Golden Gate Canyon State Park
00 review92 Crawford Gulch Road, Golden, Colorado, 80403, United States
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$36.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Electric hookup sites are priced at $36 per night. This fee does not include the mandatory day-use vehicle pass.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's stunning mountain wilderness, Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers an extraordinary tapestry of camping experiences for every adventurer. From thoughtfully designed ADA-accessible sites that ensure everyone can enjoy the great outdoors, to secluded primitive tent spots for those seeking a deeper connection with nature, this park delivers unforgettable memories. Cozy cabins and unique yurts provide comfort amid the wilderness, while proximity to breathtaking hiking trails means adventure begins right at your doorstep. With select campgrounds welcoming visitors throughout all four seasons, this mountain sanctuary promises year-round discovery and wonder.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers a mixture of camping accommodations, including primitive sites, RV camping, tent camping, cabins, and yurts, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.
Historical SignificanceBeyond its natural splendor, Golden Gate Canyon has woven itself into the fabric of countless personal stories. The iconic Panorama Point has witnessed generations of couples exchanging vows against a backdrop of endless mountain vistas, establishing the park as a cherished venue for life's most meaningful moments. This blend of natural beauty and human celebration has created a legacy where wilderness and love stories intertwine, making the park not just a destination, but a keeper of precious memories.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at an impressive 9,500 feet, this high-altitude paradise offers a refreshing escape from summer heat, with cool mountain breezes and comfortable temperatures that make July afternoons feel like spring. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, though visitors should prepare for genuinely frigid conditions and heavy snowfall that creates postcard-perfect scenes. The altitude creates its own microclimate where weather can shift dramatically, and past visitors note that the rustic shower facilities reflect the authentic mountain experience—water temperatures can be as unpredictable as the mountain weather itself, adding to the genuine backcountry charm.
ElevationAt 9,500 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary places you closer to the clouds than most Colorado destinations. The thin, crisp air delivers unparalleled clarity to the sweeping vistas that stretch endlessly before you, while cool temperatures provide relief even on the warmest summer days. Visitors should embrace the altitude gradually—the spectacular views come with the reminder that you're camping in the sky, where the air is thin and your body needs time to adjust to this lofty perch among the peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryGolden Gate Canyon State Park unfolds like a living canvas painted with towering pines and shimmering aspens that dance in the mountain breeze. Miles of trails wind through this diverse ecosystem, each bend revealing new vistas that steal your breath away. The forest comes alive with wildlife—visitors have been thrilled by majestic moose sightings, their massive forms moving gracefully through morning mist. Every season brings its own magic: golden aspen leaves create a photographer's paradise in fall, while summer wildflowers carpet the meadows in brilliant colors against the evergreen backdrop.
Geological RegionSituated in Colorado's dramatic Northeast Region, Golden Gate Canyon State Park showcases the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem at its finest. This mountainous wonderland, carved by ancient geological forces and sculpted by time, rises to approximately 9,500 feet where dense forests of pine and aspen create a living mosaic across the rugged terrain. The park's position within this geological masterpiece offers visitors a front-row seat to the powerful forces that shaped the Colorado Rockies, from ancient uplift to glacial carving, all visible in the dramatic peaks and valleys that define this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers ADA-compliant fishing access and several handicap-accessible campsites, including #21HD, #30HD, #56HD, and #58HD, which require an ADA sticker, plate, or placard for reservation.
Sites SizeSites vary from standard tent pads to RV sites. Tent pads are noted as being raised with railroad ties, which can cause water pooling during heavy rains.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are spacious and feel secluded due to tree coverage, while others are described as being close together, making it difficult to have a personal conversation.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose pull-through sites for easier RV parking. Primitive tent sites and ADA-accessible sites are also available.
Best CampsitesPanorama Point is noted for its views and activities. Pull-through sites are recommended for RVs due to leveling challenges.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in procedures are not clearly defined in the source materials.
Check-out
Check-out procedures are not clearly defined in the source.
Stay Limit
Stay limit information is not explicitly stated in the source.
Groups
No specific details provided about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops and sections, including ADA-accessible sites and primitive tent campgrounds.
