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The 11 best places for camping in colorado.

Camp among mountains, alpine lakes, sand dunes, canyons and more.

The Best Places for Camping in Colorado

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You'll have no problem finding the ideal camping spot in every corner of Colorado.

Whether you're a longtime lover of the outdoors or a novice camper, you're sure to find the perfect camping adventure in Colorado. The Centennial State boasts a number of national parks, national forests, state parks and wilderness areas with facilities and amenities for every type of outdoor enthusiast. And once you've pitched your tent (or parked your RV), you'll have a plethora of outdoor offerings at your fingertips – like sand sledding at Great Sand Dunes National Park, hiking in the Rocky Mountains, paddleboarding on one of the top Colorado lakes and more.

Pack your sleeping bag and head out to these destinations for the best camping in Colorado.

Rocky Mountain National Park

With more than 260,000 acres of meadows, mountains, alpine lakes and more, Rocky Mountain National Park is a camper's dream. Before relaxing at a campsite, drive along the scenic Trail Ridge Road – the highest continuously paved road in North America – for epic views. If you're feeling adventurous, take an easy hike to the popular Bear Lake or traverse to stunning Sky Pond for more of a challenge. Visitors to the park can also partake in biking, horseback riding and permit-required backpacking among a plethora of other activities. Nearby Estes Park also offers plenty to do, such as touring the Stanley Hotel , one of the  most haunted hotels in the U.S.  and the inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining."

To reserve your summer stay at the tent- and RV-friendly Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, Timber Creek and Moraine Park campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park, visit Recreation.gov . Keep in mind that reservations open six months in advance and fill quickly. The only campground available on a first-come, first-served basis in the summer is the tents-only Longs Peak Campground, located about 10 miles south of Estes Park. If you're visiting during the winter, only Moraine Park is open on a first-come, first-served basis.

Timber Creek is located on the west side of the park, while Aspenglen, Glacier Basin and Moraine Park sit on the east closer to the more popular trails of the park like Bear Lake and Emerald Lake . Each of the reservation-required campgrounds includes tents-only campsites for a quieter stay, two or more campsites for those with disabilities, and staff on-site should you have questions or concerns. For specific features about each campground, visit nps.gov . Leashed dogs are welcome in the campgrounds but prohibited on all trails. Summer camping fees are $35 per night for individual sites, and a winter campsite at Moraine Park is $30 per night. A vehicle entrance pass is required and costs $35 for seven-day access to the park.

Note: Moraine Campground will be closed from late May 2023 to early summer 2024 for construction.

[See more of Rocky Mountain National Park:  Things to Do  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Colorado doesn't just boast the highest paved road on the continent, but the tallest dunes as well. Great Sand Dunes National Park, located in southern Colorado about 170 miles from Colorado Springs , is open year-round for hiking, sand sledding and – due to its status as a designated International Dark Sky Park – stargazing. While the park offers many campsites for permit-required backpacking, there is only one National Park Service campground for car and RV camping and an additional High-Clearance 4WD Camp. Piñon Flats Campground, open from April through October, is located a mile north of the Visitors Center and comprises a total of 91 sites, three of which are group sites.

You must make a reservation to use the campsites. Individual sites (accommodating up to eight people) can be reserved up to six months in advance, while reservations for group sites (15 to 40 people) are available up to a year in advance. There are no electric hookups, but each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring and fire grate. The campground features flush toilets, a camp store, on-site staff and accessible campsites for those with disabilities. Campers appreciate the clean bathrooms and great views of the dunes.

Your leashed dog is welcome to explore much of the park, including the campground and the main day-use area of the dunefield, but keep in mind that the sand can reach extreme temperatures, so protecting your pet's feet is recommended. An individual campsite at Piñon Flats costs $20 per night in addition to the seven-day $25 vehicle entrance fee. Reserve your camping trip online at Recreation.gov .

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Colorado .]

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Head west to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, otherwise known as the Grand Canyon of Colorado, for a geological spectacle on your next camping trip. The steep cliffs, formed over millions of years, provide challenging hiking and rock climbing opportunities for those brave enough to venture into the permit-required inner canyon. Parkgoers happy to admire the views from the safety of the rim can enjoy hiking trails for all abilities, scenic drives, trout fishing and wildlife-watching. Another certified International Dark Sky Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison also features astronomy education programs and even an annual Astronomy Festival.

Like the Grand Canyon , Black Canyon of the Gunnison has a North Rim and South Rim. Of the two official campgrounds in the park, the South Rim Campground is the biggest and most popular with a total of 88 campsites, 23 of which offer electric hookups. Two campsites are ADA-accessible. Travelers love that the campground is close to hiking trails and the visitor center, but warn that water is limited. Make sure to reserve your stay (at Recreation.gov ) if you're planning to camp between mid-May and mid-September; after that, however, it's first-come, first-served.

The remote North Rim Campground is entirely first-come, first-served, and its 13 sites fill quickly in the summer. Leashed pets are welcome in both campgrounds as well as on a few hiking trails. Along with the $30 seven-day vehicle pass, fees are $16 for a standard individual site at both campgrounds, and $22 for an RV site with electric hookups at the South Rim Campground. A campground called East Portal is also accessed through the park, though it is technically within Curecanti National Recreation Area (which has 10 campgrounds of its own).

Mesa Verde National Park

It's no wonder Mesa Verde National Park – a World Heritage Site as well as an International Dark Sky Park – is one of the best places to camp in Colorado. The national park preserves more than 4,700 archaeological sites, including its well-known cliff dwellings, built by Ancestral Puebloans. Parkgoers can explore the sites themselves with the help of downloadable podcasts and audio tours, or take a guided tour, which is offered May through October and requires tickets that can be purchased online up to 14 days in advance. Other activities include attending a cultural dance or demonstration, stargazing, and hiking.

Morefield Campground, located 4 miles from the park entrance, boasts 267 tent-, trailer- and RV-friendly campsites. The campground rarely fills; reservations are accepted but not required (though they are encouraged for the 15 full-hookup RV sites and can be made online at visitmesaverde.com ). Those looking for a quieter stay can book one of the 85 tent-only campsites. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit, and campers can enjoy plenty of amenities including showers and a camp store, which recent guests say has everything you need for your camping trip. There's even a coin-operated laundromat and a kennel nearby – as leashed pets are allowed in the campground but not permitted inside ancestral sites or on most park trails. Tent camping and RV camping without hookups cost $38 per night on top of the seven-day vehicle entrance fee ($30 for summer and $20 for winter). Full hookup campsites cost $51 per night.

If you want a luxury stay perfect for a romantic getaway in Colorado , consider booking a room at Far View Lodge located at the center of the park. Room amenities include a private balcony with stunning views, custom handcrafted furniture and more.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests

You'll have plenty to explore in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests. More than 3,000 miles of trails – many carved by Indigenous peoples – mean ample opportunities for hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding and more during your camping trip. If you're up for a bigger challenge, consider climbing one of several 14,000-foot mountains (nicknamed "14ers") in the area such as Uncompahgre Peak, Wetterhorn Peak or Mount Sneffels.

There are 56 developed campgrounds across the GMUG National Forests. If you'd like a quieter stay, consider first-come, first-served Gothic Campground in Crested Butte ($12 per night) for unbeatable mountain biking and four-wheel driving. Alta Lakes' no-fee dispersed camping in Telluride offers fishing in a stunning alpine setting, but note that the Forest Service does not recommend trailers or RVs. If you're looking for more of a glamping experience, consider a cabin stay at a Forest Service Guard Station. Cabin reservations can be made up to six months in advance.

Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

Extending across north central Colorado, the Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland together span 1.5 million acres. With such a vast acreage covering Boulder , Fort Collins , Idaho Springs, Winter Park, Granby and Greeley, there's no shortage of campgrounds. Standouts include Pawnee Campground, west of Boulder; Guanella Pass Campground, near Idaho Springs; and Kelly Flats Campground, west of Fort Collins and Loveland.

Pawnee Campground is located in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area – home to countless hiking, snowshoeing and backpacking trails – near Boulder. The campground's 47 campsites welcome tents, trailers and RVs. Keep in mind that, at an elevation of more than 10,000 feet, the campground can be cold and wet. Reservations for the $25 campsites – equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings – can be made 180 days in advance at Recreation.gov .

Like Pawnee, Guanella Pass (located on the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway) also sits at a high elevation: 10,900 feet. While this may mean hunkering down for cold nights, campers can fill their days by hiking, fishing and exploring historic Georgetown nearby. Of the campground's 18 campsites – each of which has a picnic table, fire ring and charcoal grill – 11 are suitable for RVs, but note that the Forest Service does not recommend large RVs on the byway. Some of the campsites are first-come, first-served, but you can book your camping trip for $23 per night at Recreation.gov up to six months in advance for the remaining campsites.

For a stay closer to town, the riverside Kelly Flats Campground is located about 35 miles from Fort Collins, and its elevation reaches 6,600 feet. All 29 campsites are first-come, first-served, and there are four walk-in tent sites. Campers can enjoy stream fishing.

Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands

The Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands cover nearly 3 million acres, including half of Colorado's 14ers, the Continental Divide Trail and the Colorado Trail. There is plenty of dispersed camping as well as cabin rentals perfect for a romantic getaway. Of the many campgrounds throughout these forests and grasslands, Turquoise Lake Recreation Area near Leadville, Crags Campground near Colorado Springs and Angel of Shavano Campground near Salida stand out.

Turquoise Lake Recreation Area near Leadville, the highest elevated incorporated city in North America at 10,200 feet, comprises nine campgrounds, seven of which are suitable for RV camping. Most of the campsites in all of the campgrounds cost $26 per night and can be reserved up to six months in advance. The area offers a plethora of water activities, including fishing, motorized boating, paddleboarding and more.

Crags Campground's 17 tent, RV and trailer campsites are first-come, first-served and cost $20 per night. You can hike to one of Colorado's most famous 14ers, Pikes Peak , from camp, but expect a long and tiring day. Another first-come, first-served campground, Angel of Shavano Campground in Salida, sits in the shadow of 14ers Mount Shavano and Tabeguache Peak. This campground is ideal for tent camping and costs $22 per night.

Note: At the time of publication, the main water system in Turquoise Lake Recreation Area was down until further notice. Visitors must bring their own water. Consult the Forest Service website for updates.

White River National Forest

Home to Hanging Lake, 11 ski resorts , 10 14ers and the iconic Maroon Bells, White River National Forest should be on every outdoor-lover's bucket list. If you're not backpacking the popular Four Pass Loop or the Conundrum Hot Springs Trail, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area includes several campgrounds, most notably Silver Bell Campground. Choose from 14 tent-only, walk-in, and RV- and trailer-friendly campsites along the banks of Maroon Creek. Electric hookups are not offered, but campsites feature picnic tables, vault toilets and campfire rings. Pets are welcome but must be leashed. Ten of the sites are first-come, first-served for a five-day stay limit, and the other four can be reserved online up to six months in advance at Recreation.gov – but know that they fill up quickly. Fees include a $5 car pass as well as $15 per night of camping.

Recent travelers say the campground is beautiful and they enjoy the soothing sounds of Maroon Creek, but they warn that running water is lacking. For activities, campers can enjoy fishing, hiking and mountain climbing (like the challenging Maroon Bells : Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, both of which are 14ers). Or, Aspen is only a 6.5-mile drive away if you're in the mood to leave camp and explore a world-famous ski town.

[See more of Aspen:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Colorado National Monument

Established in 1911, Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction works to protect not only the stunning natural features – like the canyons and monoliths – found in the area, but the human history as well. The famed Rim Rock Drive took decades to complete and can't be missed; you can see 1.7 billion-year-old rock layers, stop at overlooks for spectacular views and stargazing at night, and explore hiking trails near the road. The drive usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour and can be challenging, especially if you're afraid of heights – but don't worry, as there's plenty more to do in the monument, from bird-watching to hiking trails of all difficulties.

If you're not backpacking (which requires a free permit), head over to Saddlehorn Campground, the only established campground in Colorado National Monument. Three loops hold 80 campsites, and one of the loops is open year-round. Each campsite has a picnic table and charcoal grill (no wood fires are allowed) as well as access to flush toilets and on-site staff, but there is not a dump station. There are also no hookups, but one campsite is paved for wheelchair access. Leashed pets are allowed at campsites and on paved surfaces, but not on hiking trails. Visitors mention the campground offers breathtaking views, clean restrooms and friendly staff. There are two fees needed to camp: a $25 entrance fee to the park (good for seven days) and a camping fee of $22 per night. You can reserve up to six months in advance at Recreation.gov .

Chatfield State Park

If you're a first-time camper, consider a campground close to the city. Chatfield State Park is only about 20 miles south of Denver , but you'll still feel plenty immersed in the outdoors with 26 miles of trails to hike, bike or explore by horse. The Chatfield State Park Campground boasts almost 200 individual and group campsites, 146 of which are full hookups (the rest are electric hookup only) and 12 of which are accessible to campers with disabilities. All campsites are within walking distance to Chatfield Reservoir, where you can fish, paddleboard and even water-ski. Campsites have picnic tables and grills, and facilities include flush toilets, coin-operated showers, access to laundry and more. Dogs are welcome but leashes are required except in the 69-acre fenced Dog Off-Leash Area (which requires a daily $3 pass or $25 annual pass).

Campers appreciate the spacious campsites and love partaking in the many activities available around the park. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website . Fees include a daily vehicle pass of $10 and a daily parks pass for camping – either $41 for a full hookup campsite or $36 for electric. Group campsites cost $200. (Consider purchasing an $80 Annual Affixed Vehicle Pass for unlimited vehicle access to all Colorado state parks.)

Cherry Creek State Park

For another option close to Denver, head 14 miles southeast to Cherry Creek State Park for year-round camping. The Cherry Creek State Park Campground contains 135 campsites – including full hookup sites, basic tent sites and three group sites – as well as showers and laundry facilities. Boating season runs from April to November, during which you can take a paddleboard, kayak or Jet Ski out on Cherry Creek Reservoir. If you're not a water-lover, consider biking along 35 miles of multiuse trails or birding, as you can spot various raptor species such as bald eagles and red-tailed hawks. Your leashed furry friend is welcome in the campground, but note that dogs are not allowed in the wetlands area – stop by the 107-acre fenced Dog Off-Leash Area instead.

Recent visitors call the campsites spacious and the bathrooms clean, but some caution that the campground can be noisy due to auto and plane traffic. Daily vehicle passes cost $11, basic campsites cost $28 per day, and full hookup campsites cost $41 per day. Group sites run at $216 for 36 people and $432 for 72 people. You must call to reserve group campsites, but you can reserve individual sites online up to six months in advance at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson is a digital producer with an affinity for the outdoors. A resident of Colorado, she used her own experiences along with extensive research to curate this list. She has camped and backpacked around the state (including in Rocky Mountain National Park), sand-sledded in Great Sand Dunes National Park, paddleboarded on many Colorado lakes and reservoirs, and climbed more than 30 14ers.

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Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , Camping Vacations , U.S. West Vacations , US Vacations

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12 Best Places to Go Camping in Colorado for an Incredible Outdoor Adventure in the Centennial State

Here's what you need to know about camping in Colorado, including the best campgrounds and helpful tips.

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Whether you’re embarking on an upscale glamping getaway or pitching a tent in a national park , camping is a rewarding way to experience Colorado’s vast landscapes — so long as you do it right. Overnight adventures in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness and beyond require at least a bit of foreknowledge. First, ask a few questions: When is the Colorado camping season? When should you make campsite reservations? Is it legal to camp anywhere? And, importantly, what are Colorado’s best camping destinations? Here’s what you need to know about camping in Colorado, starting with the basics. 

What to Know About Camping in Colorado

To answer those questions quickly: June, July, and August offer the best weather for camping. Those clement days are desirable, so campgrounds fill up fast — which means you’ll need to make campsite reservations as soon as you can. Most campgrounds allow you to reserve six months out; all state parks require reservations. You can’t legally camp wherever you want beyond designated lands, though some parks allow dispersed camping (camping in undeveloped areas). No matter if you car camp, RV or van camp, backpack, or glamp, Colorado has a campsite for you. Just remember to follow the Leave No Trace rules so others can enjoy these campgrounds, too.

Best Campgrounds in Colorado

Moraine park campground, rocky mountain national park.

Moraine Park Campground , located in one of the state’s most famous national parks, is a fantastic home base for classic Colorado activities such as fishing, horseback riding, and hiking. The park has 355 miles of trails that range from entry-level lakeside walks to steep rocky summits, all easily accessible from the single-family, tent-only, and walk-to campsites. The campgrounds also contain RV sites without hookups and many chipmunk neighbors. 

South Rim Campground, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Spectacular canyon views? Check. Year-round campsites? You bet. South Rim Campground is the only campground in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park that’s open in any season, which means you can explore the dramatic gorge when the mood strikes. Just know that potable water is only available in the summer months, as is the ability to reserve sites and electric hookups for RVs in advance. 

Piñon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park

There are a few reasons why Piñon Flats Campground is the best place to camp in the state , including a dishwashing sink, toilets that flush, restrooms with sinks, and plenty of potable water spigots. Each site has a picnic table and a fire grate; many boast stunning dune views. With so many creature comforts, a stay here almost tips into glamping territory, depending on your disposition toward roughing it. 

Comanche National Grassland

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These flat southeastern grasslands showcase unexpected topography in a state known for its mountains. The area offers dispersed camping, so set up wherever you feel called, as long as your campsite is at least 100 feet from any water source. Follow the 17.6-mile Picket Wire Canyon Trail to see 150 million-year-old dinosaur footprints.

Fisherman’s Paradise Campground, Sylvan Lake State Park

There are several prime spots to camp in this relatively tiny, remote state park, but few can beat Fisheman’s Paradise’s lake views. Plus, sites here are open year-round and are big enough to accommodate RVs. Ice fish, nordic ski, and snowmobile from your home base in cold temperatures; canoe, kayak, and hike when the weather’s warm. 

Silver Bell Campground, Maroon Bells Scenic Area

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At 8,460 feet, amid aspen groves and subalpine forest, Silver Bell Campground might only be 20 minutes from Aspen, but it can feel a world away. The sites have campfire rings and picnic tables, proffering a classic landing spot after a day spent hiking around mountain lakes and wildflower meadows. 

Morefield Campground, Mesa Verde National Park

Southwest Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park is an archeological wonder, as over 600 cliff dwellings built by Ancestral Puebloans exist across the park’s 52,000-plus acres. Add the fact that it’s one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing , and you’ll be surprised to learn that Morefield rarely fills up, even during peak seasons. The whopping 267 sites might have something to do with that.

Chatfield State Park Campground

You don’t need to venture far from Denver for first-rate camping, hiking, and fishing. Chatfield is an urban park on steroids and a fantastic place for entry-level campers to escape the city and get their bearings without roughing it too much. 

Angel of Shavano Campground, San Isabel National Forest

Fun fact: Colorado has 53 fourteeners (peaks over 14,000 feet high), and 19 are in San Isabel National Forest. Camp at first-come, first-served Angel of Shavano Campground to get acquainted with Salida’s trails, including portions of the Colorado Trail.

Mueller State Park Campground

Some campgrounds stand alone because of their amenities; others are perfectly fine in the facility department (clean pit toilets, electric sites, fire rings, etc.), but their locations are what really make them stand out. Mueller State Park Campground is the latter. Simply put, this state park west of Colorado Springs is a beauty. Think stunning mountain and meadow views, gorgeous woodlands, and quiet seclusion. 

Oasis RV Resort & Cottages, Curecanti National Recreation Area

Sure, this RV resort next to the Blue Mesa Reservoir (Colorado’s largest body of water) might not be a traditional campsite, but the beauty of Colorado camping is that there’s no one way to do it. Park your RV or rent a tent site and get access to unconventional amenities like a dog park, basic Wi-Fi, bingo, movies, and karaoke nights. 

Twin Peaks Campground, Twin Lakes

Stay at the quiet Twin Peaks Campground , between Twin Lake Reservoir and Independence Pass, if you’re into fly fishing, fantastic views, and large campsites with plentiful privacy. If you’re collecting 14ers , Mt. Elbert, the Rocky Mountains’ highest summit, is close by.

Related Articles

Best Camping In Colorado: 15 Top Sites For Your Next Trip

Colorado is a true camper’s paradise, offering enough outstanding locations to keep even the most avid camper happy for at least a few lifetimes. Discover 15 of the best campgrounds in Colorado in our guide!

Colorado’s diverse landscape makes it a popular destination for campers. Few states can compete with locations like the Garden of the Gods, Gunnison National Park, San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, and Rocky Mountain National Park – all of which offer breathtaking views and experiences.

