Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Pike-San Isabel National Forests

Perched high in the Colorado Rockies at 8,905 feet, Whiteside Picnic Area offers an intimate mountain escape with just four primitive camping sites. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, inviting adventurous souls to claim their spot among the clouds. While the site embraces simplicity—no water facilities are available—it rewards visitors with unfiltered access to alpine wilderness and the kind of solitude that's increasingly rare in our connected world.

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Escape to Handcart Campground, where the spirit of adventure meets the tranquility of untouched wilderness. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, rewarding those who venture off the beaten path with pristine campsites nestled among towering trees. To claim your spot in this secluded paradise, you'll need to arrive in person – a journey that adds to the authentic camping experience. Once you've selected your perfect site, payment is simple through QR codes using the Recreation.gov mobile app, provided you have cellular service in the area.

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Nestled in the heart of the mountains, Hall Valley Campground offers nine intimate campsites where adventurers can truly disconnect from the world below. Each site features thoughtfully placed picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Parking spurs accommodate vehicles from 16 to 30 feet, ensuring comfortable access for various camping setups. The campground provides essential vault toilet facilities, though visitors should note that water services are temporarily unavailable as of June 2020 due to system repairs. During extended seasons, some amenities like trash collection and campground host services may be limited, encouraging a more self-sufficient camping experience.

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Welcome to a classic first-come, first-served campground where spontaneity meets adventure. This traditional camping experience operates on a simple principle: arrive early, find your perfect spot, and settle in for the night. With a streamlined online payment system, you can handle reservations digitally while enjoying the simplicity of old-school camping. Like any authentic outdoor experience, visitor reviews paint a diverse picture of stays here, reflecting the unique character and varied experiences that make each camping trip memorable.

12102 S Elk Creek Rd, Pine, Colorado, 80470, United States

Nestled across 3,800 pristine acres of Colorado wilderness, Staunton State Park beckons adventurers with an extraordinary tapestry of outdoor experiences. Whether you're pitching your tent at one of 25 secluded walk-in campsites, conquering granite cliffs as a rock climber, or threading through alpine trails on horseback or mountain bike, this park delivers unforgettable moments. Anglers find solace casting lines in crystal-clear waters, while hikers discover new vistas around every bend.

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Nestled at 9,168 feet in a heavily wooded mountain setting, Deer Creek Campground offers a classic high-elevation Colorado camping experience where the soothing sounds of running water provide a constant natural soundtrack. The campground sits at the confluence of Deer Creek and Camp Creek, creating a peaceful riparian environment beneath a canopy of mature trees that offer generous shade throughout the day. This intimate 13-site campground appeals to campers seeking a quieter, more rustic mountain retreat away from the crowds and conveniences of larger developed campgrounds. The campground maintains a back-to-basics approach that's perfect for self-sufficient campers. There are no electrical hookups, water connections, or dump stations available, so come prepared with everything you need for dry camping. The heavily forested setting provides natural privacy between sites, and the elevation means cool nights even during summer months—pack layers and a warm sleeping bag. Hiking trails access the surrounding national forest directly from the campground, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the area's mountain terrain on foot. Deer Creek Campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning you cannot reserve sites in advance through Recreation.gov or any other platform. You must physically arrive at the campground to claim and purchase a site, which can be competitive during weekends and peak summer months. Once on-site, you may be able to pay using the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan and Pay feature via QR code—download the app before you leave home, as cellular service in this remote area is limited or nonexistent. With only 13 sites available and no reservation system, arriving early in the day, especially Thursday through Saturday, significantly improves your chances of securing a spot. For facility-specific questions or current conditions, contact the managing office at (303) 647-2366 before making the trip.

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Escape to Meridian Campground, where 20 pristine dry camping sites await your arrival on a first-come, first-served basis. This hidden gem has earned a reputation among seasoned campers for its exceptionally clean vault toilets and immediate access to scenic hiking trails that begin right from your tent flap. The peaceful atmosphere here is palpable – the kind of quiet that lets you hear your own thoughts and the whisper of wind through the trees. While you'll need to pack in your own water supply, the trade-off is an authentic wilderness experience that feels increasingly rare in our connected world.

