Need To Escape The City For A Bit?
There's a lot of truly magnificent nature surrounding Denver, so why not spend a few nights in it? With countless campgrounds throughout Colorado, it can be daunting to pick one to visit. So we rounded up a few of our favorites that will offer you the perfect getaway.
Note: Fire danger is extremely high this summer resulting in campfires being banned quite often. We urge you to heed any warnings and bans so that we can all have a safe and fun summer!
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image via the crags campground
Divide, CO
Distance From Denver: About 2 hours
What You’ll Find There: The Crags has 17 campsites for tents, small RV's or small trailers. Reservations are recommended but not required. There are plenty of trails nearby to keep you busy during your stay.
Costs: $22 per site. Passes are purchased on site.
image via unsplash/Lesly Derksen
8590 US-34, Granby, CO
Distance From Denver: About 2 hours
What You’ll Find There: This campground is the largest one available in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest. It offers 129 sites, 21 of which have electric hookups. The nearby Lake Granby offers boating, sailing, swimming and fishing.
Costs: $19.50 - $64 per site. Reserve here.
image via unsplash/Luca Baggio
Nederland, CO
Distance From Denver: About 1 hour, 20 minutes
What You’ll Find There: Looking to really go off the grid? Then dispersed camping might be your thing. There are no amenities like restrooms or water fountains, so you'll be taking "living off the land" to a new level. However, the satisfaction of doing so will leave you buzzing even after you return to civilization.
Costs: Free.
image via unsplash/Austin Goode
Turquoise Lake Rd, Leadville, CO
Distance From Denver: About 2 hours
What You’ll Find There: Named for what used to be a turquoise mine, Turquoise Lake includes two boat ramps to launch your boat, canoe, kayak or paddleboard onto nearly 1,800 acres of sparkling blue waters. The town of Leadville is just a short drive away from the campsites and offers restaurants, history and other attractions to discover.
NOTE: Water will not be available at this campground in 2024. Please bring enough water for your needs
Costs: $27 - $37. All sites are by reservation only. Call 877-444-6777 or reserve here.
image via unsplash/James Wheeler
Woodland Park, CO
Distance From Denver: About 2 hours, 10 minutes
What You’ll Find There: Rainbow and mackinaw trout are plentiful in the Rampart Reservoir, and hikers can enjoy the trails in the surrounding area. Rampart Reservoir Trail extends for 14 miles, making it a great day hiker, and is open to mountain biking as well.
Costs: $36 per site. Reserve here.
image via facebook/colorado trail foundation
Jefferson, CO
Distance From Denver: About 1 hour, 20 minutes
What You’ll Find There: Excellent hiking, biking and horseback riding are all available on the lengthy Colorado Trail, a 471-mile trail that extends from Denver to Durango. For a scenic drive, take in the views of the Kenosha Mountain Pass, then head to Guanella Pass for even more picture-perfect scenery.
Costs: $36 per site. Reserve here.
image via unsplash/Michiah Hugi
Evergreen, CO
Distance From Denver: About 1 hour
What You’ll Find There: Echo Lake sits in a spruce forest near the shores of Echo Lake. Activities in the area include hiking in the Mount Evans Wilderness, fishing, scenic driving and wildlife viewing. Several trails leave directly from the campground.
Costs: The campground offers 11 sites more suited to RV camping and seven sites designated for tent camping only. $34 per site. Reserve here.
image via unsplash/Tim Foster
8367 S Y Camp Rd, Sedalia, CO
Distance From Denver: About 1 hour, 20 minutes
What You’ll Find There: Located along the South Platte River, Lone Rock Campground boasts spectacular views and top-notch fly fishing waters. The Gill Trail is an intermediate hike that weaves through Cheesman Canyon and offers spectacular views. The trailhead is near the campground for easy access.
Costs: $36. Reserve here.
image via unsplash/Cade Prior
Gunnison, CO
Distance From Denver: About 3 hours, 40 minutes
What You’ll Find There: The area is frequented by outdoor adventurers of all types, but Hartman is particularly good for rock climbing, bouldering, mountain biking, trail running and hiking. Campsites at Hartman Rocks are indicated by a fire ring made with rocks. You can pitch a tent anywhere near the fire ring and stay at one site for up to two weeks.
Costs: Free.
After you've packed up the tent and camping supplies, check out our Discover Denver page for more of the best Denver has to offer!
