Camping in Florence, CO, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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Colorado
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Florence

95% (2685 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Florence

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Shadow Mountain Lookout

463 campgrounds

Pike National Forest

627 campgrounds

One of the Snowbird campsites, along the Timber Lake trail. It was very well maintained. A bull moose walked through my campsite, twice! This is the closest campground to Timber Lake (1/4 mile up the trail) and is very convenient for a dayhike up Mount Ida.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Red Rocks Amphitheater

500 campgrounds

San Isabel National Forest

678 campgrounds

This was taken (with a 400mm lens) in the parking lot at the store below the campground. The sand dunes sit on the west edge of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and so see some pretty awesome sunsets.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

631 campgrounds

Dog-friendly getaways

98%

(22)

K-Bar Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Guffey, CO

K-Bar Ranch is a small hobby farm situated on 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 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 have Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Mini Donkeys, Chickens and 2 Livestock Guardian Dogs. *Please be aware that the dogs are working dogs and you WILL hear them bark at night as they are doing their job in deterring predators. We are excited to share our beautiful property with Happy Campers from everywhere!

93%

(209)

Monument Creek Glamping

11 sites · Lodging7 acres · Monument, CO

Welcome to Monument Glamping! Nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs, we're thrilled to be your hosts on this enchanting glamping journey. Chris and Wendy your hosts here, and since 2019, we've been sharing our slice of paradise with fellow adventurers like you. We're dedicated to providing a safe and relaxing semi-outdoor experience on our beautiful creekside property. The 2024 season offers your choice of 8 unique units with the option of a renting the main house for large events. Most of our units are perfect for a romantic getaway for two, and we offer a few venues with room for kids, dogs, or some friends. Allow us to introduce you to our offerings: 1. The Classic - A container home that marries modern convenience with natural splendor. 2. Big Red - A cozy tiny home equipped with all the amenities, including a deck overlooking stunning vistas. 3. Sunshine - Discover paradise within a safari tent, featuring a private back room and grill for your indulgence. 4. Stargazer - Immerse yourself in nature's beauty within a safari tent beneath a canopy of pine and scrub oak. 5. The Family Glamper - With queen and bunk beds, a family of 4 fits nicely, and maybe 6 can squeeze in. The creek is a stone's throw away. 6. Braveheart - Find solace beside the creek in a bell tent or yurt, your off-grid hideaway featuring a camp toilet and creekside porch. 7. Beauty - Delight in the tranquility of a bell tent or yurt, your secluded sanctuary with an off-grid camp toilet and creekside porch. 8. Butterfly - Unplug and unwind in a safari tent, complete with off-grid privacy and a grill, a stone's throw away from the flowing creek. NEW for 2024: The house has been remodeled and is available for group outings. The 3/2 home has full kitchen and spacious living area with front and back decks for gatherings. Available for rent only with complimentary rentals of our glamping venues. Perfect for reunions, wedding parties, church or office retreats, and other large-group gatherings. Our standard extras include a second vehicle, extra guests, propane service, early arrival or late check out, and pets. But consider additional enhancements like our Romantic Surprise, Colorado Cookout, Private Hot Tub, and Homemade Wine Tastings. With advance notice, we can have quite the experience set up for you when you and your loved one arrives. Your comfort and privacy are our top priorities. We'll always respect your space, ensuring that your sanctuary remains undisturbed throughout your stay. Drop us a line anytime with your questions or concerns – communication is key, and we're all ears. So, dear Hipcampers, get ready to write your chapter of Monument Glamping's story. Nature's embrace and luxurious comforts await, and we can't wait to be a part of your extraordinary journey.

Sweetwater River Resort

67 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents31 acres · Cotopaxi, CO

Sweetwater River Resort is located right 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. Sweetwater River Resort is the perfect getaway for anglers, hikers, rafters or nature-lovers. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind on our private 1/2 mile stretch of the Arkansas. 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 to old-timey cabins and RV sites. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. Sweetwater 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 Rainbow Trail near Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season as well as a private stretch of blue-ribbon water for trout fishing. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!

