Camping near San Isabel National Forest

89% (72 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next San Isabel National Forest adventure.

Walk along the footsteps of giants in this natural Rocky Mountain playground.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near San Isabel National Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in San Isabel National Forest

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(2)

La Vista Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

A waterfall, just a little bit up the road from Angel of Shavano Campground!

100%

(3)

Angel of Shavano Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$18

/ night

Blue Lake Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$17

/ night

Father Dyer Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Lakeview Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

May Queen Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

(3)

Molly Brown Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Printer Boy Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(2)

Silver Dollar Campground

39 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

The view from a campsite just up the road closer to the Elbert TH.

100%

(1)

White Star Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(3)

Chalk Lake Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

94%

(8)

Collegiate Peaks Campground

56 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(4)

O'Haver Lake Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(2)

Alvarado Campground

50 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

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(2)

St Charles Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(3)

Belle of Colorado Campground

In San Isabel National Forest

Emerald Lake, just near the campground. Great place to catch trout and enjoy a breathtaking view!

67%

(3)

Elbert Creek Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Halfmoon East Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Halfmoon West Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Parry Peak Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$19

/ night

Tabor Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Twin Peaks Campground

36 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Bootleg Campground

In San Isabel National Forest

Coaldale Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Cottonwood Lake Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$20

/ night

Iron City Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

North Fork Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Bear Lake Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$17

/ night

Lake Creek Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Oak Creek Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(3)

Ophir Creek Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$17

/ night

Bassam Guard Station

1 site In San Isabel National Forest

Mingus Ranch Campground

1 site In San Isabel National Forest

Ponderosa Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(1)

Cordova Pass Picnic Area and Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Southside Campground

8 sites In San Isabel National Forest

Matchless Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

from

$20

/ night

Hayden Creek Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Mount Princeton Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(2)

Baby Doe Campground

48 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Angel of Shavano Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In San Isabel National Forest

Cascade Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

Monarch Park Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(1)

Davenport Campground

12 sites In San Isabel National Forest

100%

(2)

Purgatoire Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In San Isabel National Forest

67%

(3)

Lake Isabel Cabin

1 site In San Isabel National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near San Isabel National Forest

94%

(61)

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.

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!

94%

(26)

Meadow Hot Springs Glamping Cabin

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Alma, CO

The Zella Hut is a cabin built in the late 1800's. It was redone in the 70's and recently updated with mid century modern interiors. Now it serves as a backcountry hut in the winter and glamping cabin in the summer. During the winter it can be accessed by skinning, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. During the summer it can be accessed by car. Its a small cabin, but it can sleep 4 in comfort. No Rv campers, van and sprinter rvs ok.

93%

(14)

Camp Knock Out: Has ELECTRIC

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Como, CO

Views, Views and more Views! Electric Hookup! Welcome to your private getaway nestled on a picturesque 5-acre mountain property, just 65 miles southwest of Denver. Located off the scenic 285 freeway, this hidden gem is conveniently situated 20 minutes beyond Bailey and 20 minutes before reaching Fairplay. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking mountain and meadow views that surround this tranquil haven Come and experience these outstanding Mountain Views with a nice mix of evergreen trees and Aspens as well. Although steep, (14 degree grade in spots) the driveway allows for large trucks and travel trailers. It’s all setup for you to show up with your camping rig, plug in and have the comforts of home! Although secluded, the vibrant town of Fairplay is only a scenic 30-minute drive away. Indulge in the convenience of a nearby grocery store, discount stores, restaurants, banking services, charming shops, and even a fascinating museum. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the wonders of nature and create lasting memories. Book your stay at this enchanting mountain retreat today!

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!

98%

(63)

Sawatch Base Camp

2 sites · Lodging10 acres · Leadville, CO

Completely surrounded by National Forest in the heart of the Rockies at 10,600 feet in elevation, Sawatch Base Camp is one of a kind property at the site of an old turquoise mine with accessible yet private backcountry lodging. Located 6 miles northwest of Leadville, Colorado and 1 mile north of Turquoise Lake, Sawatch Base Camp is perched on a hill overlooking the Arkansas Headwaters, Leadville and the Mosquito Range including 14er Mt. Sherman. This prime location gives quick access to all the best outdoor recreation of the High Rockies, while also being removed enough to provide solitude and quality time with friends and family. In summer and fall (May through November), the property has vehicle access by Forest Service Road 103- known by many other names depending on mapping service including County Road 9A, Turquoise Chief Rd, and St. Kevin Rd. This segment of road is part of the famous Leadville 100 MTB race, lying at roughly Mile 8/Mile 95. In winter months (December through April), the camp is accessible by snowmobile, ski or snowshoe on groomed multi-use winter trails open to the public. The trek in is approximately 4.4 miles from the Leadville Junction Parking Lot, with an elevation gain of roughly 800 feet. The terrain around the yurt provides backcountry skiing through trees with occasional glades. Our backcountry lodging is designed to have minimal impact on the landscape, intentionally rustic while also providing amenities like a wood stove, solar lighting, plush beds and a roomy indoor space to gather. Firewood and propane for the camp stove are provided. The restroom is an outhouse a few yards from the yurt stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Sawatch Base Camp operates under Lake County CUPs 21-10 and 23-33.

