Planning on going to Colorado soon in your RV? One of the things you need to know before is where you can stay. I love Colorado and have been many times. There are a lot of camp spots out there, but here are the most unforgettable.
1. Pikes Peak RV Park – Manitou Springs
This region of Colorado is definitely something you need to see in your lifetime. This RV Park situates you in the mountains, between some of the top visitor’s sites of the area.
Where It is: This RV park is literally right outside of Colorado Springs. It sights just a little bit closer to the Mountain range.
Use: Mild – Heavy during summertime
Cost: $40 – $50 a night from fall through spring. In the summer it is $60 – $65 a night. There are options to pay weekly.
What Makes it Unforgettable: Being so close to the Rocky Mountains, while also being close to the beautiful red rocks of the Garden of the Gods really makes this trip hard to forget. After a full day of exploring, you can hit the cute mountain town of Manitou Springs and enjoy the finer things in life.
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Picnic tables
- Convenience store on site
- Laundry facilities
- Open year-round
- Close to Garden of the Gods
- View of Pikes Peak
- The town is walking distance
- Wildlife can be seen
Cons:
- Campsites are not very private
- Can be expensive during the summer
- You have to pay for additional people – $3.50 a person per night (after the first two guests)
2. Difficult Campground, Aspen
There are several campgrounds in this Aspen area that are beautiful, but Difficult is my favorite. Not just because of the name, but because it is secluded and peaceful. Plus isn’t it great to say you stayed somewhere Difficult?
Where it is: Aspen, Colorado. You’ve probably heard of it. It may or may not be from Dumb and Dumber, but it probably rings a bell. Difficult is tucked into the mountains and is part of the White River National Forest. It’s west of Denver and Colorado Springs.
Use: Mild
Cost: $25 a night, plus two extra dollars if it is a holiday.
What Makes it Unforgettable: This is probably my favorite place to go if I really want to feel in tune with nature. It’s easy to see wildlife. If you go when the trees start to change colors in the fall, you will be in love with views.
Pros:
- Privacy at campsite
- Great views
- 47 sites so you can usually find a site
- Drinking water
- Vault toilets
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Close to Aspen
- Firewood available
- Wildlife
- Food lockers
Cons:
- Not open year-round – Usually open May through October
- Expensive for no hook-ups (usually camping on government ground in Colorado is expensive)
- There is a 7 day stay limit
- No hook-ups or dump station
3. Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Resort – Estes Park
Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Resort is one of the most recognizable resorts within Colorado, and for good reason. There is a lot to do, and a lot to see. If you want to be able to see animals, this is a good place to do it. The view of Longs Peak is great from this resort.
If you ever wanted to check the hotel from the Shining, you can do it while you are here! It’s called the Stanley Hotel, and you can stay for one night if you are brave enough.
Where it is: Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Resort is located at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. It is in the NW part of the state, not too far from Fort Collins or Boulder, but far enough to be away from city noise and really be in the wilderness.
Use: Heavy
Cost: $71 is the regular price and $77 a night during holidays.
If you are part of Good Sam, the prices go down to $65 a night and $70 a night during holidays. Paying weekly is also an option and is more cost-effective if you do.
What Makes it Unforgettable: Being able to stay at this resort is truly a memory that I know I will never forget. The stars, and the views are spectacular. This place is so nice because you have a lot of extra comforts, and you have a lot of space at your site.
Pros:
- 169 full-service sites
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Hot tub
- Bathrooms
- Shower
- Laundry
- Mini golf
- playground
- Lodge
- Live entertainment in the lodge
- Cable TV
- Wifi
- Pet-friendly
Cons:
- This resort is not open year-round. It is open from May to October.
- It’s expensive for an RV resort, a lot of the facilities make it so it can be more expensive.
- Fees for more than 2 guests
4. Dolores River Campground and Cabins – Dolores
This river campground location is a bit further away from where a lot of RV campers usually go when they come to Colorado, but it is great. There is a lot of history in this area.
Where it is: The SW area of Colorado, not too far away from Mesa Verde. There aren’t a lot of major cities near, the most familiar one is Durango, which is about an hour away.
Use: Moderate
Cost: $45 a night for standard RV sites, $50 a night for “Premium Waterfront Site.”
Weekly rates are available which can save you some money.