Peak Meadow Forest Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Woodland Park, CO

Woodland Park, CO, is a charming mountain town with plenty to offer! Here are some local attractions and events you might enjoy: Attractions: Pikes Peak: Just a short drive away, you can hike, drive, or take the cog railway to the summit for breathtaking views. Garden of the Gods: Located in nearby Colorado Springs, this stunning park features towering red rock formations and great trails. Wilkerson Pass: A scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wolf Sanctuary of the Rockies: A rescue facility for wolves and wolf dogs, where you can learn about these fascinating animals. Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway: A beautiful drive that showcases the region’s mining history and stunning landscapes. Events: Woodland Park Farmer's Market: Typically held weekly in the summer, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music. Music on the Mountain: Summer concerts at various outdoor venues around Woodland Park. Victorian Evening: A festive event held in December with holiday lights, food, and local artisan crafts. Parker's Arts & Crafts Festival: A yearly event showcasing local artisans, crafts, and delicious food. Outdoor Activities: Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails in the area, such as the Rampart Reservoir and Crystal Lake. Fishing: Try your luck at local spots like Eleven Mile Canyon or Spinney Mountain Reservoir.

Yeti Sanctuary

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Florissant, CO

Situated on almost 4.5 acres of partially wooded acres, with a small lake, We have 6 beautiful campsites. Two can be used by an RV, two cabins, and the others for tents. There are great hammocking spots amongst the trees and bolders.. Enjoy the rugged beauty in Florissant, CO, with seasonal Aspen foliage and wildflowers, and a lot of birds, for the avid bird watchers. Florissant Fossil Beds Natl Monument is 7 miles away, with a Night Sky program, at every new moon. Plenty of winter activities … Ice skating on the lake, Snowshoeing and cross country sking in Pike National Forest only 2 miles away. Florissant Mercantile is 5 miles away, for your needed supplies. Come and enjoy the quiet beauty and peaceful atmosphere, of Colorado's beautiful mountains.

12 top campgrounds near Florence

90%

(155)

Sweetwater River Resort

67 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents31 acres · Cotopaxi, CO

Sweetwater River Resort is located right 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. Sweetwater River Resort is the perfect getaway for anglers, hikers, rafters or nature-lovers. You’ll find uncrowded sites to unwind on our private 1/2 mile stretch of the Arkansas. 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 to old-timey cabins and RV sites. For larger groups, we offer a spacious house overlooking the Arkansas River, all just a short distance from the river itself. Sweetwater 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 Rainbow Trail near Westcliffe. It's the perfect base for river rafting trips throughout the season as well as a private stretch of blue-ribbon water for trout fishing. Come stay with us and experience all that Sweetwater River Resort has to offer!

Yeti Sanctuary

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Florissant, CO

Situated on almost 4.5 acres of partially wooded acres, with a small lake, We have 6 beautiful campsites. Two can be used by an RV, two cabins, and the others for tents. There are great hammocking spots amongst the trees and bolders.. Enjoy the rugged beauty in Florissant, CO, with seasonal Aspen foliage and wildflowers, and a lot of birds, for the avid bird watchers. Florissant Fossil Beds Natl Monument is 7 miles away, with a Night Sky program, at every new moon. Plenty of winter activities … Ice skating on the lake, Snowshoeing and cross country sking in Pike National Forest only 2 miles away. Florissant Mercantile is 5 miles away, for your needed supplies. Come and enjoy the quiet beauty and peaceful atmosphere, of Colorado's beautiful mountains.

Peak Meadow Forest Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Woodland Park, CO

Woodland Park, CO, is a charming mountain town with plenty to offer! Here are some local attractions and events you might enjoy: Attractions: Pikes Peak: Just a short drive away, you can hike, drive, or take the cog railway to the summit for breathtaking views. Garden of the Gods: Located in nearby Colorado Springs, this stunning park features towering red rock formations and great trails. Wilkerson Pass: A scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wolf Sanctuary of the Rockies: A rescue facility for wolves and wolf dogs, where you can learn about these fascinating animals. Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway: A beautiful drive that showcases the region’s mining history and stunning landscapes. Events: Woodland Park Farmer's Market: Typically held weekly in the summer, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music. Music on the Mountain: Summer concerts at various outdoor venues around Woodland Park. Victorian Evening: A festive event held in December with holiday lights, food, and local artisan crafts. Parker's Arts & Crafts Festival: A yearly event showcasing local artisans, crafts, and delicious food. Outdoor Activities: Hiking and Biking: There are numerous trails in the area, such as the Rampart Reservoir and Crystal Lake. Fishing: Try your luck at local spots like Eleven Mile Canyon or Spinney Mountain Reservoir.

