89% (72 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next San Isabel adventure.
Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near San Isabel National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Book externally
Public campgrounds in the parkBook externally
Book externally
Stay at a public campground in San Isabel National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds near San Isabel National Forest
100%
(125)
Frenchman's Creek Ranch
4 sites · Lodging, RVs100 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$55
/ night
97%
(667)
High Peaks Campground
22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world!
This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide.
Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!!
Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years.
In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing!
My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all!
You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away.
Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message.
Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes.
We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$38
/ night
Booked 7 times
Twin Lakes Heaven
4 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Twin Lakes, CO
Perched up high, looking over the lakes and mountains. Right at the doorstep to adventure. 40 minutes to Aspen over independence pass in the summer. Colorado trail hiking. Bag a 14er; Mt Elbert is the biggest, and the trailhead is nearby. Go swim, paddle, fish the lake. Close to Leadville and Buena Vista, for off roading, hunting, fly fishing etc. This spot is easy access, but has views in all directions. Currently building a house, but lots of great spots to spend the night.
Pets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
95%
(44)
Twin Bridges Campground
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Coaldale, CO
Camp alongside the Arkansas River (considered Gold Medal for the quality of trout per acre) with white water rafting May-Labor Day. We accommodate tents, vans, or RV's or we can provide an RV or tent. Restrooms and showers are easily accessible. We also have camping by the pond with easy access to the river.
We offer bank fishing, fly fishing lessons, and guided fishing on the property or will arrange guided tours for fishing the Arkansas River, white water rafting, horseback riding, or having a zipline adventure. When fishing from the bank, no lures or or treble hooks and catch and release only. Pictures welcome!
There are several Colorado mountains (fourteeners) to hike/climb in the vicinity. We have 4 acres on the waters of the Arkansas River. Our pond will be accessible next year. We will create the adventure you deserve - from guided fishing, fly fishing lessons, (children and adults) or fishing from the bank. Zipline, jeep, and horseback tours are not far from the campground. We can recommend several white water rafting companies based on your specific needs.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
97%
(31)
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$50
/ night
100%
(161)
Camp Penguin at WPR
5 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Cañon City, CO
Learn more about this land:
Note: NO FIREWORKS or GUNS are allowed to be used on the property.
#WanderingPenguinRanch #CampPenguin #LifeOnTheMountain #2024
Don't forget we're at over 9,000 feet elevation and temperatures and weather conditions can vary greatly. Be prepared for all seasons!!!
Camp fire usage depends on current weather conditions at the time of visits in addition to any state/county restrictions that may be in place (host approval required)!!! IF there are no restrictions and fires are allowed, we have firewood bundles and/or starter packs for purchase at $10/bundle/pack. We also have two propane fire pits available for rent (see "extras"), or you are welcome to bring your own. If you have purchased wood and there are restrictions/bans, we will gladly apply your wood purchase the rental of a propane pit. Propane fire pit usage may also be restricted by current conditions or state/county restrictions!
We got a few more chickens last Fall and all seem to be doing great. We are hoping they will start laying sometime in March. They should lay several dozen eggs a week. Fresh eggs are available for purchase (when the girls are cooperating) by the dozen, or half dozen (see "extras"). You and/or your children are welcome to accompany us to gather the eggs in the evening, or we can just have them bundled and ready for you when you arrive.
*UPON ARRIVAL at the property, please WAIT INSIDE our main gate (unless otherwise directed via prior communication with host). The host(s) will meet you there shortly after passing through the gate and direct you to your site.
-----------------------
Camp Penguin at Wandering Penguin Ranch (facebook.com/CampPenguin) in southern Colorado is about a 3 hour drive from the Denver metro area, 90 minutes west from Colorado Springs and just under an hour north west from Canon City. We provide a variety of site options to choose from including tent sites, car/van/truck sites, and rustic trailer site options - all with NO amenities (NO electric/septic/water, etc). Additional vehicle parking on the property can be accommodated for groups with more than one vehicle. Please provide type of camper/tent and number of vehicles at booking so hosts can help direct you to the best site option available.
Upon arrival campers will be greeted by Hosts and together can choose the site that works best for them from the currently available sites. Several sites are available next to our quaint little pond, or on the ridge overlooking the pond. Campers can also choose to camp in one of the nearby aspen groves, or even in the towering pines on the upper side of the property (the pine sites require HIKING to access). Each site provides its own unique beauty, mostly with an amazing view of the west side of Pikes Peak in the distance.
