Horsetooth Mountain Open Space Backcountry

3785 Weld CR 24 1/2, Firestone, Colorado, 80504, United States

Where the Great Plains meet adventure, St Vrain State Park beckons with 87 thoughtfully designed campsites spread across Colorado's front range. Whether you prefer the convenience of full hookups or the simplicity of electric-only sites, this 604-acre haven delivers an authentic outdoor experience just minutes from urban life. As one park official notes, "This park is ideal for those who want a break in the great outdoors." While the distant hum of highway traffic reminds you civilization isn't far away, the abundant wildlife and serene waters create a surprising sanctuary for anglers, bird enthusiasts, and families seeking respite from city rhythms.

9054 U.S Hwy 285, Morrison, CO 80465

Hidden among the towering pines of Roosevelt National Forest, Olive Ridge Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This woodland sanctuary sits on the doorstep of Rocky Mountain National Park, where generously spaced campsites offer privacy beneath a canopy of evergreens. Whether you arrive with a tent or RV, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore miles of hiking trails, discover breathtaking vistas, and encounter the remarkable wildlife that call these mountains home.

West side of Colorado Highway 7 at mile-marker 11

Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, Meeker Park Overflow Campground offers 29 pristine first-come, first-served sites where adventure begins at your tent flap. This rustic mountain retreat welcomes tents, campers, trailers, and RVs, though its unpaved roads and intimate pull-ins make it especially beloved by tent campers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Each site comes equipped with the essentials for memorable nights under the stars: sturdy picnic tables for mountain meals, fire rings for evening storytelling, and secure bear lockers to protect both wildlife and provisions. While you won't find modern hookups or running water here, portable facilities are well-maintained, and the campground's coveted location just minutes from Estes Park and the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park makes it a prized basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Perched at a breathtaking 9,500 feet in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Longs Peak Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience for adventurous souls. This intimate, tents-only sanctuary serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to Colorado's most iconic fourteener. Nestled within a pristine evergreen forest, the campground provides a rustic escape where modern amenities take a backseat to raw mountain beauty. While vault toilets are available, the absence of potable water means campers must come prepared with their own supply—a small price to pay for front-row access to one of America's most legendary peaks.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Tucked into the towering forests of Rocky Mountain National Park, Longs Peak Campground offers an intimate tent-only experience at a breathtaking 9,500 feet elevation, just 20 minutes south of Estes Park. This rustic retreat features 26 sites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and single parking space, though you'll need to pack in all your water for drinking and extinguishing campfires. Remember that your campsite reservation is separate from the timed entry permits required for other areas of the park.

3420 Tunnel Road, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, United States

Nestled high in the mountains at 8,300 feet, this enchanting double-loop campground weaves through a forest tapestry of towering ponderosa and lodgepole pines. Perfect for tent campers and those with small trailers up to 22 feet, this mountain retreat combines rustic charm with modern comforts. After a day of adventure, you'll appreciate the luxury of hot showers and flush toilets, while the convenient camp store ensures you're never far from essentials. Several ADA accessible sites welcome all visitors, and the nearby East Portal Reservoir and network of hiking trails put wilderness exploration right at your doorstep.

1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

Nestled at 8,500 feet in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground beckons adventurers to its 150 pristine campsites. Wake up to panoramic mountain vistas that stretch across the Continental Divide, where jagged peaks pierce the Colorado sky. This basecamp for exploration puts you at the doorstep of legendary trails, crystal-clear alpine streams teeming with trout, and wildlife corridors where elk bugle at dawn. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience—flush toilets, fresh mountain water, and smooth paved roads make your stay comfortable, while the complimentary park shuttle whisks you away to trailheads and scenic overlooks without the hassle of parking.

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Escape to Carter Lake, a hidden gem tucked into the dramatic foothills west of Loveland, where adventure seekers find their perfect basecamp. This versatile outdoor playground invites you to cast a line at dawn, hoist a sail in the afternoon breeze, or plunge into crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable scuba diving experience. Rock climbers scale the surrounding sandstone cliffs while water skiers carve across the lake's glassy surface. As a gateway to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park and the charming mountain town of Estes Park, Carter Lake serves as your ideal launching point for exploring Colorado's most treasured landscapes.