Monument Creek Glamping

11 sites · Lodging7 acres · Monument, CO

Welcome to Monument Glamping! Nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs, we're thrilled to be your hosts on this enchanting glamping journey. Chris and Wendy your hosts here, and since 2019, we've been sharing our slice of paradise with fellow adventurers like you. We're dedicated to providing a safe and relaxing semi-outdoor experience on our beautiful creekside property. The 2024 season offers your choice of 8 unique units with the option of a renting the main house for large events. Most of our units are perfect for a romantic getaway for two, and we offer a few venues with room for kids, dogs, or some friends. Allow us to introduce you to our offerings: 1. The Classic - A container home that marries modern convenience with natural splendor. 2. Big Red - A cozy tiny home equipped with all the amenities, including a deck overlooking stunning vistas. 3. Sunshine - Discover paradise within a safari tent, featuring a private back room and grill for your indulgence. 4. Stargazer - Immerse yourself in nature's beauty within a safari tent beneath a canopy of pine and scrub oak. 5. The Family Glamper - With queen and bunk beds, a family of 4 fits nicely, and maybe 6 can squeeze in. The creek is a stone's throw away. 6. Braveheart - Find solace beside the creek in a bell tent or yurt, your off-grid hideaway featuring a camp toilet and creekside porch. 7. Beauty - Delight in the tranquility of a bell tent or yurt, your secluded sanctuary with an off-grid camp toilet and creekside porch. 8. Butterfly - Unplug and unwind in a safari tent, complete with off-grid privacy and a grill, a stone's throw away from the flowing creek. NEW for 2024: The house has been remodeled and is available for group outings. The 3/2 home has full kitchen and spacious living area with front and back decks for gatherings. Available for rent only with complimentary rentals of our glamping venues. Perfect for reunions, wedding parties, church or office retreats, and other large-group gatherings. Our standard extras include a second vehicle, extra guests, propane service, early arrival or late check out, and pets. But consider additional enhancements like our Romantic Surprise, Colorado Cookout, Private Hot Tub, and Homemade Wine Tastings. With advance notice, we can have quite the experience set up for you when you and your loved one arrives. Your comfort and privacy are our top priorities. We'll always respect your space, ensuring that your sanctuary remains undisturbed throughout your stay. Drop us a line anytime with your questions or concerns – communication is key, and we're all ears. So, dear Hipcampers, get ready to write your chapter of Monument Glamping's story. Nature's embrace and luxurious comforts await, and we can't wait to be a part of your extraordinary journey.

K-Bar Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Guffey, CO

K-Bar Ranch is a small hobby farm situated on 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 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 have Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Mini Donkeys, Chickens and 2 Livestock Guardian Dogs. *Please be aware that the dogs are working dogs and you WILL hear them bark at night as they are doing their job in deterring predators. We are excited to share our beautiful property with Happy Campers from everywhere!

Booked 1 time

Four Seasons RV Park

51 sites · RVs10 acres · Salida, CO

We are excited to be your beautiful basecamp for countless outdoor activities or a peaceful pad to simply unwind and relax next to our rambling river. Four Seasons is located just a mile outside the vibrant Mountain Town of Salida, and inside the historic Area of Cleora. The settlement started as a stagecoach stop on the Barlow Sanderson Stagecoach line. Explore natural landmarks, hiking trails and a range of activities for the whole family.

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!