19316 Goddard Ranch Court

Perched at a breathtaking 9,813 feet, Burning Bear Campground serves as your gateway to Colorado's high-altitude adventures. This mountain sanctuary, where summer temperatures offer a refreshing escape from valley heat, sits along the spectacular Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. Here, the boundaries of Mount Evans Wilderness beckon just beyond your tent flap, promising encounters with majestic wildlife and access to world-class hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through pristine alpine landscapes.

PIKE NATIONAL FOREST.

Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies at 9,813 feet, Geneva Park Campground offers an authentic mountain escape where towering lodgepole pines create natural privacy screens between campsites. This peaceful retreat in Pike National Forest serves as your gateway to adventure, with the renowned Abyss and Burning Bear trails beginning right from camp. While the campground embraces simplicity with vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, and fire grills, visitors should note that water isn't available on-site—a small trade-off for the pristine wilderness experience that awaits.

11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd., Littleton, Colorado, 80125, United States

Nestled among Colorado's rolling foothills, Chatfield State Park Campground welcomes adventurers with 197 thoughtfully designed paved campsites, each surrounded by verdant grass and breathtaking mountain vistas. This outdoor haven combines the tranquility of nature with modern amenities, featuring a bustling marina where boats dance on the sparkling reservoir, miles of winding trails that beckon hikers and bikers alike, and fascinating historical sites that whisper stories of Colorado's past. The expansive reservoir serves as the centerpiece for endless water adventures, from peaceful kayaking mornings to exhilarating sailing afternoons.

Arapaho and Roosevelt NF, 101 Highway 103, Clear Creek Ranger District

Nestled high in the Colorado Rockies, Guanella Pass Campground offers an authentic alpine camping experience at 10,900 feet. The campground's 18 sites are thoughtfully arranged in two intimate loops, separated by the babbling waters of South Clear Creek and a scenic county road. Whether you're arriving with an RV (11 spacious sites accommodate larger rigs) or seeking a more traditional tent camping experience (7 sites perfect for canvas shelters), you'll find yourself immersed in pristine mountain wilderness. Modern vault toilets and fresh water from potable hand pumps ensure comfort without compromising the natural setting, while the crystal-clear creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your mountain retreat.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Tucked away in the heart of the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests, Clear Lake Campground offers an intimate mountain escape with just eight peaceful sites. This first-come, first-served gem welcomes both tent campers and small trailers to experience authentic wilderness camping at its finest. Each site comes equipped with the essentials—a sturdy tent pad, warming fire grate, and welcoming picnic table—while vault toilets provide basic comfort. True to its backcountry spirit, you'll need to bring your own water and leave the hookup expectations behind, embracing the simplicity of forest life.

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Perched at the breathtaking base of Mt. Evans in Colorado's Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest, Echo Lake Campground offers an intimate alpine escape with 18 thoughtfully positioned campsites. Choose from 11 RV-friendly spots or 7 secluded tent-only sites, each providing front-row seats to Colorado's spectacular high-country scenery. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters of Echo Lake, exploring miles of pristine hiking trails, or simply soaking in the panoramic mountain vistas, this high-altitude haven promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Lassen National Forest

Perched high in the Lassen National Forest, Echo Lake Campground offers adventurous souls a pristine dispersed camping experience where the mountain air is crisp and the stars shine brilliantly overhead. This intimate campground welcomes groups of up to 8 people per site, providing a perfect basecamp for those seeking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's raw beauty. Here, simplicity reigns supreme – bring your tent, your sense of wonder, and prepare for an authentic wilderness experience near the crystalline waters of Echo Lake.