What Makes it Unforgettable: The fun nights on the riverside, fishing right by your RV, and exploring the river are just a couple of reasons that this is a memorable trip. I would highly recommend checking out Mesa Verde since you are only an hour away.
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Cable TV
- WiFi
- Shaded areas
- Picnic tables
- Pull-through sites
- Waterfront sites
- Gift shop
- Rec hall
- Laundry
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Fishing
Cons:
- Not open for camping year-round – May to October is when you can stay
- The sites can be closer to each other (it really is worth the extra money to stay by the riverside)
- It’s a little close to a main roadway
5. Junction Creek Campground – Durango
Sticking close to the Southern region, Durango is a great place to see at least once in your life. Views are spectacular and there is a lot to do. This campsite has a nice balance of reasonable accommodations and letting you enjoy nature.
Where it is: This campground is in the San Juan National Forest. Durango is located close to the border of New Mexico, on the western side.
Use: Moderate
Cost: $35/night for a standard electric site, or $24/night for a nonelectric site.
There are good group rates at this site, and also double sites available for a higher cost. If you would like to check it out, click here.
What Makes it Unforgettable:
Pros:
- Electric hookups
- Picnic shelter
- Tables
- Campfire Rings
- Vault toilets
- Drinking water
- Beautiful views
- Hiking
- Mountain biking
- Fishing
- Wildlife
- Near enough to town, but still secluded
- Reservations can be made in advance
Cons:
- This area is considered bear country, so be careful with food storage.
- Roads can be a bit difficult to manage
6. Canyonside Campground – Bellvue
Canyonside is a great campground for those who want to feel like they are out in nature but still want full hookups. There is a ton of really cool things that you can do here.
Where it is: Just NW of Fort Collins and near a river. It’s about an hour from the Wyoming border.
Cost: $50 a night or $300 a week.
Use: Light – but not many RV options
What Makes it Unforgettable:
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Dump station
- Firewood
- Playground
- Internet
- Nearby kayaking, river rafting, hiking and fishing
- Surrounded by trees
Cons:
- Limited space
- $50 is a lot to pay for not a lot of extra things.
- Not open year-round – May through September
- No views of great mountains that people expect to see when they come to Colorado from this site.
7. Steamboat Springs KOA – Steamboat Springs
I love Steamboat Springs, but staying here is expensive. Taking your RV here is the best way to see a spectacular mountain town without spending too much. Steamboat is becoming increasingly popular so it’s something to check off on your list.
Where it is: Steamboat Springs is in the NW region of the state, about a 3-hour drive from Denver. It is about a two-hour drive from the Wyoming border.
Use: Moderate but really depends on the season.
Cost: $50 – $65
What Makes it Unforgettable: The site itself is close to the Yampa River, which runs cold and crisp from the mountain snowmelt all year. Not too far from town, you can explore everything.
Steamboat has a free bus system, so traveling to all the cool spots is easy. Try going to the Gondola at the ski hill if you want to create the best memories.
Pros:
- Full hookups
- WiFi
- Cable TV
- Pavilion
- Fishing
- Mini golf
- Pool
- River view
- Dump station
- Laundry
- Free bus shuttle
- Tubing on the river
- Open year-round
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- It does not feel like you are truly camping
- Can be cramped if you go when it is busy
8. Cutty’s Hayden Creek Resort – Coaldale
This awesome resort is surrounded by nature, but still has more luxurious features to it. It’s a great place to stay if you want a combination of outdoors as well as hotel-type fun.
Where it is: Located near Salida, it’s about 2 hours from Colorado Springs, SW. It’s part of the Gunnison National Forest and is close to Rio Grande National Forest.
Use: Mild – a lot of people choose to stay in the cabins available
Cost: $50 – $60 depending on size of RV and spot (pull-thru are more expensive)
What Makes it Unforgettable: there is so much to do that is included in your stay, which is what makes it so amazing and memorable. The views are great and you really have room to explore. This trip is as unforgettable as you make it, try going white water rafting or horseback riding!
Pros:
- Internet
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Dump stations
- Playground
- Indoor and Outdoor Pool
- Mini golf
- Hiking
- Tennis court
- Sand volleyball
- Laundry
- Good views with lots of trees
Cons:
- It’s a bit pricey, because of the amenities
- Fees for more people or wandering pets – a lot of rules.