94%

(170)

Hummingbird Ranch

12 sites · RVs, Tents360 acres · Rye, CO

Learn more about this land: Hummingbird Ranch is a gorgeous sprawling ranch in Colorado's Spanish Peaks Country with panoramic views of the Wet Mountains and across the plains to the Spanish Peaks. Location is only 12 easy driving minutes from I25. Come experience the dark Colorado skies and quiet secluded campsites with scenery all around...

M Lazy C Ranch

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Lake George, CO

Step into the boots of a cowboy and ride into the old west, the way it used to be! Ride off into the old west at our world-famous historic guest ranch on one of our horses or bring your own. Here, we do things the cowboy way…the way it used to be! With views of magnificent Pike’s Peak and surrounded by over 350,000 acres of Pike National Forest, soak in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains while you relax in your cabin or RV site. We offer a taste of the real old west at our famous homestead guest ranch. Listen to the sounds of the wind through the Ponderosa Pines and Aspens as they whisper stories of the ranch’s 115-year history. Started as a homestead back in 1906, M Lazy Ranch is now a thriving guest ranch and cowboy playground. M Lazy C Ranch is the ideal location for a family trip, time with friends, romantic horse rides and more. Our original turn of the century Cabins dating back to that time period, have been lovingly restored. Not your typical dude ranch. We are flexible and offer a multitude of options to choose from. We also offer RV sites, Equestrian RV Sites, an Arena, Cabins, Weddings, Hunting, Fishing, Events, and more! Surrounded by 350,000 acres of Pike National Forest on three sides provides our guests with unlimited riding potential and amazing views. Bring your horses or join one of our wranglers on a ride on our property for a perfect relaxing gateway the whole family can enjoy. Sit on the porch of your very own piece of heaven, relax, put your feet up, and stay awhile.

97%

(18)

Camper/RV/Tent

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Colorado Springs, CO

We are campers ourselves so, we get it! If you're someone who loves camping and glamping and need a place, we are here for you! Park your camper or pitch a tent and come stay with us. We are on the property ourselves. We are right off a main road with easy access to town, yet you will feel you are in the woods surrounded by nature. We don't have hookups but we do have a water pump and a basic electrical outlet if you need. There's a large firepit that you're welcome to use if there isn't a fire ban in place. The property is fenced and the spot(s) are level. If you need a bit more privacy or a place for additional guests, we have a small cabin that is also for rent on the property! There's a herd of deer that frequent the property as well so, you just might get lucky to enjoy them too!

100%

(120)

Mountain Bird Alpine Desert

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO

Our land is out away from all the noise and lights. You can see the milky way and the stars at night are amazing. then to have the view of the Sangre de Christo mountain range is amazing to enjoy. The surrounding valley has lots to offer from the quant little towns and coffee shops to the home style meals at the restaurants. and all the hot springs are amazing. Your site is overlooking the Sangre de Christo mountain range. The land is Alpine desert with sagebrush and ground cactus and incredible star gazing. There are 2 great hiking trails within a couple miles. There are 3 hot springs within 30 minutes. The Great sand dunes national park is within 1hr. The San Luis valley offers, hiking, mountain biking, ATV trail, Horse back riding, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, rafting, refuges for wildlife watching. New for 2024, The flushable toilet and shower are now operational. The shower house is located in the center of the loop with sites 1,2,3 on the south side of the building. It has an on demand water heater, there is also a a flushable toilet located in the same space. An important note about the toilet, Do Not flush anything other than toilet paper please. DO NOT flush feminine hygiene products, napkins or hand wipes or anything other than toilet paper. These type of things plug and burn up the pump while pumping out the tank. This will cause the toilet to be unusable. ATTENTION: THE SHOWER HOUSE AND TOILET WILL BE SHUTTING DOWN AND GETTING WINTERIZED OCTOBER 1ST UNTIL MAY 1ST. No fireworks are permitted at any time.