2120 Mary's Lake Road, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, United States

Nestled in a peaceful mountain valley where the majestic Rocky Mountains embrace the shores of Mary's Lake, Estes Park Campground offers an authentic Colorado escape for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're pitching a tent under star-filled skies, settling in with your RV, or creating lasting memories with your family, this scenic haven provides the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventures.

17 Hermit Park Road Estes Park, CO 80517

Escape to Hermit Park Open Space, where the serenity of the backcountry meets the comfort of thoughtfully maintained campsites and cozy cabins. This hidden gem invites adventurers to explore winding hiking trails, traverse mountain bike paths, and discover pristine wetlands teeming with life. Whether you arrive on foot or horseback, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape that values privacy and celebrates the raw beauty of Colorado's high country. Each campsite offers a personal retreat into nature, where the only sounds breaking the silence are birdsong and rustling aspen leaves.

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Nestled at 6,580 feet in Colorado's pristine foothills, Pinewood Reservoir Campground welcomes adventurers to its recently transformed landscape. This thoughtfully remodeled retreat offers 15 standard drive-in sites with electric hookups and 12 intimate walk-in tent sites, each providing a personal gateway to mountain serenity. Whether you're casting a line for rainbow trout at dawn, exploring scenic hiking trails, or watching osprey dive for their morning catch, Pinewood delivers the authentic Colorado outdoor experience you've been seeking.

1000 Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

Perched at a breathtaking 8,160 feet in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Moraine Park Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience where modern conveniences meet untamed beauty. Wake up to crisp mountain air in your tent or RV (without hookups) and enjoy thoughtfully designed amenities including flush toilets, innovative solar shower facilities, smooth paved roads for easy navigation, and essential bear-proof food lockers that keep both you and the local wildlife safe.

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

Nestled across 47 acres of pristine water and 200 acres of public wilderness, Flatiron Reservoir Campground offers an enchanting escape where modern comfort meets natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to the unique experience of sleeping in an authentic tipi under star-filled skies, settling into a convenient electric site with your RV, or gathering loved ones beneath a spacious pavilion, this versatile destination caters to every camping style. Anglers cast their lines into peaceful waters while families create lasting memories around crackling campfires, making Flatiron a beloved retreat for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO, 80517, USA

Tucked into the evergreen embrace near Rocky Mountain National Park's Fall River Entrance, Aspenglen Campground beckons both families seeking convenient drive-up sites and adventurous souls drawn to secluded walk-in tent spots. Here, where morning light filters through a canopy of pine and fir, each campsite comes thoughtfully equipped with the essentials for mountain memories: a sturdy picnic table for alpine feasts, a fire ring for evening storytelling, and a level tent pad for restful nights. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater where wildflowers paint the understory in seasonal hues, while dappled sunlight and cooling shade dance throughout the day.

3720 N.County Rd. 11-C, Loveland, Colorado, 80538, United States

Where crystal-clear waters meet endless Colorado skies, Boyd Lake State Park beckons water enthusiasts and families seeking the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This 1,700-acre aquatic playground transforms camping into an unforgettable lakeside experience, where the sound of gentle waves mingles with children's laughter on sandy beaches. From sunrise fishing expeditions to sunset jet ski rides, the park pulses with energy while maintaining that peaceful escape families crave. The full-service marina serves as your gateway to water adventures, while modern amenities ensure comfort meets wilderness at every turn.

4200 West C.R. 38E, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80526, United States

Nestled in Colorado's stunning foothills, Horsetooth Reservoir stretches for 6.5 miles like a sapphire jewel against the landscape. This 1,900-acre aquatic playground, embraced by 2,000 acres of pristine public land, beckons adventurers with endless possibilities for water sports, world-class fishing, scenic hiking trails, and memorable camping experiences. As part of the historic Colorado-Big Thompson Project and lovingly maintained by Larimer County Natural Resources, this recreational haven offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Escape to the rugged wilderness of Tom Bennett Campground, where the South Fork Cache la Poudre River whispers through stands of towering lodgepole pines. This intimate retreat features 10 primitive sites, each offering a genuine back-to-basics camping experience with picnic tables and fire grates beneath the forest canopy. Perfect for tent campers and small trailers seeking solitude, this historic facility challenges visitors to embrace the 'pack it in, pack it out' ethos—bringing their own water and leaving only footprints behind. Adventure awaits on the renowned Emmaline Lake Trail, while anglers can try their luck casting for elusive brook trout in the crystalline mountain streams.