Colorado has a mixture of free dispersed camping sites, paid developed campgrounds, and even some sites built for glamping devotees. Whether you enjoy the hustle and bustle of busy sites with water sports and kid’s playgrounds or prefer to float in peace in a canoe across a tranquil lake bathed in the early morning sunlight, you’ll find the best camping trip Colorado has to offer right here.

Table of Contents

1. Piñon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park

2. pearl lake campgrounds, colorado (near steamboat springs), 3. sun outdoors rocky mountain campground, granby, 4. may queen campground, turquoise lake, 5. bear lake campground, west of yampa, 6. teal campground, pagosa springs, 7. maroon bells, 8. angel of shavano campground, salida, 9. colorado moraine park campground, rocky mountains national park, 10. upper slate lake, white river national forest, 11. twin peaks campground, twin lakes, 12. morefield campground, mesa verde national park, 13. chatfield state park campground, 14. south rim campground, black canyon of the gunnison national park, 15. silver bell campground, white river national forest, what are the camping rules in colorado, where can i camp for free in colorado, do you need a reservation to camp in colorado, is camping popular in colorado, the best camping in colorado: in summary, where to camp in colorado.

In this guide, we’ve picked out fifteen of the best places to camp in Colorado. Each one is slightly different, so why not plan a road trip across the state, taking in a selection of these stops along the way?

• Piñon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Pearl Lake Campgrounds, Colorado (near Steamboat Springs)
• Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain Campground, Granby
• May Queen Campground, Turquoise Lake
• Bear Lake Campground, West Of Yampa
• Teal Campground, Pagosa Springs
• Maroon Bells
• Angel Of Shavano Campground, Salida
• Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountains National Park
• Upper Slate Lake, White River National Forest
• Twin Peaks Campground
• Morefield Campground
• Chatfield State Park Campground
• South Rim Campground
• Silver Bell Campground

Piñon Flats is the ideal Colorado campground for visitors to the spectacular Great Sand Dunes National Park .

The campground gives you direct access to trails leading to the famous sand dunes. These dunes are the tallest in North America, forming the centerpiece of the park’s diverse landscape of wetlands, grasslands, alpine lakes, tundra, and forests of conifer and aspen. After dark, you can take in the glorious spectacle of starry skies or enjoy a surreal nocturnal stroll across the moonlit dunes.

RELATED: Best Hiking in Great Sand Dunes NP

The campground’s 88 sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 35 ft. There are 3 group sites for tents and 3 dispersed sites. For the best mountain views, choose a site at the north end of the loops. Amenities include restrooms, toilets, sinks, potable water, fire grates, picnic tables, and bear boxes. There are no shower facilities and no hookups. If visiting from mid-May through mid-September, make a reservation by calling 877-444-6777 or at recreation.gov .

• Type of campsite: Tent, RV and Dispersed
• Location: Mosca, Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Number of spots: 88
• Facilities: Restrooms with sinks, flush toilets, dishwashing sinks, potable water spigots, fire grates, picnic tables, and bear boxes. No showers. No hookups.
• Nearby towns: Alamosa (35 miles)
• Nearby attractions: San Luis Valley Museum (Alamosa), Merano Pass 4WD (Great Sand Dunes NP), Zapata Falls
• Nearby hiking trails: High Dune Trail, Star Dune Trail, Medano Lake Trail

Pearl Lake State Park Campground is our favorite Colorado campground for a peaceful lakeside getaway with stunning alpine scenery.

This quiet campground is nestled in a narrow valley at the foot of Farewell Mountain, near the town of Hahn’s Peak. It offers glorious scenery, first-class fishing, and opportunities for all kinds of watersports. If hiking’s your bag, the Pearl Lake Trail, Fish Creek Falls Trail, and Hahn’s Peak Trail will keep you busy and entertained!

Pearl Lake offers 38 sites and 2 yurts. The sites can accommodate tents or RVs up to 55 feet. Most of the sites are pull-through. Amenities include drinking water, toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, but there are no hookups. One yurt and site 35 are wheelchair accessible. The park is open year-round, but only the yurts are available in winter. All sites must be pre-booked and campers also need a vehicle pass or an Annual Parks Pass.

• Type of campsite: RV, Tent, and Yurt
• Location: Hahn’s Peak
• Number of spots: 38 plus 2 yurts
• Facilities: Potable water, toilets, fire rings, picnic tables. No hookups.
• Nearby towns: Steamboat Springs (26.5 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Steamboat Lake State Park, Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs, Saddleback Ranch Horseback Rides and Snowmobile Tours
• Nearby hiking trails: Pearl Lake Trail, Fish Creek Falls, Hahn’s Peak

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain Campground is the ideal basecamp for campers looking for a family-friendly Rocky Mountains getaway with plenty of things to do onsite and equipped with all the comforts of home.

Nearby, there are plenty of opportunites for outdoor adventure, including fishing and kayaking on the Colorado River or Lake Granby and hiking, climbing, skiing, or sledding in Rocky Mountain National Park. Various outfitters in Granby also offer horseback riding, rafting, hunting, and biking tours.

This is a large, sprawling resort with 400 tent camping, RV, and vacation rental options. On-site, there’s a zero-entry pool, bowling alley, golf course, live music, restaurants, hot tubs, and a spa, and amenities include showers, laundry, hookups, and toilets. For more information on rates and availability, check out the Sun Outdoors website or 888-886-2477.

• Type of campsite: RV, Tent & Cabin
• Location: 1051 Summit Trail, Granby, CO
• Number of spots: 400
• Facilities: Restaurants, toilets, showers, hookups, pool, hot tubs, spa, live music, dog parks, golf course
• Nearby towns: Granby (2 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Granby Ranch, Moffat Road Railroad Museum, Rocky Mountain National Park
• Nearby hiking trails: Strawberry Lake, Monarch Lake Loop, Doe Creek Trail, Hallett’s Peak Trail

May Queen Campground is the perfect camping spot if you’re looking for a peaceful wilderness camping experience on the picturesque Turquoise Lake.

From camp, you can hike out into the wilderness areas of Mount Massive and Holy Cross or take the Colorado Trail, which passes right by the campground. Many visitors bring kayaks or canoes, which can be carried down to the lake.

The campground is the only one at this end of the lake and most sites are located well away from the road, so peace and quiet is the norm. If you want maximum privacy, choose one of the dozen walk-in sites. Seventeen regular sites can accommodate RVs up to 32 feet and tents. Amenities include campfire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, drinking water, and trash collection, but there are no hookups. You can reserve a site by calling 877-444-67777.

• Type of campsite: Tent & RV
• Location: Turquoise Lake Rd, Leadville, Lake County
• Number of spots: 27
• Facilities: Campfire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, potable water, and trash collection.
• Nearby towns: Leadville (10.3 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Rockies Scenic Byway, Leadville (historic gold and silver mining town), Colorado Midland Railroad
• Nearby hiking trails: Hope Pass, Native Lake, Timberline Lake

Bear Lake Campground is located in one of Colorado’s most beautiful and underrated camping locations, the Bear River Valley.

The lake is enclosed by the towering, volcanic cliffs of the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, the second-largest wilderness in Colorado, while the valley is lush with spruce, fir, and aspen. The trout fishing here is excellent . On Yamcolo Reservoir, you’ll find a boat ramp for larger vessels, while Bear Lake welcomes hand-powered and electric craft users.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, the Mandall Lakes Trail starts opposite the campground and takes you up to the stunning Flat Tops Plateau. More trails begin at the Stillwater Reservoir. The countryside here is peaceful, and the views are spectacular.

This is the most suitable campground in the valley for RVs and families. There are 43 sites for RVs up to 30 feet, and for tents there’s one triple site and two walk-in sites. On-site you’ll find picnic tables, toilets, and drinking water, but there are no hookups. You can’t book in advance here. Call 970-638-4516 for more information. 

• Type of campsite: RV & Tent
• Location: Service Road 900, Bear Lake
• Number of spots: 43
• Facilities: Picnic tables, toilets, drinking water, parking
• Nearby towns: Yampa (11 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Flat Tops Wilderness Area, Stagecoach State Park, Flat Tops Trail Byway
• Nearby hiking trails: Devil’s Causeway, Mosquito Lake, Little Causeway Loop, Carhart Trail

Teal Campground is among our favorite Colorado campsites thanks to its incredible mountain vistas, fantastic fishing, and glorious lakeside views. If you’re looking for one of the best lakes to camp at in Colorado, it’s worth checking out!

The campground is located on the Williams Creek Reservoir’s western shore, offering dramatic views of the spectacular San Juan Mountains. To the north are Chief, Toner, and Cimarron peaks, while the Rocky Mountains dominate the east.

This location is fantastic for fishers and those who enjoy boating. The 343-acre reservoir offers exceptional fishing for kokanee salmon and trout during the early summer months, and is great for kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. For those who enjoy hiking, a short drive takes you to the nearby Cimarrona and Williams Creek trailheads.

The campground’s left loop offers 11 lakeside sites, some of which look directly over the water. These are quite close together and don’t have much shade, but you can pitch your tent among the small clusters of pines nearby. The right loop has just 5 sites, all of which offer shade, great views, and more privacy. Amenities include fire grates, potable water, trash pickup, vault toilets, and picnic tables, but no hookups. The site caters for tents and RVs up to 35 feet. For more information, call 970-264-2268. 

• Type of campsite: Tent and RV
• Location: Forest Rd. 640, Williams Creek Reservoir
• Number of spots: 16
• Facilities: Fire grates, potable water, trash pickup, vault toilets, picnic tables
• Nearby towns: Pagosa Spings (26.5 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Williams Creek Reservoir, Piedra Falls Ice Caves, Rainbow Hot Springs
• Nearby hiking trails: Ice Caves Trail, Quartz Lake Trail, Fourmile Falls (Fourmile Stockdrive Trail)

The Maroon Bells’ campgrounds (Silver Queen, Silver Bar, or Silver Bell) are the perfect camping spots for hikers and sightseers looking to visit two of Colorado’s most iconic and coveted spectacles: Maroon Lake and the towering Maroon Bells (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak).

The 14,000-foot peaks and lake are among the most photographed mountains in North America and plenty of hiking trails in the area allow you to view them from all angles. Nearby, you’ll also find the trailheads for Crater Lake, Four Pass Loop, Pyramid Peak, and the Bells themselves. At the end of your days on the trails, the fun and comforts of Aspen await just 11 miles away.

All three campsites are among the most beautiful campgrounds in Colorado, sitting right below the mountain and offering direct access to the stunning Maroon Lake. Check out Silver Queen , Silver Bar , or Silver Bell campsite and choose your preferred location. Although the facilities on offer are elementary (restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings only), it’s only a short hop into Aspen to stock up on supplies.

• Type of campsite: Tent & Small RVs
• Location: Maroon Lake, White River National Forest
• Number of spots: 23 (across 3 campgrounds)
• Facilities: Restrooms (at day-use areas at Maroon Lake)
• Nearby towns: Aspen (10.8 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Aspen, The Aspen Emporium, The Aspen Brewing Company, The John Denver Sanctuary
• Nearby hiking trails: Crater Lake, Four Pass Loop, Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail

Angel of Shavano Campground is the ideal setting for those who want to get back to nature and escape the crowds when camping in Colorado, as well as enjoy a little adventure in the gorgeous and adventure-packed San Isabel National Forest .

The campground is located in the heart of the densely wooded national forest, offering a truly memorable retreat where you can enjoy almost perfect solitude and tranquillity. You can enjoy mountain biking or hiking along the 486-mile Colorado Trail , which runs right alongside the campground, and there’s some excellent fishing to be had in the North Fork Reservoir. 

There are 20 individual campsites, and, largely thanks to its remote location around the three-hour drive from Denver, the first-come-first-served campgrounds are very rarely crowded. Drinking water and vault toilets are available during the summer months, and dogs (leashed) are permitted. RVs up to 30′ are welcome, but there are no hookups.

• Type of campsite: Tent (dispersed) & RV
• Location: San Isabel National Forest, Chaffee County
• Number of spots: 20
• Facilities: Drinking water, vault toilet
• Nearby towns: Salida (15 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Arkansas River, Monarch Scenic Tramway, Salida Hot Springs
• Nearby hiking trails: Colorado Trail, Mount Shavano, Waterdog Lakes Trail

Moraine Park Campground is one of the best places to camp in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park , giving you plenty of peace and quiet, sumptuous views, and immediate access to pristine alpine wilderness.

The views of the nearby peaks that you’ll enjoy from every site are breathtaking, and the area is a Mecca for wildlife spotting too. Here, you can see elk, mountain lions, moose, black bears, and long-horned sheep. Several top-notch hiking trails allow you to explore the area further – our favorites are the Fern Lake Trail, Beaver Point Trail, and Cub Lake Loop.

Only tent camping is permitted here, and there are no hookups. Potable water and vault toilet facilities are available year-round, and flush toilets are available for the summer months. For the summer season, reservations are recommended and may be made up to six months in advance. The campground is open year-round, and a trip here during the winter months is truly magical.

• Type of campsite: Tent
• Location: Moraine Park Road, Estes Park
• Number of spots: 101
• Facilities: Vault toilets, flush toilets (summer only), driking water, dump station, food storage lockers
• Nearby towns: Estes Park (6.9 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Moraine Park Discovery Center, Glacier Creek Stables, Lake Estes
• Nearby hiking trails: Fern Lake Trail, Beaver Point Trail, Cub Lake Loop

Upper Slate Lake in the White River National Forest offers the best tent camping in Colorado if you’re into true, out-of-reach wilderness camping.

Located at an elevation of 10,800 feet, Upper Slate Lake is a quiet, crystal-clear lake in the most beautiful setting imaginable. Nestled among the peaks of the Gores, the jagged, imposing skyline framing the lake is truly awe-inspiring. To explore the area further, take a hike to the beautiful waterfalls at the west end of the lake or hop on the Gore Lake or Rock Creek Trail for a real challenge.

You reach this location via a strenuous, 21.5-mile hike up the Harrigan Creek, Gore Range, and Slate Creek trails. To break the journey in two, you can camp at Lower Slate Lake. Once at Upper Slate Lake, you’re in for a true wilderness, amenity-free experience, so bring everything you need with you! Registration is required for overnight camping – there are free, self-issue registration forms at the trailhead.

• Type of campsite: Tent (dispersed)
• Location: Eagles Nest Wilderness Area, Summit County
• Number of spots: N/A
• Facilities: None
• Nearby towns: Silverthorne (18 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Vail
• Nearby hiking trails: Gore Range Trail, Rock Creek Trail

Twin Peaks Campground is a great Colorado camping destination for campers looking to explore and enjoy the many wonders of the Mount Elbert area, including Aspen, Leadville, Maroon Lake, Snowmass, and the Sawatch Range.

Staying at Twin Peaks campgrounds gives visitors a wide range of things to do. For a little more glamour, shopping, and dining, you can head to Aspen for the day, taking in Independence Pass on the way. For outdoor adventure, hit one of the abundant hiking trails in the area (Mount Elbert is our top pick!) or spend a day on one of the lakes on a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or a guided boat tour.

Amenities here include vault toilets, picnic tables, and recycling facilities. All sites are first-come, first-served. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

• Location: Twin Lakes, San Isabel National Forest
• Number of spots: 35
• Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, parking, trash/recycling
• Nearby towns: Twin Lakes (3.5 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Twin Lakes (boat tours, canoeing), Independence Pass, Interlaken Historic District
• Nearby hiking trails: Willis Gulch, Mount Elbert, La Plata Peak

Morefield campground is the best Colorado campground for visitors to Mesa Verde National Park .

From the campsite, you’ll be within walking distance of the park’s Ancestral Pueblo ruins on the surrounding cliffs and mesas. The national park is both a World Heritage Site and an International Dark Sky Park, so you’ll have plenty of wonders to gaze at day and night! The park is also home to 1000+ animal, reptile, and insect species, many of which are endemic to the region.

Morefield has 267 tent and RV campsites and offers a comfortable camping experience. Amenities include a general store, hookups, dump station, toilets, showers, laundry facilities, fire pits, BBQ grills, and picnic tables. You can make reservations on Aramark Visit Mesa Verde or by calling 1-800-449-2288.

• Location: Mile Marker 4 U.S. 160, Mesa Verde National Park
• Number of spots: 267
• Facilities: General store, hookups, dump station, toilets, shower, laundry, fire pits, BBQ grill, picnic tables
• Nearby towns: Cortez (15 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings, Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum
• Nearby hiking trails: Petroglyph Point Trail, Mesa Verde Point Lookout Trail, Cliff Palace Loop

Chatfield State Park Campground is the perfect Colorado campground for campers looking for a quick getaway from the hussle and bustle of Denver.

There’s plenty to do within Chatfield State Park, from hiking and biking to fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming in the reservoir. You’ll also have easy access to the lovely Deer Creek Canyon Park and Denver Botanic Gardens, and be a short drive from Roxborough State Park .

Amenities include full hookups (mid-April to mid-October), electric hookups (year-round), coin-operated laundry and shower facilities, flush toilets, drinking water, grills, picnic tables, firewood, and a sanitary waste station. Reservations may be made on arrival or up to six months in advance by calling 1-800-244-5613. ​ 

• Location: Chatfield Reservoir, Douglas and Jefferson counties
• Number of spots: 197
• Facilities: Hookups, pull-through or back-in campsites, flush toilets, hot showers, laundry, water, grills, picnic tables, firewood, sanitary waste station
• Nearby towns: Columbine (4.4 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Chatfield Reservoir, Deer Creek Canyon Park, Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield
• Nearby hiking trails: Waterton Canyon Trail, Indian Creek and Stevens Gulch Loop, Chatfield Dam to Chatfield Internal Trail Loop

South Rim Campground is our favorite west Colorado camping spot due to its uber-remote feel and the easy access it provides to Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s top hiking trails .

South Rim Campground is located just a mile from the South Rim Visitor Center and within spitting distance of some of the national park’s top hiking trails. These include the Gunnison, Tomichi, Warner, and Devil’s Backbone routes, to name a few. When you’ve filled your hiking boots, a short drive to Cimarron will allow you to explore the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit, the R&G Narrow Gauge Rail Trestle, or hit the Cimarron River in a raft, canoe, or kayak.

Amenities include vault toilets, fire rings, food lockers, and trash/recycling. Potable water is available from mid-May through mid-October and electric hookups are only available in the summer.

Sites on loops A, B, and C can be reserved through recreation.gov in summer. All sites are first-come, first-served in spring, fall, and winter. Only loop B is open in winter.

• Location: South Rim Drive, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Number of spots: 23
• Facilities: Fire rings, potable water, trash, vault toilets, food lockers, electric hookups
• Nearby towns: Cimarron (20 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit, Cimarron River, D & RG Narrow Gauge Trestle, Crystal Reservoir
• Nearby hiking trails: Gunnison Route, Tomichi Route, Warner Route, Devil’s Backbone Route

Silver Bell Campground is the ideal Colorado camping destination for outdoor lovers keen to see Maroon Lake and Maroon Bells.

Maroon Bells and Maroon Lake are two of Colorado’s most stunning spectacles and the campsite is situated right on their doorstep in an aspen grove along Maroon Creek. Within a short distance, you’ll also find the town of Aspen, Snowmass Ski Resort, and myriad world-class hiking trails.

Only 5 of the campground’s 14 campsites can be reserved in advance – the others are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground’s amenities include picnic tables, vault toilets, and campfire rings, but there’s no potable water and no electric hookups. Each site is subject to a five-day-stay limit.

• Location: Near Aspen
• Number of spots: 14
• Facilities: Vault toilets, picnic table, campfire rings. No water, no electric hookups.
• Nearby towns: Aspen (6 miles)
• Nearby attractions: Aspen, Maroon Creek, Maroon Bells, Snowmass Ski Resort
• Nearby hiking trails: Maroon Lake Trail, Crater Lake Trail, West Maroon Trail

FAQs About Camping in Colorado

Before you go camping in Colorado, you may have some questions, such as what camping rules to follow, where you can camp for free, whether you need a reservation, and how popular camping is in various areas.

Camping rules in Colorado are similar to elsewhere in the country. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the rules listed below must be observed.

