Camping in Colorado

A complete guide to camping in Colorado

Scenic landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado with mountains and forest

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Overview

Colorado offers diverse camping across high mountain ranges, desert plateaus, and forest valleys. The state contains four national parks spanning multiple ecosystems: Rocky Mountain National Park in the north, Great Sand Dunes National Park in the south-central region, Mesa Verde National Park in the southwest, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in the west-central area. Campers can access terrain ranging from alpine peaks above 14,000 feet to arid sand dunes and deep canyon systems, making Colorado a destination for varied outdoor experiences.

The state's camping infrastructure includes both national park campgrounds and numerous dispersed camping areas on public lands. Campgrounds range from developed sites with full amenities to primitive backcountry options. Colorado's elevation and geographic position create distinct regional climates, with cooler temperatures at higher altitudes and more moderate conditions in lower valleys and desert areas.

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Best Seasons to Camp in Colorado

Spring

Mar-May

High 49°F · Low 37°F

Spring brings variable conditions as snow melts at higher elevations. Lower-elevation campgrounds open earlier in the season, while mountain areas may remain closed or inaccessible until late May or June. Wildflowers begin appearing in mid to late spring.

Summer

Jun-Aug

High 68°F · Low 56°F

Summer is peak camping season with most campgrounds and trails fully accessible. Higher elevations offer cooler temperatures, while lower areas can be warm and dry. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in mountain regions, particularly in July and August.

Fall

Sep-Nov

High 49°F · Low 37°F

Fall provides cooler temperatures and reduced crowding as summer visitors depart. Aspen trees turn gold in mountain valleys. Weather becomes increasingly unpredictable as the season progresses, with early snow possible at high elevations by November.

Winter

Dec-Feb

High 30°F · Low 18°F

Winter camping in Colorado requires preparation for cold temperatures and snow at most elevations. Lower-elevation desert areas and some lower-lying campgrounds remain accessible. Many mountain campgrounds close seasonally.

Season	Months	Avg High	Avg Low	Conditions
Spring	Mar-May	49°F	37°F	Spring brings variable conditions as snow melts at higher elevations.
Summer	Jun-Aug	68°F	56°F	Summer is peak camping season with most campgrounds and trails fully accessible.
Fall	Sep-Nov	49°F	37°F	Fall provides cooler temperatures and reduced crowding as summer visitors depart.
Winter	Dec-Feb	30°F	18°F	Winter camping in Colorado requires preparation for cold temperatures and snow at most elevations.

Source: NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals

Camping Regions in Colorado

Region	Terrain	Key Areas
Northern Mountains and Front Range	Mountain	Estes Park, Boulder, Fort Collins
South-Central Desert and Dunes	Desert	Alamosa, Mosca
Southwest Mesa and Canyon Country	Desert	Mancos, Durango, Cortez
West-Central High Valleys and Canyons	Mountain	Montrose, Gunnison, Delta
Central Mountain Valleys	Mountain	Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen, Crested Butte
Eastern Plains and Lower Elevation Areas	Plains	Denver, Fort Morgan, Limon

Northern Mountains and Front Range

Mountain · Estes Park, Boulder, Fort Collins

This region includes Rocky Mountain National Park and surrounding areas featuring high alpine terrain, mountain lakes, and dense coniferous forests. Campgrounds range from valley locations near mountain towns to high-elevation sites with access to peaks and backcountry. The region experiences cooler temperatures and frequent afternoon storms during summer months. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Spruce Lake RV Park, and Manor RV Park cluster in the Estes Park valley, while Peaceful Valley Campground near Boulder provides a quieter Roosevelt National Forest option.

South-Central Desert and Dunes

Desert · Alamosa, Mosca

Great Sand Dunes National Park dominates this region with unique sand formations, grasslands, and forested foothills. The landscape transitions from high desert to montane forest at the dunes' edge. Camping here offers a distinct experience different from typical mountain camping, with warmer daytime temperatures and clearer night skies. Great Sand Dunes Oasis near Mosca and Alamosa KOA Journey provide the closest camping to the dunes and the San Luis Valley.

Southwest Mesa and Canyon Country

Desert · Mancos, Durango, Cortez

Mesa Verde National Park and surrounding areas feature high plateaus cut by deep canyons with archaeological significance. The landscape combines high desert, pinyon-juniper forests, and dramatic cliff formations. This region has moderate elevations compared to northern mountains and offers drier conditions overall. Ancient Cedars at Mesa Verde RV Park in Mancos sits closest to Mesa Verde, while Alpen Rose RV Park in Durango anchors the Animas River corridor.