708 Lodgepole Drive, Bellvue, Colorado, 80512, United States

Escape into Colorado's untamed backcountry at Lory State Park, where rugged foothill terrain meets endless adventure at 6,780 feet. This hidden gem beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its network of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, while dramatic rock faces challenge climbers against a backdrop of sweeping mountain vistas. Here, backcountry camping means falling asleep under star-filled skies and waking to the golden glow of sunrise painting the peaks.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Step back in time at Buckhorn Ranger Station, a beautifully preserved historic outpost nestled on a scenic terrace in Roosevelt National Forest's Buckhorn Canyon. This collection of authentic ranger buildings—including the original 1933 Ranger Cabin, Assistant Ranger Cabin, office, and garage—offers visitors a rare chance to stay in fully furnished accommodations where forest rangers once lived and worked, complete with modern kitchens and indoor plumbing alongside Box Elder Creek's gentle waters.

6515 N. County Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO, 80512, USA

Escape the crowds and discover Jacks Gulch Recreation Area, a hidden gem nestled 48 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado. This peaceful mountain retreat beckons adventurers with its extensive trail network perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Whether you're seeking solitude in a single-family campsite, planning a memorable group gathering, or bringing your equine companions to the dedicated horse camping facilities, Jacks Gulch offers an authentic Colorado wilderness experience away from the busier recreational areas.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled along the rushing waters of the Cache La Poudre River, Kelly Flats Campground offers an authentic Colorado mountain escape where the sound of flowing water becomes your constant companion. This charming first-come, first-served retreat features 29 thoughtfully positioned sites, including four secluded walk-in spots perfect for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Each campsite comes fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: a level tent pad, sturdy picnic table, fire grate for evening gatherings, and secure bear storage to keep both you and the local wildlife safe. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river waters or simply soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere, Kelly Flats provides the perfect basecamp for your Cache La Poudre adventure along scenic Colorado Highway 14.

HWY 14, BELLEVUE, CO, 80512, USA

Escape to Mountain Park Campground, where modern comfort meets pristine wilderness along the rushing waters of the Cache la Poudre River. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for two in our single-family sites, planning a reunion in our spacious double-family areas, or organizing a group adventure, you'll find the perfect basecamp here. After a day of exploration, refresh yourself with hot coin-operated showers, power up at convenient electric hookups, and rest easy knowing our facilities are thoughtfully designed for accessibility. Every detail has been carefully maintained to ensure your mountain retreat is as comfortable as it is memorable.

9054 U.S Hwy 285

Tucked away 26 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado, Stove Prairie Campground beckons adventurers to discover its hidden riverside retreat. This intimate campground hugs the banks of the legendary Cache la Poudre River, where the gentle rush of water creates a natural soundtrack for your wilderness escape. Whether you're seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, the patience of fly fishing, or simply a peaceful spot to watch eagles soar overhead, this small but mighty campground delivers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience without the crowds.

.

Tucked away along the pristine waters of the Cache la Poudre River, Ansel Watrous Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's untamed wilderness. This hidden gem beckons those seeking solitude and adventure, where the gentle rush of river waters provides the soundtrack to your stay. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, navigating thrilling rapids, or simply breathing in the pine-scented air while wildlife rustles through the understory, this small but spectacular campground delivers an authentic Colorado experience far from the crowds.

32 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado, along Highway 14

Nestled along the rushing waters of the Cache la Poudre River, Narrows Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's untamed wilderness. This riverside retreat features 15 thoughtfully placed campsites, including 8 secluded walk-to tent sites that promise a true back-to-nature experience. Each site comes complete with sturdy tent pads, weathered picnic tables perfect for riverside meals, and campfire rings with grills where stories are shared under starlit skies. Adventure seekers flock here for world-class whitewater rafting, pristine fly-fishing waters, and scenic hiking trails that wind through towering ponderosa pines and golden aspens.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled alongside the rushing waters of the Cache la Poudre River, Dutch George Campground offers a peaceful riverside retreat where Colorado Highway 14 meets pristine wilderness. This thoughtfully designed campground spreads across an open, flat meadow dotted with majestic cottonwoods and towering ponderosa pines that cast cooling shadows across well-appointed campsites. RV enthusiasts will appreciate the smooth, paved access roads and generously sized parking spurs, while tent campers can settle into dedicated tent pads equipped with fire grates for evening gatherings and sturdy picnic tables for outdoor dining under the stars.