• Dispersed campers can only stay in a single spot for 14 days in a 30-day period
• One camping unit with up to 6 people is allowed per campsite
• A vehicle pass is required for all vehicles entering a State Park
• A towed vehicle pass is required for a vehicle towed in by a motor home
• Pets are welcome in most state parks but must be kept on a six-foot leash and be under control at all times
• A parent or guardian must accompany youths under 18 years of age
• Fires are allowed at campgrounds in designated fire rings during Stage 1 fire bans, but not at dispersed campsites. No fires are allowed during Stage 2 bans
• Most developed campgrounds and public lands (state and national parks) require reservations
• Many backcountry areas require a permit for dispersed camping or backpacking
• Campers should follow all Leave No Trace principles.

Free camping in Colorado is available on BLM (Burea of Land Management) or National Forest land. Free camping is also available in some wilderness areas, such as Mount Zirkel, Greenhorn Mountain, and Weminuche.

Reservations aren’t necessary at all Colorado state park and national park campgrounds, but are highly recommended, particularly in summer months.

Reservations can be made up to six months in advance for reservable sites. Non-reservable sites are available ​on a first-come, first-served basis.

According to Recreation.gov, Colorado is the second most popular camping destination in the USA, after California. The Center for Western Priorities also recently revealed that the average estimated peak season occupancy in Colorado’s reservable camping destinations rose from 41% to 71% from 2014–2020. At more popular campsites, this figure was above 90%.

The most popular destinations are Pike National Forest, San Isabel National Forest, and Comanche National Grassland.

There are a multitude of great Colorado camping spots offering something for every outdoor enthusiast, whether you’re into glamping, family camping with all the facilities you want right there on your doorstep, or hitting the hiking trails in search of blissful solitude.

Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Colorado never feels crowded. So, pack your tent, grab your backpack, and reserve yourself your very own little piece of paradise this summer. 

If you’ve enjoyed our guide to the best camping sites in Colorado, then share or comment below – and if you know a Colorado campsite we’ve missed then let us know too!

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Brian Conghalie

Brian has been an avid hiker and backpacker since he was a small kid, often being taken out into the wilderness on trips with his father. His dad knew everything about nature and the wilderness (or at least that's how it seemed to a ten year old Brian).

After high school, he went to university to read for both a BS and MS in Geology (primarily so he could spend his time outside rather than in a classroom). He's now hiked, camped, skied, backpacked or mapped on five continents (still need to bag Antarctica) & 30 of the US states.

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When it comes to natural beauty and great outdoor destinations, few states can compare to Colorado. From the stunning vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park to the rocky spires of  Garden of the Gods and the breathtaking views along the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, there is much to see and do. One of the best ways to experience these settings is to spend a few nights camping out under the stars. If that sounds like your kind of travel, and if you need help choosing a spot to pitch your tent, we're here to help. These are our favorite places to go camping while visiting the state of Colorado. 

Recreation.gov makes it easy to reserve camp sites in advance. Their " Accessibility " filter identifies each "site, building or facility that complies with applicable accessibility guidelines and standards under the Architectural Barriers Act which ensures the construction of facilities that are accessible to people with disabilities or otherwise limited physical mobility."

Maroon Bells

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

The Maroon Bells are undoubtedly one of the most famous locations in Colorado. Consisting of a pair of 14,000-foot mountains amongst the most photographed peaks in North America, this location offers breathtaking views all year long. Backpackers and car campers will find three campsites in the mountain's shadow, each providing access to this spectacular wilderness setting, including the gorgeous Maroon Lake. Whether you decide to stay at the Silver Bar, Silver Bell, or Silver Queen campsites, you simply can't go wrong here. They are all equally impressive and must-visit locations for those who love camping.

One of the best aspects of these sites is that they are nicely situated close to the town of Aspen. This is highly convenient if you need to make a supply run to collect more food or beverages or just want to stroll around town for a bit.

Piñon Flats Campground

For a different camping experience, travel to the Great Sand Dunes National Park in the southern part of the state. This destination resembles the Sahara more than the Rocky Mountains, with towering dunes standing in for snowcapped peaks. Piñon Flats is the best place to camp inside this remarkable setting and provides access to nearby hiking trails that meander over and around dunes that can reach as high as 700 feet. You can reserve a campsite online and use the filters to locate available areas with the amenities or accommodations you need. There are five different campsites that are wheelchair accessible in Piñon Flats.

And if you're looking for an adrenaline rush while you're there, you can even go sandboarding while staying inside the park. Skiing and snowboarding may be the unofficial winter sports of Colorado, but it is just as fun to carve your way down a massive dune. Note that special sand wheelchairs with balloon tires are also available for loan at the Visitor Center. These are best used for short distances through the dunes, as wheeling through sand can be extremely strenuous, even with the right equipment. You can call 719-378-6395 to reserve one in advance.

Oh Be Joyful Campground

Located not far from  Crested Butte , the Oh Be Joyful campsite doesn't just have a great name but is a fantastic location too. The camping area is a gateway into a massive region known as the Raggeds Wilderness . Spanning more than 65,000 acres, this national forest ranges from 7,000 to 13,000 feet. In addition to soaking up the wonderful views of the towering mountains that prominently line the horizon, campers can hike, fish, or mountain bike within the Raggeds. Reserve a campsite online and use the filters to find available accessible locations. Oh Be Joyful features 13 options for wheelchair and mobility aid users.

For a small slice of civilization amidst this remote location, be sure to drop by Crested Butte while you're in the area. You'll find plenty of excellent restaurants, pubs, and shops to explore, each oozing with mountain-town charm.

Guanella Pass

An hour's drive outside Denver, Guanella Pass can be found inside the Pike National Forest . Perched at 11,670 feet, the campsite is accessible both on foot or by car, making it a popular option for those looking for a hike or a more relaxed escape. Known for its spectacular night sky views, the campsite allows visitors to take stargazing to the next level. That also is a great way to wind down after a busy day of fishing on nearby Lake Georgetown or hiking up Mount Bierstadt, Mount Evans, or any of the other Colorado 14ers in the area. Alternatively, you can simply relax at your campsite, enjoy the company of friends, and relax in one of the best outdoor playgrounds the state offers. There are no designated accessible campsites in Guanella Pass.

Angel of Shavano Campgrounds

Those looking to get away from it all will want to add the Angel of Shavano campgrounds to their list of outdoor destinations. Located inside the  San Isabel National Forest , this campground has 20 individual campsites and is rarely ever crowded. This is partly due to its remote nature, which requires a three-hour drive from Denver to get to the location. The upside is that this usually makes it extremely easy to reserve a spot, even during the busier summer months.

Situated along the 486-mile Colorado Trail , Angel of Shavano offers excellent hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the North Fork Reservoir. The thickly-wooded national forest is also a beautiful retreat, offering plenty of solitude and tranquility for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. Lacking accessible campsites, Angel of Shavano is not the best option for wheelchair or mobility aid users.

Bear Lake Campground

Bear Lake is another scenic campsite inside Rocky Mountain National Park that is sure to please outdoor enthusiasts. This locale is perfect for anglers looking to reel in some Colorado trout. The nearby Cucharas River provides excellent opportunities to do just that, luring both casual and serious fly fishers looking to spend some time on the water. This campground also offers easy access to the 14-mile-long Indian Creek Trail, which is open to hikers and mountain bikers and ATVs and horses. Bear Lake campground does not have any designated accessible campsites.

No matter what you choose to do while staying at this campground, you'll find plenty of Colorado's trademark mountain scenery to keep you enthralled while you're there.

Moraine Park Campground

Rocky Mountain National Park has five outstanding campsites to stay in, but our favorite is Moraine Park. The site offers excellent views of the breathtaking landscapes for which the park is famous, and campers are often given the opportunity to spot passing wildlife, too. With black bear, moose, mountain lion, sheep, and elk all living within the park, sharp-eyed travelers can often see these creatures wandering through their natural habitat. Best of all, the site is open year-round, allowing those who are hardy enough to enjoy a winter adventure to spend some time there too. Camping at Moraine Park is another option for those with limited mobility. There are four accessible campsites you can reserve in advance.

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Most popular camping states, best camping near me, ultimate guide to camping in colorado.

• March 8, 2022
• Colorado , Guides
• camping , campsite , Colorado , guide

One thing about Colorado — no matter where you look, there’s likely to be a drop-dead-gorgeous view right in front of you. And thanks to this scenic magnificence, Colorado is one of the premier camping destinations in the US. As home to one of the nation’s greatest natural wonders, the Rocky Mountains, Colorado offers such splendors as Rocky Mountain National Park, Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods. With all these glories, it’s not surprising that the popularity of camping in Colorado has skyrocketed, with an increase of 64 percent from 2014 to 2020.

In this article:

About Camping in Colorado

Colorado isn’t just home to some of America’s most famous national parks and landmarks; it’s also one of the nation’s best places to find wide expanses of federally protected lands. These vast untrammeled areas, with their awe-inspiring mountain ranges, lush forests, pristine lakes, windswept plains and historic caverns, can provide the backdrop for the camping trip of a lifetime. In addition, there’s the iconic Colorado Trail , which traverses the state with 500 miles of breathtaking mountain range views, the likes of which you won’t see anywhere else in the world. And for many people, the most stunningly beautiful area of all is Colorado’s famed Rocky Mountain region just west of Denver, known affectionately as the “High Country,” where you’ll find historic ski towns nestled among magnificent 12,000 and 13,000-foot mountain ranges.

Where Can You Go Camping in Colorado?

In 2019, a staggering 86.9 million tourists spent more than $24 billion vacationing in Colorado, so it’s no secret that tourism is a big part of the state’s economy. However, everyone wants to live in paradise; and as with many tourist destinations, things can get pretty pricey there. One thing that makes camping in Colorado so popular is that it provides travelers with a great way to experience all the glories this state has to offer, without having to pay for expensive accommodations. In addition to being a budget-friendly alternative, camping also allows visitors to enjoy Colorado’s natural magnificence in ways they could never experience from a hotel or motel room.

Here are some of your best options for camping in Colorado:

Privately Owned Campgrounds

Privately owned campgrounds are a great affordable option for your camping trip because they offer lots of home-away-from-home conveniences, yet still, allow you to travel on a budget. Staying at a privately owned campground costs significantly less than staying at even the cheapest motel, and you’ll still get a wide variety of amenities to make your trip more enjoyable. Typically, privately owned campgrounds provide perks such as hot water showers, flushable toilets, potable water, Wi-Fi, electric hookups and even handy supply stores so you can stock up on food and necessities. And if you’re traveling with kids, you’ll often find extras such as playgrounds, ice cream stands and easy access to activities like miniature golf. You’ll find a great campspot at one of these privately owned parks.

National Parks

Colorado’s four national park sites provide essentials on a seasonal basis, including potable water, ice and firewood for sale, restrooms, trash collection and food storage lockers, with staff in attendance throughout the summer months as well. All of Colorado’s national parks require reservations, which can be made online or by phone. You’ll find site maps and reservation information for all national park campgrounds, including those at Rocky Mountain National Park, at Recreation.gov .

State Parks

Colorado’s state parks boast more than 4,000 campsites statewide, all of which require reservations, which campers can make online or by phone. Many of these campgrounds feature restrooms and shower facilities and electrical hookups, and nearly 300 are ADA accessible.

Public Lands

Colorado is home to a staggering 8.3 million acres of land that’s protected by the Bureau of Land Management, and much of this is available for camping. Generally speaking, you’re allowed to stay on a public land site for around two weeks a month , with campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Many of these lands are off the beaten track and far removed from the usual recreational facilities. This enables you to enjoy a more rustic, rugged experience away from modern conveniences (and other vacationers as well).

How To Find Campsites in Colorado

The question is, how do you NOT find a campsite in Colorado? In this Rocky Mountain state, campsites are everywhere; and in some areas, wherever you look, someone has pitched a tent or parked a motor home.

When you’re ready to start planning your camping trip, be sure to visit BookOutdoors . BookOutdoors allows you to book your perfect campspot in campgrounds located throughout Colorado.

Look through some of the many privately owned campsites listed. Privately owned campsites offer a wide range of amenities that you won’t find in state or national parks, such as Wi-Fi and full electrical hookups. Plus, privately owned campsites are typically located near popular landmarks and trails that you’ll want to visit during your stay. And they’re also super family-friendly, with lots of features to help keep the kids entertained.

Best Campsites in Colorado

Rocky mountain national park.

One of America’s greatest natural wonderlands, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) has five dedicated campgrounds, with each one featuring breathtaking mountain vistas, pristine lakes, and plenty of wildlife viewing, thanks to the native bighorn sheep and elk herds who roam throughout the park. From Grand Lake (Colorado’s largest natural lake) and Longs Peak to Andrews Glacier and Mummy Mountain, you’ll see a wealth of waterfalls, 12,000 and 13,000 feet peaks, crystal mountain lakes and whitewater rivers at every turn.

One of RMNP’s most popular sites, Moraine Park Campground , has 244 campsites (including 101 for tents only) and is famous for its spectacular Rocky Mountain views and easy access to hiking trails. If you’re a fan of flora as well as fauna, Aspenglen Campground has 52 sites (13 tent-only) set near expansive open meadows brimming with wildflowers. And if you prefer a small, tent-only site, you’ll appreciate the serenity of Longs Peak Campground , which offers 26 tent-only sites in a high-elevation (9,500) spot surrounded by dense forests.

RMNP’s campsites all offer seasonal amenities such as potable water, ice and firewood for sale, flush toilets, trash collection and food storage lockers, and some also have picnic tables and phone service. Be aware, however, that because of recent pine beetle devastation, while in RMNP you’re only allowed to use firewood you’ve purchased from an RMNP campground.

Campers warn that spots in RMNP can fill up by early afternoon, and the official RMNP website warns that campsites are typically reserved well in advance. Fortunately, you can prevent disappointment by reserving your site up to six months in advance.

The gateway to RMNP and just minutes from the entrance, this enchanting mountain town boasts a vast array of RV parks and camping sites, all with close access to fishing, boating, and even miniature golf and horseback riding facilities. Popular Estes Park campgrounds include Marys Lake, Paradise on the River, Spruce Lake RV Park, Manor RV Park and Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Park, and all feature showers, full-service hookups, potable water and restrooms.

The Crags Campground

Located in State Forest State Park near Divide (in Central Colorado), this out-of-the-way site is just 24 miles from Pikes Peak and is a treasure trove of natural beauty, highlighted by the famous cliffs and spires of the Nokhu Crags. Designed to accommodate small RVs/trailers and tent campers, it has 17 campsites, plus seasonal amenities such as potable water, a restroom and vault toilets.

Piñon Flats Campground

Situated in Great Sand Dunes Park in Mosca,  Piñon Flats Campground allows you to enjoy a memorable adventure among North America’s tallest sand dune formations. It offers 91 sites, with seasonal amenities such as ice and firewood, cell phone reception (year-round), potable water, food storage lockers and trash collection, plus a supply store.

Guanella Pass Campground

Longing for an authentic-feeling pioneer experience? Guanella Pass Campground might be exactly what you’re looking for. Set in the Arapaho National Forest, this rustic site is located just seven miles from Georgetown (another enchanting mountain town that you’ll want to visit), and features classic Colorado mountain vistas, accented everywhere with spruce and lodgepole pines. Each of its 18 sites features a picnic table, fire ring, tent pad and charcoal grill, and the site also provides seasonal amenities such as potable water, trash dumpsters, firewood and vault toilets.

If you’re looking for a few home comforts such as pancake breakfasts and spaghetti dinners, you’ll love Barr Camp . Located in Manitou Springs just 13 miles from Pikes Peak, this circa-1922 site is set on a lush forest path, and offers dinner and breakfast, as well as tents and cabins with electrical hookups and fire pits — but bring your own sleeping bag and gear.

What To Pack for Camping in Colorado

As the saying goes, if you don’t like the weather in Colorado, just wait around for five minutes — it’s bound to change dramatically. You can start your hike on a warm and sunny day, then all of a sudden be pelted by a blinding snowstorm in sub-freezing conditions. This is especially true in Colorado’s famed High Country, where altitudes vary from 8,500-10,000+ feet above sea level. At these elevations, the weather changes dramatically, often within mere minutes.

Nights in the High Country of Colorado are cold, period. Even if it’s the height of summer, the high elevations will make you think it’s January. You’ll want to pack accordingly — which means you’ll need autumn and winter outerwear and pajamas, as well as warm sleeping gear.

In some areas, mosquitoes and bugs can be a problem, but the good news is that the higher you go (and we’re talking about elevations above 9,000 feet), the less prevalent they are. However, in the summertime, you’ll still need to bring plenty of bug repellent, as well as some type of bear repellent, plus bear boxes for safe food disposal. There are 8,000 to 10,000 black bears who call Colorado home, and they don’t make very good dinner guests, so make sure you don’t attract them to your campsite.

Also, bring healthy food and snacks, and plenty of water. Even the slightest dehydration can lead to serious problems with altitude sickness (see below), and sometimes supply stores are few and far between along Colorado’s mountain roads.

Otherwise, just focus on the usual items you’d bring for camping anywhere. Fortunately, if you forget anything, Colorado abounds in camping gear stores, even in the tiniest mountain towns, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding what you need. And for more packing tips, you’ll want to visit BookOutdoors to easily book any campsite.

When Is the Best Time to Go Camping in Colorado?

Seasoned travelers agree that the best time for camping in Colorado is between late June and mid-September. Be aware that in high elevation mountain towns like Breckenridge, snow can start as early as mid-September and may continue through early June (or even July in Leadville). Up through mid-June, many mountain passes are still closed due to snow, and when the snow finally does melt, nearby creeks can flood during those late spring and early summer months. And until mid-June, High Country snowstorms can still spring up overnight, even if the weather was warm and sunny during the day.

Given Colorado’s long, rough winters, it should come as no surprise that many of its campgrounds are closed from mid-autumn to early or mid-June. And those that are open during the off-season may not provide basic amenities like firewood, ice, water pumps or staff service during the fall and winter months.

Having said all of this, the months between late June and mid-September are glorious for camping, and millions of people each year take advantage of Mother Nature’s short window of opportunity.

A Word About Altitude

The average altitude of Colorado is 6,800 feet above sea level, and many High Country regions are situated at elevations of 8,000 to 10,100 feet. And, according to medical professionals, 25 to 30 percent of tourists in the higher elevations get acute altitude sickness (the numbers are 8-10 percent for lower elevations like Denver).

Altitude sickness is no joke, and can quickly ruin your trip with headaches, nausea and shortness of breath. If you start getting symptoms, move to a lower level; and if symptoms persist or get worse, be sure to get medical attention as quickly as possible.

Here are some tips to prevent altitude sickness:

• Keep drinking plenty of water.
• Start at a lower altitude first, and make your way up gradually. Don’t worry, you won’t miss anything, because there’s plenty to enjoy at Colorado’s lower altitudes too!
• Avoid strenuous activities during your first few days.
• If you’re experiencing problems, get down to a lower level.
• Limit your alcohol intake.
• Check with your doctor beforehand if you have a medical condition or if you’re taking certain medications because these can exacerbate altitude sickness.

Fire Safety While Camping in Colorado

Colorado has a dry climate, and this can spell a recipe for disaster, especially for its millions of acres of densely wooded areas. Colorado has had its share of devastating wildfires in recent years, and fire safety is a constant concern there. For that reason, every area has daily fire danger signs posted so you can check the level of weather/fire risk in your location. With this in mind, here are some precautions you can take:

• Keep your fires small and containable, and only use fire-approved areas.
• Never leave a burning fire attended, and don’t leave until the fire has stopped smoking. A smoking fire means that embers might still be smoldering.
• Make sure the duff (it’s the decomposing matter that resembles dirt) is stamped out completely. Otherwise, it can smolder for days and then burst into flames.
• Purchase firewood locally, such as in the park where you’re camping. This mitigates the spread of pine beetles, as well as other insects.

Pro Tips for Camping in Colorado

• Colorado is one of the most popular camping destinations in the US, so reserve your spot in plenty of time.
• Every campground offers different amenities, and many don’t have Wi-Fi, cell phone service or electrical hookups. If you need these, remember to ask about them ahead of time.
• Many parks and campgrounds have specific places where camping isn’t allowed (such as picnic and roadside areas), so before you bring out the tent, make sure it’s okay to camp there.
• In some national parks (including RNMP), seniors can get a 50 percent discount if they have a Senior Access Pass.
• National parks typically allow only six people in each camping group, so ask about occupancy limits if this is an issue.
• No matter how much you want that close-up photo, keep away from the animals. This isn’t an interactive dolphin swim, and the elk you encounter won’t be amused by your funny imitations of them. This is their home, and in their opinion, you’re frankly trespassing. To stay on their good side, stay out of their way. Otherwise, you may end up spending your vacation getting an up close and personal tour of Colorado’s many excellent emergency rooms.

