Summer Camping in Colorado

Summer Camping in Colorado

Discover the best summer camping across Colorado. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.

17+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: June through August

About Summer Camping in Colorado

Summer camping Colorado offers an unparalleled outdoor experience across diverse mountain landscapes, from alpine lakes nestled at 10,000 feet to riverside meadows along pristine trout streams. The state's summer season transforms its high country into an accessible paradise, with wildflower-carpeted meadows, rushing snowmelt rivers, and comfortable daytime temperatures perfect for hiking, fishing, and water sports.

Best Time

The prime summer camping season in Colorado runs from mid-June through early September, with peak conditions typically occurring in July and August when high-elevation roads are fully accessible and wildflowers reach their peak bloom. Early summer (mid-June to early July) offers fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and higher river flows ideal for rafting and kayaking, though some high-elevation campgrounds may still have lingering snow patches.

Season Highlights

  • Warm weather and long days
  • Swimming and water activities
  • Full amenities and services
  • Family-friendly activities

Explore Summer Camping in Colorado

Browse 17 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.

Interactive MapAdvanced Filters17+ summer campgrounds
Explore the Map

Plan Your Trip

Popular Activities

Summer camping and outdoor recreationTrout fishing in rivers, streams, and alpine lakesHiking and backpacking into wilderness areasWhitewater rafting and kayakingMountain biking on forest trailsWildlife viewing including elk, deer, and birds

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve popular campgrounds like River Hill, Rainbow Lakes, and St Charles through Recreation.gov at least three to six months ahead for peak summer weekends, or consider weekday visits for better availability.
  • 2Pack layers for dramatic temperature swings—days may reach 75-80°F while nights regularly drop to 35-45°F, especially at elevations above 9,000 feet.
  • 3Bring a quality rain jacket and waterproof tent fly for afternoon thunderstorms, and always have a lightning safety plan when hiking.
  • 4Bear-proof all food, toiletries, and scented items using provided lockers or by hanging at least 100 feet from camp—black bears are active throughout Colorado's forests.
17 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Summer Camping in Colorado

Summer Camping in Colorado FAQ

We've ranked 17+ summer campgrounds in Colorado based on weather, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds with shade, water access, and good summer conditions.

June through August is prime summer camping season in Colorado. June and September offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are peak season.

For summer camping in Colorado, bring sun protection, plenty of water, cooling gear, and light layers for cooler evenings. Bug spray is essential in many areas.

Availability Alerts

Popular Colorado Campgrounds Book Fast

The best summer camping in Colorado book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

Checks every 2 min
SMS, email, push
150,000+ campsites
Set Up Your First Alert

Outdoorithm

Just now

🎉 Site opened up!

River Hill
Your preferred dates

Quick! This site typically books within hours.

Outdoorithm

Find Your Perfect Colorado Campground

Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.

  • Search 17+ summer 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.