Best Camping in and near Roosevelt National Forest

83% (41 reviews)

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

Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Roosevelt National Forest

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

Olive Ridge Campground

53 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Bellaire Lake Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

67%

(3)

Dowdy Lake Campground

62 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Jacks Gulch Group and Equestrian Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(2)

Lower Narrows Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Aspen Glen Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$15

/ night

Big Bend Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$15

/ night

Browns Park Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Jacks Gulch Campground

64 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$20

/ night

Sleeping Elephant Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$15

/ night

Stub Creek Cabin

1 site In Roosevelt National Forest

West Lake Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Dutch George Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$19

/ night

Long Draw Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Brainard Lake Recreation Area

47 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(1)

Camp Dick Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Kelly Dahl Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Pawnee Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

90%

(5)

Peaceful Valley Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(4)

Ansel Watrous Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(2)

Chambers Lake Campground

51 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

This isn't exactly the view from the campsite, but Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak are spectacular. The trailhead is just down the road

Meeker Park Overflow Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Rainbow Lakes Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Stove Prairie Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Big South Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$15

/ night

Narrows Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Some great adventures and made lasting memories

Grandview Campground

9 sites In Roosevelt National Forest

Kelly Flats Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

North Fork Poudre Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$13

/ night

Tunnel Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Tom Bennett Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

from

$13

/ night

Mountain Park Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Roosevelt National Forest

100%

(563)

Buford Canyon

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Buford, WY

We purchased 40 acres several years ago and built our home on the west side. We wished we could better access and appreciate the amazing views on the east side so we built two off grid cabins and a campsite. We have been encouraged to share this very special location with others. We have found it very rewarding to share this spot with others.

95%

(22)

The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Ward, CO

We border a national forest where you can hike and just enjoy the outdoors. The Ceran Saint Vrain trailhead is less than one mile away and Brainard Lake is a short 20 minute drive. If you feel as you need to go to town, Boulder, Estes Park, and Nederland are all a 30 min drive. Away, yet close enough!

100%

(175)

Little Cabin with a view

3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Jelm, WY

Cozy, rustic, dry, one room mountainside cabin with outhouse, sits under the wide open Wyoming sky. (Has electricity, electric heat) View sunsets and star filled skies from the front patio. A microwave, mini fridge, propane grill allow for simple meals to be prepared. The Little Cabin offers a mountainside basecamp, getaway, vacation or over night travel stop 30 miles from LARAMIE, WY, I80, WY 130, US 287 and Co 125. 2.5 miles from Woodslanding on WY 230. Depending on the time of year there are various outdoor activities nearby to enjoy. Hiking, Fishing, Snow Shoeing, Cross Country skiing. There are Mountain Lakes, Plains Lakes, the Big Laramie River, Snowy Range Down Hill Ski Area all with in a 60 mile radius. There is public access to the Big Laramie River across the highway where you can fish or walk the public access path that runs along side it. Saratoga, WY, natural Hot Springs are about 90 miles West and makes for a beautiful drive. Snowy Range Mountain offers a down hill ski area, trails for hiking, cross country skiing and snow shoeing. Star gazing from the Little Cabin or Gazebo is amazing. There is no light pollution which allows a view of the stars some have never seen.

90%

(265)

Arapaho Valley Ranch

68 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Granby, CO

Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time.

97%

(98)