PO Box 3307

Perched dramatically at 11,000 feet, the Mestaa'ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout invites adventurers to step back in time while touching the sky. This 1940s-era tower transforms from a historic fire sentinel into your personal mountain sanctuary, where rustic charm meets jaw-dropping panoramas. Wake up above the clouds in this coveted high-altitude retreat, where basic amenities fade in importance compared to the extraordinary experience of living atop Colorado's stunning peaks. Wildlife encounters and alpine hiking trails await just outside your door, making this one of the most sought-after mountain escapes in the region.

Arapaho and Roosevelt NF Clear Creek Ranger District 101 Highway 103, Idaho Springs, CO 80452, USA

Tucked away at a breathtaking 9,600 feet near the majestic Mount Evans, West Chicago Creek Campground offers an intimate mountain escape with just 15 thoughtfully spaced campsites. This peaceful high-altitude haven welcomes both RV adventurers and tent campers seeking refuge among the clouds. Each site comes equipped with essential comforts—a level tent pad, sturdy picnic table, fire ring for evening gatherings, and charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. While you'll find clean vault toilets and convenient trash facilities, the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with no water hookups or potable water, encouraging visitors to come prepared for a genuine wilderness experience.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Tucked away in the heart of Colorado's high country, Mizpah Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just ten thoughtfully placed sites. This hidden gem along Highway 40 invites both tent campers and RV adventurers to experience the raw beauty of a pristine spruce-fir forest. The gentle murmur of West Clear Creek provides a natural soundtrack to your stay, while rustic amenities—including restrooms and a charming hand-pump water spigot—keep things simple yet comfortable. Each campsite comes complete with its own tent pad, fire grate, and picnic table, creating the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventures.

9054 U.S Hwy 285, Morrison, CO 80465

Discover your mountain escape at Columbine Campground, where the legendary Peak to Peak Scenic Byway leads adventurers to 46 thoughtfully designed campsites tucked among Colorado's high country. Whether you're pitching a tent under starlit skies or settling in with your RV, each site welcomes you with its own picnic table, campfire ring, and grill – everything you need for those cherished outdoor moments. Two distinct camping loops offer variety for every traveler, while modern amenities including vault toilets, fresh water spigots, and regular trash service ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. Adventure awaits just beyond your campsite, with endless trails for hiking and biking, plus designated routes for off-road vehicle enthusiasts ready to explore the rugged mountain terrain.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Tucked away where Highway 40 meets the rushing waters of the Fraser River, Robbers Roost Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Colorado mountain experience. This intimate retreat features 11 thoughtfully spaced non-electric sites, each carved into the landscape to accommodate everything from compact tents to full-sized RVs. Your home away from home comes complete with a dedicated tent pad, crackling fire grate for evening storytelling, and a sturdy picnic table for sunrise coffee or sunset dinners. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with pit toilets and essential trash service, fresh water awaits just 5.5 miles down the road at Idlewild Campground. Here, beneath a canopy of towering evergreens with the Fraser River's gentle melody as your soundtrack, you'll discover the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness solitude.

PO BOX 3307, IDAHO SPRINGS, CO, 80452, USA

Escape to Cold Springs Campground, where the crisp mountain air at 9,200 feet awakens your senses and the whisper of wind through towering pines and shimmering aspens creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Nestled within the majestic Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest, this high-altitude haven serves as your gateway to endless adventures—from soul-stirring hikes along mountain trails to scenic drives that reveal Colorado's rugged beauty at every turn. When you're ready for a change of pace, the historic casinos of Black Hawk and the dramatic landscapes of Golden Gate Canyon State Park await just a short drive away.