Open and Closed SeasonRV and tent camping is available year-round by reservation at Reverend's Ridge Campground. Aspen Meadow Tent Campground is closed during winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online or by calling 1-800-244-5613.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are not available; all sites require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations 28+ days before arrival incur a 25% fee for one night or day-use permit; cancellations made 8-27 days before arrival retain 50%. Cancellations within 7 days or less are non-refundable for all fees. No refunds for bugs, bad weather, campfire bans, or water conditions.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its extensive trail network and scenic views. Many trails are accessible directly from the campground.
Hiking
The park features numerous trails catering to various skill levels. These trails offer scenic views, with one user stating, 'The alpine trails are beautiful; wished I had more time to hike.' Trails are also well-marked, as noted by another camper.Fishing
Fishing is permitted and is a highlight of the park, though one reviewer noted muddy water conditions recently. Bear boxes are provided at backcountry campsites.Biking
Biking is available within the park, though specific details about trails are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a common activity, with some campers noting sightings of moose during their visits.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs are available, though specific topics or schedules are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and ice fishing are available, and some trails remain accessible during the winter months.Water Sports
No mentions of water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood sales are available, but no specific fire policies were mentioned.
- Quiet hours are enforced, especially after dark.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh elevation may cause altitude sickness. User reviews report drainage issues at tent pads and parking challenges due to sloped sites.
Active alertsNo specific alerts are currently noted.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services include a Ranger Station within the park and hospitals in nearby Golden. Contact Ranger Station at 3035823707.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not specified in the source.
Trash and recyclingFacilities for trash and recycling are available but not heavily detailed in the reviews.
Proximity to water featuresSeveral lakes are located within walking or hiking distance.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight drainage issues in tent pads, poor shower conditions, sloped parking spots for RVs, and strict enforcement of rules by rangers.
HostMixed user feedback about campground hosts, ranging from helpful in emergencies to being rarely visible.
Campground Map
92 Crawford Gulch Road, Golden, Colorado, 80403, United States
Driving directionsFrom Denver, take I-70 west to US-6 west to Hwy 119. Go through Black Hawk, CO, and continue north on Hwy 119 for 16 miles to Gap Road. Turn right on Gap Rd 1 mile to Reverend's Ridge Campground. Note: Gap Road will be the 2nd Golden Gate sign heading north on Hwy 119. For other vehicles: Take I-70 west to Golden to Hwy 93, Hwy 93 north 1.5 miles to Golden Gate Canyon Road, left on Golden Gate Canyon Rd for 14 miles to the park visitor center. Pass the visitor center and turn right on Mountain Base Rd just past Kriley Pond. Turn left, then a quick right into Reverend's Ridge Campground. Detailed driving map available: http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/GoldenGateCanyon/Documents/GoldenGateRegionMap.pdf.
Gap Road access for trailers and motorhomes is narrow, windy, unpaved, and potholed with washboarding. RVs are prohibited on Base Mountain Road due to its narrow, windy structure.Nearby places
Golden: Approx. 15 miles / 20-minute drive
Black Hawk: Approx. 16 miles / 25-minute drive.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in nearby population centers like Golden or Black Hawk. No detailed supply locations were provided in the source materials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Golden Gate Canyon State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Golden Gate Canyon State Park as a well-maintained campground with a variety of amenities and recreational opportunities. However, some negative feedback includes issues with staff professionalism and steep checkout policies.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, well-maintained campsites, helpful staff, and the presence of amenities like showers and laundry. The park's scenic beauty and rich wildlife are frequently...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on issues like sloped RV parking sites, additional fees for car passes, and maintenance concerns such as malfunctioning shower coin slots. Some users also noted strict...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include booking sites early due to high demand, opting for pull-through sites for better RV parking, and being prepared for chilly weather even in summer.
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping offers heated cabins and access to snow-related activities but comes with limited facilities like closed dump stations and offices. Summer is popular for hiking and wildlife viewing,...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The campgrounds are well laid out and maintained.' 2. 'The alpine trails are beautiful; wished I had more time to hike.' 3. 'DO NOT BOTHER with the campsite showers.'
Site-Specific Reviews
One user recommended Loop H in Reverend's Ridge for its proximity to restrooms and showers. Pull-through RV sites were noted as more level and easier to park in.
Accessibility Features
ADA-accessible sites are available, but no specific user feedback on accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. One user mentioned they felt restricted due to strict leash law enforcement.
Last updated August 10, 2025