Boulder Tintype Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Valmont, CO

Welcome to our charming 2-acre farm nestled in East Boulder with a view of Long’s Peak. Just minutes from town - near walking trails, a bike park, shopping, and restaurants. A great pitstop on your way to or from the mountains. We have a 4 meter Glamping tent complete with a queen sized bed and rocking chairs, as well as spots in the meadow for RVs and camping tents. We limit the meadow to 5 small groups so there always remains plenty of open space for everyone. Our goal is to offer you a peaceful and affordable place to rest. The most affordable in all of Boulder! We have a community fire ring, big stacks of free burn wood and kitchen tables. We have well water to offer up by the house, but I wouldn’t drink it without purification… makes for a great cold outdoor shower. We have a HoneyBucket (toilet) tucked away in the bushes. It is pumped weekly and cleaned daily. We have fresh eggs! The chickens free range during the day, so please keep an eye on your dogs… leash if necessary. Our gals won’t run away. THE GOOD: *Easy in and out location *Most affordable rates in all of Boulder. *Beautiful view of the Longs Peak. *Lots of sun *Summertime creek on the property. *Fresh eggs!!! *Tintypes! *Community campfire with free firewood THE BAD: *Daytime road noise (pretend ocean waves??). *Limited shade. *Total RV length 40 feet - Truck AND Trailer - due to a steep and winding entrance and exit. *Good Morning Rooster We can handle RVs around 40 feet in TOTAL LENGTH - truck and trailer. It’s a big field, but a narrow, winding and steep ramp to get in and out. If you are a nervous driver, perhaps choose another place to rest your head. If you are a confident driver with towing experience, you can probably even go bigger. No designated spots. Please feel free to park anywhere you’d like while leaving enough room for other campers. It is flattest along the fence by the pond - leveling boards are stacked up in the field to borrow. Please note there is no access to the pond itself. It’s our neighbor’s property. We've got Tintype Portraits! I am a Wet Plate Photographer specializing in 1800’s antique metal portraits made of silver. Half off a one night stay is included in the price of every portrait. Check out: TheTintypeCompany.com if you get the chance. We are indeed the cheapest Hipcamp in Boulder, and our goal is to remain as affordable as we possible can. Alternatively, there is a $22 place up near Loveland, a $36 farm in Longmont, and a van-only spot in Evergreen for $33… The local homeless shelter is also an option if you are car camping. No joke, it is wonderful. More like an hostel than a homeless shelter. And they have facilities!! Folks do it all the time if the shelter has the space that night. Showers, WiFi, even food. Their contact info is: 4869 N Broadway Boulder, CO 80304 bouldershelter.org +1 (303) 442-4646 If you are in a van and just looking for a place to park for a night, 33rd north of Arapahoe is your best bet. It’s right next to the Police station, so fairly safe. The streets aren’t level, but neither is our field! Great for vans, not so great for larger RVs or trailers. All that said, we would love to be your host. Our place is clean, safe, and quiet at night. It’s super convenient to town. Please reach out with any questions you may have. I’ll do my level best to help in any way I can. Safe travels! Sincerely, Patrick

100%

(4)

Mountain View Farmland

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Longmont, CO

Beautiful field, with open views on 3 sides and mountain views on the 4th. Right next to lovely Haystack mountain, home to a heard of elk. Quiet, big skies, low light pollution. 10 minutes outside of Boulder, but in the countryside :) We have an unused field of low grass on our property that is quite flat (1-2 degrees) and great for camping. Note for entering: Turn into the gravel driveway. Then turn left immediately after the cut-off phone pole (this is the largest gap to enter the field). There is a bit of a dip from the driveway into the field. Also, on the righthand side of the driveway is a pretty large rain-collecting hole/ditch -- keep an eye out for it.

100%

(13)

Montgomery Homestead

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Lafayette, CO

A 6th generation 160 acre working farm, with a beautiful view of the Colorado front range. Minutes away from multiple municipalities. Our sites are located in a quite area near a water storage 1 acre pond. Great for an evening stroll or sit back and enjoy the sounds and sights of Colorado birds and wildlife.

99%

(168)

Gold Nugget Tree House

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gold Hill, CO

Come visit our sweet little treehouse in the woods. Our property is just steps away from the bustling historic town of Gold Hill, a destination for tourists and road bikers alike. The treehouse is a glamping experience with just enough amenities to keep you comfortable. Food - Bring your cooler with food supplies or take out in Boulder before you head up the mountain. Or grab a coffee, pizza, snack or a glass of wine at the Gold Hill store. If you'd like a full service dining experience, make a reservation for a 5 course meal at the Gold Hill Inn. What To Do: Walk around the historic town of Gold Hill. We promise you will be entertained. Ask a local about the museum, the cemetery, or the historic two room school house, or any other favorite spots they have around the area. Love the woods and nature, but would like a little action? Attend a local live music concert at the Gold Hill Store or the Gold Hill Inn on a beautiful summers night. Drive to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park to explore for the day. Boulder - 20 minutes Nederland - 35 minutes Estes Park - 45 minutes The Treehouse is furnished with Queen size bed and plenty of blankets to keep you warm, but feel free to bring your sleeping bag if you prefer. A roll out twin size feather bed for the floor is available upon request if you have a few more folks joining. We provide a portable toilet with WagBags. Please always pack out all human solid human waste. Gold Hill Store offers a toilet for a minimal fee and the Gold Hill Inn has a toilet for customers. A camp stove is available for outdoor use. The camp stove and the propane heater both use 1 lb propane canisters, so feel free to bring your own fuel to cook and keep you warm. A can of propane is always available for your use of the stove. * A note to novice campers and regular hotel patrons: Though you are in a shelter, you are still exposed to the elements. The treehouse is not insulated. Wind, bugs, and critters may all be a part of the variable treehouse experience mother nature has planned for you. If you are not comfortable camping, getting dirty, swatting flies, being too hot, being too cold, hearing the noises of animals at night, waking up to the sound of magpies, and who knows what else, this experience may not be for you.

