It's finally starting to feel like summer in Colorado!!! But as many of us know, this warm weather doesn't like to stick around for too long. Which is why I have researched the top 8 camp grounds in Colorado that everyone should experience during summer time! Instead of taking the kids to the pool every weekend, or going to the movies; plan a small camping trip!
Going Camping is one of the best ways to expose yourself to beautiful wildlife and experience the beauty of Colorado. It is fun, educational, exciting , and definitely memorable.
THE TOP 8 CAMP SITES IN COLORADO ARE:
1. Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park
You will often see elk, mule deer, and coyotes often wander through the meadow near this campground, which has a backcountry feel despite its proximity to the road.
The 2.3-mile Cub Lake Trail leads to a beautiful lily pad–covered pond.
Insider tip: Leave your car behind; starting on Memorial Day (May 25), summer park shuttles provide easy access to trails. Best for: Hiking Info: $20 (plus $20 park entrance fee per vehicle) Book it: recreation.gov
2. Pinyon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park
In this park, sand dunes of up to 750 feet ― the tallest in North America ― are dwarfed by the 13,000-foot peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Insider tip: During May runoff, Medano Creek becomes a virtual water park, with gentle, kid-friendly flows. Best for: Families Info: $14 (plus $3 park entrance fee for adults 16 and up); no reservations; 719/378-6300
3. Big Creek Lakes Campground, Routt National Forest, Northwest of Walden
This remote 9,000-foot haven near the Wyoming border boasts beyond-blue lakes and spiky summits near the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness. Insider tip: Hike the moderate Seven Lakes Trail 2 miles in; you’ll reach Big Creek Falls, where moose sightings are routine. Best for: Boating and fishing Info: $10; 970/723-8204 Book it: recreation.gov
4. Elk Run and Fisherman’s Paradise Campgrounds, Sylvan Lake State Park, Southeast of Eagle
An 8,500-foot alpine park with aspen groves, meadows of wildflowers, a 42-acre lake, and big, big mountains. Insider tip: Canoes, sea kayaks, and paddleboats are available for rent here from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Best for: Fishing (though no motorboats) Info: $14 (plus $6 daily per vehicle); 970/328-2021 Book it: reserveamerica.com
5. Hall Valley and Handcart Campgrounds, Pike National Forest, Northwest of Bailey
These high-country campsites are tucked into a densely forested valley punctuated with wild-flowers and aspens. The North Fork of the South Platte River is within earshot.Insider tip: Walk 1.4 miles to access the super-scenic 2.4-mile Gibson Lake Trail, which climbs a moderate 1,544 feet to its namesake lake. Best for: Hiking Info: $14; 303/275-5610 Book it: recreation.gov
6. Rosy Lane Campground, Gunnison National Forest, Northeast of Almont
Campsites are tucked beneath tree canopies at Taylor River’s edge. Insider tip: Whitewater-rafting outfitters run the river daily. Best for: Fishing Info: From $18; 970/641-0471 Book it: recreation.gov
7. Saddlehorn Campground, Colorado National Monument
From your campsite, spot steep-walled canyons and crimson-colored rocks. Insider tip: Hike the 6-mile Monument Canyon Trail to see signature rock formations. Best for: Hiking Info: $10 (plus $7 park entrance fee per vehicle); no reservations; 970/858-3617 ext. 360
8. Turquoise Lake Recreation Area, San Isabel National Forest, West of Leadville
Thick evergreen forest, mountains, and an 1,800-acre lake surround the eight campgrounds here, all at a cool 10,000-foot elevation. Insider tip: Bike the easy 12-mile paved Mineral Belt Trail loop; it starts in downtown Leadville, 4 miles east of the lake. Best for: Beating the heat Info: From $14; 719/486-0749 Book it: recreation.gov
Find the Camp Site best for you and experience the true wildlife and breathtaking views that Colorado has to offer.
HAPPY CAMPING!!!
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