Summit 14-ers, bike mountain trails, and fish alpine streams from your campsite near Vail.
Nestled into a valley deep in the Colorado Rockies, Vail is the stuff mountain dreams are made of. It’s best known as a ski town, but this village is a four-season camping paradise. Hike through fiery leaves in the fall, and bike through meadows of spring wildflowers. Summer, with its warm days and cool nights, is perfect for fishing, music, and family fun.
The 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is the best place for camping near Vail. Gore Creek Campground sits just a few miles from the live music and family activities downtown. It’s popular, so book RV or tent camping sites up to 6 months in advance. From camp, you can fly fish in Gore Creek, hike three different trails, and bike Tenmile Canyon.
Soak in the silence of the Rocky Mountains at Fulford Cave, which has just seven tent sites. From your private picnic, it’s an easy hike into the Holy Cross Wilderness. Go spelunking at Fulford Cave—just check the Holy Cross Ranger District schedule first.
About 24 miles from Vail, south of Minturn, Camp Hale has tent and RV camping. With its light usage and grand views, this Forest Service campground is an excellent spot for families. Hike the Colorado Trail, bike the gravel roads, and fish nearby streams. Nearby, Hornsilver Campground offers seven sites on a first-come, first-served basis.