Camping in Colorado offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the state’s stunning natural beauty up close. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and a diverse range of landscapes, Colorado offers a wealth of camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the vast grasslands and desert landscapes, there is a camping destination in Colorado for everyone. Whether you prefer to pitch a tent in a secluded mountain meadow or enjoy the amenities of a modern RV park, Colorado has something to offer. Join us as we explore the best camping destinations in Colorado and discover the joys of camping in the great outdoors.
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a stunning wilderness area in Colorado that attracts campers from all over the world. Known for its majestic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, this wilderness area offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With numerous camping options and a wide range of outdoor activities, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a top destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
Reasons to Camp in Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness:
- Scenic beauty: Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness boasts some of the most stunning views in Colorado, with its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and verdant forests making for breathtaking vistas.
- Outdoor activities: There are plenty of activities to keep campers busy, from hiking and backpacking to fishing and mountain biking. The wilderness area offers a wide range of trails and terrain for all skill levels.
- Wildlife watching: Visitors to Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness may have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and black bears.
- Peaceful atmosphere: With limited cell phone service and no RV camping allowed, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- Camping options: Whether you prefer backcountry camping or car camping, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness has options for all types of campers. The area offers numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping areas, as well as opportunities for backpacking and wilderness camping.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag,, Sleeping Pad, Stove, Water Filter, Headlamp, Backpack
Rocky Mountain National Park
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, this national park offers an unparalleled camping experience. Whether you’re looking for a backcountry adventure or a family-friendly camping trip, Rocky Mountain National Park has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags, pitch a tent, and get ready to experience the beauty of the Colorado wilderness.
Reasons to Camp in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Stunning views: Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world, with towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and alpine lakes that provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for camping.
- Abundant wildlife: Visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and black bears, making it a popular destination for wildlife watchers.
- Outdoor activities: With over 350 miles of trails and a wide range of activities available, including hiking, backpacking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, there’s always something to do at Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Variety of camping options: The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, and backcountry camping, making it accessible to all types of campers.
- Proximity to Denver: Located just a few hours’ drive from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is an easily accessible destination for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the great outdoors.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Sleeping Pad, Camp Stove, Water Filter, Bear Spray, Hiking Boots
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a one-of-a-kind camping destination nestled in the southern region of Colorado. This stunning national park boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America, with mountain vistas, grasslands, and wetlands all within sight of your campsite. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Great Sand Dunes National Park offers something for everyone. From hiking and sandboarding to wildlife viewing and stargazing, this park has it all.
Reasons to Camp in Great Sand Dunes National Park:
- Stunning Scenery: Great Sand Dunes National Park is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with towering sand dunes, snow-capped peaks, and lush valleys all within sight of your campsite.
- Outdoor Adventure: The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, sandboarding, birdwatching, stargazing, and more. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the great outdoors.
- Peaceful and Quiet: Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a unique sense of solitude and tranquility, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s the perfect place to unwind and relax.
- Abundant Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, elk, and more. You may even spot rare species like the Great Sand Dunes tiger beetle or the northern leopard frog.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Camping in Great Sand Dunes National Park is a great way to spend quality time with your family. The park offers a range of family-friendly activities and programs, including ranger-led hikes, evening campfire programs, and more.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Sleeping Pad, Headlamp, Sunscreen, Water Bottle, Sandboard
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a unique and stunning camping destination located in the southwest corner of Colorado. This park is home to the famous cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people over 700 years ago, as well as spectacular mesas and canyons that offer breathtaking views. Camping in Mesa Verde National Park is an opportunity to immerse yourself in this rich cultural history while experiencing some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the Southwest.
Reasons to Camp in Mesa Verde National Park:
- Unique Cultural History: Mesa Verde National Park is home to over 5,000 archaeological sites, including the famous cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people. Camping in the park is an opportunity to immerse yourself in this rich cultural history and learn about the people who lived here over 700 years ago.
- Spectacular Scenery: The park is home to stunning mesas, canyons, and rock formations that offer breathtaking views from your campsite. You’ll be able to see for miles and experience some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the Southwest.
- Outdoor Adventure: Camping in Mesa Verde National Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. With over 8,000 acres of wilderness to explore, you’ll never run out of adventures to embark on.
- Peaceful and Secluded: Camping in Mesa Verde National Park offers a peaceful and secluded experience, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Mesa Verde National Park offers a range of family-friendly activities and programs, including guided tours of the cliff dwellings, ranger-led hikes, and evening campfire programs. Camping in the park is a great way to spend quality time with your family and create lasting memories.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Backpack, Hiking Boots, Headlamp, Water Bottle, Binoculars
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful and rugged camping destination located in western Colorado. With its sheer cliffs, deep canyons, and roaring river, this park offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the state. Camping in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an opportunity to connect with nature, experience the thrill of outdoor adventure, and witness some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.
Reasons to Camp in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park:
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is home to some of the most dramatic and unique landscapes in Colorado. With its steep cliffs, narrow canyons, and rushing river, this park is a visual feast for nature lovers.
- Remote and Secluded: Camping in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers a chance to escape the crowds and connect with nature in a remote and secluded setting. The park has several campgrounds that are far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a peaceful and tranquil experience.
- Hiking and Backpacking: The park has over 80 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Camping in the park provides the perfect opportunity to explore these trails, experience the stunning natural beauty up close, and challenge yourself with a hike.
- Star Gazing: The park is home to some of the darkest skies in Colorado, making it an ideal destination for stargazing. Camping in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers a chance to witness the Milky Way and other celestial wonders in all their glory.
