Discover the best beach campgrounds in Colorado with hiking

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Colorado

96% (1262 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Colorado

Available this weekend

12 top beach campgrounds in Colorado with hiking

94%

(208)

Monument Creek Glamping

11 sites · Lodging, Tents7 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.

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

Gondola Village at Holy Cross

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Red Cliff, CO

Gondola Village at Holy Cross (fka Holy Cross Refugio), is a little sanctuary in the mountains between Vail, Leadville, and Aspen. There is little nearby except for the next door Holy Cross Wilderness, with a lifetime worth of trails, lakes, and peaks to explore -- all only two hours from Denver. Gondola Village at Holy Cross has direct access that many dream of to Colorado's water wilderness, and some of the best backcountry skiing, hiking, scrambling, backpacking, and fly fishing in the Summit Vail Eagle Aspen area. Our modern alpine cabins are some of the cutest cabins you'll step foot in, complete with a mix of amenities to make your wilderness stay a bit more comfortable. Gondola Village at Holy Cross is at 11.5k feet above sea level (believed to be the highest altitude Hipcamp in the world). Gondola Village at Holy Cross has been featured on Discovery Channel’s Reclaimed, Airbnb's OMG! Fund, Arch Digest, and the site of many product shoots. The managers of this property have worked in yurt, ADU, and cabin construction and hospitality for many years and have brought together some of the best Scandinavian and modern design with a mining town aesthetic. The trip up can be challenging (only off-road, winch / locker equipped vehicles dare try the 759 Holy Cross City jeep road, others will need to hike in at least 2.5 miles), but the views and cabins are well worth the trek. Snow free season tends to be June 15 an October 30 annually, and outside of this guests should be prepared for up to 11 miles of over-snow travel with no cars allowed (a bit less depending on snow coverage in the shoulder seasons from May 21 - early June and late October - November 20)

Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

7 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Clifton, CO

We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away.

Sweet Retreat

4 sites · Lodging1 acre · Twin Lakes, CO

This cabin is up to par with meeting the safe at home corona virus standards for cleaning. This great little turn of the century bungalow has it all. This home has recently been renovated to have all the upgraded amenities while still preserving that classic historical feel. Large amounts of trails out your back door. One will have easy access to the home with a keypad code to come and go as they please. If you bring a dog there's a $25 pet fee per dog per day! Lake county license# 2022-21

94%

(42)

Lodge pole forest

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Fairplay, CO

This property was once a Gold mining encampment in the turn of the last century, just out of view nestled in a pine forest, Learn more about this land: It’s like a national park setting in the trees, you should be very aware that wildlife wanders through here 24/7, near several national forests and gold medal fishing as well as beautiful hot springs within 40-45 minutes

92%

(280)

Campe Diem!

49 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

100%

(35)

Red Daisy Farm

2 sites · Lodging, RVs4 acres · Brighton, CO

Originally an 80 acre cattle ranch built by a gentleman from Iowa named Thomas Jefferson Rutherford. Now a charming, peaceful and beautiful 4 acre flower farm. On site, we also host a unique place to stay in our converted grain silos! We offer guests access to use of the hot tub and all natural, European swimming pond!

85%

(17)

Home Home on the Colorado Range

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Peyton, CO

Learn more about this land:Beautiful open field with a few trees. Turn off dirt road between two blue wagon wheels. That area is fenced with cattle and prong horn on the other side. Beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains and a direct view of Pikes Peak. Nice open area with fresh air quiet breezy lazy days. Beautiful sunrises and spectacular sunsets. Perfect for Star gazing at night. Hiking, biking, and there are areas nearby to go dirt biking, off road, fishing, boating, etc. Please come and see!

100%

(4)

Mountain View Cabin

1 site · Lodging15 acres · Ridgway, CO

This beautiful log home rental has spectacular views of the Cimarron and the San Juan Mountains. It provides free level II car charging. It is a fully furnished mountain retreat with everything you will need for a comfortable, affordable stay. Private road with lots of wildlife. Beautiful old Cottonwood trees with an old tire swing. A creek runs through the pasture keeping the grass lush and green. The cattle enjoy the panoramic mountain views. Far enough away from civilization, yet walking distance to town! Located on a working cattle farm with lots of wildlife. Only 26 miles from the nearest airport. 2 miles to the famous Ouray Hot springs. 9 miles to Ouray, an easy drive to the Ice Climbing Park off of Camp Bird Mine Rd. and Imogene Pass, renowned for Jeeping and 4x4s. 35 Miles from the Ski Lifts in Telluride. Join us at our beautiful Mountain View Cabin. Learn more about this land: This beautiful log home rental has spectacular views of the Cimarron and the San Juan Mountains. It is a fully furnished mountain retreat with everything you will need for a comfortable, affordable stay. Quiet, yet within walking distance to town.