From once-in-a-lifetime mountain views of some of the nation’s highest mountain ranges to wildlife watching, white water rafting and breathtaking hiking trails, Colorado has it all. No matter what you’re expecting, your Colorado camping trip will leave you awestruck, so prepare to be amazed at what you’ll discover.

About the author

BookOutdoors Staff

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Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

14 Scenic Backpacking Trips in Colorado You’ve Got to Try

• March 2, 2023
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on March 31, 2024 by foxintheforest

Backpacking in Colorado is a bucket-list activity for locals and visitors alike. The best backpacking trips in Colorado can be found all over the state. There’s a trail for all ability levels, making Colorado an epic place to backpack.

There’s something magical about spending the night in the Rocky Mountains.

Green valleys butt against beautiful rocky peaks streaked with snow. Backpacking in the alpine offers stunning beauty and plenty of challenging terrain.

I’ve lived in Colorado for over 13 years and I’ve had the privilege of going on some amazing backpacking trips in Colorado. It’s my mission to give you the inside scoop on the best Colorado backpacking trips so you can get out there like a local, not a tourist.

Not to mention, I write about the outdoors for a living, meaning I’m a literal pro at backpacking in Colorado. Be sure to check out the insider tips in this guide to the best backpacking in Colorado.

About this Guide to the Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado

When it comes to the best backpacking trips in Colorado, this is the ultimate local guide. You’ll find info on 13 amazing backpacking trails in Colorado including:

• A locally-curated list of amazing backpacking trips in Colorado
• Difficulty, duration, and location of each trail
• Local tips for hiking in Colorado

Is Colorado Good for Backpacking?

Colorado has long been considered a backpacking mecca. One of the reasons Colorado is so great for backpacking is that water is readily available.

Not to mention, there is a wide range of trails to choose from. You can backpacking in the mountains, desert, and lush pine forests throughout the state.

Do You Need a Permit to Backpack in Colorado?

That depends. Some trails require you to purchase a backcountry permit in order to go backpacking in Colorado. Particularly national parks, and special wilderness areas such as the Indian Peaks Wilderness require advanced permits.

However, most trails don’t require any permits. Just note that as Colorado becomes more popular with backpackers, more and more places are becoming permit-only. Always check your specific trip before you go!

When Can You Start Backpacking in Colorado?

There are a limited amount of backpacking trails in Colorado that you can use year-round. However, if you’re planning to backpack in the mountains, particularly at higher elevations, you should look to start your backpacking trip around mid-June at the earliest.

High elevation trails tend to be snowy from October through mid-June most years. By about mid-September, the nights get below freezing, so be prepared with the proper gear. So, yeah, don’t go in April in Colorado and expect to enjoy a snow-free trip.

Where are You Allowed to Backpack in Colorado?

Most public lands are open for backpacking in Colorado. The big exception to this tends to be state parks, many of which do not offer any overnight camping options, including backpacking. Places you’re allowed to backpack include:

• National Forests
• Wilderness Areas (permits may be required)
• National Recreation Areas (permits required)
• National Monuments (permits required)
• National Parks (permits required)
• Limited state parks

Backpacking Loop Guides

I get asked a lot about backpacking loops in Colorado. Frankly, loops are hard to find in this state. This is often because trails run out and back to alpine cirques.

However, I’ve got two amazing resources I use to plan loops. If you don’t see what you’re looking for here, you can snag the Southern Colorado Backpacking Loop and Northern Colorado Backpacking Loop guides.

A few trails from each are featured on this post, but for the most part, these topo guides show you cool trips you can take in different wilderness areas.

What I love about this is that you can quickly choose a route on a whim! Now that I’m a mom, I frequently use these guides when we have a quick weekend with childcare. These guides give us an adventure on short notice!

A Map of the Best Backpacking Routes in Colorado

Get oriented with this map of featured backpacking trips in Colorado. These pins mark the trailheads described below. Be sure the check out the interactive map for planning.

The Best Time to Backpack in Colorado

Backpacking in Colorado is possible year-round depending on where you go and how much you’re willing to deal with the snow and cold during times like March in Colorado .

However, if you are planning to head to the mountains, the best season for backpacking is from July through September.

June is still pretty snowy in the high alpine, although trails at lower elevations are typically snow-free.

Temperatures start to drop in October, although you can still sneak in a warm-weather weekend, just be prepared for the cold once the sun goes down.

July is considered a monsoon season in the mountains. This means you should be prepared to encounter quick and violent thunderstorms in the afternoon. Stay below the treeline to avoid getting hit by lightning.

Amazing Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado

New to backpacking? Start here! These easier Colorado backpacking routes give you all the beautiful mountain scenery without too much pain for gains.

1. Early Season Backpacking in the Lost Creek Wilderness

The Lost Creek Wilderness, located near Denver, off of Highway 285, used to be one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. Unfortunately, the cat is out of the bag, but with a wide variety of trails, it’s easy to find solitude here in the early season.

Since it’s lower in elevation, the snow melts here first. So if you’re itching to get out in April, May or even early June, check out the Ben Tyler Trail.

The 11.8-mile, difficult trail winds its way through the Lost Creek Wilderness, terminating with some spectacular views. Be sure to check up on water sources before heading out.

Local Tip: Want more mileage? The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is a 28.3-mile loop that circumnavigated the greater wilderness area.

2. Best Beginner Backpacking Route in Colorado in Fairplay

Buffalo Peaks Loop, located just south of Fairplay is an excellent high-alpine beginner backpacking loop. Loop trails in Colorado are a rarity, so enjoy the fact that you’ll never see the same thing twice along this route.

The trail spends most of its time in the aspen and pine forests before popping up into a high alpine valley with gorgeous views.

There are plenty of spots to camp and excellent water sources throughout the trail. Beginners can opt to break the trail into two nights, or more avid backpackers can choose to make this a quick overnight jaunt.

Distance: 11.4 miles Elevation: 2,024 feet, mostly done in two steep sections Average time to complete: one night

3. Mohawk Lakes Backpacking near Breckenridge

As one of the top hikes near Breckenridge, many people head to Mohawk Lakes. For a real adventure, give this 8-plus-mile roundtrip hike an overnight to really soak in all the views.

You’ll start at the Spruce Creek Trailhead as you wind your way up several steep sections.

The trail passes by four distinct lakes, providing for an opportunity to rest your weary legs. Take your time until you reach Mohawk Lake, where you’ll find plenty of amazing places to pitch a tent.

From here, you can drop your bags and continue upwards to upper Mohawk Lake for even more dreamy views.

Distance: 8.6 miles from the lower lot, the upper lot cuts about a mile or so off each way (see Crystal Lake) Elevation: 2,129 feet from the lower lot (see Cyrstal Lake) Average time to complete: one night

Local Tip: This area sees a lot of traffic and is considered a moderate hike. It’s probably one of the tougher beginner backpacks. But with so many places to stop and enjoy the lakeside views, a beginner will find this trail rewarding.

Moderate Backpacking Trails in Colorado to Check Out

Looking for a challenge, but without feeling totally spent? Then be sure to check out these moderate backpacking trails for your backcountry fix.

4. Backpacking to Lone Eagle Peak

The drama of seeing Lone Eagle Peak reflected perfectly on Mirror Lake is well worth the nearly 15-mile journey deep into the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

The sky-piercing Lone Eagle Peak is an absolute icon and the surrounding dramatic cirque will take your breath away. In fact, it’s one of the best lake hikes in Colorado.

Hike from Cascade Creek to Mirror and Crater Lakes. It is possible to day hike this trail, however, you should spend the night here.

Climbers and mountaineers will love the opportunities for nearby alpine trad routes, a rugged class 4 route to the top of Lone Eagle, and plenty of couloirs.

Overnight trips require a permit, so be sure to reserve yours in advance, since you are only allowed to camp in designated sites.

Keep in mind, this area is moose territory (we saw 5 when we hiked here), so if you bring your pup, keep them leashed.

Distance: 14.6 miles Elevation: 2,375 feet Average time to complete: overnight

5. Wildflowers Galore from Crested Butte to Aspen

In the July months, the high alpine of Colorado comes to life. The Maroon Snowmass Trailhead that goes from Crested Butte to Aspen is a wildflower lover’s dream.

This moderately-strenuous trail blooms with color in the summer months. This is the best backpacking trip in Colorado for those seeking dramatic alpine views without tons of ass-kicking el-gain.

Most people hike one way and bus their way back (or swap rides with friends headed in the opposite direction). But it’s just as nice as an out-and-back.

Distance: 10.45 miles one way, 20.9 round-trip Elevation: 3,322 feet of gain Average time to complete: An overnight or weekend.

6. Backpack Colorado 14ers in the Chicago Basin

One of the best ways to backpack in Colorado is to combine your backpacking trip with a couple of peaks.

The Chicago Basin in the San Juan Mountains is an excellent place to backpack and climb some of Colorado’s famed 14,000-foot peaks .

The journey starts with a scenic train ride to the Needleton trailhead (how freakin’ cool is that?!??).

Next, walk a 1/2 mile from the train stop (you’ll purchase a backpacker’s ticket, it’ll be obvious when to jump off) and then continue 6 more miles to the Chicago Basin.

From here, you can set up a base camp and climb Elous, Windom, and Sunlight Peak.

Although you can hike in, a round-trip train ticket will run you about $70 and is certainly worth the extra few days of hiking.

Local Tip: Due to the heavy use of this area, you are required to carry out your human waste, camp only in designated sites, and use bear protection for your food. Be sure to check in for the most up-to-date info.

Distance: 15 miles to the basin and back to the train stop. Peak mileage varies. Elevation: 4,393 feet to the basin from Needleton Average time to complete: A long weekend or 3 nights recommended

7. Rito Alto Four Pass Loop Fall Backpacking in Colorado

If you can stomach 6 miles of road walking, the Rito Alto Four Pass Loop is an amazing, crowd-free affair in the mighty Sangre de Cristos.

Furthermore, this (rare) loop trail is the perfect fall backpacking foray. Challenge your alpine skills with four distinct passes complete with stellar mountain scenery.

Distance: 23-mile loop Elevation: 5,843 feet of gain Average time to complete: 2 nights or one burly overnight

8. Savor the Views at Willow Lakes in the Gore Range

For a drool-worthy adventure with a big payout, head to Willow Lakes outside of Silverthorn. Located in the heart of the Gore Range, this incredible lake system bumps right into the impressive Zodiac Spire rock formations. 

When it comes to backpacking Colorado, this trip needs to be on your list. Don’t be fooled, it’s an epic slog to make it here – the Gore Range always makes you earn it. But you’ll be rewarded with out-of-this-world mountain drama. 

Local Tip: You’ll be hiking over a mile uphill through deadfall, so start early to beat the heat and save yourself from suffering too much.

Distance: 11.9 miles round trip Elevation: 2,716 feet of gain Average time to complete: Overnight.

Challenging Backpacking in Colorado

Ready for a real butt buster? These Colorado backpacking trips are all burly outings. Expect long days on the trail with endless uphills. The reward? Some of the most solitude you can find!

9. Backpacking Gore Lake The Best Alpine Lake in Colorado

If you’re looking for a dramatic alpine lake with unbelievable mountains, take a weekend to backpack to Gore Lake . The Gores have a special appeal for the adventurous backpacker looking to tackle tougher terrain. As a dog-friendly hike featuring incredible Colorado wildflowers , you’ll be spoiled along this epic backpacking route trail.

Even a moderate hike in the Gores will feel like a total butt-buster. Trails are often not well maintained, and this area is a pristine wilderness. This means that you should take extra care to follow Leave No Trace principles when venturing out here.

Distance: 12.5 miles out and back Elevation: 2,890 feet, with a large majority of that gain in the last two miles. Average time to complete: Overnight

10. Aspen’s Four Passes Loop

You can’t talk about the best backpacking in Colorado without mentioning the 4 Passes Loop. This iconic trail winds its way over four distinct passes all while delivering breathtaking views of the Elk Range.

This is certainly a more strenuous backpacking loop, but it’s worth it. Keep in mind that parking fills up early, and you’ll have to plan your entry and exit with a bus service that runs daily.

Bear cans are required on this popular loop. be sure to check with the Forest Service for the most up-to-date information.

Distance: 26.8 miles Elevation: 8,115 feet Average time to complete: 2 nights or a long weekend

11. The Colorado Trail: The Highest Thru-Hike in America

The Colorado Trail winds its way from Denver to Durango over 486 of mountainous terrain. This is the United State’s highest thru-hike, with a majority of the trail above 10,000 feet.

If thru-hiking isn’t your thing, it’s certainly possible to section hike this incredible trail (I’ve done over 120 miles of section hiking with my dog).

Segment 6, segments in the San Juans, and the Sawatch Range are a few of the most beautiful parts of the trail. I’d highly recommend picking up the Colorado Trail Guide book and Field Guide .

Distance: 486 miles. Each segment is between 12 and 20 miles on average Elevation: 89,000 feet! Average time to complete: One month as a thru-hike. Most segments can be completed in a day or a weekend.

12. Best Backpacking Route in Rocky Mountain National Park

Hop on the iconic Continental Divide Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park to hit all the highlights of Colorado’s most famed National Park.

No visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is complete without spending the night in the backcountry.

Hop on the iconic CDT  as it makes its way from Mexico to Canada, crossing through the state of Colorado. The trail tops out on Hallet Peak, Flattop Mountain, and Ptarmigan Peak.

This 30-mile stretch of the trail can be looped from the Bear Lake trailhead or you can hitch a ride back to your car on the opposite end of the park.

Keep in mind that no dogs are allowed on the trails in Rocky Mountain, you’ll need to book your permits in advance, and the entire loop takes around 5 days to complete.

Distance: 30 miles of Continental Divide Trail, 45 miles as a loop Elevation: around 11,600 feet of gain Average time to complete: 5 days

13. Winter Backpacking at Rattlesnake Arches

You may be surprised to learn that Colorado is home to some beautiful sandstone canyons. Backpacking to Rattlesnake Arches , just outside of the Colorado National Monument in Fruita is one of the best trails for backpacking in Colorado.

What makes this one of my favorite backpacking trips in Colorado is that you can make the trip year-round. The trail treats you to epic canyon views along with plenty of amazing rock formations and arches.

You’ll likely want to camp at the water source, below the final climb. The water source typically runs through mid-spring, so be sure to check up on local conditions before heading out (otherwise, you’re carrying your water with you).

After that it’s a sustained, grueling march to the arches, but wow is it worth it.

In 2020, it recently became illegal to camp at the Rattlesnake Arches, but you can find camping in the gulch before you climb the hillside leading to the arches.

Local Tip: Don’t forget, you’re in the desert and you’ll need to pack in all of your water. You can aslo enjoy some of the best things to do in Grand Junction afterward. 

Distance: 14 miles round trip Elevation: 2,444 feet of gain Average time to complete: Overnight.

14. Zirkel Circle

Located near Steamboat Springs, this challenging climb is one of the best backpacking trips in Colorado that takes you through the Zirkel Wilderness and on a loop hike past Gilpin Lake and along the Gold Creek Lake Trail. 

It’s also a great trip for anyone looking to get off the beaten path since a lot of travelers don’t stop here to check out area’s amazing mountains, stunning alpine lakes, and vast meadows – area’s of natural wonder that come alive with vivacious summer and fall colors. 

Also, while this trail can be hiked in either direction, hiking counterclockwise will result in a bit more of a gradual climb. 

Additionally, while Gilpin Lake is super picturesque, Gold Creek Lake is better for swimming if you need a spot to cool off during the summer. 

Distance: 10.6 miles round trip Elevation: 2,444 feet of gain Average time to complete: Overnight.

Tips for Backpacking in Colorado

Backpacking in the Rocky Mountains is certainly a rewarding experience. However, if you’re new to mountain environments, take these tips into consideration before backpacking in Colorado

Always follow Leave No Trace principles , fire bans, and bear protection regulations. Every year backpackers encounter wildlife, start wildfires, and leave pristine wilderness areas a mess. Don’t be that person.

Be sure to check recent trail conditions by either calling a local ranger station or checking AllTrails.com. Snow can linger late into summer on some trails, so be prepared.

Protect your food against unwanted wildlife . This goes for tiny critters too! Always hang your food and keep it stored in odor-proof bags. Some areas require the use of bear cans, so know the rules before you go.

Plan to start early if you are going above treeline. You want to be below the trees by noon. Storms roll in quickly in the mountains and hikers die each year from being struck by lightning.

Follow all drone regulations . Drones are banned from most wilderness areas in Colorado, so please respect the area you are traveling in.

Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful backpacking trips in the US. Backpacking in Colorado can be a bit tougher with the altitude, but the views and mountain scenery make the extra effort worth it.

What to Pack 

• Water and snacks for the car – it’s always nice to have a treat at the end!
• Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
• First Aid Kit 
• Noncotton socks
• Hiking footwear with good traction that you are comfortable wearing all day. 
• Non-cotton shorts for hiking
• Non-cotton, pants for hiking. Convertible pants are great too!
• Electrolyte powder – optional but nice to have!
• A water bladder capable of carrying at least 2 liters of water.
• Camera clip to strap to your back
• Glove liners
• Fleece layer
• Puffy layer
• Hiking poles (optional, but recommended)
• A toilet kit: shovel, WAG Bag (if you plan to travel above treeline), hand sanitizer, TP/baby wipes, a small plastic baggy to pack out TP and sanitary items
• Pee funnel – optional
• Pee rag – optional.
• GPS navigation 
• emergency communication device
• Wind/rain layer
• Sleeping pad
• Sleeping bag or sleeping quilt
• Backpacking pack (I like to use at least a 60L bag, but I’m usually carrying technical gear and a tripod)
• Backpacking tent. 
• Water filter 
• Odor-proof bag for food
• Hang bag and line to hang your food
• Personal items
• A change of underwear (preferably non-cotton)
• Backpacking stove and fuel
• Backpacking utensils
• Lightweight packable daypac k for day hiking
• Long underwear for sleeping
• Extra pair of socks
• Pair of warm socks for camp
• Pocket knife

Additional Colorado Backpacking Resources

Want to get to know the REAL Colorado? Then check out these local hiking resources for the Centennial State:

• Incredible Alpine Lakes in Colorado
• Must-See Places in Colorado
• The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Gear for Beginners

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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Are you a nature lover? Colorado, in the Rocky Mountains, is a fantastic place with huge mountains, quiet lakes, dense forests, and fields full of colorful wildflowers. It’s a dream destination for camping and enjoying the outdoors.

In this guide, we’ll tell you about the top camping spots in Colorado and the exciting things you can do there. Let’s get started!

21 Best Camping Destinations & Adventures in Colorado

Discover the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness with our list of 21 must-visit camping destinations and adventures. From majestic mountains to peaceful lakes, prepare for unforgettable outdoor experiences in the Centennial State.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado has giant mountains and calm lakes. The park has many big peaks, making it a must-see for people who love mountains.

Whether you love hiking or want to enjoy the pretty views, this park is for you.

Exciting things here include hiking on trails that lead to hidden places like green lakes and waterfalls. You might also see some animals like elk, deer, and sometimes black bears. For a super special experience, go on a hike in the morning to see the mountains all golden from the sun.

Pro Tip: The weather can change fast in the mountains, so bring layers of clothes and important stuff for a safe trip.

2. Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods is near Colorado Springs and has gigantic red rock formations that look like giants made them. It’s a must-visit if you’re into exploring Colorado’s cool natural places.

You can do exciting things like hiking and climbing on these big red rocks. For the best view, go in the morning or evening when the rocks turn golden, and it’s super pretty.

Pro Tip: Get there early to find a parking spot because it gets crowded. Don’t forget your camera to take pictures of the awesome rocks.

3. Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is in the southwest of Colorado and has old Native American houses. They’re over 1,000 years old and built on cliffs and top of mesas.

The best part is the guided tours where they tell you about the people who used to live there. You can also explore the old houses, carvings, and cool rooms.

Pro Tip: Plan and book tours early because they fill up fast. Wear comfy shoes for walking and climbing.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado has the biggest dunes in North America, some as tall as 750 feet! It looks like a dreamy desert.

You can do fun things like sliding down the dunes on boards and hiking up to see the dunes in the morning when they glow in the sunlight. There’s also a creek and cool nature to explore.

Pro Tip: Rent or bring sandboards or sleds to slide down the dunes. In hot weather, visit in the morning or evening to avoid the scorching sand.

5. Aspen’s Maroon Bells

Aspen’s Maroon Bells, surrounded by lovely meadows and clear lakes, is a super pretty place in the Rocky Mountains. They’re also called the “Deadly Bells” because they’re tough to climb.