4545 County Road 162 a.k.a. 4545 Manhattan Road

Nestled alongside the shimmering waters of Bellaire Lake, this mountain retreat beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. Whether you're paddling across the lake at sunrise, casting a line into pristine waters, or discovering hidden trails through the forest, every moment here connects you with nature. The campground welcomes both tent campers seeking simplicity and RV travelers looking for scenic comfort, with thoughtfully placed fire rings for evening gatherings, sturdy picnic tables for lakeside meals, and modern flush toilets ensuring a comfortable stay in the wilderness.

null

Nestled among towering ponderosa pines, West Lake Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 31 thoughtfully designed single- and double-family campsites, plus five secluded tent-only spots for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience, featuring electric hookups for RVs, well-maintained vault toilets, and fresh drinking water throughout the grounds. Friendly campground hosts ensure your stay is comfortable, maintaining pristine facilities and offering local insights to enhance your mountain adventure.

Off the west side of Dowdy Lake Road, Red Feather Lakes, Larimer County, Colorado (Forest Service access road ~1/4 mile north of intersection of Dowdy Lake Road and W County Road 74E/Red Feather Lakes Road)

Step back in time at Redfeather Ranger Station, where two beautifully preserved 1930s log cabins nestle in a sun-dappled ponderosa pine forest at 8,200 feet. These historic structures—the Ranger Cabin and Assistant Ranger Cabin—come with fully-equipped kitchens and share the grounds with a welcoming visitor center, all positioned perfectly between the shimmering waters of Dowdy and West Lakes. Bring your own linens and bedding, and prepare for the dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll through this high-country retreat during warmer months.

REDFEATHER LAKES, BELLEVUE, CO, 80512, USA

Nestled along the pristine shores of Dowdy Lake, this mountain retreat offers 70 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern convenience with natural beauty. Choose from 60 spacious sites equipped with electric hookups for RVs and trailers, or embrace a more traditional camping experience at one of 10 dedicated tent-only sites. Each campsite serves as your personal basecamp, complete with a sturdy picnic table for lakeside meals, a dedicated tent pad, and a campfire ring with grill where evening stories and s'mores come to life. Modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water stations, and regular trash collection ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.

9054 U.S Hwy 285

6515 N. County Rd 63E, Bellvue, CO, 80512, USA

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO, 80517, USA

HWY 14, BELLEVUE, CO, 80512, USA

32 miles northwest of Fort Collins, Colorado, along Highway 14

1000 Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

2120 Mary's Lake Road, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, United States

708 Lodgepole Drive, Bellvue, Colorado, 80512, United States

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

3720 N.County Rd. 11-C, Loveland, Colorado, 80538, United States

1800 SOUTH COUNTY ROAD 31, LOVELAND, Colorado, 80537, United States

17 Hermit Park Road Estes Park, CO 80517

4200 West C.R. 38E, Fort Collins, Colorado, 80526, United States

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

806 W. Hallam

Tucked away in the shadow of Colorado's most photographed peaks, Silver Bar Campground offers an intimate escape into the wilderness with just four secluded tent sites. This hidden gem invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Rockies. Each walk-in site comes thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for a memorable stay: sturdy picnic tables for mountain-side meals, bear-proof lockers to safely store your provisions, and stone fire rings where stories come alive under starlit skies. The gentle murmur of Maroon Creek provides nature's soundtrack, while vault toilets ensure basic comfort without compromising the pristine environment.

