Forest Camping in Colorado
Discover the best forest camping across Colorado. Immerse yourself in the forest. Towering trees, dappled sunlight, and the sounds of nature.
Forest Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Vallecito Campground
Towering ponderosa pines and quaking aspen groves create a layered forest canopy where vanilla-scented bark mingles with the sound of rushing Vallecito Creek below.
Camp Hale Memorial
Tall lodgepole pines rise from the valley floor, creating a recovering forest where elk bugle through morning mist and bighorn sheep traverse the ridgelines above.
River Hill
Towering willows and mature trees create dappled shade across this high-elevation meadow where the Rio Grande rushes past your tent at 9,200 feet. Trailheads depart directly from camp into the vast Weminuche Wilderness, where you'll spot mule deer browsing beneath ancient pines and hear...
About Forest Camping in Colorado
Forest camping Colorado offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the most diverse and pristine woodland ecosystems in the American West. From the towering ponderosa pines of the San Juan National Forest to the high-altitude spruce and fir stands of the White River National Forest, Colorado's forest campgrounds provide a natural sanctuary where the scent of pine needles mingles with mountain air and the soundtrack of rustling aspen leaves creates a symphony of wilderness.
Best Time
The prime season for forest camping in Colorado runs from late May through September, though exact timing depends heavily on elevation and snowpack. Lower-elevation ponderosa pine campgrounds like Target Tree typically open by mid-May and remain accessible through October, offering the longest season with warm days and cool nights.
Scenery Highlights
- Towering tree canopies
- Shaded, cool campsites
- Diverse wildlife viewing
- Peaceful woodland atmosphere
Explore Forest 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 popular forest campgrounds like Silver Bar and River Hill exactly six months in advance through Recreation.gov, as these fill within hours of becoming available.
- 2For more flexibility, consider lesser-known gems like Cathedral Campground or Yeoman Park, which often have availability even during peak season.
- 3Always bring layers regardless of season—temperatures can swing 40 degrees between day and night, and afternoon thunderstorms are common July through August.
- 4A quality rain fly and warm sleeping bag rated to at least 30°F are essential even in summer at higher elevations.
Forest Camping in Colorado FAQ
We've ranked 20+ forest campgrounds in Colorado based on tree coverage, wildlife viewing, and hiking access. Top options offer shaded sites and peaceful woodland settings.
Forest campgrounds in Colorado are home to diverse wildlife including deer, various bird species, and small mammals. Store food properly and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Colorado offers excellent forest camping with diverse woodland ecosystems, well-maintained trails, and shaded campsites perfect for summer escapes. Many sites offer both developed and primitive options.
Popular Colorado Campgrounds Book Fast
The best forest camping in Colorado book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
Outdoorithm
Just now
🎉 Site opened up!
Vallecito Campground
Your preferred dates
Quick! This site typically books within hours.
Find Your Perfect Colorado Campground
Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.
- Search 20+ forest camping in Colorado
- Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
- Get personalized recommendations for your trip
- Compare campground amenities
- Check weather forecasts
No credit card required. Every feature is free to use.