You’ll love it if you enjoy being in nature. You can take easy walks in the meadows full of colorful flowers, especially in the summer.

Pro Tip: Go early or on weekdays to avoid the crowds. Bring a camera to take photos of the pretty peaks reflecting in the lake.

6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is in western Colorado and is cool. It’s a deep canyon with dark cliffs that drop into the Gunnison River. It’s perfect for adventurous folks and nature lovers.

You can watch birds like eagles and falcons flying over the canyon. Joining guided tours is a great way to learn about the canyon’s history and animals.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and sturdy shoes to explore the rough terrain and see the birds.

7. San Juan National Forest

San Juan National Forest is in the southwest of Colorado and is a quiet place with tall trees and pretty meadows. It’s a great place for walking and biking in nature.

You can hike and bike on nice trails that go through the forest. You might see deer, elk, and lots of birds.

Pro Tip: Check the trail conditions and fire rules before you go. Bring water and snacks for your adventure.

8. Steamboat Lake State Park

Steamboat Lake State Park in northern Colorado is calm by a lake with mountains in the background. It’s a perfect spot for camping by the lake.

You can have fun by kayaking or fishing in the clear water. Make a campfire, roast marshmallows, and tell stories under the stars at night.

Pro Tip: Reserve your campsite early, especially in the summer. Don’t forget bug spray for a bug-free time.

9. Rifle Falls State Park

Rifle Falls State Park in western Colorado is a hidden gem known for stunning waterfalls falling over rocks. It’s a great place for nature lovers and photographers.

You can explore caves near the falls and hike on nice trails. Spring is the prime season for a visit, as the waterfalls gain significant strength.

Pro Tip: Wear comfy shoes for exploring caves and bring a camera for pictures of the amazing waterfalls.

10. Eleven Mile State Park

Eleven Mile State Park is a paradise for people who love water near Colorado Springs. It’s all about fishing at Eleven Mile Reservoir with Pikes Peak in the background.

The calm water is great for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. It’s a wonderful place for outdoor fun.

Pro Tip: Check the fishing rules and get a fishing license. Don’t forget sunscreen and water for a comfy time on the water.

11. Lost Creek Wilderness

Lost Creek Wilderness is in central Colorado and offers a real adventure in the wild. It’s a place to escape the modern world and enjoy nature.

You can explore cool rocks and granite domes on the trails. There’s a wide range of trails to find hidden places and wild areas.

Pro Tip: Get ready with hiking gear, maps, and food. There’s no cell phone signal, so let someone know your plans.

12. Trinidad Lake State Park

Trinidad Lake State Park is a quiet place in southern Colorado with a peaceful lake and different animals. It’s excellent for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. You can have fun boating on the calm lake and trying to catch some fish or watch birds.

Pro Tip: Bring your fishing gear and a license. You can rent a kayak or canoe for a nice time on the lake. Don’t forget binoculars for birdwatching.

13. Telluride

Telluride is a beautiful town in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. It’s perfect if you want a relaxing mountain vacation.

You can do fun things like bike riding, hiking, and attending festivals. The town is surrounded by amazing nature, and there’s always something happening.

Pro Tip: Check the festival schedule when you plan your visit. If you want to hike or bike, take it easy at first to avoid getting tired from the high altitude.

14. Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a peaceful place near Denver where you can escape the hustle and bustle. It’s a great spot to enjoy the outdoors.

You can spot wildlife like elk and deer while hiking on good trails. The park has forests, meadows, and streams, perfect for nature lovers.

Pro Tip: Watch for animals during your hikes and prepare for changing weather, especially at higher places.

15. Highline State Park

Highline State Park is near Grand Junction in western Colorado and is all about water fun. The main attraction is a big lake where you can do many water activities.

Must-try things at Highline State Park include fishing, boating, and birdwatching. You’ll find plenty of fish to catch, and the calm water is great for paddling and enjoying nature.

Pro Tip: Bring your fishing gear and water equipment, or rent them at the park. Don’t forget your binoculars for birdwatching by the shore.

16. Mueller State Park

Mueller State Park, not far from Colorado Springs, offers amazing views of the mountains and tons of wildflowers. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers.

You can adventure by hiking and even riding horses in the beautiful landscapes. The park has many trails to explore and enjoy the wilderness.

Pro Tip: Take binoculars to spot animals and capture the beautiful views. Check the trail conditions before you go.

17. Chatfield State Park

Chatfield State Park is a calm place for camping near Denver, right by Chatfield Reservoir. It’s perfect if you want to relax in nature without driving far.

You can do fun things like paddleboarding on the quiet water, watching birds by the lake, and hiking in the pretty surroundings. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind.

Pro Tip: Consider reserving a campsite near the lake for the best views. Bring your paddleboard or rent one at the park for a chill day on the water.

18. Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Cheyenne Mountain State Park, near Colorado Springs, has different nature areas. It’s a great spot for guided nature walks and wildlife watching.

You’ll find many trails through the forests and fields. Watch for deer, wild turkeys, and lots of bird types. Ranger-led activities can teach you more about plants and animals.

Pro Tip: Check the park’s schedule for ranger-led activities and guided nature walks. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the wildlife and beautiful scenery.

19. Jackson Lake State Park

Jackson Lake State Park is a dream for water lovers on the eastern plains of Colorado. It’s a must-visit for boating, fishing, and birdwatching by a calm lake.

You can go boating with sailboats or motorboats or try kayaking and fishing for different kinds of fish. Bird lovers will enjoy watching waterfowl and other birds by the lake and wetlands.

Pro Tip: Make sure to follow the fishing and boating rules for Jackson Lake. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and enjoy the peaceful lake view.

20. Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap State Park in western Colorado is another water paradise. It’s all about fishing, swimming, and kayaking by a clear lake with mountain views.

The park is great for fishing trout and bass, and you can also swim in the lake and have fun kayaking. The sandy beach area is perfect for picnics and sunbathing.

Pro Tip: Bring your fishing gear and get a fishing license. Don’t forget sunscreen and water toys for a day of swimming and fun.

21. Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek State Park, near Denver, is a nice blend of city and nature. It’s a must-visit for outdoor activities by a pretty lake.

You can hike on beautiful trails, rent paddle boats or paddle boards to relax on the lake, and enjoy bike rides in the park. There’s also a lot of different birds to watch.

Pro Tip: Rent a paddleboat or paddleboard for a peaceful day on the calm lake. Bring a picnic for a nice meal by the water.

These amazing places in Colorado offer a wide range of adventures for people who love nature and outdoor activities.

Each spot has a special charm and chance for exploration, making Colorado a perfect place to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

Happy Camping!

Colorado’s camping spots invite you to make lasting memories outdoors.

Whether you love hiking, looking at the stars, or want peace away from the busy city, Colorado’s camping adventures have something special for you.

The state’s amazing natural views and many things to do outside guarantee you’ll have a camping trip you’ll always remember.

So, get your bags ready, bring your excitement, and prepare for a memorable Colorado camping trip!

First off, is Colorado Good for Camping?

Colorado is great for camping because it has lovely natural landscapes like mountains, forests, and deserts. You can find different camping spots here, from the mountains to the plains. Colorado has many campgrounds to set up a tent or park your RV.

These campgrounds usually have things like bathrooms, picnic tables, and fireplaces.

When you camp in Colorado, you can do many outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and looking at wildlife. In the winter, you can even go camping in the snow.

At night, you can see many stars in the sky because there’s little light to block them. It’s a beautiful sight when you’re camping.

Moreover, camping in Colorado is convenient because you can typically reach most campsites by car. And they’re often located near popular tourist destinations.

The best part? You can go camping in Colorado at different times of the year. Most people go in the summer, but you can also in fall, winter, or early spring.

But remember, the air is thinner in some camping spots because they’re very high up in the mountains. This can make breathing harder if you’re not used to it. So, be ready and take care of yourself.

Overall, before you go camping in Colorado, check the rules, the weather, and if there are any fire restrictions. Things can change, especially because of wildfires. Also, get any permits you need, and clean up after yourself so you don’t harm the environment.

How to Safely Camp in Colorado: 10 Valuable Tips

Camping in Colorado can be fun, but you must stay safe. Here’s a list of simple but helpful tips to help you enjoy your camping trip safely:

1. Check the Weather

Look at the weather forecast before you go camping. Colorado’s weather can change quickly, so be ready for rain, snow, or sudden temperature drops.

2. Watch the Altitude

Some camping spots in Colorado reach high elevations. If you’re not used to it, take it easy and drink water to avoid feeling sick from the thin air.

3. Get Permits and Reservations

Some campgrounds need reservations or permits. Make sure you book your spot in advance, especially during busy times.

4. Campfire Rules

Follow the rules for campfires. Use designated fire rings or camp stoves for cooking. Keep water and a shovel nearby and extinguish the fire before leaving.

5. Be Wildlife Smart

Colorado has lots of wildlife, like bears and mountain lions. Keep your food safe from animals, make noise on the trails, and know what to do if you encounter wildlife.

6. Leave No Trace

Keep nature clean by taking all your trash with you, disposing of waste properly, and not harming the environment.

7. Know Where You’re Going

Carry a map, compass, or GPS device and learn how to use them to avoid getting lost.

8. First Aid Kit

Bring a simple first aid kit for minor injuries, bug bites, or altitude sickness.

9. Tell Someone Your Plans

Before you go camping, tell a trusted person where you’re going and when you’ll be back in case something goes wrong.

10. Emergency Stuff

Carry a flashlight, extra clothes, matches, and enough food and water just in case. Bring a charged cell phone or device to call for emergency help.

By following these easy tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable camping adventure in Colorado.

Camping in Colorado Packing List

Before heading out on your camping adventure in Colorado, pack the right gear and essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:

Essentials:

• Tent (with stakes and guylines)
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Pillow or stuff sack with clothes
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Camping chair or seating pad
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Warm hat and gloves (for cooler nights)
• Extra socks and underwear
• Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots
• Sandals or camp shoes (for relaxing)
• Sun hat and sunglasses

Cooking and Food:

• Portable camp stove with fuel
• Cooking utensils (pot, pan, spatula, etc.)
• Biodegradable soap and sponge
• Eating utensils (plate, bowl, utensils, cup/mug)
• Food and snacks (easy-to-cook meals, trail mix, etc.)
• Cooler and ice packs (if needed)
• Water bottles or hydration system
• A water filter or purification tablets

Personal Items:

• Personal identification and camping permits
• First aid kit (bandages, pain relievers, etc.)
• Prescription medications
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Toilet paper and sanitation supplies
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Towel and washcloth
• Personal hygiene items
• Trash bags (for waste and cleanup)

Navigation and Communication:

• Map, compass, or GPS device
• Fully charged cell phone or satellite communicator
• Power bank for recharging electronics

Optional Gear:

• Campfire supplies (if allowed)
• Camera and binoculars
• Campsite entertainment (book, games, etc.)
• Backpack or daypack for hiking
• Hammock or camping hammock (if desired)

Adjust this packing list according to the season, location, and specific activities you plan to enjoy during your camping trip in Colorado.

What Are the Best Places to Camp in Colorado?

Colorado has many beautiful camping spots, including iRocky Mountain National Park, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Garden of the Gods, Mesa Verde National Park, San Juan National Forest, Chatfield State Park, Rifle Fall State Park, Indian Peaks Wilderness, and Pike National Forest. Let’s look closely at each:

Rocky Mountain National Park

This place has beautiful mountain views. You can camp here in different places, from easy spots with bathrooms to more remote places. People who like hiking, animals, and peaceful mountains love coming here.

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness

This area has tall mountains called Maroon Bells. It’s a wild and tough place to camp, and people who like tough hikes and natural places like it.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

This park is special because it has giant dunes next to big mountains. You can camp here in a unique way. People can play in the sand, go sandboarding, and look at the stars in this cool place.

Garden of the Gods

This place is near Colorado Springs and has amazing rocks. You can camp here in different places. People who like climbing rocks and cool land formations come here.

Mesa Verde National Park

If you like old history, this is a great place. It has very old houses from a long time ago. You can camp here and learn about these old homes.

San Juan National Forest

This big forest in southern Colorado is perfect to camp in a quiet, wild place. You can find different camping spots and do things like hiking, fishing, and looking for animals.

Chatfield State Park

This park is close to Denver, so it’s easy to get to. Families and people who like water activities love it. There’s a big lake for boating, swimming, and fishing.

Rifle Falls State Park

This is a good choice for a peaceful camping spot with pretty waterfalls. You can hike, fish, or relax by the water.

Indian Peaks Wilderness

This is a great place if you enjoy backpacking and want to see beautiful lakes and mountains. You can hike in the wild Rocky Mountains.

Pike National Forest

This forest is close to Denver and Colorado Springs. Many people camp here because it has different options, from easy ones with families to tough ones in the wild. You can pick what suits you best.

Related Questions

Is it legal to camp anywhere in colorado.

No, it’s not legal to camp just anywhere in Colorado. You need to camp in designated campgrounds or get permission from landowners. Camping on private property without permission isn’t allowed. Moreover, camping in most public areas is regulated to protect the environment.

How Much is a Campsite in Colorado?

Campsite prices in Colorado can vary widely. State and national park campgrounds often charge between $20 to $40 per night. Private campgrounds may have different rates. Backcountry camping fees can be lower, but they may require permits.

Does Colorado Have Free Camping?

Yes, some areas in Colorado offer free camping on public lands managed by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the United States Forest Service (USFS). These are often called dispersed camping areas. However, amenities are minimal, so you need to be self-sufficient.

What Time of Year is Best to Camp in Colorado?

The best time to camp in Colorado depends on your preferences. Summer is the most popular season due to warm weather, but fall offers beautiful foliage. Winter camping is for those who enjoy snow activities, and spring can be great for wildflower viewing.

How Much Does it Cost to Go Camping in Colorado?

Camping fees in Colorado can fluctuate based on the specific campground and the facilities it offers. State and national park campgrounds typically charge a nightly rate ranging from approximately $20 to $40. These campgrounds often provide restrooms, picnic areas, and potable water, making them more convenient for campers.

On the other hand, backcountry camping permits, which allow you to camp in remote, less-developed areas, can be a more budget-friendly option.

These permits generally come at a lower cost than established campgrounds, making them suitable for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.

However, note that backcountry camping requires self-sufficiency. You may need to bring water and follow strict Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.

Do I Need a Permit to Camp in Colorado?

Usually, you don’t need a special permit when you camp at regular campgrounds in Colorado, like those in state and national parks. These places ensure easy camping and have things like bathrooms and fire areas.

However, if you want to camp in more remote or wild areas called “backcountry” or “wilderness,” you might have to get a special permit. These permits help protect nature and keep campers safe.

To ensure you follow the rules for where you want to camp, look up and understand the specific rules and permits you might need before you go.

That way, you can enjoy your camping trip while respecting the special rules for each place.

How Long Can You Stay in a Campground in Colorado?

The maximum stay duration in campgrounds varies. It’s typically limited to 14 days in national forests and BLM lands. State parks and private campgrounds may have different rules, so check beforehand.

Is it Safe to Camp in a Tent in Colorado?

Yes, it’s generally safe to camp in a tent in Colorado if you follow safety guidelines. Be prepared for weather changes, wildlife encounters, and high-altitude conditions. Secure your food to prevent wildlife visits, and be cautious in bear country.

Here’s a list of tips for encountering wildlife:

• Stay Calm: Avoid sudden movements or loud noises if you see wildlife like bears or mountain lions.
• Give Space: Keep a safe distance and never approach or corner wild animals. Use binoculars or a zoom lens for a closer look.
• Make Noise: While hiking or moving around your campsite, make noise to alert animals to your presence. This can help prevent surprise encounters.
• Secure Food: Store food and trash securely in bear-resistant containers or bear bags away from your tent. This prevents wildlife from being attracted to your campsite.
• Carry Bear Spray: Consider carrying bear spray and know how to use it properly in a close encounter with a bear.
• Travel in Groups: It’s safer to hike and camp in groups, as wildlife is less likely to approach larger parties.
• Follow Park Guidelines: In national and state parks, follow safety guidelines.
• Report Sightings: If you have a close or potentially dangerous wildlife encounter, report it to park rangers or authorities.

What Are the Camping Rules in Colorado?

Common camping rules in Colorado include respecting quiet hours, properly disposing of waste, and following fire regulations. Keep wildlife wild and protect the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles.

What Are the Rules for Tent Camping in Colorado?

Tent camping rules include setting up your tent in designated areas, using a campfire ring if allowed, and following safety guidelines for campfires. Always adhere to specific campground rules and regulations.

Camping in Colorado is full of amazing adventures in beautiful places. You can hike and bike in the summer or camp in the snow during winter, so there’s fun all year round.

But, be careful in high places where the air is thin; it might make you feel strange if you’re not used to it.

Moreover, before you start your Colorado camping trip, learn the local rules, check the weather, and follow the fire rules to stop wildfires.

Also, get any permits you need and clean up so Colorado’s natural beauty stays for the future.

Camping Near Water: Mind-Blowing Benefits & Lots of Safety Tips

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Best backpacking trips in Colorado: 8 epic overnights in the high country

The best backpacking trips in Colorado serve up unforgettable overnight adventure through untouched alpine landscape

Backpacking is one of the most immersive ways to commune with nature, offering you the gratifying experience of setting off from civilization and venturing into the wilderness for a night or longer. With overnight trips you can take in more than you might on a day hike and you’ll often have swaths of nature all to yourself. The best backpacking trips in Colorado range in length from a few miles to epic treks that guide you through untouched alpine landscapes. 

The trails in Colorado are certainly some of the best, but they can also be busy. However, you usually find that only the first couple of miles of any trail are clogged up before the crowds thin out. It’s worth venturing a little further to lose the crowds and to see some of the gems that aren’t easily reachable on a day hike, and one of the best ways to do this is to turn your hike into an overnight trip. In this article, we take a look at some of the best backpacking trips in Colorado to whet your whistle for some overnight adventure in the backcountry.

You’ll want to take a look at our articles on different types of backpacking and how to plan a backpacking trip before you set off. Colorado is blessed with lots of dry weather so it’s a great place to dip your toe into backpacking, though be prepared with a good 3-season sleeping bag because overnights in the high country are always cold. For all Colorado hiking you’ll of course want to have a good pair of boots – though the trails in this state are well-maintained, they get rocky up above the treeline which is where many of these trips take you. 

Best backpacking trip near Denver: Crater Lakes 

Distance: 6.8 miles Difficulty: Challenging

It might be Colorado’s urban center, but you don’t have to travel far from Denver to reach some impressive heights. Crater Lakes are three high alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness that feature waterfalls and wildflowers along the way. Crater Lakes is definitely short enough to be done as a day hike, but add a heavy pack and it will make for a satisfying overnight trip.

The trailhead is near Black Hawk, about an hour’s drive from Denver. From Black Hawk, travel north Highway 119 to Rollinsville. Turn west onto Gilpin County Road 16 and continue eight miles to the Moffat Tunnel, and park at the East Portal Trailhead.

Follow the South Boulder Creek trail for 1.2 miles before turning right at the junction onto the Crater Lakes Trail. This takes you through a wide forested valley then onto a narrow strip of land between the two beautiful main lakes. The third lake is found via the steep climb to the west of the lakes.

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Best backpacking trip near Boulder: Caribou Lake 

Distance: 9.3 miles Difficulty: Challenging

You’re certainly spoilt for choice in the Boulder area, which boasts access to a variety of wilderness areas from Chautaqua Park in the city limits to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorite is beautiful Caribou Lake via the Arapahoe Trail, which boasts a high alpine climb to the Continental Divide followed by a descent for your overnight stay in the attractive bowl forming Caribou Lake.

This trail is accessed from the Fourth of July Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness near Nederland, about an hour from Boulder. From Nederland, go south on Highway 72 for 0.5 miles to County Road 130 and make a right. Go through the town of Eldora, just past which it becomes a dirt road. Continue on the dirt road another 4.8 miles and take the right fork at the Buckingham Campground to park.

Begin on the North Fork of Middle Boulder Creek trail which takes you up above treeline to the Continental Divide via expanses of wildflowers, steep waterfalls, glacier-fed streams and the historic Fourth of July Mine. After you reach the Divide, there’s a steep switchback descent down to the lake. Be aware that in the morning, you’ll have another steep climb to get back out.

Best backpacking trip in Rocky Mountain National Park: Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail 

Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: Moderate

Within Rocky Mountain National Park ’s 355 miles of hiking trails, the Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail takes in most of the fabulous North Inlet Trail as well as the Continental Divide and takes you across the rugged alpine tundra of the high country.