West-Central High Valleys and Canyons

Mountain · Montrose, Gunnison, Delta

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and surrounding areas feature some of Colorado's most dramatic terrain with steep canyon walls and narrow gorges. The region includes mountain valleys, river corridors, and high desert plateaus. Camping ranges from canyon-rim sites with panoramic views to valley campgrounds in nearby towns. Riverbend RV Park and Cabins in Montrose and Oasis RV Resort and Cottages in Gunnison serve the Black Canyon and upper Gunnison valley.

Central Mountain Valleys

Mountain · Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen, Crested Butte

This region encompasses high mountain valleys, alpine lakes, and forested slopes in Colorado's central ranges. Elevation varies from 8,000 to over 12,000 feet, creating cool summers and early snow. The area provides access to numerous campgrounds, both developed and dispersed, throughout the mountain valleys. Gore Creek Campground near Vail and Tiger Run Resort in Breckenridge provide mountain-town camping along the I-70 corridor.

Eastern Plains and Lower Elevation Areas

Plains · Denver, Fort Morgan, Limon

The eastern plains region offers grassland and lower-elevation camping with warmer temperatures than mountain areas. This region receives less precipitation and experiences stronger wind. Camping here provides access to state parks, reservoirs, and less crowded alternatives to mountain destinations. Silver Spur Campground in Fort Morgan and Emerald RV Park serve the eastern plains along I-76.

Camping Tips for Colorado

Check elevation before booking. Colorado's high altitude affects weather, temperature, and physical exertion. Many campsites sit above 9,000 feet with thin air and rapid temperature changes between day and night.
Plan for afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, especially in mountain regions. Storms develop quickly at high elevations and can bring lightning, hail, and flash flooding in canyon areas.
Obtain required permits and make reservations early for popular national park campgrounds, which fill quickly during peak season from June through August.
Arrive prepared for cold nights even in summer. High-elevation campsites experience freezing temperatures year-round, and nighttime lows can drop 30+ degrees from daytime highs.
Follow all fire regulations, which vary by location and season. Many areas have fire restrictions or bans during dry months. Check with specific campgrounds and ranger districts before building fires.
Store food and trash properly to prevent encounters with wildlife including bears, elk, and mountain lions. Use bear canisters or hang food at least 12 feet high in bear country.
Be aware that dispersed camping on public lands is available throughout Colorado, offering free or low-cost alternatives to developed campgrounds. Research regulations for specific areas before camping.
Start hikes and outdoor activities early in the day. Weather can change rapidly at high elevations, and afternoon thunderstorms can develop with little warning.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to camp in Colorado?

Summer from June through August is peak season with most campgrounds open and trails accessible. However, expect crowds and afternoon thunderstorms at high elevations. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, though weather can be unpredictable and some mountain areas may still have snow or be closed. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations but requires cold-weather preparation.

How far in advance should I book a campground in Colorado?

Popular national park and developed campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Book as early as possible, often months ahead for summer dates. For less crowded camping, consider fall and spring when cancellations increase availability. Dispersed camping on public lands does not require reservations and offers flexibility.

What elevation should I expect at Colorado campgrounds?

Colorado's campgrounds vary widely in elevation. Lower-elevation campgrounds in the eastern plains and southwest regions sit between 4,000 and 7,000 feet. Mountain valley campgrounds typically range from 8,000 to 10,000 feet. High-elevation alpine sites can exceed 11,000 feet. Higher elevations mean colder nights, thinner air, and faster-changing weather.

Do I need permits to camp in Colorado?

Developed campgrounds in national parks and most state parks require reservations but not separate permits. Dispersed camping on national forest and Bureau of Land Management lands in Colorado does not require permits in most areas, though regulations vary by location. Check specific forest service or land management office rules before camping on public lands.

What wildlife safety precautions should I take while camping in Colorado?

Store all food, trash, and scented items in bear-proof containers or hang them securely away from camp in bear country areas. Keep a safe distance from elk herds, particularly during fall and spring. Mountain lions inhabit forested and canyon areas, so avoid hiking alone at dawn and dusk. Never approach or feed any wildlife.

Are there good camping options without reservations required?

Yes. Colorado offers extensive dispersed camping on national forest and Bureau of Land Management lands throughout the state. These sites are typically free or very low cost and do not require advance reservations. Many developed campgrounds also have first-come, first-served sites. Lower-elevation and less-popular areas typically have more availability than peak-season mountain destinations.

What should I pack for Colorado mountain camping in summer?

Bring warm layers and a sleeping bag rated for temperatures below 32 degrees, as high-elevation nights freeze even in July and August. Pack rain gear and a tent that handles wind, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in mountain areas. Sun protection including sunscreen and hats is essential at high elevations where UV exposure is stronger. Water is often limited at remote campsites, so bring a water filtration system or purification tablets.