Mountain Views In Howard

1 site · RV1 acre · Howard, CO

This property is nestled in the serene town of Howard, Colorado, surrounded by the breathtaking Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with stunning views of Hunts Peak to the west. Plus, the beautiful Arkansas River is less than a mile from your camping spot, perfect for outdoor lovers. You’ll have access to clean water and electricity, but don’t forget to bring your own tent or RV. You can park two large RVs on the property, along with some cars. Enjoy hiking, biking, or running on dirt roads with amazing views. It’s only 20 minutes to downtown Salida, and there’s tons of public hiking within a ten-minute drive. There are two RV sites with water and 120 volts service, and a local dump station in Poncha Springs. You’re going to love this peaceful spot!

97%

(735)

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!

82%

(11)

High Mountain Lodging and Camping

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Hartsel, CO

We offer an off-grid tent and RV campground and Tiny house. We are Cannabis friendly. We also have high-speed Starlink Internet included with the pricing! Rustic Tiny Cabin- Everything you need in a 8x16 rustic tiny cabin including water, outlets, heat, fridge, shower, shampoo, conditioner, and utensils. 1 bed that could potentially fit two people like a small couple or a kid and parent. It also has a propane fireplace out front and outdoor seating for the amazing stars out here. please note we must turn the power and internet off at 9:30 pm - 7 am

95%

(69)

Twin Bridges Campground

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Coaldale, CO

Overnight, Seasonal, and Extended Stay Camping, we are open year-round. We have 30/50amp sites (shade and partial shade) around our lake, 20 amp in the "upper campground," and dry camping (full facilities) along the Arkansas River (Gold Medal fishing) with access for all campers for fishing and floating. Many of our sites are great for star-gazing, watching meteors, looking for fireflies, and seeing the birds zip on by. We are conveniently located on Hwy 50, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and have all sorts of rental options for your outdoor adventure needs. Whether you want to pitch a tent, try out the glamping experience, enjoy the convenience of an RV, or rent one of our fully equipped RVs, we have the perfect spot for you. We have four entrances marked by sail flags into the campground, two by the lake, one near the bathhouse, and one by the post office (on our property). The map of the Arkansas River has our campground listed! Adventure awaits with home to the highest mountain peaks in Colorado and the river and 102 miles of Trout Gold Medal Water. There is access to white water rafting, guided fishing, and fishing lessons. There are at least 5 hot springs within 60 miles of Twin Bridges Campground. Salida is considered the white-water rafting capitol of the US by some and has a whitewater park and surfing wave. Salida area is also home to a ton of hiking (14'ers anyone?) and mountain biking trails. The Royal Gorge is a quick 30 minute drive with restaurants and other fun near Canon City. The Sand Dunes are 90 minutes and Monarch Ski Area is 45, we have some of the best bird watching! Warbling Vireo, Western Wood-peewee, Cassin's Kingbird to name a few.

Booked 2 times

Arrowhead Point Camping Resort

96 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents23 acres · Buena Vista, CO

Come join our family at friendly Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins. You’ll feel right at home in our welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re playing a round of horseshoes, joining in on a volleyball game, surfing the web on our free WIFI network, or stopping in for an espresso drink at our Espresso Bar, you’ll be glad you chose to stay with us. Located on the beautiful Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway in Buena Vista Colorado, Arrowhead Point is the Home of The Original 1800’s Pony Express and Stage Coach Stop. The 23-acre property still contains the bunkhouse, stable, and tack room from the 1800s when it was one of the 165-way stations on the Pony Express route. Come see! We’re committed to making your stay with us an enjoyable and memorable experience. Come see why so many of our customers come back to visit year after year! We know that your vacation time is valuable to you. Our job is to make sure that every guest enjoys every day with us here at Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins. You’ll love our welcoming and helpful environment, and will quickly see that we offer Buena Vista Colorado camping at its finest. At Arrowhead Point Campground & Cabins, we’re proud of our beautiful facilities. You’ll find everything clean and well-maintained to ensure your stay with us will be a comfortable one. Our convenient location gives you easy access to a host of local attractions. Arrowhead Point Campground is a great place to call “base camp” while enjoying much in the surrounding area!

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.

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!