Park at the North Inlet trailhead and head north on the Tonahutu Trail. This trail takes you across tundra topped flats, up to Ptarmigan Point on the Continental Divide and back down to Hallett Creek. There’s even a side option to detour up Flattop Mountain and enjoy the view down to sparkling Emerald Lake. This route is dotted with campsites along the way so you can take several nights to enjoy the journey.

Best backpacking trip near Vail: Gore Lake 

Distance : 12.1 miles Difficulty : Difficult

If you’re in Vail, there’s nothing quite like hanging your hat in the dramatic bowl of Gore Lake for the night and waking up to see the sun rise over the Gore Range. The hike to Gore Lake makes for a pretty serious day hike, but it’s a good challenge for an overnight trip.

Take the free bus from town or park at the trailhead on Vail Pass - 10 Mile road. Gore Lake shares a trailhead with Deluge Lake, but both trails are well signposted.

The trail begins with almost a mile of strenuous climbing and has many more steep sections as you wind your way up the valley. You’ll be treated to all the high alpine features of cool forests and alpine meadows, but one unusual feature of this hike is a set of two graves about four miles in. The graves are of the Recen brothers, two Swedish immigrants who came to the area to mine for precious metals in the late 1800s and had a cabin nearby. Keep going to finally arrive at this idyllic alpine lake nestled in a granite bowl, a gorgeous spot to camp.

Best backpacking trip near Leadville: The Colorado Trail Section 10 

Distance : 12.4 miles Difficulty : Difficult

The Colorado Trail is a 567 mile trail stretching from Denver to Durango and section 10 takes you through the Leadville area from the Timberline Pass trailhead to the Mount Massive trailhead over 12 miles with views of some of the highest peaks in the state.

From Leadville, follow the signs for Turquoise Lake and park at the Timberline Lake trailhead at the western end of the lake.

This wooded trail takes you along the base of Mount Massive, the state’s second highest peak. The trail begins where The Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail overlap and takes you into the Mount Massive Wilderness via a moderate climb then levels out along the contours of Bald Eagle Mountain. There is good camping about five miles in at Twin Mounds saddle and again a little over six miles in at Rock Creek. The trail then climbs steadily to the intersection with Highline Trail before descending down to the Mount Massive trailhead. For a longer trip you could camp here and tackle Mount Massive the next day.

Best backpacking trip near Breckenridge: Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes  

Distance : 8.4 miles Difficulty : Difficult

Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes offers some of the best views of Colorado’s high country with lots of great backcountry camping spots along the way.

The Spruce Creek trailhead is less than five miles from Breckenridge. Just follow Highway 9 south then take a right onto Spruce Creek Road.

Follow the creek for about a mile and a half then join the Mohawk Lakes trail at the junction. After a couple more miles you’ll reach lovely Mayflower Lakes. Camp here or continue on up the steep climb to Lower Mohawk Lake passing Continental Falls on the way. There are several more stunning alpine lakes past Lower Mohawk so pitch your tent and go and explore them if there’s time before sunset. 

Best backpacking trip near Aspen: Aspen to Crested Butte 

Distance : 11 miles Difficulty : Difficult

The drive from Aspen to Crested Butte is 100 miles, but go on foot and it’s 11 glorious miles over West Maroon Pass. This unforgettable trip takes you through aspen groves and wildflower meadows and treats you to some of the country’s most photographed mountain vistas.

To begin this hike from Aspen, park at Maroon Lake about ten miles south of town.

From spectacular Maroon Lake, hike through the forest to Crater Lake and pass the base of the iconic Maroon Bells. There’s a steep and strenuous climb up Maroon Creek to West Maroon Pass at 12,490ft of elevation – rest here for incredible views – then a steep descent down into more wildflower fields and old mining cabins as you follow Crystal River through the forest to Crested Butte. You can camp here and return on foot the way you came, or book a shuttle to take you back to Aspen. Needless to say, you can do this trip in either direction.

Best backpacking trip near Telluride: Blue Lakes Trail 

Distance : 8.6 miles Difficulty : Difficult

The San Juan and San Miguel Mountain ranges surrounding Telluride are quite possibly the most picturesque in the state. The Blue Lakes trail takes you to a turquoise lake via Mount Sneffels wilderness, cascades and wildflowers galore.

Blue Creek trailhead is very close to town as the crow flies, but since it’s on the other side of Mount Sneffels it requires a little over an hour of driving. Take Highway 62 towards Ridgewary and turn onto Dallas Creek Road then drive 9 miles south to the trailhead.

The hike takes you up the Dallas Creek drainage with spectacular mountain views all the way. You will pass an incredible waterfall before spending the night next to the turquoise waters of Blue Lake.

Julia Clarke is a staff writer for Advnture.com and the author of the book  Restorative Yoga for Beginners . She loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then recover on the the yoga mat. Julia graduated with a degree in journalism in 2004 and spent eight years working as a radio presenter in Kansas City, Vermont, Boston and New York City before discovering the joys of the Rocky Mountains. She then detoured west to Colorado and enjoyed 11 years teaching yoga in Vail before returning to her hometown of Glasgow, Scotland in 2020 to focus on family and writing.  

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10 Incredible Colorado Campgrounds For Camping With Kids

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Growing up in Colorado, family camping trips were always where I had my favorite memories. Colorado is absolutely packed with amazing places to explore, so your options are really limitless. Narrowing it down to the best places to camp with kids in Colorado can be a bit of a challenge.

Here we’re going to show you the best places to camp with kids in Colorado all over the state.

The stunning mountains that surround every road west of Denver tower over and inspire you, and we’re here to help you find the best family colorado campground. We’ve put together this list of the 10 best places to camp with kids in Colorado to narrow the choices down so you can find the perfect family campground.

How do you choose a good place to camp with kids in Colorado?

Every family is different. You know your family best out of anyone, and that means you’ll know what your family is looking for. These are some big areas to consider when thinking about the best family colorado campground. Camping with the family should be tailored to each specific family, so go through this list and see what fits yours best. 

Best Colorado Camping Locations For Families

Growing up, my family only camped in our backyard. Well, my dad and I camped in our backyard. That was what fit our family. We didn’t have the accessibility to go further, nor did we have the time. For me, it was the best. It isn’t the best location for everyone though. Here are a few different ideas to help you narrow down what type of camping you want to do with kids.

Backcountry Camping In Colorado

The backcountry refers to places that are more difficult to get to and are further separated from society. You can’t just drive there, park, and camp. You’ll need to hike, ski, or trek in a ways. The backcountry can be a lot more difficult when camping with kids, but absolutely doable. Below, we’re sharing both our favorite kid friendly backpacking location in Colorado as well as an amazing backcountry hut you can hike into.

Frontcountry or Car Camping In Colorado

The frontcountry or car camping is what most families tend to choose when going camping with kids. It’s accessible, and you can bring as many things as you want, since you drive right up to your family campsite. If you have younger kids, frontcountry, or car camping, is a great choice. You don’t need to carry a huge load of things into the woods, and you know the car is there for easy access. 

If you are coming out for a long trip with the kids, a site with access to town might be a great choice for you. Make the decisions on the type of trip you want, and it should help you with your choice in location. 

Colorado Campground Amenities

Many campgrounds offer a lot of services and amenities while some offer none but a spot to put a tent. There are campsites with bathrooms and showers, but there are also campsites with pit toilets. Look into the site further if you hope to find somewhere with particular bathroom amenities. 

Other amenities to be on the lookout for are a dishwashing station, water access, RV hookups, and access to electricity. You get the choice of how far off the grid you want to be, and there are sites where you can hook up to the wifi just as easily as at home. 

Private vs Public Campgrounds in Colorado

The world runs in public and private spaces, and campsites are no different. You can often find both in close proximity, but the differences will be pretty obvious once you look into them. 

Private campgrounds tend to be “nicer” with more modern amenities, access to swimming pools, and electrical hookups at your site. This isn’t the rule for all of them, but it’s common. They also tend to have a lower population of people because of the higher price you’ll have to pay. 

Public campgrounds on the other hand tend to be run by the government and only include the bare bones. This gives your family much more a “wilderness” feel with family camping. They are often free, or really cheap because there’s not much that you are paying for. Don’t expect public campgrounds to be fancy, but expect them to be rustic. 

Do I Need Reservations To Camp In Colorado

If you’re choosing an established colorado campground be sure to research the reservation system. You can find kid friendly campsites that are first-come, first-served, but sometimes it can be nice to have a guaranteed spot. Note: since 2020, kid friendly campgrounds in Colorado fill up very quickly, so reservations are always recommended.

The 10 Best Places to Camp with Kids in Colorado

Jacks gulch colorado campground for families.

Closest City: Fort Collins Reservations: First-come, first-served Best time of year to go: Summer and Fall Amenities : Drinking water, Vault Toilets

Jack’s Gulch is an incredibly popular space, especially when it comes to family-friendly campgrounds in Colorado. It has a huge variety of campsites and is easily-accessed from Fort Collins. It’s a great place to take the kids camping in Colorado and then mountain biking or fishing in the stream while surrounded by spectacular mountain views. It even has a self-guided nature hike that wanders around the campground. 

Rifle Falls State Park Family Friendly Colorado Campsites

Closest City: Rifle Reservations: Reservations Required Best time of year to go: Summer Amenities: Electrical, bear boxes, picnic tables, drinking water

“Home of Colorado’s only 80-foot triple waterfall.” The dramatic landscape speaks for itself and is the main attraction for families coming to visit Rifle. 13 drive-in and seven walk-in campsites are available to tailor specifically to your family. This is a great campground for swimming with kids and overall a really family friendly Colorado campground.  

Camping With Kids at Colorado’s Redfeather Lakes

Closest City: Fort Collins Reservations: Reservations required in peak season (May-September) First-come, first-served in off-season Best time of year to go: Summer and Fall Amenities : Drinking water, Vault Toilets

Dowdy Lake and West Lake Campgrounds are both campgrounds run by the USDA Forest Service in the Roosevelt National Forest. They are both nestled up against stunningly-beautiful lakes with a variety of different sites. These are some of the best Colorado campgrounds with kids.  You can have electrical hookups, or find primitive camping. Taking advantage of the lakes is your best bet to go boating or fishing with the kids. Book ahead because this best family colorado campground fills quickly.  

Golden Gate Canyon State Park Camping In Colorado

Closest City: Denver Reservations: Reservations Required Best time of year to go: Year-round Amenities: Electricity, flush toilets, showers, laundry, drinking water, dump station

Denver is the most hustle-and-bustle city that you’ll find in Colorado. That doesn’t mean there isn’t easily-available family camping in Denver. Golden Gate Canyon State Park has everything from cabins and yurts to backcountry sites and is the best kid friendly camping close to Denver. It’s a family colorado campground that has everything. You can go fishing in the morning, horseback riding in the afternoon, and enjoy the fire at night. Did I mention it’s dog-friendly? 

Cub Lake Backcountry Camping With Kids

Closest City: Estes Park Reservations: Backcountry Permit Required Best time of year to go: Summer and Fall Amenities: None.  Bury your own solid waste and purify lake water for drinking.

The Cub Creek Backcountry Campground is a phenomenal choice for dipping your toes into more backcountry camping with kids. The hike starts at the Moraine Lake Trailhead and is a short 2.25 miles in. Right before you reach Cub Lake you will find the backcountry site. This is where you take the kids when you want to experience deeper wilderness with them. Just remember to stop in and grab a backcountry permit before hiking out. 

Rocky Mountain National Park Moraine Park Family Friendly Campground

Closest City: Estes Park Reservations: Summer: Reservations up to 6 months in advance Winter: First-come, first-served Best time of year to go: Year-round Amenities: Bear boxes, drinking water, dump station

The Moraine Park Campground is located in the breathtaking area of Rocky Mountain National Park. This is a stunning campground with kids in Colorado no matter the time of year. When the snow starts to fall, the Park does shut off water and limit amenity access. Come prepared for a limited experience in the winter camping with kids here. There is beautiful hiking to be done in this area and there are 101 tent sites available to camp at. 

High Lonesome Backcountry Hut For Families

Closest City: Fraser

Reservations: Reservation Required

Best time of year to go: Winter, year-round

Amenities: Water, electricity, flush toilets, shower

It’s a different kind of family camping, but it’s one that I can’t recommend enough. The High Lonesome Hut is a masterfully-crafted hut located in the center of 160 acres of private property surrounded by the National Forest. It’s the perfect place for camping with kids in Colorado if you want a combination of comfort and wilderness.  This home-away-from-home will take your breath away as soon as you walk up to it after a beautiful, easy two-mile hike. In the summer there are trails for mountain biking, and in the winter there are sleds to take up and down the hills. Cozy up by the woodstove and cook a full meal in the kitchen then sleep in handmade bunk beds surrounded by family camping together. 

Molly Brown Campsites for Families

Closest City: Leadville Reservations: Reservations Required Best time of year to go: Summer and Fall Amenities: Drinking water, vault toilets

Nestled in a pine forest, the Molly Brown Campground for families sits right on the edge of Turquoise Lake, just outside of Leadville. There is great access to all watersports like canoeing, fishing, and even water skiing. Going water skiing at 9,900 feet!? It’s an unbelievable space to take the kids camping in Colorado and get the feeling of low-oxygen air (yes, you’ll feel the high-altitude camping here for sure). 

Dolores River Campground For Camping With Kids

Closest City: Dolores Reservations: Reservations Required Best time of year to go: Summer and Fall Amenities: Full hook ups, rec room, laundry, flush toilets, showers, gift shop

This Colorado campground has it all. You can take the family camping in vintage trailers, wagons, cabins, yurts, or just choose a tent camping site. There are Jeeps and SUPs to rent, as well as a private fishing pond. The Dolores River kid friendly Campground is the epitome of comfortable family camping in Colorado. It has all of the amenities you can ask for and more. It’s easy to hop into town then return to your campsite at night after enjoying the great “city life” Southwest Colorado has to offer. 

Arrowhead Point Family Friendly Campground

Closest City: Buena Vista Reservations: Reservations Required Best time of year to go: Year-round Amenities : Full hook ups, bathhouse, market, rigs up to 60 ft

Looking for a kid friendly colorado campground that has an espresso bar so you never have to go without coffee while with the kids? The Arrowhead Point Campground is another privately-owned campground that’s jam-packed with amenities. There are zipline tours, guided fishing trips, and horseback riding amongst countless other things to do in the area when camping with kids. This works as a great base camp for the family to go around and tour the rest of Colorado. 

These 12 family campgrounds in Colorado offer the perfect mix of nature and great activities nearby.  All of them are in stunning locations that will make your family camping trip to Colorado even more memorable.  If you’ve stayed at any of these kid-friendly Colorado campgrounds, please comment below and share more about your experience there!

Hi, I’m Jessica, a mom of 5 kids and married to my favorite adventure partner. I love to bike, ski, camp and hike. We've visited over 40 countries with our kids, but are equally happy on the road as we are exploring our home state of Utah.

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• Overnight Trips

Experience the best of Colorado by day and night, as you embark on an overnight rafting trip! These unique experiences allow everyone to get outside for multiple days on the water, camping under the stars, and time spent hanging out riverside with your group.

Your Overnight Adventure

AVA offers several options for overnight rafting in Colorado. Perfect for larger groups and families, overnight trips allow you to get out on the water and relax amidst beautiful Colorado scenery. We offer standard rafting overnights or mix it up and try one of our overnight fly-fishing trips!

On overnight trips, you will spend a day rafting, settle in for a delicious meal prepared by your guides, relax riverside, and camp under the stars, waking up for an exciting next day on the river. We’ll take care of meals, gear, and all the logistics… your only requirement is to make lasting memories!

Destination

Youngest age in party.

The Gauntlet- Pine Creek & Numbers

Browns Canyon Rafting + Via Ferrata

Browns Canyon Half Day + Zipline Package

The Numbers 1/2 Day + Via Ferrata

The Numbers Half Day + Zipline

Browns Canyon Half Day + Rock Climb

The Numbers Half Day + Rock Climb

24 Hours in Browns Canyon

Colorado Via Ferrata – Granite

Gold Rush Clear Creek Rafting Adventure

Upper Clear Creek 1/2 Day + Via Ferrata

Colorado Scenic Float-Half Day

Cliffside Zipline Half Day

Numbers 1/2 Day

Mount Blue Sky, Colorado Via Ferrata

Browns Canyon 1/2 Day

Upper Clear Creek Half Day Rafting Trip

Mountaintop Ziplining In Colorado – Half Day

Walk & Wade Fly Fishing Trip

Polaris RZR 2 Hour Rental+ Scenic Float Package

Gold Rush Rafting+ Zipline

Gold Rush Rafting + Via Ferrata

Upper Clear Creek Rafting + Zipline

Browns Canyon Sizzler

Polaris RZR Half Day UTV Rental

Polaris RZR 2 Hour UTV Rental

2 Day Overnight Fishing Trip

Starlight & Full Moon Zipline

1/2 Day Bike Rental

Upper Colorado 4 Hour Fly Fishing

Blue River Express White Water Rafting Trip

Rock Climb Half Day

Dolores River 3 Day

Full Day Bike Rental

Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day

Scenic Float Full Day

Inflatable Kayaks Half Day

Mt. Princeton Waterfall Ride

Mt. Princeton Sunset Ride

24 Hours on the Upper Colorado

Mt. Princeton 2 Hour Ride

Polaris RZR Full Day UTV Rental

Georgetown Loop Train Ride

Phoenix Full Day

Multiday Bike Rental

The Lower Canyon Rafting + Via Ferrata

The Lower Canyon Rafting + Cliffside Zipline Package

The lower canyon on clear creek.

• Rock Climb + Zipline

Rappel into the Gauntlet

Colorado Cabins

Raft Rentals & Packages

Dowd Chute Rafting

Lower Eagle Rafting

Arkansas Valley Never-Ever Half Day Fly Fishing

Arkansas Valley Never-Ever Full Day Fly Fishing

Shoshone Rafting

Royal Gorge Half Day

Royal Gorge Full Day

Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half Day

Browns canyon express.

Experience the wildest rafting offered on the Arkansas River in Colorado.  On this full day rafting adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to navigate the [...]

Excitement and scenery await on your Browns Canyon + Via Ferrata full-day adventure. Climb into the Rocky Mountains and rush the rapids of the [...]

This multi-adventure package will keep you energized and smiling the entire day, as you fly through the trees on our Mountaintop Zipline course and [...]

This adventure will get your heart rate up and keep it up as you embark on our Numbers + Via Ferrata full-day excursion. This [...]

Experience an action-packed day with two of Colorado’s best summer activities. Soar between trees on our Mountaintop Zipline course and then splash your way [...]

Experience an action-packed day with two of Colorado’s best mountain activities! On this multi-adventure package, you’ll have the opportunity to raft the iconic Arkansas [...]

Experience Colorado’s best overnight whitewater rafting. This trip provides a unique way to explore the most popular stretch of whitewater rafting in the country [...]

What an Overnight Trip looks like

What to expect, on your overnight trip.

Our Guides, Your Safety

At AVA Rafting, we prioritize your safety above all else. As industry leaders in outdoor adventure, we have set the highest standards for expertise and safety. Our guides undergo rigorous training, surpassing both legal requirements and industry standards. You can trust that our CPR + First Aid certified guides are well-prepared for any situation and are equipped with first aid kits and top-of-the-line rescue gear on every overnight and rafting trip. Our highly qualified guides are trained to anticipate and prevent outdoor emergencies, ensuring that your adventure is both thrilling and safe.

Beyond just safety, our guides define AVA and will define your overnight experience. They uphold the highest standards of professionalism, teamwork, and respect; they are deeply passionate about what they do, seeking to share this passion with our guests and help you make lasting memories in the great outdoors.

25 Years of AVA Adventure

Since 1998, AVA Rafting & Zipline has been a leader and innovator within Colorado’s outdoor recreation industry. For 25 years, we’ve been dedicated to providing exceptional rafting and outdoor experiences, including our exciting overnight trips.

We believe that an overnight whitewater rafting adventure with AVA goes beyond just excitement; it represents an opportunity to connect with the great outdoors of Colorado, cultivate an appreciation for our state’s natural areas, and discover every nook and cranny of these incredible spaces.

Your Overnight Trip with AVA

AVA’s overnight trips allow you and your group to experience the best of Colorado whitewater alongside an incredible riverside camping experience. There is no better way to reconnect with family, friends, and nature than by paddling through beautiful river valleys and sleeping under the stars. On an overnight rafting trip with AVA, all food, overnight gear, and the adventure itself are included. The only thing you need is your personal belongings and a sleeping bag! We have several different whitewater camping trip opportunities, with varying levels of rafting and adventure, allowing all adventure seekers to take part in a thrilling overnight experience—even kids.

