Top 10 Camping Spots in Colorado

Welcome to the ultimate adventurer's playground: Colorado. Imagine waking up to the sight of towering peaks kissed by the morning sun or falling asleep under a brilliant blanket of stars in a dense forest. Colorado offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from the rugged Rocky Mountains to serene alpine lakes and sprawling national forests. This state is a paradise for campers, offering endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. Get ready to pack your gear as we unveil the top 10 camping spots that make Colorado an unforgettable destination.

1. Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Nestled in the breathtaking Kawuneeche Valley, Moraine Park Campground offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks and meadows. You might even spot elk or deer wandering through your campsite! It serves as a perfect basecamp for exploring the vast trail network of Rocky Mountain National Park and fishing in the Big Thompson River.

• Know Before You Go: Reservations are essential and can be made up to six months in advance. The park requires a timed entry permit during peak season.

2. Turquoise Lake Recreation Area, Leadville

Easily accessible by car and just minutes from the historic town of Leadville, Turquoise Lake offers breathtaking mountain and lake views from well-maintained campgrounds perfectly suited for car campers. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or hiking along the extensive shoreline trails as the sun sets over Mount Massive. The area bursts with wildflowers in summer and crisp, fresh air year-round.

• Know Before You Go: Several campgrounds around the lake are reservable in advance, while some offer first-come, first-served sites. Evening temperatures can get chilly, even in summer, so bring warm layers for the ultimate alpine comfort.

3. Oh Be Joyful Campground, Crested Butte

Located just outside the vibrant mountain town of Crested Butte, Oh Be Joyful lives up to its name. Situated along the Slate River, this spot is perfect for those who love wildflower hikes, mountain biking, and evening campfires with a stunning mountain backdrop. The "Wildflower Capital of Colorado" puts on a spectacular floral display each summer.

• Know Before You Go: This is a dispersed camping area managed by the BLM, with sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be prepared for rustic conditions with limited amenities.

4. Piñon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park

Experience a landscape unlike any other at Great Sand Dunes National Park. Piñon Flats Campground places you at the base of North America's tallest sand dunes, offering a surreal setting for your adventure. Spend your days sandboarding or sledding down the dunes and your nights gazing at an incredible star-filled sky.

• Know Before You Go: The campground is open year-round, but reservations are highly recommended from spring through fall. High winds can be common, so secure your tent and gear well.

5. Angel of Shavano Campground, San Isabel National Forest

Escape the crowds at this tranquil campground located near Salida. Tucked away in an aspen and pine forest, Angel of Shavano is a gateway to hiking some of Colorado’s famous "Fourteeners," including Mount Shavano and Mount Tabeguache. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and high-alpine adventure.

• Know Before You Go: This campground is typically open from late May to late September. At an elevation of 9,200 feet, be prepared for cool nights even in the middle of summer.

6. Bear Lake Campground, San Isabel National Forest

Situated on the scenic Highway of Legends, Bear Lake Campground offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to two beautiful lakes: Bear and Blue. It’s a fantastic spot for fishing, kayaking, and hiking through lush forests. The drive alone, with its stunning views of the Spanish Peaks, is worth the trip.

• Know Before You Go: Sites are first-come, first-served. The area is known for its abundant wildlife, so be sure to store food properly.

7. Chatfield State Park, Littleton

For those who want an outdoor escape without straying too far from the city, Chatfield State Park is the perfect solution. Located just south of Denver, this park features a large reservoir perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and fishing. With extensive biking trails and even a dog park, it offers something for everyone.

• Know Before You Go: This is a very popular park, and campground reservations should be made well in advance, especially for summer weekends. A valid Colorado State Parks pass is required for entry.

8. Amphitheater Campground, Ouray

Perched on a cliff overlooking the "Switzerland of America," Amphitheater Campground provides spectacular views of the town of Ouray and the surrounding San Juan Mountains. It’s a stone’s throw away from world-class hiking, off-roading trails like the Alpine Loop, and the famous Ouray Hot Springs.

• Know Before You Go: The road to the campground is steep and winding, and may not be suitable for large RVs. Sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended.

9. Pearl Lake State Park, Clark

Discover a serene mountain escape at Pearl Lake State Park, located just north of Steamboat Springs. This stunning park is centered around a tranquil, wakeless lake, making it ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding against a backdrop of Hahn's Peak. The quiet setting is perfect for pure relaxation.

• Know Before You Go: The park has yurt rentals in addition to its campsites, offering a unique way to stay. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular but peaceful destination.

10. Guanella Pass Campground, Pike National Forest

Situated along the beautiful Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, this campground is a high-altitude haven. It’s an excellent starting point for hiking the popular Mount Bierstadt (a 14er) or simply enjoying the alpine tundra and brilliant wildflowers. The drive over the pass itself offers some of Colorado’s most dramatic scenery.

• Know Before You Go: This campground sits at nearly 11,000 feet, so be prepared for altitude and rapidly changing weather. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Embark on Your Colorado Adventure

Colorado's majestic landscapes are waiting to be explored. Each of these camping spots offers a unique doorway to adventure, from high-altitude peaks to serene lakeside retreats. As you set out, remember to embrace the spirit of exploration while respecting the natural world. Practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure these beautiful places remain pristine for generations of adventurers to come. The mountains are calling—it's time to answer.