94%

(157)

Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

5 sites · Lodging, Tents24 acres · Nederland, CO

This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.

95%

(336)

Creekside Paradise

6 sites · Lodging, Tents42 acres · CO

Located perfectly between Boulder, Nederland, and Rocky Mountain National Park, and very close to other stunning hikes, this spot is a great landing pad to have easy access to some of the most beautiful places in the Rockies as well as offering it's own breathtaking scenery. This land is the sacred land of the Arapaho tribe. Chief Niwot and his tribe spent winters here. It is a very special place. The property is a mile long so there is plenty of space with the tent sites being 1/2 mile from the yurt and separate entries for each. There are currently 2 tents sites available, a bell tent, and a yurt.

93%

(291)

Neverland/Camp Wilder

5 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Nederland, CO

Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.

98%

(25)

Gordon Creek RV Park

23 sites · Lodging, RVs80 acres · Livermore, CO

Enjoy peace and tranquility on 80 acres of private land. Hook into one of our RV sites with full hookups or stay in one of our beautiful cabins with close access to the nightlife of Ft. Collins as well as the gorgeous Red Feather Lakes area and all it has to offer. Visit Rigby's roadhouse for dinner and drinks right here on the property or take the family on a trail ride with Tattered Saddle. Wildlife is abundant in the area and you might see deer, elk, fox, bear, hawks, and bald eagles. Close to many trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, fishing, backcountry skiing, hunting, and even a golf course close by.

The best camping near Roosevelt National Forest guide

Overview

About

Administered in conjunction with the Arapaho National Forest and the Pawnee National Grassland, the Roosevelt National Forest is a popular getaway from nearby Fort Collins, attracting campers and day trippers alike throughout the year. The Cache la Poudre River, the only designated Wild and Scenic River in Colorado, winds through the forest, and attracts experienced white-water rafters and kayakers in search of thrills as well as its fair share of anglers, particularly in spring and summer. The greater Arapaho-Roosevelt-Pawnee area offers 53 designated campgrounds plus 10 wilderness areas ideal for backcountry adventures.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RV camping: North Fork Poudre Campground can accommodate RVs measuring up to 35 feet in length.
Best for short breaks from the city: Sleeping Elephant Campground is just over an hour from Fort Collins.
Best for planning ahead: about half of the sites at the Peaceful Valley Campground can be reserved during high season

Tips for snagging a campsite

The Roosevelt National Forest offers a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served (FCFS) campsites. If you’re looking for an FCFS site, it’s usually best to arrive early in the morning to beat crowds or to nab a site from a departing camper.
Arrive mid-week for the best shot of securing a good site, particularly if you want to camp in the busy summer season.
Reservable sites open for bookings at 8am Mountain Time, six months in advance. If you’re trying to book a popular spot or a cabin, try to reserve as soon as it’s released.

When to go

The Roosevelt National Forest is a year-round destination, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure no matter the season. Popular wintertime activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. Early spring and summer are popular for white-water rafting along the Cache la Poudre River, while July and August see the biggest crowds when it comes to camping and hiking; if you want a bit more forest to yourself, September is a great alternative.

Know before you go

Cell service can be spotty at best in the Roosevelt National Forest. Be sure to download offline maps before heading out. Having a paper map as a backup is wise, too.
Forest fires are an issue in Colorado, particularly in the summertime. Be prepared for burn bans and potential road and campground closures.
Check ahead for the latest information on snow-related road closures if you’re visiting during the wintertime. It’s a good idea to also pack chains or get snow tires if driving in higher altitudes during the cooler months.
Bicycles are not allowed in wilderness areas, and dogs must be kept leashed at all times.

Nearby attractions

Experience the beauty of camping in Poudre Canyon, a picturesque mountain getaway. Set up camp amidst towering cliffs, hike scenic trails, and listen to the soothing sounds of the Poudre River. Enjoy fishing, spot wildlife, and create lasting memories in this tranquil natural paradise.