Beach Camping in Colorado
Discover the best beach camping across Colorado. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Vallecito Campground
Vallecito Creek flows directly through camp, offering swimmers, anglers, and paddlers immediate access to crystalline mountain waters from multiple shoreline entry points.
St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel
The campground sits beside Lake Isabel's shoreline at 8,600 feet, where alpine waters lap against rocky beaches framed by soaring Wet Mountain peaks. Cast a line for stocked rainbow trout from your waterfront site, or launch a kayak to explore quiet coves while mule deer graze the...
East Portal Campground
The Gunnison River flows directly past campsites nestled in a dramatic volcanic canyon, offering anglers and kayakers immediate access to cold, clear mountain waters.
About Beach Camping in Colorado
Beach camping Colorado offers a unique alpine twist on waterfront camping, where crystal-clear mountain lakes, rushing rivers, and scenic reservoirs replace traditional ocean beaches. While Colorado may be landlocked, its abundant waterways create exceptional beach-like camping experiences throughout the San Juan, Rio Grande, and White River National Forests.
Best Time
The prime beach camping season in Colorado runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the warmest water temperatures and most reliable weather. Early season visitors in May and June will find fewer crowds and blooming wildflowers, though water levels run high from snowmelt and temperatures remain chilly for swimming.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in Colorado
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites well in advance for summer weekends, as popular beach camping spots like St Charles Campground and Vallecito Campground fill quickly.
- 2Bring layers and cold-weather gear even in summer, as temperatures can drop into the 30s at night at higher elevations.
- 3Pack a quality water filter or purification system, as not all campgrounds provide potable water.
- 4Life jackets are essential for any water activities, and children should be supervised closely near rivers and lakes due to cold water temperatures and swift currents.
Beach Camping in Colorado FAQ
We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in Colorado based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Colorado is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Colorado, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular Colorado Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Colorado book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Vallecito Campground
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