98%

(24)

Pikes Peak RAD Hostel Van Camping

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Colorado Springs, CO

Welcome to RAD Hostel, where your van or small RV (up to 23' in length) finds a cozy, convenient home away from home! Our unique parking space offers the perfect blend of comfort and community, making it the ideal spot for your next adventure. Bathroom Access: Enjoy a room with a bathroom featuring a tub/shower and free clean soft towels. Full Access to Hostel Amenities: Take advantage of our well-equipped community kitchen to whip up your favorite meals. Need to catch up on work or just want to relax? Our 24-hour lounge with TV and streaming services and 24-hour workspace have you covered. Outdoor Spaces: Unwind in our inviting patios and back yard. Lounge in a hammock, enjoy outdoor games, or simply soak in the fresh air. Onsite Activities: Engage with fellow travelers through our diverse range of onsite activities. Bonfire with free s'mores, Karaoke, Movie nights, Volleyball, Cornhole, Foosball, Slacklines, Hula hoops, free bikes Tours: Daily hikes and other excursions to local attractions and events (additional fees apply). Hikes to Manitou Springs incline, Garden of the Gods, Paint Mines, Sand Dunes, Pulpit Rock, Drum Circle, Concerts, and Brewery Crawls and others. Convenience: RAD hostel is located right at the heart of everything you would want to do in Colorado Springs. Perfectly situtated 10 minutes from Garden of the Gods, 30 minutes from The Incline, less than 10 minutes from Pulpit Rock. You can visit the best hikes and sites of Colorado Springs with RAD hostel as your base camp! RAD Hostel is more than just a place to park and sleep- it's a vibrant community where travelers come together. Meet new friends, share stories, and create memories. Our central location makes it easy to explore the local area, with restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and attractions just a short distance away. Book your spot at RAD Hostel today and experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

89%

(72)

San Isabel National Forest

Smeltertown, Colorado

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Salida, Colorado

63%

(8)

Lake Pueblo State Park

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Rock Creek Park, Colorado

88%

(8)

Eleven Mile State Park

Florissant, Colorado

84%

(25)

Rio Grande National Forest

Alpine, Colorado

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Florence guide

Overview

Set alongside the Arkansas River in the high desert of southern Colorado, Florence is a small town with a ton of outdoor activities nearby. There’s a kayak whitewater park right in town, fantastic mountain biking nearby in Canon City, and excellent rafting through Royal Gorge. Florence also marks the beginning of the Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway, a travel route that connects many of Colorado’s most famous Gold Rush communities. Campers will find plenty of options, including several RV parks close to town and lakeside sites at Lake Pueblo State Park.

Where to go

Pueblo

Located 45 minutes east of Florence, the city of Pueblo is a culturally diverse city with a vibrant downtown riverwalk. Pueblo offers miles of hiking and biking trails including over fourteen miles of paved trails right alongside the Arkansas River. The nearby Lake Pueblo State Park has several year-round campgrounds as well as boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals.

Royal Gorge

Only 10 minutes from Florence, Royal Gorge is a massive 10-mile long 1,200 foot deep canyon of the Arkansas River and one of Colorado’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s a bit of a tourist trap but it’s still an amazing sight to see. There’s plenty of family-friendly activities here such as gold panning, ziplining, and via ferrata climbing and visitors can walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in the U.S.

Cripple Creek

This once bustling gold rush town has maintained much of its old western character. Cripple Creek’s downtown is lined with casinos, saloons, and shops, and several gold mining tours are offered at area mines. Cripple Creek is located a little over an hour north of Florence via the Goldbelt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway, an unpaved backcountry route through some of the country’s greatest old gold rush camps. Campers will find gorgeous forested spots in Mueller State Park, thirty minutes north of Cripple Creek.

When to go

Kayaking and whitewater rafting is best on the Arkansas River from April through August. High water is the most exciting time on the river and that’s usually between late May and late June. The best time to hike, bike, and camp in Florence is from March through October. In comparison to Colorado’s high country, Florence experiences a bit more mild winter and many area campgrounds including those at Lake Pueblo State Park remain open year-round.

Know before you go

Florence is a pretty small town so services are few and far between. Find grocery stores, gear shops, and department stores in Cañon City, 10 miles away.
Camping at Lake Pueblo State Park is very popular in summer. Reservations are available online and over the phone up to six months in advance.
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at outfitters in Canon City, Pueblo, and at Lake Pueblo State Park.