Explore the Great Outdoors: Top Tips and Spots for Camping in Colorado
Are you planning a camping trip to our home state of Colorado? With its beautiful landscapes and abundance of campsites, Colorado is a camper's paradise. From the majestic mountains of Rocky Mountain National Park to the peaceful lakes of the San Juan Mountains, there's a campsite for every type of camper in Colorado.
Camping and RVing in Colorado is an extremely popular activity here due to our state's beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and lakes. The state also offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, camping and RVing allows for a more flexible and cost-effective way to experience the state's natural beauty, as opposed to staying in a traditional hotel or resort which can be quite expensive here.
Why is camping in Colorado so popular?
Colorado has a diverse landscape - Colorado is known for its stunning natural beauty, with a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, deserts, and more. This makes it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
There are numerous campgrounds and RV parks to choose from - Colorado has a wide variety of campgrounds and RV parks to choose from, ranging from rustic sites to more developed parks with amenities such as electricity, water, and sewage hookups.
There are many outdoor activities to enjoy - Colorado offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, rock climbing, and more. These activities can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
Colorado has a rich cultural history - Colorado is home to a number of indigenous cultures and has a rich history that can be explored through its museums, cultural centers, and landmarks.
Colorado has a thriving food and drink scene - Colorado is known for its craft breweries and is home to a number of wineries and distilleries. It also has a thriving food scene, with a variety of local restaurants and markets featuring fresh, local ingredients.
Tips for Camping in Colorado
Colorado is a camper's paradise, offering a variety of campsites to suit every need and preference. With a little planning and preparation, you can have an enjoyable and memorable camping trip in this beautiful state.
Know your options - Colorado has a variety of campsites to choose from, including developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and showers, as well as more rustic options like dispersed camping in the backcountry.
Make a reservation - Many of Colorado's campsites, especially those in popular areas like Rocky Mountain National Park, can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Be sure to make a reservation at least six months in advance to secure your spot.
Come prepared - Colorado's weather can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature and possible thunderstorms. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear, including a warm sleeping bag, a rain fly for your tent, and a warm jacket. It is 100% normal and expected that you will have a brief rainshower every afternoon. Keep an eye on the clouds in the west when you’re outside. In July and August, the rain showers are a little stronger than in June.
Protect the environment - Colorado's natural beauty is a big part of what makes it a popular destination for campers. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Most critical is your campfire - we get so many wildfires every year, we’re begging visitors to forego their fire, use a propane fire pit, or make sure you pour plenty of water to douse the flames.
Know the regulations - Different campsites have different regulations, such as quiet hours and fire restrictions. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Most commonly you’ll see regulations for attaching anything to the trees - hammocks, laundry lines, etc.
Best Campgrounds in Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park - With over 355 miles of hiking trails and over 300 campsites, this national park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities and is home to a diverse array of wildlife. This national park is known for its stunning mountain scenery. There are several campgrounds within the park and backcountry camping options.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park - Located just outside of Denver, this state park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing and picnicking areas. There are several campgrounds within the park, as well as cabin rentals. The park offers over 12,000 acres of hiking trails and beautiful mountain views.
Colorado State Forest State Park - This state park is located in the northern part of the state and is known for its abundant wildlife and beautiful scenery. There are several campgrounds within the park plus backcountry camping options.
Tiger Run RV Resort (pictured above) - Tiger Run is a popular RV resort located in Breckenridge, Colorado. It is known for its beautiful mountain views and close proximity to the town of Breckenridge, a popular ski resort town. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, including full hookup RV sites, a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a fitness center. The resort is open year-round and is a great location for those looking to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains while enjoying the many activities that Breckenridge has to offer.
Mueller State Park - Located in the central part of the state, this state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are several camping loops within the park.
Great Sand Dunes National Park - This national park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including sandboarding and sand sledding. There are several campgrounds within and near the park, as well as backcountry camping options.
Eleven Mile State Park - This park is a fishing paradise. Located in Park County and offers great fly fishing and boating opportunities, as well as 325 campsites.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park - This park offers over 50 campsites and two cabins, as well as fishing, hiking, and biking trails, and is located just minutes from Colorado Springs.
Camping in Colorado is a great idea for those looking to experience the beauty of the state's natural scenery and outdoor activities. Our state offers a wide variety of campgrounds, each with its own unique features and amenities, making it easy to find the perfect spot for any type of camping or RV trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet, secluded spot to unwind or an action-packed adventure, Colorado has something to offer everyone. With its stunning mountain vistas, plentiful wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities - camping in Colorado is a truly unforgettable experience. So, plan your trip and pack your gear, and explore the great outdoors of Colorado.