Discover the best beach and dog-friendly campgrounds in Colorado

United States
—
Colorado

94% (1026 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Colorado

Available this weekend

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!

94%

(601)

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.

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!

99%

(348)

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!

97%

(53)

Dunes Desert Camp

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · Hooper, CO

Enjoy your own private desert playground, 320 Acres of pristine wilderness in the shadow of Blanca Peak and in sight of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Whether you want to explore the valley on a hike, bike, or All Terrain Vehicle, fly over it in a private light aircraft, or plan an expedition to the mountains, Dunes Desert Camp is your staging ground for exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of the San Luis Valley. Located just twenty miles from downtown Alamosa, Dunes Desert Camp offers remoteness and privacy coupled with the convenience of being near a vibrant metropolitan center. Get away from it all, and get back to finding yourself in the desert. We have one large Safari tent with a double bed and 5 two person dome tents fitted with camp cots Sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses and camping equipment is available to rent on site.

12 top beach and dog-friendly campgrounds in Colorado

99%

(348)

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!

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.

Dunes Desert Camp

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents320 acres · Hooper, CO

Enjoy your own private desert playground, 320 Acres of pristine wilderness in the shadow of Blanca Peak and in sight of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Whether you want to explore the valley on a hike, bike, or All Terrain Vehicle, fly over it in a private light aircraft, or plan an expedition to the mountains, Dunes Desert Camp is your staging ground for exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of the San Luis Valley. Located just twenty miles from downtown Alamosa, Dunes Desert Camp offers remoteness and privacy coupled with the convenience of being near a vibrant metropolitan center. Get away from it all, and get back to finding yourself in the desert. We have one large Safari tent with a double bed and 5 two person dome tents fitted with camp cots Sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses and camping equipment is available to rent on site.

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!

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%

(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!

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!!!

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%

(1)

Colorado River Landing

1 site · RV, Tent35 acres · New Castle, CO

35 acres on Colorado River with 2 private islands. Cabin available with solar. Port-o-potty. No running water. Rv spots (no hookups). Amazing location with incredible views and privacy. Fishing!! Raft potentially available for rent. Sit on the deck, bbq, fire pit (propane in summer) and enjoy! A must see.

64%

(11)

Goodview Campground at RMOC

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Nathrop, CO

The Goodview Campground is the perfect destination for your adventurous travels. It is conveniently located along Highway 285 and the banks of the Arkansas River just south of Buena Vista, CO, with sweeping views of Mt. Princeton and the Sawatch Mountains. The campground property is shared with the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center, the Junkyard Bike Park, and Browns Canyon Brewing Company. There are 2 hike-in sites and 2 car camping sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and clean restrooms. Brown's Canyon Brewing Company is conveniently located within the RMOC outpost if you want food or a drink (Th-Sunday bar, Friday-Sunday food truck). Need an idea for an activity? RMOC is a full-service guide company that provides guided trips and instruction for rafting, kayaking, climbing, biking, and SUP excursions. Enjoy everything we have to offer at the Goodveiw Campground! If a site is not available on your date(2), please call the office for more booking options. 719-395-3335. While you're here check out our onsite brew pub (Thursday-Sunday) and food truck (Friday-Sunday): Brown's Canyon Brewing Company https://brownscanyonbrewing.com/

100%

(6)

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

96%

(71)

Fruita By The Lake

5 sites · RVs10 acres · Fruita, CO

The property is a mix of living quarters and a business with a beautiful 2-acre lake accessible in the summer. Hipcampers will be camping on a 10-acre property mixed-used and will have their own little piece of land and privacy to enjoy. They will find endless activities surrounding our property while enjoying their stay. There are miles of mountain and road bike trails easily accessed from the campsite. Rafting, golf, swimming, fishing, hiking, off-roading, dirt bike/ATV trails, Colorado National Monument, and the list goes on and on within a short distance. The campsites are 2 minutes from downtown Fruita for those who would enjoy good restaurants, great coffee shops, or a drink. You will find a grocery store, pharmacy, and gas station in the same area. To consider: Our place is great but not for everyone. We have three convenient sites, all with electricity and water and one with sewage. They all have great views and are very close to the town of Fruita. Every hipcampers can enjoy the beach and the lake between mid-May and October when its full. Swimming not recommended! The property is used by THE GONDOLA SHOP, which restores ski gondolas. Monday to Friday, you might hear some light noise and see employees walking around. For that reason and the potential hazard YOU ARE FULLY RESPONSIBLE OF YOUR CHILDREN IF YOU HAVE SOME on our property. We ask that all vehicles drive no faster than 10 miles per hour for the same reason. We will consider a group of campers or mix camper/tents roof tents as long as you have your own bathroom to share. Please email us with any requests you might have. We are open to discussing any inquiries. Between May and October, when our lake is full and usable, our place is great for gatherings and a big BBQ. Camp #1 / 30amps + 110V (NO WATER). We have a spot on the property for you to fill in your water tank, but there is no water directly at the site. This site is on an old concrete pad and will need some leveling. This site is close to the tenant's house. You might see some chickens running around, but your camper will face the opposite way, and you will get your privacy. We accept campers class B and C ONLY, max 27 feet for this camp. NO TRAVEL TRAILERS. It would be best to park nose 1st to access the electric post and back up to get out. This site has lots of shade in the summer. This site has no fire pit and no picnic table. Camp #2 / 50amps + water + sewage. WINTERIZED. YOU ONLY NEED A HEATED WATER HOSE. This site is on compact gravel and will need some leveling. This site is very close to the main shop and the owner's apartment. You will see and maybe hear some action on weekdays. We accept vans, small campers, and motorhomes class A, B, and C. It's a pull-through site and easy to park. This site could accommodate two or three campers (extra $). This site is in the sun with no shade. This site has no fire pit and no picnic table. Camp #3 / 50amps + water. WINTERIZED. YOU ONLY NEED A HEATED WATER HOSE. This site is long and wide on compact gravel and might need some leveling. On this site, your camper/van will be facing the pond. You can drink your coffee with the birds singing. We accept vans, small campers, and motorhomes class A, B, and C. It's a back-in site with plenty of space to do it. This site could accommodate two or three campers (extra $). This site has a fire pit, a picnic table, and a private dock.

Under $50

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!

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!!!

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!

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!

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

88%

(8)

Eleven Mile State Park

Florissant, Colorado

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

98%

(20)

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Black Hawk, Colorado

100%

(6)

Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek, Colorado

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

100%

(17)

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Montrose, 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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Beach and dog-friendly camping in Colorado 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.