- Far from any cities (the closest major town is Pueblo at 70 miles).
- It can be a bit difficult to get to for a resort.
9. Foot of the Rockies RV Resort and Storage – Colorado Springs
This is a great spot for you to stay if you want to be close to both the city and to the mountains.
Where it is: In the heart of Colorado Springs, close to I-25, between Pueblo and Denver.
Use: Mild
Cost: $20 – $50 a night. Extended stay is possible and you can pay by the week if you need to.
What Makes it Unforgettable: It’s all about location when it comes to this spot. There are so many things that you are close to in this location of Colorado Springs. It’s really easy to get to Pike’s Peak, where you can take a train up to the top.
Pros:
- Location is great
- 64 RV sites
- Full Hook-ups
- Internet
- Dump station
- Laundry
- Playground for the kids
Cons:
- Sites are close together
- You aren’t surrounded by mountains, but rather can see the city
- Can’t make reservations online, just made by calling.
If you would like to stay here, or more information, you can call this phone number: 719-447-0670
10. Glenwood Canyon Resort – Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is a very nice location if you want to be in the Rocky Mountains. There is a ton of really cool things nearby, with a beautiful river, and millions of trees surround you. It’s really picturesque.
Where it is: You can find this resort off of Interstate 70, not too far a handful of popular ski towns. It’s about halfway between Grand Junction and Vail. It’s a little over 150 miles away from Denver.
Use: Heavy
Cost: $40 – $60
Prices vary by site and availbility. Book early
What Makes it Unforgettable: If you want a cool, luxurious place to stay this is a must. Glenwood Springs is an awesome place to explore, especially the hot springs.
Pros:
- Riverfront RV sites
- Firepit
- Picnic table
- Restroom
- Shower
- Boat Ramp
- Shuttle Service
- Laundry
- Zipline
- Close to a lot of hikes
- Hook-ups on some sites
- Bar and grill onsite
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- Some of the sites are not as good as the others
- It can be a bit noisy because it is close to train tracks
11. Pine Cove Campground – Breckenridge
This is a nice little area, that is on the Dillon Reservoir. It is a beautiful area, in the middle of a bunch of cute ski towns. There is a lot to do and a lot to see.
Where it is: Breckenridge is located west of Denver. It’s not too far off of I-70 so it is not difficult to get to. It is near Frisco, Silverthorne, Copper Mountain, and Loveland.
Use: Moderate
Cost: $20 a night
What Makes it Unforgettable: The ability to see so much and be close to much all at once is why you should stay here. You get to be in nature and enjoy it without having to worry so much about where to go.
Pros:
- Fishing
- Picnic tables
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Motorize boats
- Hiking
- Biking
Cons:
- You cannot have body contact with the water
- You cannot make a reservation in advance, and there are only 56 sites
- No hook-ups available
12. Lake Irwin Campground – Crested Butte
Lake Irwin is a small campground area that has a simply beautiful area. If you don’t believe me, just look at a couple of pictures, and then you will be jumping at the opportunity to go.
Where It is: Lake Irwin is in the middle of the mountain ranges. It’s really hard to explain where it, because it really isn’t near anything popular. It’s basically on the other side of the mountain as Aspen.
Use: Heavy
Cost: $18 a night when you camp.
What Makes it Unforgettable: The beautiful views as you camp, explore and hike are something that sticks in your mind. Everything looks perfect, the best time is to during the months of July or August.
Pros:
- Beautiful
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Kayaking or Canoeing
- Biking
- Vault Toilets
- 3 ADA sites
- Camp really close to the water
Cons:
- No hook-ups are available
- It is really busy here so it is hard to get
- It is bear country here
13. Chatfield State Park – Littleton
Where it is: South of Denver, near Highlands Ranch. It is one of the most central Colorado locations for camping.
Use: Heavy
Cost:$41 per day for a full hook-up site, $36 a day for electrical only hook-up, additional fee for using the Dump station.
What Makes it Unforgettable: Being able to camp and visit the city is what makes this spot a great place to stay. The views on the river are amazing but you can travel to Littleton or Highlands Ranch at the end of the day for a quick bite to eat.
