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Colorado is one of the best states in the nation for camping and outdoor adventure. From Rocky Mountain National Park to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, there is much to explore throughout the state. With its central location at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a great place to start your travels or take a break and enjoy time in the city.
Denver is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. With housing and hotel prices sky-high, RV camping during your visit is a practical and affordable option. Our guide to the best RV camping will tell you everything you need to know about RV camping in and around Denver.
The 6 Best RV Campgrounds in the Denver Metropolitan Area
1. Cherry Creek State Park
One of the most centrally located campgrounds in Denver is Cherry Creek State Park Campground. The park features a large reservoir for swimming and boating along with open space prairie, perfect for outdoor activities. The best part is that it is only 15 minutes from downtown Denver.
Swimming, biking, birding, jet skiing, and boating are all popular activities at Cherry Creek. In the winter months, cross-country skiing and ice-skating are popular in the park. All of the fantastic Denver attractions, including the Denver Zoo and museums are all just a short drive from Cherry Creek. Restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations can all be found just outside of the park.
The campground has full hook-up sites, electric and water sites and primitive tent sites. The campground is very popular with visitors and locals alike, so be sure to book early to secure a campsite.
2. Applewood RV Resort
If you are looking to enjoy the amenities of the city with a peaceful setting, Applewood RV Resort is the spot for you. Located in Wheat Ridge, a suburb of Denver, Prospect RV Park has both a lake and playground on site. Popular activities at the campground include fishing, hiking, and biking.
Applewood RV Resort is conveniently located on a bus route, so you can check out Denver without having to drive your RV! The park also offers free Wi-Fi, pull-through sites and full hookups. All size rigs are welcome in the park. There are no tent sites in this campground.
3. Clear Creek RV Park
Clear Creek RV Park is a small, comfortable campground located on the banks of Clear Creek in downtown Golden. Clear Creek is an excellent choice for your stay in Denver because it is only a 25-minute drive to downtown Denver. It is also within walking distance of many beautiful attractions and amenities. Restaurants, shopping, parks, trails, and Clear Creek are all just a short stroll from the RV park. You can also visit the world-famous Coors Brewery for a tour.
Clear Creek RV Park features free Wi-Fi, restrooms, showers, a dump station, laundry facility and easy access to Clear Creek. Tubing is popular along the creek so bring your tubes or rent them in town.
Clear Creek RV Park is open year-round and has 22 full hook-up sites and 11 electric only sites. While the City of Golden operates clear Creek, it is a Good Sam campground, so if you have a membership, be sure to mention it for a discount.
4. Denver East/Strasburg KOA
Located less than one hour east of Denver is the Denver East/Strasburg KOA. This RV resort is an excellent base camp for visiting the Rocky Mountains and the Denver area. It is also one of the only RV parks near the Denver airport.
With full hookups, WiFi, cable, bike rentals, and a pool, you will be comfortable during your stay. The campground is also located just off of Interstate 70 making it convenient for day trips throughout the region.
5. Dakota Ridge RV Resort
If you are looking for a full-service RV resort in the Denver area, look no further than Dakota Ridge. This award-winning RV resort is a Good Sam member park and is just a half-hour drive from Denver.
Dakota Ridge is open year-round and has a clubhouse, fitness center, heated outdoor swimming pool, and hot tub along with free Wi-Fi. The campground has both pull-through and back-in sites with full hookups. It is ranked as Colorado’s number 1 RV park, so it is definitely worth checking out!
Susan and I stayed here and we thoroughly enjoyed it but this campground is not for everyone. There is a biker bar right across the street that plays live music almost every night of the week. We enjoyed it quite a bit but not everyone felt the same way.
The great thing about this park is that it is less than 30 minutes from Red Rocks Amphitheater. We stayed here to see Britt Floyd play at Red Rocks. This has been on our bucket list for quite some time and we totally enjoyed it!
6. Denver West/Central City KOA
Visitors in search of a Rocky Mountain getaway less than an hour from downtown Denver will love the KOA Denver West/Central City. The RV park is located just outside of the city in the Rocky Mountains. It is a great spot to stay if you plan to make day trips to Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, or the many great attractions in Denver.
Some of the amenities at the KOA include Wi-Fi, a hot tub, dog park and restaurant on site. There is also a shuttle to nearby Central City.
Open year-round, the KOA Denver West/Central City also offers extended stay camping from October through April. Rates are very reasonable, so if you are looking for a long-term campground in the area, this may be an excellent place for you.
The 9 Best RV Campgrounds Near Denver
1. Riverview RV Park and Campground, Loveland Colorado
One of the best RV parks around Denver is the Riverview RV Park and Campground. Located on the banks of the Big Thompson River, is a perfect spot for folks looking for outdoor adventures. Mountain biking, fly fishing, horseback riding, golfing and shopping are just some of the many activities within a short distance of the campground.
If you are planning a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, Riverview RV is a great place to stay. The campsites are located among the cottonwoods, which provide both privacy and shade. Picnic tables and fire pits make the campsites great for couples or families. Walking trails are also located around the park. Lots of festivals take place in this area throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your stay.
In addition to RV sites, the park also has tiny homes for rent. Riverview is a Good Sam and Passport America member park, so be sure to mention your membership for a discount on your stay.
2. Standley Lake Campground, Westminster, Colorado
Located in Standley Lake Regional Park, the Standley Lake Campground is a fun place for couples and families. Standley Lake provides excellent recreational opportunities for visitors, including kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing.
In addition to RV sites, you can rent a tipi for a truly unique experience. All campsites have fire pits and picnic tables. There are also restroom facilities with showers and water.
There are no hookups and no dump station at the campground. The City of Westminster has a dump station nearby that you can use.