96%

(128)

Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

5 sites · Tents12 acres · Pagosa Springs, CO

Located on a historic ranch in the spectacular Blanco Basin valley, nestled up against the Continental Divide and South San Juan Wilderness Area. This B&B offers a campground with tent sites along the pristine headwaters of the Rio Blanco. A group fire pit, community kitchen and food prep area, composting toilet facility and on-demand gas heated shower facilities. Feel free to explore the river and surrounding San Juan National Forest, with plenty of hiking trails to accommodate all fitness levels. A 420 Happy Hour is available for all campers age 21 and up, and breakfast is served for all!!!

100%

(19)

Cozy Creek

4 sites · RVs2 acres · Rye, CO

Cozy Creek: A Historical Haven in the Rockies (One Full-Hookup Site for Up to 40 ft. RVs) Immerse yourself in the majesty of the Rockies at our secluded RV spot, designed for your comfort and connection with nature. Towering ponderosa pines and a vibrant aspen grove create a natural cathedral around your campsite, with massive boulders adding a touch of whimsical charm. Steps from your door lies the true gem: a year-round creek with cascading waterfalls serenading you with its constant murmur, a soothing soundtrack to your escape. This exclusive full-hookup RV spot caters to comfort and convenience, offering: 50-amp electrical connections Water spigot Sewer connection Trash pickup High-speed Wi-Fi Unwind and Explore: Beyond the tranquility of your spot, Rye, Colorado offers a plethora of activities for every kind of adventurer. Hike the stunning trails of the Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness, following paths once trod by the Ute people who inhabited these lands for centuries. Cast a line in nearby Lake Isabel, a haven for fly-fishing enthusiasts and a potential summer retreat for indigenous tribes throughout history. Tee off at the scenic Hollydot Golf Course, or explore the fascinating Bishop Castle, a testament to human dedication and a local landmark with its own intriguing history. A Silver Rush Surprise: Rye's story began in the late 1800s with the discovery of silver in the surrounding mountains. The area boomed with prospectors seeking their fortune, and a small mining town emerged. While the silver rush eventually faded, Rye transformed into a popular summer destination for ranchers and travelers seeking respite from the heat. Today, Rye retains its historic charm, offering a glimpse into Colorado's colorful past and the enduring spirit of its people. Natural Splendor Awaits: Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Hike through wildflower meadows bursting with color, or challenge yourself on a rugged mountain trail. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak up the serenity of the towering peaks. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Rye's natural wonders will leave you breathless. Local Delights: After a day of exploration, tantalize your taste buds at some of Rye's charming restaurants: Vicktorios: Enjoy a versatile dining experience at Vicktorios. Unwind in a lively atmosphere with delicious food, creative mixed drinks, a fun game of pool, and the tunes of your choice! Vicktorios features an internet-capable jukebox, letting you curate the soundtrack to your evening. Vicktorios is a local favorite for its friendly service and delicious menu. High Octane BBQ: Savor slow-cooked, mouthwatering BBQ, especially their brisket, my personal favorite! The atmosphere is casual and welcoming. Rye Cafe: This friendly cafe offers a delightful breakfast and lunch menu, but let's be honest, their pizza is what keeps families coming back for more! Unwind under a blanket of stars at night, the sound of the babbling creek creating a truly tranquil ambiance. Experience Rye According to Your Needs: This exclusive RV spot is available for rent on a weekly, monthly, or even annual basis, making it perfect for nature lovers and history buffs seeking a relaxing immersion experience with all the comforts of home. Ideal for couples, families, or solo adventurers, this RV spot offers a front-row seat to the beauty of the Rockies and whispers of the past. Book your unforgettable escape and reconnect with nature today!

Under $50

85%

(17)

Home Home on the Colorado Range

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Peyton, CO

Learn more about this land:Beautiful open field with a few trees. Turn off dirt road between two blue wagon wheels. That area is fenced with cattle and prong horn on the other side. Beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains and a direct view of Pikes Peak. Nice open area with fresh air quiet breezy lazy days. Beautiful sunrises and spectacular sunsets. Perfect for Star gazing at night. Hiking, biking, and there are areas nearby to go dirt biking, off road, fishing, boating, etc. Please come and see!

Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

7 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Clifton, CO

We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away.

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

Wilderness Bud and Breakfast

5 sites · Tents12 acres · Pagosa Springs, CO

Located on a historic ranch in the spectacular Blanco Basin valley, nestled up against the Continental Divide and South San Juan Wilderness Area. This B&B offers a campground with tent sites along the pristine headwaters of the Rio Blanco. A group fire pit, community kitchen and food prep area, composting toilet facility and on-demand gas heated shower facilities. Feel free to explore the river and surrounding San Juan National Forest, with plenty of hiking trails to accommodate all fitness levels. A 420 Happy Hour is available for all campers age 21 and up, and breakfast is served for all!!!

Campe Diem!

49 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

Dog-friendly getaways

92%

(280)

Campe Diem!

49 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO

Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!