Our Adventure Tips

On your overnight adventure, we’ll cover the meals, camping equipment, and rafting gear; all you need to worry about is bringing your own sleeping bag, or you can rent one from us! Please remember to bring a change of clothes, toiletries, and anything else you might want for your overnight on the river. As Colorado weather can be unpredictable, we recommend dressing in layers and bringing a raincoat. We also suggest packing sunscreen, lip balm, a water bottle, headlamp, hat, sunglasses, a small pillow, close-toed shoes, and other footwear for camp. While rafting, please wear secure shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and that will stay on your feet at all times!

How to Choose Your

Overnight trip.

Difficulty of your overnight rafting trip: When choosing an overnight trip, be sure to check the rapids classification, keeping in mind minimum age, swimming ability, and fitness levels of your group. Read more about how we rate rapids and rivers on our Rafting page.

Best time to raft: Water levels fluctuate based on Colorado snowmelt. High water usually occurs early to mid-June. Low flows are typically in late August. Minimum ages may be raised due to high water. Check our River Conditions page for updates on water levels for each river!

Length of multi-day trips: Trips and camping experiences can last anywhere from 2 days to 10 days. Most people underestimate how comfortable camping can be and how relaxed you will feel, unplugged and connected with nature.

• 25 years in service
• Your safety is our job
• We set the bar high
• We have the trip for you

Explore the AVA Landscape

Find us across Colorado! Use our handy map to determine the activities convenient to your destination.

• Activities Bike Rentals Fly Fishing Horseback Riding Lodging Off-Road Rentals Overnight Trips Rafting Rock Climbing Train Rides Via Ferrata Ziplining
• Difficulty / Adrenaline Leisurely Fun & Mellow Splashy & Moderate Exciting & Active Thrilling & Very Active Wild & High Exertion Heart Pounding Full Intensity Maximum Adrenaline
• Min Age 2 5 6 7 8 10 12 13 15 16+

Experience Colorado’s best overnight whitewater rafting. This trip provides a unique way to explore the most popular stretch of whitewater rafting in the country as you paddle and camp in the heart of Colorado’s Rockies.

Looking to kick up a little dirt and then wash it off? Experience the best of Colorado’s outdoors on our full-day UTV Rental and Scenic Float adventure package!

Experience an adrenaline-filled full-day adventure through the awe-inspiring terrain of Kremmling, Colorado with our new UTV rentals. This full-day (8 hour) UTV rental will give you all the time you need to explore the vast off-road trail system around Kremmling with either the Polaris RZR or the Polaris RZR Turbo.

Embark on an exhilarating full-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Kremmling, Colorado with our latest UTV rentals. With this half-day (4-hour) UTV rental, you’ll have ample time to delve into the expansive off-road trail network surrounding Kremmling, choosing between the Polaris RZR or the Polaris RZR Turbo for your adventure.

Our UTV rentals offer an unforgettable opportunity to adventure through the stunning scenery of Kremmling, Colorado. Our 2-hour UTV rental offers a shorter introduction to off-roading and a chance to explore the trail system around Kremmling.

With our multiple bike options, you can choose from spraying up dirt on the trails, sending it downhill at Breckenridge Resort, or cruising the recreational paths.

A full day exploring Breckenridge by bike, whether via the thrill of single track or cruising the many rec paths both in town and in the surrounding area, is the perfect mountain adventure. Scenic views, interesting detours, and sunny skies abound.

Skip the car and use a bike to navigate town for the entire vacation! Or, get out and explore everything that Colorado’s many bike paths have to offer whether single track or paved bike path.

The 2 days overnight fly fishing trip combines float and wade fly fishing and camping to create the quintessential Colorado adventure. We’ll provide the meals and gear, you just bring that fishing license and a sleeping bag (we can also provide you with one for a small fee)! A camping fishing trip allows you to cover more river miles, meaning you will wake up to a fresh, new section of river each day with different fishing prospects ripe for exploring.

Explore the incredible waters of the Upper Colorado River with a knowledgeable fishing guide. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first-time fishing or you’re a seasoned angler, this trip is fit for all levels of experience.

This adventure will get your heart rate up and keep it up as you embark on our Numbers + Via Ferrata full-day excursion. This rafting and climbing experience will challenge all adrenaline seekers, as you tackle some of the most difficult whitewater in the country, as well as our heart-pounding Via Ferrata course.

Excitement and scenery await on your Browns Canyon + Via Ferrata full-day adventure. Climb into the Rocky Mountains and rush the rapids of the mighty Arkansas River.

Adventure awaits as you conquer the cliffside on this unique mountaintop climbing experience. Feel a rush of adrenaline as you traverse across and above the Arkansas River Valley, using iron rungs, bars, and other features to ascend. Your stomach will drop on our hanging bridge and freefall flight line!

This exciting full-day adventure experience combines rafting on the Lower Canyon portion of the Clear Creek with our thrilling Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata adventure. Get your heart rate up as you ascend the cliffside, and keep the adrenaline up with rafting on this section of class IV and V rapids.

Spend your day venturing through the mountains on with this thrilling combo of activities! You’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself on the water and land, as you rush class IV rapids on the Upper Clear Creek and climb high into the cliffside on our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course.

Spend an evening under the Arkansas Valley stars at AVA’s Buena Vista campground. Located at the base of several 14,000-foot peaks, access to the Colorado Trail and several other hiking trails is literally out our back door.

Our rental cabins at our Buena Vista outpost offer unparalleled access to outdoor activities! Stay with us before or after your adventure and wake up refreshed, ready for another day of rafting, climbing, or exploring.

On our Gold Rush rafting and Via Ferrata multi-adventure package, adventure starts strong and keeps coming. Climb high into the cliffside above Idaho Springs and the Chicago Creek on Via Ferrata course, a unique form of climbing with features built into the mountainside. You’ll then cool off over the course of 7 miles of moderate rapids on the historic Clear Creek.

Do you have experience rafting the Colorado River? That’s perfect because we have all the rafts and gear you need to build a righteous rafting trip this season. Our full day and overnight packages come fully loaded with everything you need to enjoy some time floating down the river.

The Eagle River, just minutes from Vail and Beaver Creek, is the home of Dowd Chute, which offers some of the most thrilling and intense rafting in Colorado.

The Eagle River whitewater rafting experience offers a variety of paddling for all levels of boating, and the Lower Eagle is the perfect Colorado family rafting experience.

Shoshone Rapids half day takes you through Colorado’s amazing Glenwood Canyon, which is just outside of Glenwood Springs. A must-see destination for any Colorado visitor, the 1,500 foot canyon walls tower above you as you raft down this Class III river trip.

Wanting to experience the Royal Gorge from a different perspective? After your day of rafting, take a ride on the Royal Gorge Railroad, where you’ll have a chance to relax as you admire the river, the bridge, and the granite cliffs of the Royal Gorge.

Only 45 minutes from Denver, Colorado in Idaho Springs, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers an exciting and historical opportunity to experience Colorado history. Ride on the original steam-powered or diesel-powered locomotive through Georgetown, learning about Colorado’s rich mining history and enjoying stunning scenery just outside Denver.

See why Colorado is known for its breathtaking sunsets. Being on horseback at sunset is a memory that will last forever. This two hour ride allows you to see the vistas that make the Arkansas Valley so renowned for its scenery.

Ride along the scenic Browns Creek approximately 2 hours, taking in beautiful views of waterfalls along the way. The Arkansas Valley holds the most 14,000-foot peaks of anywhere in Colorado; this stunning scenery makes it one of the best places to experience a horseback ride.

The Arkansas Valley is lined with 15 14,000-foot peaks – the most in one concentration in Colorado – which makes for one of the most scenic locations for a Colorado horseback ride. You’ll get views of Mt. Princeton, Mt. Yale, Ht. Harvard and Mt. Antero on this ride.

Join AVA for a scenic fly-fishing excursion on the Upper Colorado River. Our 4- hour float trips are perfect for both novice and experienced anglers and present an opportunity to both fish and relax!

The perfect introduction to fly fishing. Get an orientation and test your skills on the iconic Arkansas River in central Colorado.

Come discover the magnetism of fly fishing in Colorado! Endless riffles, runs, pools, and overhanging brush – the Arkansas River is one of Colorado’s major waterways, great for Colorado river fishing.

Get your heart up on one of our most daring adventure trips! On our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course, you will traverse the cliffside in this unique assisted climbing experience, with views of the Rockies and the town of Idaho Springs present the entire way.

Join us for one of the most exciting and popular Colorado mountain summer adventures – ziplining! The starlight zipline adventure allows you to experience AVA’s same cliffside zipline course after dark, with the moonlight zipline taking place under a full moon.

Fly between towering old-growth pine trees and cliffs on our Mountaintop Zipline, a unique Colorado experience fun for all ages. This course may be the most incredible way to see the Arkansas River valley as you experience Colorado from a unique vantage point.

Fly through the trees on our exciting 6-line zipline course in Idaho Springs. This trip includes features such as a dual race line, hanging bridge, and log cross, with the entire family having a blast on this half-day adventure!

This 47-mile run is full of intermediate Class III rapids with one easily scouted Class IV+ rapid thrown in to keep everyone on their toes. Tawny canyon walls are interspersed with tall Ponderosa pines. Box Elders soon appear as the canyon walls begin to back off from the river banks.

Try the newest, most fun activity on the river – Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)! On this half-day trip, you’ll SUP 5 miles down the Colorado River. You’ll stand up or kneel on a large, surfboard-shaped board and steer with a long paddle as you navigate down the river. Prepare yourself for falling into the water, as it’s highly likely that you’ll go for a swim!

This wonderful Colorado River float trip is a gently flowing section that is inviting to all ages. You’ll encounter a few small rapids as the Colorado River winds through the Gore Range and Mountain Ranchland.

Experience the natural beauty of the Colorado River on our Full Day Upper Colorado Full Day Scenic Float trip! You’ll paddle a gently flowing section of the Colorado River that is inviting to all ages, encountering a few small class II rapids, as you wind through the Gore Range and mountain ranch land.

Looking to take charge of the river? On AVA’s Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak ½ Day trip you can do just that! Whether you want to try something new or are seeking a little extra excitement or independence, the Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak trip is perfect for you!

This trip offers something for everyone! Enjoy wildlife, serenity, and natural beauty that only the Colorado River can offer. You’ll have plenty of time to take in historic cabins, scenic waterfalls, and steep canyon walls towering over 100′ above your head. Bald eagles, black bears, and the endangered Colorado river otter are often seen on this fun section of the river.

Our Upper Clear Creek adventure will keep your paddle moving and your heart pounding as you crash through class IV rapids. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, and keep your eyes peeled for big horn sheep, otters, and other native wildlife that are commonly spotted on many of our Colorado whitewater rafting trips.

Adrenaline seekers will love the Lower Canyon portion of Clear Creek, with opportunities to raft class IV and V rapids. This is a unique opportunity to explore some of the best whitewater in the state within a short distance of Denver.

Experience Clear Creek’s best whitewater on our Phoenix, full-day advanced trip, only 30 minutes from Denver. The nonstop action on this Clear Creek river rafting trip will provide an adrenaline-pumping experience for all thrill seekers.

Splash down the Clear Creek mining valley on our 1/3 day Gold Rush trip. Just a short half-hour trip from Denver, this family-friendly rafting adventure offers a fun outdoor adventure that everyone in your group will enjoy.

Looking for that quintessential Colorado whitewater rafting experience? Head to the Numbers section of the Arkansas River! If you are an experienced rafter looking to take it to the next level or an adventurous beginner up for a new challenge, the Numbers rafting trip is the perfect exhilarating adventure.

Get ready to experience the best of Colorado on our Brown’s Canyon half-day trip. This family-friendly adventure rushes you down the Arkansas River and through Browns Canyon National Monument on exciting yet mellower class III rapids.

Join AVA on the Blue River on this 1/3-day family-friendly rafting trip! Splash through class III rapids and marvel at the scenery around you as you paddle down one of Colorado’s lesser known yet quintessential rivers.

Package a thrilling zipline tour with the Upper Clear Creek half-day rafting trip for an adventure of a lifetime! This full-day experience combines our class IV rafting trip on the Clear Creek with our exciting and scenic cliffside zipline course.

The Lower Canyon and cliffside zipline multi-adventure package includes an entire day of adrenaline-pumping fun. Join us on the Clear Creek and up high on the cliffside above Idaho Springs, and experience the best of the Rockies from every angle.

Join us on one of our best family trips, and experience Colorado fun on the river and in the air. From our Idaho Springs outpost, paddle Clear Creek’s best family-friendly whitewater and soar through the trees on our cliffside zipline course.

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors of the Arkansas River Valley with a rock climb + zipline package! This multi-adventure package offers the opportunity to combine two unique aerial adventures in one full day of high-flying fun.

Experience an action-packed day with two of Colorado’s best summer activities. Soar between trees on our Mountaintop Zipline course and then splash your way through nonstop whitewater on the Numbers Rafting section of the Arkansas River.

Experience an action-packed day with two of Colorado’s best mountain activities! On this multi-adventure package, you’ll have the opportunity to raft the iconic Arkansas River on our Numbers rafting trip and climb into the cliffside on our rock-climbing adventure.

On this full-day whitewater rafting adventure, we’ll get your adrenaline flowing beginning with a rappel into the Granite Gorge! You’ll meet your raft for The Gauntlet as you head out for rafting the Pine Creek & The Numbers section.

This multi-adventure package will keep you energized and smiling the entire day, as you fly through the trees on our Mountaintop Zipline course and then rush the rapids on our Brown’s Canyon whitewater adventure.

The Royal Gorge ½ Day Trip offers a thrilling whitewater adventure on the Arkansas River that is sure to excite everyone from experienced rafters to adventurous and fit first-timers. This Colorado experience features 1,100-foot canyon walls as you immerse yourself in continuous Class III to Class V white water.

Spend a day in the scenic Royal Gorge! One of the most renowned white water rafting trips in Colorado, this section will take you down into the 1100-foot deep gorge, where you’ll battle continuous III-V rapids.

Experience the wildest rafting offered on the Arkansas River in Colorado.  On this full day rafting adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to navigate the Pine Creek and Numbers sections of this exciting river, rushing through class III-V rapids under towering peaks and through Colorado’s most natural areas.

The full-day Browns Canyon Sizzler represents the ultimate Colorado rafting experience! This trip offers a full day of classic white water rafting through class III rapids on the Arkansas River, complete with a riverside deli style lunch.

Take in the Rocky Mountain scenery while our guides cover the basics of belaying, rappelling, and setting anchors. Whether you’re looking to learn more about rock climbing or trying it for the first time this is a perfect trip for you!

Experience the best of the Arkansas River on this 3/4 day trip through class III rapids and the majestic Browns Canyon National Monument. You’ll get the best of our Brown’s Canyon half-day with even more splashy fun and a later start to your day.

• Buena Vista

40671 US-24 Buena Vista, CO 81211

If using Google Maps, ‘US 24 North’ is incorrect and will take you 10 miles south of us. Type in the address exactly as listed above to ensure correct directions.

On the hunt for a true mountain excursion?  Head to Buena Vista, Colorado to raft through a national monument on our  Brown’s Canyon 1/2 day  trip, fly above the Arkansas River Valley on our  Mountaintop Zipline , or  Rock Climb  the majestic Granite Gorge Cliffs, where views of the majestic Collegiate Peaks will take your breath away.

AVA’s Buena Vista Outpost is located just over an hour from Summit County and under two and a half hours from Denver, Colorado.

• Idaho Springs

431 Chicago Creek Road Idaho Springs, CO 80452

Our Idaho Springs outpost offers beginner to advanced levels of whitewater rafting on  Clear Creek , soar among the treetops on our  Cliffside Zipline , or try our   Via Ferrata  course for an introduction to mountaineering.  Enjoy an afternoon in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and catch some incredible sights of historic Idaho Springs- the location of Colorado’s first gold discovery!

Our Idaho Springs outpost is conveniently located near Denver, just 30 minutes west of downtown on I-70, and less than an hour from Summit County.

1606 Park Avenue Kremmling, CO 80459

Kremmling is the perfect destination for families looking for a mountain getaway. Our  Upper Colorado River Scenic Float  rafting trip welcomes adventurers as young as 2 years old on a half day or full day adventure on mellow Class II rapids. While in Kremmling, be sure to also try one of our  Fly Fishing  excursions or kick up dirt on our  UTV Rentals!

You will find our Kremmling outpost just 45 minutes from Summit County and just under two hours from Denver.

Photo Packages & Retail

At the end of your overnight trip, you will return to our outpost, where you have the opportunity to browse photos from your trip, along with other souvenirs and retail options. Your guides put in tremendous effort to ensure an unforgettable journey, so if you had a fantastic time, gratuities are warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated. We sincerely hope that your adventure with AVA becomes a highlight of your spring or summer. We aim to provide experiences that leave a lasting impact, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the near future for more incredible adventures!

• Testimonials

We had an absolute blast! Our guides, Toast and Flip Flop, were hilarious and kept things very entertaining. We will be back for sure!

Trip Date: June 28, 2023 | Adventure: Ziplining | AVA Outpost: Idaho Springs, CO

Great place to go rafting.

What do I bring?

In addition to a change of clothes and toiletries for your overnight camping experience, we recommend bringing a few other items to maximize comfort on your overnight trip. These include sunscreen, lip balm, a water bottle, headlamp, hat, sunglasses, a small pillow, closed-toed shoes for rafting, and extra footwear to wear at camp. Please check your confirmation email for other details about your rafting and camping trip and what to bring.

What Should I Wear?

Wearing layers and bringing options for warm days and cool nights will set you up for success on your overnight rafting experience. Don’t forget these necessities: · Clothes/swimsuit under your wet suit · Shorts/T-shirt · Long Pants/Long Sleeve Shirt · Rain jacket/Fleece Jacket · Underwear/Extra socks

What is provided by AVA?

On an overnight rafting trip with AVA, all food, overnight gear, and the adventure itself are included. The only thing you need is an extra pair of clothes and a sleeping bag! We also have sleeping bags available for rent if you do not have one. We additionally provide wetsuits, PFDs, splash jackets, and all other rafting equipment.

What are meals like?

Breakfast/ lunch/ dinner occurring during your rafting and camping trip will be prepared for you. Bring additional snacks and water. Adult beverages are welcome (NO GLASS). Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advanced notice. Please check your individual trip for exact meal details.

Where do we sleep?

You will be sleeping in tents with sleeping bags/ sleeping pads under the breathtaking Colorado stars! Sleeping bags are available for rent or you can bring your own.

Are there showers?

No, there will not be showers on your camping experience, so expect to get a little dirty! It is unlikely that you will get muddy river water on your clothes or skin unless you roll around on the side of the riverbank. Although no showers will be available, it is recommended to bring along a bottle of biodegradable soap and a washcloth to wash off some grime while at camp. You can always opt for the good ole polar plunge into the river to wash off.

What about restrooms?

Everyone always wonders where you use the restroom while camping on the river. A groover system is used for solid waste, consisting of a toilet seat on a tripod stool (Typically an amazing view comes along with it!) As for liquid waste, you will be asked to pee on the ground or in the river a short distance away from camp. While on the river, rafters will be given a “poop kit” for mid-day needs.

What is the trip schedule like?

Expect to wake up around 7:00am-7:30am to enjoy coffee/ hot beverages while your guide prepares a delicious breakfast for you. You will pack up camp and get back out on the river between 9:00am and 10:00am. You’ll spend the morning rafting then pull over riverside for lunch. Expect to be on the river until about 3:00pm-5:00pm. Feel free to bring some riverside games (Frisbees/Deck of Cards/ Fishing Poles) for entertainment while at camp. Dinner and dessert will be served around the campfire (Barring any fire restrictions)

What can I expect regarding weather?

You may encounter a variety of weather while on your overnight rafting trip. Expect periods of rain (heavy at times). River corridors tend to be windy so dress for it! The best way to prepare is to pack enough clothing to keep you warm and dry, on and off the river. Be ready for the weather to change drastically throughout your trip. As the saying goes in Colorado… “If you don’t like the weather, wait about 10 minutes!”

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AVA offers you the best Colorado whitewater rafting trips, zipline tours and more in some of the Rocky Mountain’s most beautiful locations. Find a trip near you with rafting on 9 rivers, zipline tours in 2 locations, fly fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more.