- Wildlife Viewing: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, and mule deer. Camping in the park offers a chance to view these animals in their natural habitat and experience the thrill of wildlife watching.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Backpack, Hiking Boots, Water Filtration System, Bear-Resistant Food Container, Binoculars
San Isabel National Forest
Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, San Isabel National Forest offers an idyllic setting for camping enthusiasts. With over 1.1 million acres of pristine wilderness, this national forest is a natural playground for outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. From the stunning vistas of alpine meadows and mountain peaks to the peaceful tranquility of the woods, San Isabel National Forest has something for everyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Reasons to Camp in San Isabel National Forest:
- Beautiful Scenery: San Isabel National Forest is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning views of alpine meadows, forests, and mountain peaks. It’s the perfect backdrop for a camping trip and a great place to take in the beauty of nature.
- Abundant Outdoor Activities: Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, mountain biking, or wildlife viewing, San Isabel National Forest has something for everyone. With over 19 trails, 3 rivers, and 6 lakes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors.
- Peaceful and Serene: San Isabel National Forest is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and quiet. You can relax by a campfire, take a leisurely stroll through the woods, or simply sit back and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Variety of Camping Options: San Isabel National Forest offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin rentals. Whether you prefer roughing it in a tent or enjoying the comforts of an RV or cabin, you’ll find a camping option that suits your needs.
- Family-Friendly: San Isabel National Forest is a great place to take the whole family. With a variety of activities for all ages, it’s the perfect place to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Plus, camping is a great way to unplug and connect with each other and nature.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Camping Stove, Headlamp, Water Filter, Insect Repellent, Hiking Boots
Curecanti National Recreation Area
Nestled amidst the towering mountains and stunning canyons of Colorado, Curecanti National Recreation Area offers a peaceful and picturesque camping destination. With three reservoirs in the area, visitors can enjoy a wide range of water activities, while miles of hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the stunning landscape on foot. Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Curecanti has something for everyone.
Reasons to Camp in Curecanti National Recreation Area:
- Stunning Scenery: Curecanti is home to three reservoirs surrounded by beautiful mountains and canyons, making for breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Water Sports: With three reservoirs in the area, there are plenty of opportunities for water activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
- Hiking Trails: The area offers miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, allowing visitors to explore the stunning landscape on foot.
- Wildlife Viewing: Curecanti is home to various wildlife including elk, deer, black bears, and bald eagles, making it a great place for nature lovers and photographers.
- Dark Sky Park: Curecanti has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent location for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Camp Stove, Cooler, Headlamp, Hiking Boots, Insect repellent
Comanche National Grassland
Located in southeastern Colorado, Comanche National Grassland is a vast and diverse area encompassing over 440,000 acres of rolling prairies, deep canyons, and sandstone cliffs. The grassland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a chance to explore historic sites. With its remote location and stunning natural beauty, Comanche National Grassland is a perfect camping destination for those seeking a peaceful and unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Reasons to Camp in Curecanti National Recreation Area:
- Spectacular Scenery: Comanche National Grassland boasts of rolling prairies, sandstone cliffs, and deep canyons, making for a stunning and diverse landscape.
- Hiking and Biking Trails: The area offers a variety of trails for hiking and biking, ranging from easy to challenging, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the grasslands.
- Wildlife Viewing: The grasslands are home to a variety of wildlife, including prairie dogs, coyotes, antelopes, and golden eagles, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and photographers.
- Stargazing: The remote location and lack of light pollution make Comanche National Grassland an ideal destination for stargazing and astronomy enthusiasts.
- Historic Sites: The area is rich in history and cultural significance, with ancient petroglyphs, historic ranches, and abandoned ghost towns waiting to be explored.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Camp Stove, Water Filter, Sunscreen, Binoculars, Insect Repellent.
Pike National Forest
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Pike National Forest is a breathtaking camping destination in Colorado. With stunning mountain vistas, an abundance of wildlife, and numerous recreational opportunities, this national forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, fish in the crystal-clear streams, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the forest. With plenty of camping options available, Pike National Forest is an ideal destination for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Reasons to Camp in Pike National Forest:
- Spectacular Scenery: Pike National Forest offers stunning mountain landscapes, with views of Pikes Peak and the Continental Divide, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.
- Outdoor Recreation: The forest provides a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
- Camping Options: There are numerous camping options available in Pike National Forest, from primitive sites to RV parks, providing something for every type of camper.
- Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bears, and bighorn sheep, making it an excellent destination for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Historic Sites: The area has a rich history, with historic sites such as the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and the ghost town of St. Elmo waiting to be explored by visitors.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Camp Stove, Water Filter, Hiking Boots, Backpack, Insect Repellent.
Chatfield State Park
Chatfield State Park, located just south of Denver, Colorado, is a beautiful and popular destination for camping enthusiasts. The park features a large reservoir that provides ample opportunities for water-based activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the park’s miles of hiking and biking trails or relax and take in the natural beauty of the park. With a variety of camping options available, from tent sites to cabins, Chatfield State Park is the perfect destination for a fun-filled outdoor adventure.
Reasons to Camp in Chatfield State Park:
- Water-based Recreation: Chatfield State Park is home to a large reservoir that provides opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming, making it a perfect destination for water enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Recreation: The park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and birdwatching, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the park.
- Camping Options: The park offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned campers and those new to camping.
- Proximity to Denver: Located just outside of Denver, Chatfield State Park offers a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, without having to venture too far.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, foxes, and a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Recommended Gear: Tent, Sleeping Bag, Camp Stove, Water Filter, Hiking Boots, Backpack, Insect Repellent.
Meet Eric McGough, a seasoned adventurer and military veteran who traded his tech career for a life of outdoor exploration and freedom. He plans to travel the world, discover new adventures, and share information about great destinations, gear, and more on the Shaman Mountain Sports and Outdoors Blog.