Riverwalk Yurt, luxury on river

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Hotchkiss, CO

The House where we live is the corner stone of the Bruce Property and is on the Colorado Register of Historic Houses.The residence was constructed between 1905 and 1912, using red bricks made on the site. John and Sophia Bruce, early pioneers in the North Fork Valley, were first involved in cattle raising. The family later became successful fruit growers. Located along the West Elk Loop, a Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway, the large two-story residence features a steeply pitched hipped roof with prominent attic dormers.As a guest of Riverwalk you will have full access to the river during your stay. In addition, there is the Riverwalk Trail System that skirts the North Fork of the Gunnison River from the top of the property, by the Riverwalk Yurt, (available on this site) meandering downstream past the Riverwalk TIPI (available on the site) passing the Grove Yurt (available on this site) and terminating at the bottom of the property with the sandy Riverwalk Beach. There is a trial that zigs through the Cottonwood Grove and zags back along the gentle Monitor Ditch skirting a newly planted grove of young trees.For RV Campers we provide 2- 30amp,1-50 amp and 1- 110-amp electrical services and potable water. There is a dump station available. There is also access to our heated shower house with running water and bathroom amenities (<3 min. walk, may be shared with other guests). The property is perfectly geared to groups of friends gathering in a central location between the onset of the Rockies and the termination high desert to the west. Friends or family will reserve both Yurts and the RV Site for a perfect reunion setting!

Monument Creek Glamping

11 sites · Lodging, Tents7 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.

Lakeside Camping, Water Time :)

7 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Clifton, CO

We moved here in 1997 The home has had major remodels done on it. The lake is an old gravel pit to make road base for local road construction. The buoys in the lake are scuba projects from the local college CMU, and hold lots of fish. Other nesting platforms are for our local Geese and they hatch out in April-June. We airbnb 2 rooms in our home as a shared facility and have airbnbs in Northern Ca and Baja. Our home is off limits for campers as we need to respect the space for our other airbnb guests. But in an emergence please call, cell service works fine. port-a potty is gone for the winter November-April. port-a potty is clean and works great, May- Oct. If you are here in the winter you may use the trees or Mavericks gas station in 1.5 miles away.

Sweet Retreat

4 sites · Lodging1 acre · Twin Lakes, CO

This cabin is up to par with meeting the safe at home corona virus standards for cleaning. This great little turn of the century bungalow has it all. This home has recently been renovated to have all the upgraded amenities while still preserving that classic historical feel. Large amounts of trails out your back door. One will have easy access to the home with a keypad code to come and go as they please. If you bring a dog there's a $25 pet fee per dog per day! Lake county license# 2022-21

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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.

97%

(150)

Rocky Mountain National Park

Grand Lake, Colorado

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100%

(17)

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Montrose, Colorado

98%

(20)

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Black Hawk, Colorado

100%

(6)

Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek, Colorado

100%

(6)

Rifle Falls State Park

Silt, Colorado

100%

(4)

Pawnee National Grassland

Loghill Village, Colorado

100%

(5)

Steamboat Lake State Park

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Crestone, Colorado

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach camping in Colorado with hiking guide

Overview

With 42 state parks and four national parks, Colorado has long been a shining star among lovers of the great outdoors. This western state offers a wide variety of landscapes, with ancient mountains, massive canyons, ski resort towns that range from quaint to ultraluxe, many within easy access of the capital city of Denver. Camping areas abound throughout the state, ranging from simple backcountry tent sites to developed campgrounds with full hookups and dump stations, many managed by Colorado State Parks. Best of all, pretty much every outdoor activity under the sun is available, from biking and horseback riding to birding and stargazing.

Where to go

Western Colorado

Western Colorado shares quite a bit in common with neighboring Utah to the west, with massive sandstone rock formations—including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park—plus fantastic opportunities for winter and summer recreation alike. Towns worth checking out include Steamboat Springs and Aspen—both popular ski resorts—as well as cute towns such as Montrose and Durango that make excellent bases for exploring the wilds of the San Juan Mountains. If you’re interested in history or archaeology, don’t miss the chance to visit the Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

Denver and North-Central Colorado

Stretching from Fort Collins near the Wyoming border all the way down just past Denver, this region is largely urban but still offers plenty for campers. You can take in fantastic views of the region from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or by driving the Trail Ridge Road scenic byway through Rocky Mountain National Park. Or, pack up your tent and head out on a backcountry camping trip in the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests.

South and South-Central Colorado

This part of the state offers a mix of wide-open plains and towering massifs, including Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, a scenic mountaintop that served as the inspiration for the patriotic tune America the Beautiful. Popular area activities include fishing and whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande and sledding down the sands at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. If you want to soothe tired muscles after a weekend of adventure, head to the hot springs towns of Buena Vista and Salida—both just outside the Pike and San Isabel national forests.

Eastern Colorado

Quiet Eastern Colorado features a mix of grasslands and canyons, with massive expanses of grazing lands and farms that give way to charming small towns. You can learn about life in the 19th century at the Old Fort National Historic Site and the Boggsville Historic Site, or head down to the John Martin Reservoir, a great place for birdwatching and boating.