Pros:
- Some spots have full hook-ups
- Boating
- Some sites are open year-round
- Picnic areas
- Hiking
- Bike trails
- Dogs are welcomed
- Education programs
- Fishing
- Marina
- Grill
- Model Airplane Field
- Reservations can be made
Cons:
- Crowded during the day
- Trailers taller than 13′ can’t use the main entrance
- A little close to the main road.
14. Jellystone Park at Larkspur – Larkspur CO
Have you ever heard of Jellystone? With Yogi bear? Well, this is the real-life version. This resort is probably the best place to travel if you have kids. It’s really fun for all ages, but Jellystone has a lot of activities designed for kids.
Where it is: Larkspur is about halfway between Denver and Colorado Springs. This resort is located right off I-25 so it is really easy to get to, even with your RV.
Use: Heavy
Cost: It’s a bit complicated. For a standard, the price is $36 – $50. The price all depends on what time of year you stay, and if you stay during the week or on the weekend.
You can upgrade to a higher electrical, which boosts the price up to $50 – $70. To look at any specifics, click here for the website PDF.
What Makes it Unforgettable:
Pros:
- Hookups
- Themed weekends
- Gem mining
- Swimming pool
- Movie theater
- Basketball
- Big playground
- Meet Yogi Bear
- Hiking
- Hayrides
- Store
- Planned activities (varies throughout the year)
- Escape Room
Cons:
- More like a vacation, less like camping
- Can get expensive, depending on what time you go
- More geared towards younger children
15. Moraine Park Campground – Rocky Mountain National Park
For a really nice camping experience, without the feel of a resort, park your RV here. There are fantastic views, and it’s close enough to head into the small town of Estes Park if you want to.
Where it is: Estes Park is also where this campground is located, technically, but it is deeper into the park. It’s rockier, dense with trees, and even more wildlife than Elk Meadow.
Use: Heavy
Cost: $26 a night during the peak season
What Makes it Unforgettable: The views for one thing. I may say this every time but there are many high peeks that you can see from here. The opportunity to see wildlife is really nice. The hikes you can take will be picture perfect, preserving memories forever.
Pros:
- Horseback riding
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Wildlife
- Amphitheater
- Food storage locker
- picnic table
- Dump station
- Flush toilets
- Firepit
- Campsites can be pretty spread out
Cons:
- No hookups
- It’s not open year-round
- There is a park entrance fee of $35 per vehicle, which is separate from any camping fees.
16. Timber Creek Campground – Grand Lake
Where it is: This campground is within the Rocky Mountain National Park. Grandlake is close to Longspeak, Fraser, Elk Mountain. If you don’t know what I am talking about, it’s on the west side of the Rocky Mountain Range in the Northern part of the state.
Use: Mild- but no reservations
Cost: $26
Pros:
- The only campground on the west side of the park
- 98 sites
- Great views
- Hikes
- Trash collection
- Amphitheater
- Dump station
- River
- Close to Grand Lake
- Picnic tables
- Wildlife are seen often
Cons:
- Not open year-round (just summer through early fall)
- Pine beetle killed off a lot of trees in this area.
- No reservations can be made
- Expensive for not having any hook-ups
17. Rainbow Lakes Campground – Nederland
This is another site that is really great for those who want a true camping experience. It is truly a lovely area, in the depths of the mountains, and sprinkled with rivers, and small lakes.
Where it is: Nederland is close to Boulder, Colorado, but is really tucked in there. This campsite is right in the Rocky Mountain range, and many tall peaks can be seen. If you have heard of Eldora, it is really close to that.
Use: Heavy
Cost: $0
What Makes it Unforgettable: Just being out in nature is what really makes this trip. You have lakes, streams, trees, animals – there is really nothing else that you need. You make your own adventures here.
Pros:
- Lakes
- Streams
- Picnic tables
- Fire grates
- Trash services
- Hiking
- Fishing
- High elevation at 10,000 ft
Cons:
- No reservations can be made, first come, first serve basis – get there before Friday to get a spot
- Not open year-round – June through September
- The area is meant for small trailers, not huge RV’s.
18. Pawnee Campground – Ward (Boulder County)
Pawnee is one of the many campgrounds found within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests but is one of the most beautiful and equipped spots. It is located within the Brainard Lake Recreational Area. Pawnee is open to camp from June 29 – September 23.
Where it is: Within Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests, just west of Boulder, Colorado, within the mountains.
Cost: $42 a night
Use: Heavy – if you plan on taking a trip here, make your reservations way in advance.
