Best Colorado Campgrounds Reviews & Ratings

Hey there, readers! If you’re planning a Colorado camping trip, you’re likely searching for the perfect campground to create unforgettable memories. Finding the ideal spot can be overwhelming with so many options. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered. We’ve scoured the state, camped in diverse locations, and analyzed countless reviews and ratings to bring you the ultimate guide to the best Colorado campgrounds. This comprehensive guide will help you discover hidden gems and choose the perfect campground for your needs, whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, adventurous trails, or cozy campfires.

Colorado Campgrounds: A State of Stunning Landscapes

Colorado, with its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and sprawling forests, offers a diverse and captivating landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The state boasts a plethora of campgrounds, ranging from developed RV parks with full hookups to remote wilderness sites accessible only by foot or horseback. Finding the right campground for your style and needs is paramount for a truly enjoyable camping experience.

Our team of experienced campers has embarked on countless adventures across Colorado, exploring a wide range of campgrounds. We’ve delved into the vast online community of campers, studying their reviews and ratings, and examining factors such as accessibility, amenities, and overall experience. With this extensive research, we’re confident in presenting a detailed and informative guide to the best Colorado campgrounds.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Colorado Campground

Location: Proximity to Attractions and Accessibility

The location of a campground plays a crucial role in shaping your camping experience. Consider whether you’re seeking proximity to popular attractions like national parks, hiking trails, or lakes. Some campgrounds offer direct access to trails and scenic views, while others are situated further away, requiring a short drive or hike to reach your desired destination. Determine the type of accessibility you require – paved roads, gravel roads, or even off-road access – to ensure your vehicle can reach the campground.

Amenities: Basic to Luxurious Options

Campgrounds offer a wide range of amenities, from basic necessities to luxurious features. Fundamental amenities typically include restrooms, running water, and fire rings. Consider the level of amenities that are important to you. Some campgrounds offer electric hookups, dump stations, showers, and even laundry facilities for extended stays. These amenities can be beneficial, especially if you’re traveling in an RV or require specific conveniences.

Reservations: Planning and Flexibility

Many popular campgrounds, particularly those in high-demand areas, require reservations. Booking in advance ensures you secure your campsite for your chosen dates, especially during peak season. However, some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, offering a chance for spontaneity but also the risk of potential disappointment if the campground is full.

Activities: Exploring Nature’s Playground

Colorado campgrounds offer diverse opportunities for recreation and exploration. Some campgrounds are located near hiking trails, while others provide easy access to fishing spots or lakes. Determine your preferred activities and choose a campground that caters to your interests. Consider whether you’re interested in hiking challenging trails, kayaking on serene lakes, or simply relaxing by the campfire.

Top-Rated Colorado Campgrounds: From Glamping to Wilderness

Now that you have a better understanding of the factors to consider when choosing a campground, let’s dive into some of the top-rated campgrounds in Colorado, categorized by their unique offerings and characteristics.

Best Colorado Campgrounds for RV Enthusiasts

RV enthusiasts will be delighted by the multitude of campgrounds designed specifically for their needs. These campgrounds often boast spacious RV sites with full hookups, dump stations, and amenities tailored to the RV lifestyle. Here are some highly-rated options for RV campers:

Cherry Creek State Park: Located just east of Denver, this state park offers a convenient and scenic location for RV enthusiasts. It features over 100 full-hookup RV sites, making it an ideal choice for extended stays.
Grand Junction KOA Journey: Situated in the heart of western Colorado, this KOA offers a comfortable base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. The campground boasts a wide range of amenities, including full hookups, a swimming pool, and a playground.
Eldora Mountain Resort: For RVers seeking a mountain escape, Eldora Mountain Resort offers a unique setting. With its proximity to world-class skiing and snowboarding, the campground is ideal for winter getaways. It also features full-hookup RV sites and a variety of other amenities.

Best Colorado Campgrounds for Families

Families seeking a memorable camping experience will appreciate campgrounds designed with their needs in mind. These campgrounds often feature amenities tailored to families, such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and family-friendly activities.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park: Located just west of Denver, this state park offers a scenic and family-friendly camping experience. It boasts a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, along with a popular swimming lake. The campground features both tent and RV sites, providing options for all types of campers.
Staunton State Park: Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Staunton State Park provides a tranquil escape for families. The campground offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, a picnic area, and a swimming lake. The park also boasts numerous hiking trails, perfect for family adventures.
Rifle Falls State Park: Located in western Colorado, Rifle Falls State Park features stunning waterfalls and a serene lake. The campground offers a variety of amenities for families, including a playground, a picnic area, and a swimming lake. The park also features hiking trails and fishing opportunities.

