that extends all the way from Denver to Durango—500 miles! If you want to see some breathtaking panoramic views, climb up to nearby Mount Elbert’s summit that sits at 14,433 feet.
Recent campers say: “Mostly sites for trailers.” “Super clean vault bathrooms.”
Parry Peak Campground
State Route 82
Leadville, CO 81251
Cheyenne Mountain State Park: Colorado Springs, CO
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is an hour and a half from Denver and a great place to connect with the outdoors. The park is located on 2,700 acres of prairie to peak ecosystems. The campground has 51 full-service RV hookup sites and 10 walk-in tent sites, all with easy access to restrooms, showers and laundry facilities. Group sites are available for campers traveling in large numbers. Cheyenne Mountain State Park also offers an archery range for those that want to practice their aim on regular, field and 3D targets.
Recent campers say: “Surrounded by trees.” “Nice large sites with concrete pads.” “Very clean and comfortable/”
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
410 JL Ranch Heights
Colorado Springs, CO 80926
For reservations, please visit the website
Sand Gulch Campground: Cañon City, CO
Ten miles north of Cañon City, Colorado, Sand Gulch Campground lies on well-known Shelf Road. Known particularly for its outstanding collection of rock climbing cliffs, Sand Gulch draws rock climbers for the many routes that vary in difficulty. There are plenty of hiking trails, too, for those who prefer to stay on the ground. Sand Gulch Campground has 16 individual sites and one group site that accommodate mostly tents. Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table, and restrooms aren’t too far away. Sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis, so be sure to get there early.
Recent campers say: “Each site had a tent pad.” “Nice views with some trails to hike.” “Sites are spaced out.”
Sand Gulch Campground
Cañon City, CO 81212
Mueller State Park: Divide, CO
Mueller State Park is two hours from Denver and full of abundant wildlife. It’s home to black bears, elk, hawks, mule dee and many other bird and small mammal species. Campers can enjoy year-round recreational activities including hiking, fishing and horseback riding, and sledding and cross-country skiing in the winter. Not only does Mueller State Park offer sites for tents and RVs, but it also has yurts and cabins available for rent. If you want to try something a little different, this park has five different geocaches located throughout.
Recent campers say: “A lot of great hiking trails.” “Campsites are clean and well maintained.” “Totally empty on weekdays.”
Mueller State Park
21045 Highway 67 South
Divide, CO 80814
For reservations, please visit the website
NORTHWEST
Green Ridge Campground: Granby, CO
Green Ridge campground is nestled between the Colorado River and Shadow Mountain Reservoir, making it an excellent spot for fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking and canoeing. Many visitors enjoy whitewater rafting as well. Green Ridge campground has 73 sites for tents and RVs with flush toilets close by. Pack lots of sunscreen and prepare for plenty of sun—due to pine beetles that eat at the trees, this campground doesn’t provide much shade.
Recent campers say: “The table and the bear box were in good condition.” “Dry camping with small sites.” “Peaceful, quiet.”
Green Ridge Campground
County Rd 66
Granby, CO 80446
$33+ per night
Sunset Point Campground: Granby, CO
On the shores of Lake Granby, this campground is a great vacation spot within two hours of Denver. There are 25 non-electric sites that accommodate tents, trailers and RVs, all with plenty of shade to stay out of the hot sun. Each site comes with a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. Lake Granby offers various water activities including boating, swimming, fishing and canoeing. The lakefront sites give panoramic views of nearby Table Mountain. Other sites overlook a large meadow with other towering meadows in the distance.
Recent campers say: “Large cleared spaces for tents and parking.” “Beautiful campground.” “Site manager is the best.”
Sunset Point Campground
Granby, CO 80446
Cow Creek Campground: Heeney, CO
In White River National Forest, Cow Creek Campground sits on the northeast shore of the Green Mountain Reservoir. Because of its vast landscape of rivers, mountains, trails and forest roads, this is area is one of the top recreation forests in the nation. Boating, fishing, canoeing, water skiing, windsurfing and off-roading are just a few of the many possible outdoor activities. Cow Creek has 44 sites that are suitable for tents, trailers and RVs to fit everyone’s camping style. Be on the lookout for wildlife, too—bighorn sheep and elk often stroll through the Green Mountain area.
Recent campers say: “Best campground I’ve stayed at in recent memory.” “Lots of activities.” “Limited shade.”
Cow Creek Campground
Highway 9 North
Heeney, CO 80498
$28+ per night
Stillwater Campground: Granby, CO
This is a great spot for anglers. Situated on Lake Granby just two hours from Denver, Stillwater Campground has a boat ramp and dock offering the chance at catching some of the many kokanee salmon and brown, rainbow, mackinaw and cutthroat trout. If you aren’t into fishing, boating, sailing, swimming, hiking and horseback riding are other popular activities on the grounds. Stillwater Campground offers 129 sites, 21 with electric hookups, for both tents and RVs. Flush toilets and hot showers are also on premises.
Recent campers say: “Easy to find campsites.” “Camp is clean and well maintained.” “Some bathrooms are closed.”
Stillwater Campground
8590 US Highway 34
Granby, CO 80446
$36+ per night
Lowry Campground: Dillon, CO
Lowry Campground is located between Summit Cove and Breckenridge, Colorado in the White River National Forest. As it’s nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the spectacular 360-degree views are endless. The nearby Dillon Reservoir offers 27 miles of shoreline for fishing, boating, sailing and swimming. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails for those who want to stay out of the water. Lowry Campground has 28 sites that work for tents, trailers and RVs, but there are only a few electrical hookups. Drinking water is not available on site, so make sure to bring some with you.
Recent campers say: “Great tent sites if you don’t mind RV neighbors.” Small campsites.” “This campground is great.”
Lowry Campground
Dillon, CO 80435
Bill Moore Lake/Empire Loop: Empire, CO
Just 45 miles from Denver, Bill Moore Lake is a serene spot. You can access the lake by the Empire Loop, a lightly used trail with excellent views. This area offers a network of roads and trails for off-road vehicles but they are very rocky and steep, so make sure you know what you’re doing—the ATV roads are considered “very difficult.” For those who want to be a little less extreme, there are excellent hiking and biking trails, too. Undeveloped camping areas are dispersed throughout the Loop for both tents and RVs. These are very primitive sites, so make sure you bring water and other essentials with you.
Recent campers say: “Great trails.” “Some fun challenging parts [of the trails].” “View is fantastic.”
Bill Moore Lake/Empire Loop
Forest Rd 171.2
Empire, CO 80438
Read more about Denver:
- Best Hikes Near Denver
Maps would be great. Where are all of these campgrounds?