5575 CLEORA RD

Tucked away in the breathtaking Chalk Creek Canyon at 9,000 feet, Cascade Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This beloved retreat features 21 thoughtfully spaced campsites, ranging from spontaneous walk-up spots to reservable havens, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and inviting campfire rings where stories and s'mores come to life under starlit skies. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Whether you're casting a line into pristine mountain waters, discovering hidden hiking trails, or venturing onto rugged off-road paths, Cascade serves as your perfect basecamp for mountain adventures and peaceful escapes alike.

null

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, Pines Campground offers an authentic high-country camping experience at 9,200 feet. This intimate campground features just 11 sites along the babbling South Fork of the Michigan River, where the sound of rushing water provides nature's soundtrack to your mountain retreat. While beetle kill has opened up the forest canopy, creating sun-drenched sites perfect for stargazing, visitors appreciate the campground's easy accessibility and rustic charm. As one camper noted, it's a 'great little campground' that delivers simplicity and natural beauty in equal measure.

null

Perched in the heart of the Trappers Lake Recreation Area, Trapline Campground offers 11 thoughtfully arranged sites along a single loop, where the landscape opens up to endless Colorado skies. Unlike the dense forest campgrounds below, Trapline embraces its high-altitude setting with sun-drenched sites that bask in natural light from dawn to dusk. Here, the commanding presence of the Flat Tops Wilderness stretches across the horizon, creating a backdrop that transforms with each passing hour as shadows dance across ancient peaks and valleys.

46525 State Hwy 114, Saguache, CO 81149

Step back in time at Duncan Cabin, where the whispers of 1880s prospectors still echo through weathered log walls. Perched at 8,120 feet in the majestic Rio Grande National Forest, this authentic one-room sanctuary offers adventurers a rare blend of rustic charm and mountain solitude. Inside, cozy bunk beds and a crackling wood stove promise warmth after days spent exploring, while outdoor vault toilets maintain the frontier spirit. Whether you arrive on horseback to graze in nearby meadows, seek pristine dark skies for celestial photography, or use this historic haven as your basecamp for discovering the otherworldly Great Sand Dunes National Park, Duncan Cabin delivers an unforgettable high-country experience.

WHITE RIVER

Nestled in a tranquil Rocky Mountain valley, Camp Hale Memorial Campground offers 15 intimate campsites where history and wilderness converge. This hidden gem welcomes tents, trailers, and RVs alike, providing a peaceful retreat enhanced by attentive campground hosts who ensure every visitor feels at home. Adventure seekers will appreciate the direct access to the legendary Colorado Trail, making this modest campground a perfect basecamp for mountain exploration.

FS 520, CREEDE, CO 81130, USA

Nestled along the pristine banks of the Rio Grande River, River Hill Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado wilderness experience. This beloved riverside retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits—cast a line into crystal-clear waters teeming with trout, explore winding trails that disappear into the backcountry, or launch your kayak for a peaceful paddle. Just steps from your campsite, trailheads lead directly into the magnificent Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado's largest designated wilderness area.

San Juan NF, Colorado, USA

Perched at 7,643 feet in the Colorado high country, Target Tree Campground serves as your gateway to the Southwest's most treasured destinations. Just a scenic drive from the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park and the vibrant mountain towns of Mancos and Durango, this historic campground takes its name from a fascinating chapter in Ute Indian history. Here, centuries-old Ponderosa pines still bear the distinctive scars from when Ute hunters honed their marksmanship skills, while these same majestic trees provided life-sustaining sap and bark that supplemented their traditional diet.

REDFEATHER LAKES, BELLEVUE, CO, 80512, USA

Nestled along the pristine shores of Dowdy Lake, this mountain retreat offers 70 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern convenience with natural beauty. Choose from 60 spacious sites equipped with electric hookups for RVs and trailers, or embrace a more traditional camping experience at one of 10 dedicated tent-only sites. Each campsite serves as your personal basecamp, complete with a sturdy picnic table for lakeside meals, a dedicated tent pad, and a campfire ring with grill where evening stories and s'mores come to life. Modern vault toilets, fresh drinking water stations, and regular trash collection ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.

46525 ST HWY 114, Saguache, CO 81149, USA

Nestled deep within the Rio Grande National Forest at 9,500 feet, Stone Cellar Guard Station beckons adventurers seeking true mountain solitude. This remote cabin sanctuary, perched at the edge of the La Garita Wilderness, serves as your gateway to pristine fishing streams, untamed hiking trails, premier hunting grounds, and exhilarating winter sports terrain. Here, where the modern world fades away, you'll discover the Colorado high country as it was meant to be experienced.