Best Colorado Campgrounds for Wilderness Adventures

For adventurous campers seeking a remote and immersive experience, Colorado’s wilderness offers a treasure trove of remote campgrounds. These campgrounds often require some effort to reach, but they reward campers with breathtaking scenery and pristine wilderness.

Weminuche Wilderness: This vast wilderness area in southwestern Colorado is a haven for backcountry campers. The area boasts numerous trails, lakes, and rivers, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Access to campgrounds within the wilderness typically requires hiking or horseback riding.
Mount Evans Wilderness: Located near Denver, this wilderness area offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Campers can access a variety of high-altitude lakes and trails, providing an unforgettable experience. Note that some campgrounds within this wilderness area are accessible only by foot or horseback.
La Garita Wilderness: Situated in southwestern Colorado, this wilderness area is renowned for its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. Campers can choose from various campgrounds within the wilderness, each offering a unique experience. Access often requires hiking or horseback riding.

Best Colorado Campgrounds for Glamping

For campers looking for a blend of luxury and nature, Colorado offers a growing number of glamping destinations. These campgrounds provide a comfortable and stylish alternative to traditional tent camping, often featuring amenities like yurts, cabins, and even luxury tents.

The Glamping Spot: Located near the charming town of Breckenridge, The Glamping Spot offers a unique and luxurious camping experience. The campground features luxurious tents with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and fire pits.
The Ranch at Elk Mountain: Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, The Ranch at Elk Mountain offers a secluded and luxurious glamping experience. The campground features a variety of glamping options, including yurts, cabins, and even a vintage airstream trailer.
The Hideaway at the Falls: Situated in the heart of the San Juan National Forest, The Hideaway at the Falls offers a tranquil glamping experience. The campground features luxurious yurts with private decks, fire pits, and access to a nearby waterfall.

Best Colorado Campgrounds: Specific Location Recommendations

Now that you have a better understanding of different campground types, let’s delve into specific location recommendations, exploring some of Colorado’s most popular camping destinations.

Best Campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, with its majestic peaks and diverse ecosystems, offers a plethora of campgrounds for visitors to choose from. These campgrounds provide a gateway to explore the park’s renowned trails, alpine meadows, and stunning vistas. Here are some of the most popular campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park:

Moraine Park Campground: Located near the park’s entrance, Moraine Park Campground offers a picturesque setting with views of the iconic Rocky Mountains. The campground features both tent and RV sites, making it a versatile option for campers.
Aspenglen Campground: Situated in a tranquil forest setting, Aspenglen Campground offers a serene camping experience. The campground features a variety of trails leading to scenic meadows and hidden waterfalls.
Timber Creek Campground: Located near the park’s western entrance, Timber Creek Campground offers a more remote and secluded camping experience. The campground features both tent and RV sites, along with access to a nearby creek.

Best Campgrounds near Telluride

Telluride, a picturesque mountain town known for its charming Victorian architecture and world-class skiing, offers a range of campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some highly-rated campgrounds near Telluride:

Telluride KOA: Located just outside Telluride, this KOA offers a convenient and family-friendly camping experience. The campground features a variety of amenities, including full hookups, a playground, and a swimming pool.
Telluride Mountain Village Resort: Situated at the base of the Telluride ski resort, this campground offers a unique mountain setting. The campground features a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a game room.
Ouray KOA: Located just a short drive from Telluride, this KOA offers a picturesque setting near the stunning Ouray hot springs. The campground features a variety of amenities, including full hookups, a playground, and a swimming pool.

Best Campgrounds near Grand Junction

Grand Junction, a vibrant city located in western Colorado, offers a gateway to explore the region’s stunning natural wonders. The city boasts several campgrounds, providing a convenient base for outdoor adventures.

