Shop and play outdoors in this mountain town of parks, open spaces, and trails.
Between Denver and Colorado Springs, Castle Rock is a popular destination for both shoppers and outdoor lovers. Named for a large, castle-shaped outcropping perched above the historic downtown, the town might be known for its outlet shops and golf courses, but Castle Rock also has an array of of parks, open spaces, and hiking and mountain biking trails within town limits, plus easy access to Castlewood Canyon State Park. Outside of town, you can find plenty of camping options in Pike National Forest.
Denver Region
Located just 30 miles north, Denver offers urban and outdoor adventures. Several RV parks can be found near the city outskirts. Cherry Creek State Park, Chatfield State Park, and Bear Creek Lake Park just outside Denver all offer a lake and developed campgrounds. To the north of the city, Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers campgrounds, cabins, and yurts, while St. Vrain State Park offers great fishing and camping near several ponds.
Colorado Springs Area
Head south for Colorado’s second biggest city, with plenty of amenities, RV parks, and easy access to the outdoors. Hike, bike, or drive to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of the most visited mountains in the region. Explore the towering red sandstone formations of Garden of the Gods. Soak up and drink the mineral waters of Manitou Springs or head to the “City Above the Clouds” of Woodland Springs. Play and camp with your tent or RV at nearby Mueller State Park or stay at a private campground or RV park.
Forests and Mountains
Just west of Castle Rock, Pike National Forest offers a vast wilderness for outdoor recreation and camping. The Lost Creek Wilderness is a hidden gem for hikers, climbers, and anglers. Further north, the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests offer more than a million acres to explore and numerous camping options. Hop on the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway to enjoy vast vistas and camp in the Indian Peaks wilderness along the way.
Visit between May and September to go hiking, biking, climbing, and camping. Some higher elevation campgrounds in national forests are only open seasonally over the summer. The popular Castle Rock WineFest is held in July while the Colorado Artfest is held in September. Expect peak fall colors around late September and early October. The annual lighting of a star above Castle Rock takes place in November.