What Makes it Unforgettable: The views are one of the things that make this place really nice. It is a popular area but it is secluded once you get inside the campground.
Pros:
- Vault Toilets
- Trash Services
- Picnic Tables
- Fire Grates
- Dogs Allowed
- Hiking
- Close Proximity to Lake Recreational Activites
Cons:
- Expensive!
- Need to Book Early
- No Hook-Ups or Showers
- Not Open Year-Round
If you like this area, but don’t want to stick to a campground, you can boondock. There are no rules specifically prohibiting RV’s in this national forest.
19. Morefield Campground – Mesa Verde National Park
The landscape for this area is a lot different from most of the campgrounds on this list. It’s more rocks rather than a ton of trees. It is pretty green here still, and there are some amazing red rock formations.
Where it is: Mesa Verde National Park is located in the SW region of Colorado. It’s kind of in between Durango and Dolores, which were both mentioned earlier.
Use: Moderate – there are 267 sites, so there is usually room If you want to get a spot with hook-ups, book early.
Cost: There is a $15 – $20 fee to get into the park (or $40 for the whole year) For a full hook-up site, it is $45 a night. You can get a dry site for $33 a night.
If you have more than 2 guests, there will be a charge (if they are over the age of 5.)
What Makes it Unforgettable: The canyon you stay in absolutely gorgeous, and exploring Mesa Verde is not likely something that you will forget. Seeing the old Native American structures out of the rocks are simply something you have to do at least once.
Pros:
- Some sites with full hookups
- Dump stations
- Laundry
- Showers
- Gift shop
- Grocery store
- Hikes
- Wildlife
- Programs during the summer
- Close to the cliff dwellings site
- Breakfast
Cons:
- There is a fee to get into the park which is separate from the cost of camping
- There are a lot of rules
- You have to pay for any additional guests in your RV.
20. Pagosa Riverside – Pagosa Springs
This quaint campsite is cute, small, and directly by the river. This makes it peaceful and serene. This campsite is open for longer than a lot other seasonal spots, which is great if you are taking your trip a little bit later in the year.
Where it is: Located in the southern region of Colorado, at the junction of Highway 84 and Highway 160. It nears the border with New Mexico, about a 30-minute drive.
Cost: $46-$61/night
What Makes it Unforgettable: Sitting by the water as the sunsets make for an unforgettable trip, as well as the hikes that are nearby. It’s really great in the fall, when the Aspen trees are just changing.
Pros:
- Internet
- Cable TV
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Dump station
- Laundry
- Playground
- Arcade
- Fishing
- Shop for fishing supplies
Cons:
- There is not a ton of RV sites
- Not open year-round
- It can be crowded during the day
21. Lake Pueblo State Park – Pueblo
If you want to be near a big body of water, this might be the best place to visit.
Where it is: Pueblo is pretty central to the state. It is located south of Colorado Springs. The campground itself is located on the edge of Lake Pueblo, a very popular spot.
Use: Heavy
Cost: Dry site is $24 on the weekends, and holidays, otherwise it is $22 a day. Electrical hook-up sites are $36 on weekends and holidays. Weekdays are $32 a day.
There is a park pass required which is $8 a day. There is no reservation fee.
What Makes it Unforgettable: The drive into the park is something that is unforgettable, and you will be very pleased when you get your campsite. There is a ton to do, and views to see. Absolutely one of my favorite destinations.
Pros:
- You can choose to have hookups or not
- Boating
- Fishing
- Biking
- River tubing
- Great views
- Built-in boat ramps
- Boat rentals
- Couple minutes away from the city, and attractions like the zoo.
- 400 sites – all paved
- Bathrooms and dump stations
- Laundry
Cons:
- You have to pay for a park pass every day that you stay here.
- There is a max of a 14-day stay.
- There are a lot of rules that need to be followed.
Related Questions:
Can you camp in Colorado for free? There are several places you can camp for free in Colorado. Gunnison National Forest has some locations. There are locations in Colorado Springs and in the Arapahoe National forest where you can camp for free. Always check rules and guidelines before setting up camp.
Can you disperse RV camp in Colorado? There are some locations where primitive camping or disperse camping is allowed. Most National Forests allow for disperse camping, but it is best to always double-check with a park ranger beforehand.
