Camping season is just around the corner and luckily we live in one of the best states to do so! We’ve rounded up some of the best Colorado campgrounds for you to get out of Denver and check out this summer, from Leadville to Aspen to Yampa. Many of them don’t take reservations so be prepared to be turned away if you’re planning on going on a busy weekend (or any weekend at all!)
Chapman Reservoir – Yampa: Located just west of Yampa in the Routt National Forest, this campground has 12 single-family sites with views of the gorgeous remote alpine lake where you can swim, fish and hike some small trails.
Open Season: June – October
Reservations: No reservations, first come basis
Summit Lake – Coalmont: This 15 site campground has beautiful views of Summit Lake near Steamboat Springs. Unfortunately you can’t swim in the lake but hand powered watercraft are allowed. Enjoy mountain/dirt biking, horseback riding, fishing and hiking around the campground but be prepared for a very bumpy drive there and don’t forget mosquito repellent!
Reservations: No reservations, first come basis
Open Season: July – Late October
Silver Bell – Aspen: Just outside of Aspen, this stunning 14-site campground is surrounded by aspen groves, a subalpine forest and just a short distance from Maroon Bells and Maroon Lake. Due to its amazing location we recommend booking months in advance and definitely expect it to be busy once there!
Reservations: Reserve online at https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/231882
Open Season: May – October (weather permitting)
Saint Louis Creek – Winter Park: Located near the Fraser Experimental Forest, this 160site campground is a great place to stay if you’re looking to hike, mountain bike, fly fish or take a scenic drive to view wildlife. This is the only campground on this list that allows trailers and RVs.
Reservations: No reservations, first come basis
Open Season: May 27th – Sept. 25th
Lakeview – Leadville: This stunning campground is in Leadville where the air is thin but the views are spectacular, particularly of Twin Lakes. It’s located just below Mt. Elbert so if you’re feeling adventurous you can take on the challenge of climbing it but if not there’s plenty of other trails to enjoy.
Reservations: Reserve online at https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232067
Open Season: May 27th thru Sept. 5th
Silver Thread – Hinsdale: Just a short hike to South Clear Creek Falls, this 11-site campground is located within the Rio Grande National Forest near Creede. Enjoy the beautiful drive there on the Silverthread Scenic Byway but make sure to be aware of bears when camping and hiking the area.
Reservations: No reservations, first come basis
Open Season: Open year round