Guests can relax around our small pond or roam freely around our 35-acre property. There is both hiking and fishing at Badger Creek only a short drive away. Waugh Mountain State Trust Land is another hiking option and is also just a short drive up the road (*NOTE: the State of Colorado now requires a valid hunting/fishing license to access state trust lands)! Additionally, we are about 45-90 minutes away from a variety of alternative adventures! Some of these include Salida, Cripple Creek, Eleven Mile Reservoir, Paradise Cove Swimming Hole, Florissant Fossil Beds, Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Manitou Incline, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, Cave of the Winds, Seven Falls, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience, several rafting/zipline and Jeep tour companies, Westcliffe, Bishop Castle and Canon City including Skyline Drive, Tunnel Drive, Royal Gorge Train, Museum of Colorado Prisons and The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. Any of these can be done as a day trip or visited while on your way here, or home. (*NOTE: some of these attractions are free, some require a fee and some are seasonal. To avoid disappointment, PLEASE do your own research prior to arrival)!
Guests need to be self-sustaining to camp here as there are no facilities nearby (gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, etc.)! But, if you are looking for a peaceful, quiet getaway to commune with nature, a chance to see wildlife and simply relax.... We're your place - book your visit now!!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$34
/ night
Booked 6 times
Cutty's Hayden Creek Resort
133 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$39
/ night
100%
(29)
Camp Lake View
1 site · RV, Tent38 acres · Guffey, CO
Learn more about this land:This camp site is directly across the road from Eleven Mile Reservoir. With this site being around 3000 feet from the reservoir you will be able to enjoy all the amazing views and amenities the reservoir has to offer without the crowded camp grounds. You will need a park pass to access the reservoir but not to camp on the land. A 1/4 mile down the road is access to nation forest for going off road or get a parks pass and fish at one of the many amazing fisheries in the area like Eleven mile, Spinney and Eleven mile canyon. The south shore boat ramp is less than 4 miles away. This area does get windy so be careful setting up awnings and pop up tents or anything the wind likes to blow away. The site has a slight pitch but leveling out your camper should be relatively easy. No trees on the land to block your 360 degree mountain views.
Pets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
100%
(2)
Sweetwater River Ranch
66 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$35
/ night
98%
(60)
Riverfront Mountain Ranch
10 sites · Lodging5 acres · Buena Vista, CO
Welcome to our geographic phenomenon! Here at the continental divide; we are lucky to have it all for the Outdoor Enthusiast. Our 5 acre Campground sits right along the Arkansas River. There are (2) 1 Min trails that lead you straight to River Access. Not wanting to get that close? No worries; watch the paddlers and rafters float by all summer long. If the Arkansas River is not enough of a playground for you, you will be happy to know that you have an uninterrupted view of Mount Princeton and the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Peaks. We are also located 1/2 mile from some of the most famous mountain biking trails the USA offers. Mount Princeton Hot Springs are a beautiful 10.5 mile (15 min) drive away.
Our campground offers a dreamy Bathhouse with 5 glamoured showers and 5 bathrooms. We have (14) Yurt glamping sites and (2) Riverfront studio cabins. All sites have electricity (heaters included), parking, fire pits (unless we are facing a fire ban), and picnic table. In addition, we have a large community bonfire location and there is access to outdoor grilling. We are excited to have you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$260
/ night
100%
(3)
K-Bar Ranch/Casitas Amigas
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Guffey, CO
K-Bar Ranch encompasses over 20 acres of beautiful, rolling grassland sprinkled with pine trees and offering breathtaking views in every direction. Just off of CR102, we are conveniently located to the little town of Guffey and are only 3.1 miles from the wildly popular Guffey Gorge. Additionally, Eleven Mile Reservoir, The Royal Gorge, gambling at Cripple Creek, the Colorado Wolf Sanctuary, the Florissant Fossil Beds and many more areas of interest and recreation are within an easy drive.
You can open camp here and be completely off-grid or you can park near our barn and have access to electricity and wifi.
We also offer Glamping Overnights in Gypsy, an adorable tiny camper with a double bed, sofa, 2 burner cooktop and everything you need to have a comfortable stay while still having a camping experience! Glamping stays are still largely off-grid with a "Luggable Loo" and an outdoor Joolca shower (upon request). Our large 5m Bell Tent offers plenty of room whether you just want to stretch out or if you're traveling with family or friends.
If you want to upgrade your experience, we offer Romance Packages with charcuterie boards, a bottle of bubbly, chocolate covered strawberries and can create unforgettable special occasions since we are in the wedding/events industry! Wanting to get engaged? Looking to elope? We can do that! Ask us for details! We will be adding more off-grid accommodations in the future so stay tuned for updates!
We are excited to share our beautiful property with Happy Campers from everywhere!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from
$25
/ night
93%
(21)
Aspenwald
5 sites · RVs, Tents85 acres · Guffey, CO
85 acres of ranch land with mixed Aspen and Pine Forest. Campsites are separated along a small creek. Each campsite has a fire pit and FREE firewood provided. Excellent shade and 8500 feet of elevation to help keep you cool during warm months. Endless miles for gravel biking. Close to Eleven mile, Pike National Forest, Cripple creek, and Florissant Fossil Beds.
Please make sure you note the gate code in the arrival instructions upon booking a campsite. I hope you have a great stay.
Pets
Campfires
from
$30
/ 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!
Top cities near San Isabel National Forest
- San Isabel National Forest
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.