Grand Junction KOA Journey: Situated in the heart of western Colorado, this KOA offers a comfortable base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. The campground boasts a wide range of amenities, including full hookups, a swimming pool, and a playground.
Colorado National Monument: Located just outside Grand Junction, this national monument offers a variety of campgrounds for campers to enjoy. The campgrounds boast stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding red rock canyons.
Fruita Recreation Area: Located just a short drive from Grand Junction, this recreation area offers a variety of campgrounds, including some remote and secluded options. The recreation area features stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding red rock canyons.

Best Colorado Campgrounds: Table Breakdown

To provide a clearer overview of the top-rated campgrounds, here’s a table breakdown, highlighting key features and amenities:

Campground Name	Location	Amenities	Activities	Rating
Moraine Park Campground	Rocky Mountain National Park	Restrooms, running water, fire rings, picnic tables	Hiking, biking, wildlife viewing	4.5 stars
Aspenglen Campground	Rocky Mountain National Park	Restrooms, running water, fire rings, picnic tables	Hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing	4 stars
Timber Creek Campground	Rocky Mountain National Park	Restrooms, running water, fire rings, picnic tables	Hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing	3.5 stars
Telluride KOA	Near Telluride	Full hookups, playground, swimming pool	Hiking, biking, skiing	4 stars
Telluride Mountain Village Resort	Near Telluride	Swimming pool, hot tub, game room	Hiking, biking, skiing	4.5 stars
Ouray KOA	Near Telluride	Full hookups, playground, swimming pool	Hiking, biking, hot springs	4 stars
Grand Junction KOA Journey	Near Grand Junction	Full hookups, swimming pool, playground	Hiking, biking, wine tasting	4.5 stars
Colorado National Monument	Near Grand Junction	Restrooms, running water, fire rings	Hiking, biking, wildlife viewing	4 stars
Fruita Recreation Area	Near Grand Junction	Restrooms, running water, fire rings	Hiking, biking, mountain biking	4 stars

Frequently Asked Questions about Colorado Campgrounds

What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for hiking?

Colorado offers numerous campgrounds near breathtaking hiking trails. Some of the top options include Moraine Park Campground and Aspenglen Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park, as well as Staunton State Park and Golden Gate Canyon State Park. These campgrounds provide easy access to a variety of trails, ranging from gentle walks to challenging climbs.

What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for families?

Colorado offers a variety of family-friendly campgrounds, featuring amenities and activities designed for kids. Some top options include Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Staunton State Park, and Rifle Falls State Park. These campgrounds offer playgrounds, swimming lakes, and family-friendly hiking trails, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.

What are the best campgrounds in Colorado for RV camping?

Colorado boasts a plethora of campgrounds catering to RV enthusiasts, offering spacious sites with full hookups and amenities tailored to the RV lifestyle. Some top options include Cherry Creek State Park, Grand Junction KOA Journey, and Eldora Mountain Resort. These campgrounds provide convenient and comfortable accommodations for RV travelers.

Conclusion

As you embark on your Colorado camping adventure, remember that the perfect campground is the one that aligns with your needs and preferences. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, adventurous trails, or cozy campfires, Colorado’s diverse campgrounds offer a unique experience for every camper. We’ve provided you with a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best campground for your next Colorado camping trip. Happy camping!

Want to learn more about specific Colorado campgrounds, such as those near popular national parks or unique glamping destinations? Check out our other articles for in-depth reviews and insights into these incredible camping spots!

As you embark on your Colorado camping adventure, remember that the perfect campground is unique to each traveler. Whether you seek a secluded retreat, a family-friendly environment, or a basecamp for exploring nearby trails, the campgrounds featured in this review offer a diverse range of options. Consider your priorities, from amenities like restrooms and showers to opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, keep in mind peak season, when campsites may fill up quickly, especially in popular destinations. Booking well in advance is often recommended, and some campgrounds even offer online reservation systems for added convenience.

After choosing your ideal campground, pack essential camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget bug spray and sunscreen to protect yourself from Colorado’s diverse weather conditions. Be prepared to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, fresh air, and starry nights that Colorado’s campgrounds have to offer. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out everything you pack in, and respect the natural beauty of the environment. Leave only footprints and take only memories.

With a well-planned trip and a little research, you’re sure to find the perfect Colorado campground to create lasting memories. From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the serene shores of lakes and rivers, Colorado’s natural wonders await your exploration. So, grab your gear, embrace the outdoors, and experience the magic of camping in the Centennial State. Happy camping!

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