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Nestled along the breathtaking Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Highway 119), Pickle Gulch beckons adventure seekers with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and outdoor excitement. This cherished group picnic and camping destination serves as your gateway to Colorado's rugged backcountry, where off-road trails wind through stunning alpine landscapes and crystal-clear streams promise memorable fishing expeditions. Whether you're gathering with family for a weekend reunion or seeking a basecamp for mountain exploration, Pickle Gulch delivers the authentic Rocky Mountain experience you've been dreaming of.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Fraser River, Midland Group Campground offers an intimate wilderness escape designed exclusively for group adventures. This thoughtfully minimal campground embraces its natural surroundings, where towering trees create a cathedral of shade and the gentle murmur of the river provides nature's soundtrack. Perfect for scout troops, family reunions, or outdoor clubs seeking a private basecamp, Midland trades modern amenities for authentic connection with Colorado's pristine wilderness.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled along the rushing waters of the Fraser River just south of Winter Park, Midland Group Campground offers an authentic mountain escape for groups seeking adventure at 9,500 feet. This rustic retreat accommodates up to 36 campers with essential amenities including a spacious tent area, five picnic tables with fire rings, and portable facilities—all serving as your basecamp for exploring the surrounding trails, waterways, and alpine wonders.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, Jim Creek Campground stands as a beacon of inclusive outdoor adventure. Thoughtfully operated by the National Sports Center for the Disabled, this unique destination breaks down barriers to nature with seven specially designed elevated platform sites. Here, the wilderness becomes accessible to all, offering everyone the chance to wake up to crisp mountain air and fall asleep under a blanket of stars.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled in the heart of Colorado's pristine wilderness near Winter Park, Idlewild Campground offers an authentic mountain camping experience across 24 thoughtfully designed non-electric sites. Whether you're pitching a tent under towering pines or parking your RV amidst the serene forest, each spacious site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay: a level tent pad, warming fire grate, sturdy picnic table, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions from curious wildlife. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here, where clean restrooms, reliable trash service, and fresh drinking water ensure you can focus on what matters most—creating unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled along the Fraser River just south of Winter Park off US Highway 40, Idlewild Campground serves as your gateway to Colorado's high country adventures. This well-appointed campground features 24 thoughtfully designed single sites, each equipped with tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings with grills, bear-proof lockers, and modern amenities including restrooms, potable water, and an attentive on-site host to ensure your mountain escape is both comfortable and memorable.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Perched at 8,900 feet in the Colorado Rockies, St. Louis Creek Campground offers an authentic mountain escape just four miles southwest of Fraser. This rustic, non-electric retreat comes equipped with all the essentials—picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, drinking water, and bear-proof lockers—while serving as your gateway to world-class hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife encounters in the surrounding wilderness.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Nestled along the breathtaking Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway just outside Nederland, Kelly Dahl Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts to its 46 thoughtfully designed single-family sites. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars, pulling in with your trailer, or settling in with an RV, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable mountain retreat. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the natural environment, featuring spotless pit toilets, convenient trash collection, fresh potable water, and secure food storage lockers at every site—ensuring both comfort and wildlife safety in this pristine Colorado setting.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Escape into the wilderness at West Magnolia Dispersed Camping, where eight miles of winding Forest Service roads lead to your perfect backcountry hideaway. This pristine area embraces the true spirit of primitive camping—no hookups, no facilities, just you and the raw beauty of the Colorado high country. Adventure seekers flock here to explore endless hiking trails, tackle challenging mountain bike routes, and traverse scenic horseback riding paths that wind through dense forests and open meadows. Best of all? Your stay won't cost a dime, making this one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Tucked away along the rugged expanse of National Forest System Road 505, Caribou Dispersed Camping Area offers adventurous souls a chance to experience true wilderness camping. This collection of 11 numbered sites provides a back-to-basics experience where modern amenities fade away, replaced by the raw beauty of the Colorado high country. While the journey here demands a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the challenging terrain, your reward is free camping on a first-come, first-serve basis in one of Colorado's most pristine settings. Come prepared with your own water and facilities – this is dispersed camping at its purest.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Perched at a breathtaking 10,000 feet where the sky meets the mountains, Rainbow Lakes Campground offers an intimate escape into Colorado's high country. This coveted gem features just 18 first-come, first-served sites, each thoughtfully equipped with tent pads, picnic tables, fire grates, and bear-proof lockers to ensure your wilderness experience is both authentic and secure. While you'll be trading modern conveniences like running water and electricity for pristine alpine air and star-filled nights, the campground maintains essential services including trash collection. Be warned: this mountain sanctuary's popularity means sites often claim their weekend occupants by Friday morning throughout the summer season, which runs from mid-June through mid-September.

, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area, Five miles north of Nederland, CO.

Tucked away in the heart of Roosevelt National Forest, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area offers an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This free, first-come, first-serve destination features 15 designated campsites scattered across rugged terrain, where adventurers can immerse themselves in Colorado's untamed backcountry. Each site provides a front-row seat to nature's grand theater, with strict camping boundaries ensuring the preservation of this pristine ecosystem for generations to come.

C/O USFS PO BOX 10, GRANBY, CO, 80446, USA

Arapaho Bay Campground is located on the eastern tip of Lake Granby within the Arapaho National Recreation Area. Known for scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Step back in time at Camp Dick, where the echoes of 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps workers still resonate through the towering pines. This historic campground beckons modern adventurers with the gentle murmur of Middle Saint Vrain Creek just steps from your tent. Whether you're lacing up hiking boots for a mountain trail, pumping up bike tires for a scenic ride, or revving engines for backcountry exploration, Camp Dick serves as your gateway to Colorado's wild heart.

Boulder Ranger District, 2140 Yarmouth Ave, Boulder, CO 80301, USA

Nestled in a pristine glacial valley at 8,500 feet, Peaceful Valley Campground beckons adventurers to discover its tranquil embrace. Here, where mixed conifers and dancing aspens create a natural cathedral along the babbling Middle Saint Vrain Creek, outdoor enthusiasts find their perfect basecamp. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, exploring mountain trails on foot or bike, or navigating the legendary off-road routes that spider through the surrounding wilderness, this high-altitude haven promises unforgettable mountain experiences.

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Nestled in the breathtaking Brainard Lake Recreation Area, Pawnee Campground beckons adventurers to Colorado's high country paradise. Here, pristine alpine lakes mirror snow-capped peaks while dense spruce and fir forests provide a natural sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, paddling across the serene lake surface, or challenging yourself on nearby rock faces, this mountain retreat offers endless opportunities for adventure. Miles of hiking trails wind through wildflower meadows and lead to panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless—though at this elevation, that might happen anyway.

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Granby, Sunset Point Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 25 thoughtfully designed non-electric sites tucked beneath a canopy of towering pines. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV, each spacious site comes equipped with everything you need for the perfect mountain getaway—a level tent pad, crackling fire grate, and sturdy picnic table for those memorable outdoor meals. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, including clean restrooms, convenient trash service, and fresh drinking water. Adventure awaits just steps away at the boat ramp, where you can launch into a day of exploration on Colorado's third-largest body of water.

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.

COUNTY ROAD 64, GRANBY, CO, 80446, USA

Perched on the pristine northern shore of Lake Granby, Cutthroat Bay Group Campground beckons families and friends seeking unforgettable mountain gatherings. Two spacious group sites, each accommodating up to 30 adventurers, come thoughtfully equipped with covered picnic shelters, ample tables, inviting campfire circles, and level tent pads perfect for starlit nights. While the landscape tells a story of ecological change—pine beetle impacts have opened the canopy—this transformation gifts visitors with unobstructed, breathtaking vistas across Lake Granby's sapphire waters and the dramatic peaks beyond.

PO BOX 3307, IDAHO SPRINGS, CO, 80452, USA

Arapaho and Roosevelt NF, 101 Highway 103, Clear Creek Ranger District

12102 S Elk Creek Rd, Pine, Colorado, 80470, United States

9054 U.S Hwy 285, Morrison, CO 80465

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Arapaho and Roosevelt NF Clear Creek Ranger District 101 Highway 103, Idaho Springs, CO 80452, USA

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Boulder Ranger District, 2140 Yarmouth Ave, Boulder, CO 80301, USA

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

ARAPAHO AND ROOSEVELT

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

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Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee NG

PO Box 3307

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.

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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.

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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.