Camping Experts Share the Best Campgrounds in Colorado

Colorado is one of the more popular camping destinations in the country, and as a result, you might experience difficulty getting a spot at some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the state. It’s worth the effort, though, we promise. Reservations at all state parks can be made up to 6 months in advance, either online or by phone. The reservable campsites at Rocky Mountain National Park can also be booked up to 6 months in advance, or you can take your chances at the first-come, first-served campgrounds which often fill up by early afternoon during the summer months. 

If you find yourself frustrated by the crowded campgrounds outside of the Denver/Colorado Springs region, don’t lose hope. Just head to another National Park Service treasure a bit farther afield. Mesa Verde National Park protects almost 5,000 active archeological sites, including 600 well-preserved cliff dwellings. The Great Sand Dunes are the tallest in North America and offer sand sledding and tubing in the Medano Creek. Dinosaur National Monument (located on the Utah-Colorado border) has amazing reptile remains embedded in rock in addition to well-preserved petroglyphs. It’s no wonder Colorado is considered a mecca for outdoor and camping enthusiasts.

Stephanie and Jeremy's Campground Picks in Colorado

Jeremy and Stephanie Puglisi are the hosts of The RV Atlas podcast, which has been downloaded more than 12 million times by RV and camping enthusiasts. They are also the authors of the popular "Where Should We Camp Next?" book series, including "Where Should We Camp Next?", "Where Should We Camp Next? National Parks", "Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping", and "Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101". As bestselling authors and longtime RV travelers, they share expert campground recommendations, road trip inspiration, and practical advice for families and adventurers who love the great outdoors.

Here are their picks for family-friendly, budget-friendly, and public campgrounds in Colorado:

Family-Friendly: Steamboat Springs KOA Holiday, Steamboat Springs

Site types: RV, tent, camping cabins, and deluxe cabins

Tucked along the Yampa River and just minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs, this KOA is the perfect basecamp for family adventures in one of Colorado’s most beloved mountain towns. The campground offers spacious RV sites, shaded tent sites, and comfortable cabins, making it an excellent choice for all types of campers. Families love the onsite playground, heated pool, and fun bike rentals, while the Yampa River’s scenic walking and biking trail runs right alongside the property, providing easy access to downtown.

The real magic of this campground is its proximity to Steamboat Springs’ incredible outdoor recreation. In the summer, families can tube down the Yampa River, hike to Fish Creek Falls, or ride the gondola up Mount Werner for breathtaking views. Winter visitors will find themselves just a short drive from Steamboat Ski Resort, known for its world-class skiing and famous “Champagne Powder.” No matter the season, a visit to the Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a must—it’s the perfect way to relax after a day of adventure.

Budget-Friendly: Mueller State Park, Divide

Site types: RV, tent, and cabins

Located just east of the Continental Divide and about 45 minutes west of Colorado Springs, this state park campground is packed with wildlife and natural beauty. Elk and black bear sightings are not unusual here and the wildflowers and stacks of pine and spruce trees are everywhere. (Those traveling with pets should know that dogs are not allowed on the trails in this park because of the native wildlife.) Views of Pikes Peak lie right across a valley and some sites have unobstructed views, so do your homework when booking. You may want to avoid the campsites on the main road, especially if you are camping with young kids.

The campground offers ranger talks about a wide range of topics and in the summer there are activities like archery lessons that are fun for kids and adults alike. Hiking and mountain biking options are excellent here and the campground is open year around for those that love winter sports like sledding and cross country skiing. The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center is only 15 minutes away from Mueller and it is an absolutely awe inspiring experience.

National Park Gateway: Pinon Flats Campground, Mosca

Site types: RV and tent

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an absolute gem for families with young kids. Flying down the dunes on rented sandboards is a once in a lifetime experience that your camping crew will talk about for decades to come. Pinon Flats is located inside the park and close to the action and has over 80 sites for tents and RVs 35 feet and under. There are mountain views from most sites and the campground is filled with Pinon Pines. 

National Park Gateway: Moraine Park Campground, Estes Park

Site types: RV and tent

Many of the sites at Moraine Park Campground (which sits at an elevation of 8,160 ft) have excellent mountain views—and all campers have the chance to spot the wide variety of wildlife that wanders through the park. Sites in Loop C overlook the valley below and may be the best in the campground. Access to the park’s shuttle system is close to the campground—and you should plan on using it if you want to do a popular hike like Bear Lake—where the trailhead parking lot fills up very early.

Note that Moraine Park Campground is currently closed for construction but expected to open in summer 2025.

Explore More Campgrounds in Colorado

With its towering peaks, sprawling sand dunes, and ancient cliff dwellings, Colorado offers some of the most breathtaking and varied camping experiences in the country. Whether you're looking to hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, sled down the Great Sand Dunes, or explore the history of Mesa Verde, there’s a perfect campsite waiting for you.

From family-friendly campgrounds with endless activities to secluded state parks filled with wildlife, Colorado has something for every kind of camper. Just be sure to plan ahead—this outdoor mecca draws visitors from around the world year round.

Where Should We Camp Next?

If you're looking for even more incredible places to camp, the "Where Should We Camp Next?" series has dozens of additional recommendations to help you discover the best camping experiences in Colorado and beyond.

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