Tent Camping in Colorado: 10 Incredible Outdoor Sites

With access to one of the world’s most iconic mountain ranges, Colorado has rightfully earned its reputation for being one of the best states for outdoor recreation in the country. In addition to the unbeatable mountain access, this state offers other diverse landscapes, from canyons and deserts in the south to grasslands in the east. Needless to say, there’s a ton for outdoor lovers to explore. If you’re not quite sure where to start, read on to discover 10 incredible sites for camping in Colorado. Plus, learn what activities are popular at each destination. Let’s get right into it!

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

The first and most famous national park on this list, Rocky Mountain National Park, is a bucket-list destination for nature lovers looking for somewhere special to pitch their camping tents. If you’re looking for an accessible yet spectacular mountain getaway, this is the park for you.

What the Rocky Mountains Are Great For

Whether you’re looking for world-class hiking, scenic drives, sprawling valleys and meadows, river recreation, alpine lakes, or amazing wildlife, the Rocky Mountains truly have it all. Bear Lake is one of the most popular hikes in the park, and a must-see for first-time visitors. 

2. Eldorado Canyon State Park

Just south of Boulder sits a hidden gem: Eldorado Canyon State Park. Its proximity to the Rocky Mountains often results in it being overshadowed, but it’s well worth the visit if you’re looking for something new. 

What Eldorado Canyon Is Great For

17 miles of trails wind through the park’s nearly 1,400 acres, making it a hiker’s paradise. Off the trail, Eldorado Canyon’s sandstone cliffs can be enjoyed while fishing, picnicking, bird-watching, or rock climbing. 

3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Located in the west-central portion of Colorado, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is home to some of the steepest cliffs and oldest rocks in the country. While it’s technically the least visited national park in the state, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do and see. 

What the Black Canyon of the Gunnison Is Great For

Hikes are abundant at Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and are arguably the best way to see all that the park has to offer. With some of the most scenic views of the Gunnison River, Dragon Point is a must-do hike for visitors at the South Rim.

4. Rifle Falls State Park

Directly north of Black Canyon is Rifle Falls State Park, a lush landscape with impressive waterfalls. With both drive-in and walk-up campsites, there are several scenic places to pitch your favorite tent and create a comfortable home base before exploring.

What Rifle Falls Is Great For

If chasing waterfalls is on your Colorado to-do list, look no further than Rifle Falls – home to 3 60-foot waterfalls. Once you’ve gotten your fill of the falls, head to the park’s limestone caves or fish for trout in the East Rifle Creek.

5. Eleven Mile State Park

For campers seeking a lakeside escape, Eleven Mile State Park is the place to be. Located in Lake George, Colorado, this reservoir attracts over 300 thousand visitors each year – and for good reason!

What Eleven Mile Is Great For

Eleven Mile is best known for its unbeatable fishing, giving anglers access to a number of sought-after fish species. In the areas surrounding the lake, campers can enjoy the scenery while hiking or biking the local trails.

6. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Seeking an otherworldly landscape for camping? Great Sand Dunes National Park has got you covered! Down in south-central Colorado, this National Park is the only one of its kind in the state, boasting massive sand dunes against a mountainous backdrop.
 

What the Great Sand Dunes Are Great For

Hike one of the park’s popular trails, sandboard down the dunes, or cool off in the Medano Creek. If you’re content taking in the distinct scenery right from camp, be sure to create a comfortable environment that you’ll enjoy hanging out in. Deck out your shelter with tent accessories, like a sunshade tarp to block the desert sun and ventilation supplies to keep you cool. Since sand is abrasive and can wear down your tent fabric, don’t forget to lay down a poly or canvas tarp under your tent for protection.

7. Brainard Lake Recreation Area

Among the Indian Peaks Wilderness in Boulder County sits Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Known for its snow-capped mountain peaks, subalpine forest, and, of course, Brainard Lake, this recreation area is a local gem worth checking out. 

What Brainard Lake Is Great For

Since Brainard Lake is the center of this destination, water activities are the area’s main draw. In the warm months of summer, come here to fish, swim, paddleboard, canoe, bike, or hike. Brianard Lake is popular for winter sports too, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Winter camping is also an option, but you’ll need to commit to the backcountry in the off-season. 

8. Pawnee National Grassland

After you’ve hit the mountainous destinations in the west, head northeast for a slight change of scenery. Pawnee National Grassland provides the highlights of Colorado’s High Plains, with prairie views as far as the eye can see.

What the Pawnee National Grassland Is Great For

Enjoy the serenity of the grasslands on a hike, while bird-watching, or during a fossil hunt. You also can’t miss the Pawnee Buttes – two impressive rock formations that stand tall among the flat prairie landscape.

9. Colorado National Monument

West of the Black Canyon of Gunnison sits the Colorado National Monument, a high-desert environment located right on the Colorado Plateau. 

What the Colorado National Monument Is Great For

Rim Rock Drive is a popular 23-mile scenic route with multiple overlooks of the area, and a great starting point to get acquainted with the landscape. Then, get out of your car and hit one of the many trails! Devil’s Kitchen is a must-do trail to see the destination’s stunning red rock formations, while Otto’s Trail gives you access to one of the best views of the monument.

10. Mesa Verde National Park

The final National Park in Colorado (and on this list), you can’t miss Mesa Verde on a camping trip to Colorado. Located in the southwest corner of the state, this national park is a World Heritage Site with the perfect mix of history, culture, and breathtaking nature.

What Mesa Verde Is Great For

Take the 700 Years Tour for a comprehensive glimpse into the past, where you’ll see noteworthy archeological sites and ancient cliff dwellings, like Cliff Palace. Mesa Verde was also crowned the 100th International Dark Sky Park, so be sure to spend a night stargazing at camp!

Wrapping It Up

There’s a good reason outdoor enthusiasts flock to Colorado to get their fill of nature. From its breathtaking mountain parks to its peaceful plains and deserts, there’s plenty to explore in the colorful state. If you haven’t made it to the 4 national parks, they’re a solid place to start to get acquainted with Colorado’s unparalleled beauty. For campers looking for the less popular hidden gems, there are countless state parks and recreation areas to discover. So, don’t wait! Grab your favorite camping tent and pick one of the incredible sites above for your next outdoor adventure.