Colorado is renowned for it’s endless outdoor activities, both in the winter and the summer. This summer explore the great outdoors but leave the long distance driving behind. We put together a list of campsites you can check out on a whim (availability unknown). So, dust off your camping gear and let’s go!
Here are 7 campsites less than 2 hours from Denver:
Chatfield State Park
11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd.
Littleton, 80125
Chatfield State Park will take you in the nature without the stressful drive up I-70. Located off Wadsworth and C-470, this site is easy to get to and family friendly. You’ll be in the middle of boating, skiing, fishing and 26 miles of hiking and still have access to a bathroom. This is the perfect stop for a quick night of nature. Learn more →
Here are 7 campsites less than 2 hours from Denver:
Chatfield State Park
11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd.
Littleton, 80125
Chatfield State Park will take you in the nature without the stressful drive up I-70. Located off Wadsworth and C-470, this site is easy to get to and family friendly. You’ll be in the middle of boating, skiing, fishing and 26 miles of hiking and still have access to a bathroom. This is the perfect stop for a quick night of nature. Learn more →
Cold Springs Campground
Idaho Springs, 80422
Cold Springs Campground is located in Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest in Idaho Springs and is less than 2 hours (without traffic) from Denver. The area is packed full of hiking trails of varying difficulty, including a steep trail leading hikers to spectacular views at the top. If you have the appropriate vehicle, pack everyone up and hit the road to explore nearby off-roading trails. Learn more →
Rainbow Lakes Campground
Nederland, 80466
This tent only campground brings you face-to-face with nature. Rainbow Lakes Campground is ideal for fishers, with a string of fishing ponds just a short hike away from the tents. You can also hike the Glacier Rim Trail up the ridge for a breathtaking overlook of the Arapaho Glacier. There are very few sites and they are all first come first serve, so get there early. Learn more →
Painted Rocks Campground
CO Highway 67
Woodland Park, 80903
The Painted Rocks Campground is renowned for bird watching and there are many waterfowl and songbirds in the area for your viewing pleasure. There are a few ATV trails nearby for adventure seekers and each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Learn more →
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
410 JL Ranch Heights
Colorado Springs, 80926
Just an hour and a half from Denver, with few hill climbs or winding roads, you’ll find Cheyenne Mountain State Park. This is a campground for anyone from beginner campers to experts. The park has 2,7000 acres of land to explore. Bonus, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is nearby for an added treat for the kids on your way home. Learn more →
Jones Pass Road
Calling all off-roaders! Check out Jones Pass Road. Pack up the Jeep and head on up for some off-roading fun and camping. The campsites are easily accessible by car on the way to Winter Park. The area is lined by Aspen trees and gorgeous mountain vistas with views of St. Mary’s Glacier. Learn more →
Turquoise Lake Recreation Area
2015 North Poplar
Leadville, 80461
A few miles outside of Leadville you’ll find Turquoise Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts won’t know where to start with the seemingly endless list of activities. Try your hand at kayaking, swimming, biking, hiking or lounging in this beautiful setting surrounded by fourteeners -- there are 19 near by. Learn more →
Enjoy your summer activities and remember your sunscreen!
Idaho Springs, 80422
Cold Springs Campground is located in Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest in Idaho Springs and is less than 2 hours (without traffic) from Denver. The area is packed full of hiking trails of varying difficulty, including a steep trail leading hikers to spectacular views at the top. If you have the appropriate vehicle, pack everyone up and hit the road to explore nearby off-roading trails. Learn more →
Rainbow Lakes Campground
Nederland, 80466
This tent only campground brings you face-to-face with nature. Rainbow Lakes Campground is ideal for fishers, with a string of fishing ponds just a short hike away from the tents. You can also hike the Glacier Rim Trail up the ridge for a breathtaking overlook of the Arapaho Glacier. There are very few sites and they are all first come first serve, so get there early. Learn more →
Painted Rocks Campground
CO Highway 67
Woodland Park, 80903
The Painted Rocks Campground is renowned for bird watching and there are many waterfowl and songbirds in the area for your viewing pleasure. There are a few ATV trails nearby for adventure seekers and each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. Learn more →
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
410 JL Ranch Heights
Colorado Springs, 80926
Just an hour and a half from Denver, with few hill climbs or winding roads, you’ll find Cheyenne Mountain State Park. This is a campground for anyone from beginner campers to experts. The park has 2,7000 acres of land to explore. Bonus, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is nearby for an added treat for the kids on your way home. Learn more →
Jones Pass Road
Calling all off-roaders! Check out Jones Pass Road. Pack up the Jeep and head on up for some off-roading fun and camping. The campsites are easily accessible by car on the way to Winter Park. The area is lined by Aspen trees and gorgeous mountain vistas with views of St. Mary’s Glacier. Learn more →
Turquoise Lake Recreation Area
2015 North Poplar
Leadville, 80461
A few miles outside of Leadville you’ll find Turquoise Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts won’t know where to start with the seemingly endless list of activities. Try your hand at kayaking, swimming, biking, hiking or lounging in this beautiful setting surrounded by fourteeners -- there are 19 near by. Learn more →
Enjoy your summer activities and remember your sunscreen!