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The 10 Best Summit Hikes in Colorado

Guidebook author and local resident James Dziezynski highlights the coolest mountain hikes and scrambles in the Colorado Rockies

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Trying to narrow down a list of the best summit hikes in Colorado makes my palms sweat. It’s almost harder than hiking the peaks themselves. I’ve been exploring Colorado’s mountains for over 25 years now and have written six mountain hiking guidebooks , and I still have difficulty picking out my favorites. There are just that many good mountains.

My favorite summits are those that embody a certain superlative aspect found on great mountains. That might be the thrill of topping out on an obscure, off-trail peak or simply finding a dog-friendly trail to a gorgeous summit that is shared with my canine pals.

This collection I’ve created focuses on ten mountains that represent a spectrum of adventure styles. While none of these standard routes demand technical gear like ropes and harnesses, the scrambling on some of the advanced Class 3 options can be exposed and dangerous. All of them are beautiful.

1. UN 13,001

Summit Elevation : 13,001 feet Difficulty : Medium Class : Easy Class 3 Distance : 7 miles out-and-back Location: Sawatch Range off Independence Pass near Aspen Best Feature : Beautiful approach hike that passes several lakes, followed by an off-trail ridge scramble

UN 13,001, also called “Point 13,001,” is the bland moniker of a summit that lacks an official USGS or local name. Thus, it defaults to the formula “unnamed + peak elevation.”

It’s currently the lowest recognized 13,000-foot peak in Colorado, though hyper-accurate LiDar measurements may slightly change its known elevation. Regardless, it’s a fantastic mountain adventure that includes a ridge scramble complete with a bit of hidden route finding that doesn’t become apparent until you’re on the ridge proper.

Access is easy. The trail begins at the Linkins Lake Trailhead off paved Independence Pass, roughly a mile west of the pass summit. Follow the Lost Man Loop Trail past the shimmering waters of Independence Lake, over Lost Man Pass, and down to the shore of the larger Lost Man Lake.

From here, go off-trail and gain the southeast ridge. This ridge scramble looks imposing at first, but safe passages on the right (east) side of the ridge offer secret detours that keep exposure down and the scrambling light. From the summit, you can return via the ridge or pound your knees down the steep, non-technical slopes to the north side of Lost Man Lake and the Lost Man Loop Trail.

2. Mount Flora

Summit Elevation : 13,129 feet Difficulty : Easy Class : Class 1 Distance : 6.1 miles out-and-back Location: Front Range off Berthoud Pass near Winter Park Best Feature : Dog-friendly trail that offers incredible views, potential wildflower blooms, and extra-credit peaks nearby.

Mount Flora is a peak I revisit yearly, thanks to its easy trailhead access off the top of Berthoud Pass. It’s also a relatively easy summit, good for hiking groups of mixed fitness, with spectacular views. This is still Colorado, and you’re still hiking uphill, but you’re doing so on a well-maintained trail that is never lung-shatteringly steep.

The path up begins at the defunct Berthoud Pass Ski Area. This section of the trail is directly below 12,392-foot Colorado Mines Peak, where a collection of still-functional communication buildings sit on the summit like a futuristic castle; it’s only a few hundred feet off the Mount Flora Trail and is worth a quick detour.

Mount Flora itself sits beyond a false summit on its southwest shoulder. The walk-up is pleasant and steady and can be colorful when spring flowers are in bloom. Because you are walking along the Continental Divide, views range from the eastern cities and plains to the rugged Gore Range summits to the west. For those looking for a bigger day, a pair of 12,000-foot peaks—Cone Mountain and Breckenridge Peak—are east of Flora’s ridge, though both Class 2 options do not have established trails.

3. Storm King Peak

Summit Elevation : 13,753 feet Difficulty : Very Difficult Class : Class 3 Distance : 15 miles out-and-back Location: Grenadier Range Near Ouray Best Feature : Epic, Lord of the Rings-style backcountry adventure in one of Colorado’s most remote regions. The peak itself features challenging but satisfying Class 3 scrambling.

For the adventurous, this is as good as it gets. There are several peaks named “Storm King” in Colorado, and this one is the monarch of them all. It is located deep in the Grenadier Range, a remote pocket of mountains best known for the aesthetically pleasing ramps on Vestal and Arrow Peaks. Storm King has its own mountainous charm, however, and offers an extended non-technical scramble on excellent rock to its lofty summit.

Most people do this hike as an overnight, starting at the Beartown Trailhead, which requires a 4×4 vehicle to reach. Hike in along the Vallecito Trail, going off-trail toward good camping in the meadows below Storm King and its sister peak, Mount Silex. On summit day, you’ll need savvy navigation to find a gully on the south side of the mountain, where the Class 3 rock is consistent. The broad summit is one of the most exhilarating and hard-earned in Colorado.

This route is for expert navigators with strong physical fitness and is not dog-friendly. It’s by far the most difficult route in this article, and it may very well be my personal favorite.

Summit Elevation : 12,795 feet Difficulty : Medium Class : Class 2 Distance : 7 miles out-and-back Location: Tenmile Range near Frisco  Best Feature : Steep, on-trail adventure that pops you above Dillon Reservoir. An excellent autumn adventure with the option to continue along the Tenmile Range Traverse.

Peak 1 is the first in a series of numbered peaks in the Tenmile Range. Along the way to this summit, you’ll pass the (barely there) ruins of a ghost town, two named sub-summits (Mount Royal and Mount Victoria), and encounter a bit of mild scrambling near the top. This hike starts right in the town of Frisco, so it’s easy to access. When you are done, it’s a short trip to a celebratory meal at one of the many restaurants in town.

The trail itself alternates between steep, east-coast style (few switchbacks) and open ridgeline. Emerging from treeline offers great views of the reservoir and the I-70 corridor. Near the top, you’ll briefly wander onto the rugged west side of the mountain, where morning shadows offer a contrast from the sunny east side of the ridge.

It’s a great out-and-back hike, but if you’re feeling burly, continue the Class 3 ridge over to Tenmile Peak (which could be called “Peak 2”), Peak 3, and Peak 4. Beyond Peak 4, the ridge mellows out and becomes simple hillwalking. A nice point-to-point with two vehicles is to traverse near Peak 6 and descend via the Colorado Trail to the parking lot at the Copper Ski Area.

5. Cooper Peak

Summit Elevation : 12,264 feet Difficulty : Difficult Class : Easy Class 3 Distance : 19 miles out-and-back Location: Indian Peaks near Grandby Best Feature : Overnight camping at one of Colorado’s most beautiful backcountry lakes, followed by an off-trail scramble to a remote but accommodating summit.

Part of Cooper Peak’s appeal is the hike on-trail to Gourd Lake, whose name belies the sheer beauty of this white-cliffed backcountry basin in the Indian Peaks. Cooper’s massive shoulder rises beyond the lake and, past that, its hidden summit.

From Gourd Lake, it’s an off-trail trek to the saddle between Cooper and Marten Peaks. The ridge that connects the two offers great scrambling with low exposure. The landscape from Cooper’s massive south shoulder contrasts the boulder-strewn ridge. A high alpine meadow merges into a modest slope that leads to Cooper’s true summit block—one of the deepest points in the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

Navigation beyond Gourd Lake looks straightforward on maps but is actually a bit tricky in practice. This is a good route for experienced navigators who want to step up into more challenging terrain while still being within range of known, established camping and hiking areas.

6. London Mountain

Summit Elevation : 13,199 feet Difficulty : Medium Class : Class 2+ Distance : 5 miles out-and-back Location: Mosquito Range Near Alma Best Feature : Fun, short scramble amongst mine ruins and views of Colorado’s highest peaks.

London Mountain was one of the most profitable mining operations in Colorado, churning out silver and gold until operations ceased in 1939. It has faded into obscurity, as few hikers visit its craggy summit these days. The area near London Mountain is home to Mosquito Pass, a popular 4×4 road that connects Alma to Leadville. But the peak itself should not be overlooked.

London’s northwest ridge is a fun, quick scramble that doubles as a tour through a defacto mining museum. There are no established trails on the mountain, but the way to the top simply follows the ridge. Faint social trails pop up and disappear along the way. Summit views west look out on Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, Colorado’s two tallest mountains.

It’s a good half-day hike, with the option to connect Kuss Peak, Treasurevault Mountain, and Mosquito Peak in an all-day ridge walking tour.

7. Bison Peak (also called Bison Mountain)

Summit Elevation : 12,435 feet Difficulty : Easy But Long Class : Class 1 Distance : 12 miles out-and-back Location: Lost Creek Wilderness near Jefferson Best Feature : Wild, Moab-like rock formations create a rock garden in a vast, open alpine meadow.

Bison Peak’s towering rock formations seem like they were copied and pasted from Utah’s deserts. These unique sculptures are the crown jewels of a hike that seems rather ordinary for the first five miles. Though it’s gained a bit of popularity in recent years, Bison Peak is still a relatively quiet place.

The hike up until the rock garden starts in the forested foothills of the Tarryall Mountains along the Ute Creek Trail. It’s not until breaking treeline that the spectacular theater of rock, grass, and flowers comes into view. Bison’s true summit is easy to reach, thankfully—it’s not perched atop one of the stacked formations that decorate the land leading up to the top.

Save your hike here until September or even October. Spring hikes have water, but along with it, packs of murderous mosquitos. Midsummer can get very hot, and by then, many of the water sources will have dried up.

8. Crestone Peak

Summit Elevation : 14,299 feet Difficulty : Difficult Class : Class 3 Distance : 13 miles out-and-back Location: Sangre de Cristo Range near Westcliffe Best Feature : Great scrambling on good rock

Ah, here’s the 14er you’ve been waiting for! There are plenty of great 14ers in Colorado, but Crestone Peak is one of the best. Crestone’s south face features the “Red Gully,” a sustained Class 3 scramble that claws its way up to one of Colorado’s most scenic summits. Views of neighboring Crestone Needle and down to Sand Dunes National Park offer dramatic counterpoints to Crestone Peak’s accommodating summit area.

It’s a bit of work just to get started on Crestone Peak. Many people opt to camp at South Colony Lakes, though more ambitious campers aiming for a bit of privacy may lug their backpacks up and over Broken Hand Pass (and eventually back) down to Cottonwood Lake.

From Cottonwood Lake, the Red Gully is a straight shot to the top. It’s advised to climb this one in late summer when the gully has melted out, and the rock is relatively dry. When conditions are good, the prolonged scrambling up the gully is a blast, though some climbers feel the steepness lends itself to a sense of exposure. But the difficulty should never surpass Class 3.

It’s logical to add in an ascent of the Class 4 route on Crestone Needle; skilled climbers can traverse the two, some using a rope for the final 90-foot pitch that connects the two on Crestone Needle.

9. North Arapaho Peak

Summit Elevation : 13,513 feet Difficulty : Difficult Class : Class 3 Distance : 9.6 miles out-and-back Location: Indian Peaks near Nederland Best Feature : An airy, solid traverse that first ascends South Arapaho Peak. Views of one of Colorado’s remaining glaciers.

North Arapaho is a prominent peak along the mountainous western horizon when views from the Boulder/Longmont region. It’s home to the Arapaho Glacier, one of Colorado’s last remaining year-round glaciers. It borders land protected by the Boulder watershed, so the standard route first ascends South Arapaho Peak, 13,343’, which is technically a shoulder of North Arapaho Peak.

Following a walk-up South Arapaho, the airy, exposed traverse begins! There is a tricky Class 3 or possibly Class 4 one-move climb up a slanted boulder that will be easy for anyone over about 5’7” but a little trickier for those shorter. Beyond that, the semi-narrow ridge drops into a ledge system that involves a few short, steep descents (no shame in going on your butt) before a delightful scramble up to the surprisingly open, flat summit. As of 2023, a large cairn denotes the summit of North Arapaho Peak. Along the ridge are 2,000-foot views down onto the glacier.

The traverse is less than a mile but requires good route finding and a few confident moves, though the main line stays at Class 3. North Arapaho Peak is also the highest mountain in the Indian Peaks.

10. Mount Sneffels

Summit Elevation : 14,155 feet Difficulty : Moderate to Difficult Class : Class 2+ / Easy Class 3 Distance : 6 miles out-and-back Location: San Juan Mountains near Ouray Best Feature : This is a solid hike that transforms into scrambling along either of the mountain’s two standard routes: a gully scramble or a ridge scramble.

Mount Sneffels is brilliant to view from a distance, but the terrain on the hike up might be even better. This 14er is located in the colorful San Juan Mountains, a region known for its glowing sky-blue lakes, rich flora, red-capped mushrooms, and vanilla-scented pine trees.

The standard route up Sneffels follows a road up to a dense talus field that eventually finds a weakness in the mountain: a deep gully that nearly tops out on the summit. A gutsy little scramble atop the gully reveals the short walk to the summit, where the views of the neighboring San Juan Mountains look straight out of a fantasy novel.

Sneffels highlights the beauty of southwest Colorado, and the peaks in the area display vibrance and color not seen in northern ranges.

Tips and Advice on Hiking Colorado’s High Peaks

While you should consult guidebooks and other resources for more details on hiking at high altitude, a few tips will help point you in the right direction.

• Always be aware of the weather and start early—4 a.m. or 5 a.m. is a standard summer start time. Aim to be off summits by 11 a.m. Thunderstorms are regular, predictable events and should be avoided, especially when above treeline.
• Drink plenty of water and electrolytes.
• Apply sunscreen and cover up as much skin as possible. High-altitude UV is harsh!
• Use an app like Gaia GPS and download your maps and routes for offline use before you go. This is especially important for the off-trail adventures listed here. Bringing a quad map and knowing how to use a compass are equally important.
• Poles are your friends! If you value your knees, bring along collapsible poles that you can tuck away during scrambling sections.
• Altitude sickness is a major concern, especially for those coming from lower elevations. Take time to acclimate, and if you start to have a headache and feel dizzy, nauseous, and irritable, turn around and descend ASAP.

About the Author

James Dziezynski is the author of three editions of Best Summit Hikes in Colorado , a collection of over 55 routes and 100+ summits throughout the state. He’s also the author of three additional mountain hiking guidebooks. He lives in Boulder, Colorado , and is the SEO Director at Outside.

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The Complete List of Everything You Need to Bring Camping

S'mores ingredients not included.

Campsite Essentials

Camp lighting, clothing for camping, camping kitchen gear, just-in-case gear, fun camping gear, tips for beginner campers.

Camping has become a popular way to travel while enjoying the great outdoors (and who doesn't love a good campfire s'more ?). Whether you're new to camping or just looking to upgrade your gear, this camping supplies checklist contains a few key product suggestions to make sure you don't forget something essential when you're a few miles out in the wilderness. Pick and choose from this list to plan your perfect camping excursion.

Glamping fans can probably cut a lot out of this list (like the toilet paper!), while National Park campers should check the "Know Before You Go" section on the park's website for additional items you might need, like bear spray or a bear-proof food container.

Real Simple

Cabela's

Make sure your camping supplies checklist includes items that provide comfortable places to sit and sleep for everyone.

• Extra stakes
• Sleeping bags and pillows
• Air mattress or sleeping pads
• Foldable camp chairs
• Foldable table
• Backpacks/bags for porting things in and out
• Small broom and dust pan
• Mat to wipe your feet outside your tent

Upgraded camping gear: Cabela's Nemo Quasar sleeping pads are water-resistant, easy to inflate and deflate, and help keep you comfy and dry—even if the ground beneath you is wet. (Bonus: They're completely made from post-consumer recycled materials.)

Light your way for a night hike (or a late-night run to the restroom) with these camping essentials.

• Flashlights
• Matches or a lighter (for campfire making)
• Firewood (from a nearby source)
• Fire starters (kindling or a fire starter cube or packet)
• Extra batteries for the lights
• Glow sticks or necklaces

Upgraded camping gear: The Coleman Sound and Light Lantern gives you plenty of glow—and also serves as a bluetooth speaker if you want to enjoy a little music at your campsite.

When you're choosing what to wear camping, think functional and lots of layers that you can add or subtract as the weather changes. Even in the summer, long pants and long-sleeved shirts might be preferable to help protect from sunburn, and ticks and mosquitos.

Skip cotton fabrics in favor of moisture-wicking, SPF-laden, and quick-dry options that help keep you comfortable even if you sweat or get wet. Merino wool is a great temperature regulator that you can wear for days without worrying about smelling.

• Extra underwear
• Hiking boots or shoes
• Water shoes or sandals
• Long-sleeved shirts
• SPF-embedded clothing
• Extra socks (the thicker, the better)
• Rain coat/Warm coat
• Fleece or cozy sweater
• Gel-filled cooling neckerchief
• Personal mosquito netting

Upgraded camping gear: If you're a favorite snack for mosquitos, a wearable screen netting can help protect you from the bugs—without having to wear hardcore mosquito repellants 24/7.

One of the highlights of camping can be the culinary options available to you—s'mores!—but you'll probably want more than graham crackers and marshmallows to enjoy.

If you're planning to be active, it may help to pack freeze-dried meals you can easily whip up with hot water, so you don't have hangry campers waiting for the fire to be ready for cooking.

• Camp stove with fuel
• Coleman grill
• Pots and pans (cast iron is great!)
• Cooler with lots of ice
• Cutting board
• Insulated water bottles
• Mountain potpie maker
• Cooking spoon, spatula, and tongs
• Flatware for eating
• Plates and bowls
• Larger bowl for serving/mixing
• Mugs and collapsible cups
• Dish scrubber and towel
• Dish soap (biodegradable)
• Can/bottle opener
• Food storage containers
• Camp-friendly coffee maker
• Large jugs of water
• Cooking oil
• Bearproof food storage

Upgraded camping gear: If you can't start your morning without a cup of coffee, the easy-to-pack AeroPress can help you make a stellar cup—and it's small enough to pack for even the most off-the-beaten-path camping trip.

Keep it clean while you're camping with the right tools—just make sure any products you bring are biodegradable, so they don't harm nature (or you).

• Brush or comb
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Lip balm (with SPF)
• Razor and shaving cream
• Baby/cleaning wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper
• Prescription meds
• Contact lens case/solution
• Quick dry towel
• Insect repellent spray /lotion
• Small, shatterproof mirror

Upgraded camping gear: Beekman 1802's generously sized wipes can keep more than your face clean, and the fragrance-free version won't make you attractive to insects—or bears.

You never know when something's going to go awry when you're camping, so it's great to have some basic gear for fixing things.

• First aid kit (including lots of moleskins)
• Wood axe or saw
• Menstrual products
• Antiseptic wipes
• Pain relievers
• Allergy medications
• Anti-diarrheal or antacid medications
• Sunburn cream
• Water purifiers
• Safety pins
• Small shovel
• Snakebite kit
• Camping sewing kit
• Leather work gloves
• Solar-powered chargers
• Extra blankets

Upgraded camping gear: Heat-resistant leather working gloves let you chop firewood, deal with hot pots and pans, and wrangle anything else that comes your way.

Uncommon Goods

The real fun of camping is all the activities you get to do. Pack along gear for outdoor adventures, games, and maybe a little campfire music-making.

• Frisbee or ball
• Compass and maps
• Fishing gear
• Field guide
• Books or magazines
• Musical instruments
• Cards or games
• Hiking poles
• Sports gear (snowshoes, kayak, etc.)

Upgraded camping gear: Just a quick roll of the dice will get you and your kids exploring in a scavenger hunt to find something that fits the bill with this fun game.

If you're first-timer campers, consider these tips to make your camping trip a big success.

• Keep it short and simple. Don't embark on a week-long backwoods adventure if you're newbies. Start off with an overnight (or two, if you're daring) in a tent or cabin and see how you like it. You might also choose a campsite close to home, so you can always head back if you realize you forgot something on your list—or you need to abort the mission due to bad weather.
• Practice makes perfect. Try an overnight in your backyard first, so you can learn how to assemble the tent and set up your campsite in a low-pressure setting.
• Leave no trace that you were there. Try to minimize your use of paper plates and other disposables, and bring trash bags to carry everything back out with you.
• Prepare for the weather. Nothing's worse than shivering or sweating your way through a camping trip. Be mindful of both daytime and nighttime temperatures—as you may find it gets chilly at night.
• Preplan your menu. Limit your use of perishables and use those first so you maximize your food safety (and don't have to worry as much about the ice in your cooler melting. Opt for shelf-stable foods like granola, and easy-to-pack fruits and veggies like apples and potatoes. And don't forget to store food away from your tent (and ideally, in a bear-safe vault), to keep animals from poking around your tent at night.
• Consider borrowing, renting, or buying used equipment for your first go-round. Not sure that you'll be a happy camper? See if you can borrow or buy preowned gear to try out before you invest.

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