3. Pawnee Campground, Ward Colorado
To get away from it all, consider a stay at Pawnee Campground in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. This national forest campground is at the foot of the Continental Divide. Hiking trails, wilderness areas, and mountain biking trails are all located near the campground.
The campground is improved but minimal. It has fire grates, water, and vault toilets. Half of the campsites can be reserved from July through August. The rest of the sites are first-come, first-served. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading to the area. Cold weather and precipitation can move into the area quickly.
4. Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Golden Colorado
For a great state park campground only 45 minutes from downtown Denver, check out Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Visitors will find a ton of things to do without leaving the park! There are lots of trails for hiking and mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and more. During the winter, a variety of winter sports such as snowshoeing, sledding, ice fishing, ice skating, and cross country skiing are all popular in the park.
Golden Gate Canyon features a variety of terrain from rocky peaks to peaceful meadows. There are two campgrounds in the park: Reverend’s Ridge and Aspen Meadow. Both campgrounds have electrical hookups, and cabins and yurts are also available for rent. You will need to make reservations online for both campgrounds, so be sure to book in advance to secure a campsite.
5. St. Vrain State Park, Firestone, Colorado
Located between Denver and Fort Collins, St. Vrain State Park is a peaceful campground in a convenient location. The park was recently renovated, and new trails and a fishing pier have been added to the facilities. The campsites are all situated around the many ponds that make up the park, and many campsites have gorgeous water views.
Birding, biking, hiking, fishing, and kayaking are all popular activities in the park. Be sure to check out one of their fantastic ranger programs during your stay. St. Vrain is a popular destination, so it is best to make reservations in advance.
The campground has primitive campsites as well as campsites with full hookups. Restrooms, showers, and a dump station are all located on-site.
6. Cold Springs Campground, Central City, Colorado
If you enjoy camping in the forest, check out the Cold Springs Campground near the town of Blackhawk. This national forest service campground is located among aspen and lodgepole pines.
Activities in the area include hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. Restrooms, water, and a playground are located on-site. Campsites have picnic tables and fire grates. Reservations are accepted, and some first-come, first-served sites may be available as well.
7. Estes Park KOA, Estes Park, Colorado
If your travel plans include a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, consider a stay at the Estes Park KOA. This campground is a full-service RV resort only five minutes from the national park entrance. With easy access to the national park, the KOA is a popular spot for RVers. Lake Estes and the Big Thompson River are across the street from the campground.
Popular activities in the area include fly-fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, paddle boarding, boating, and bike riding. There is also a ranch next door for horseback riding. Kids will enjoy a family fun park in town.
The campground features Wi-Fi, a general store, dog park, and free in-town shuttle. The campground can accommodate a maximum rig length of 35 feet.
8. Pikes Peak RV Park, Manitou Springs, Colorado
Travelers heading to Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods will enjoy camping at Pikes Peak RV Park. This independently-owned campground is in the town of Manitou Springs. Shopping and restaurants are close by. Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods are all just a short drive from the campground.
Pikes Peak RV Park has full hookups, bathrooms, an onsite laundry, and a convenience store. With a peaceful creek running through the park, it is a great place to kick back and relax for a few days.
9. Lone Duck Campground, Pikes Peak, Colorado
If you are looking for a five-star RV resort in the Pikes Peak area, check out Lone Duck Campground. The campground has a great location at the base of Pikes Peak and offers amenities galore! The campground features free Wi-Fi, a heated pool, splash pad, playground, game room, basketball court, and on-site convenience store. There is even a weekly pancake breakfast during the summer months.
The Garden of the Gods is only 15 minutes from the campground. ATV tours and the Pikes Peak Highway are both located close by. Reservations can be made each year beginning in January. The campground is open from May 1 to the end of September.
Free Camping Near Denver
Finding a free campsite in Denver is impossible, but there are areas where you can camp for free within an hour drive of the city limits.
The Roosevelt National Forest in Boulder has dispersed camping along Forest Road 328. There are no amenities here, but you will find peace and quiet.
For a great free campsite with water views, try the Beaver Reservoir in Ward, Colorado. This dispersed camping area is in the Arapaho National Forest and has around a dozen dispersed camping sites.
While not entirely free, the Boulder County Fairgrounds is a good option if you are looking for a “no reservations needed” stop for the night. At only $20 per night, they offer restrooms and showers and a safe place to stay for the evening.
RV Camping Tips for Denver
1. Book Your Campsite Early
Denver is known for its proximity to outdoor adventure. Camping and other outdoor activities are very popular in Colorado. The popularity of the region makes it very important for you to book your campsite well in advance, especially during the summer months. During the spring and fall, weekends at most popular campgrounds near and around Denver are booked well in advance. Book early to get the campsite of your choice.
2. Altitude Affects You and Your Engines!
Altitude sickness is common for visitors to the area. Protect yourself from altitude sickness by drinking plenty of water and taking it easy during the first few days of your trip.
Hikes and other activities that are easy for you at sea level can be very challenging at a higher altitude. If you start to feel lightheaded, dizzy or fatigued, take a break. Altitude sickness usually clears up on its own, but you may need to seek treatment if your symptoms do not improve.
The altitude can have an impact on your generator as well! Make sure your generator is equipped to handle high altitude conditions. Your owner’s manual is a great place to start. While your generator may work just fine, others may not be as efficient at high altitudes and may need to be adjusted to operate efficiently.
3. Be Prepared to Drive Up and Down Steep Grades
Before heading into the Rockies, be prepared for long, steep grades, even on major highways. Check the brakes on your RV or truck and travel trailer. It is also a good idea to check your cooling system to make sure your vehicle is up to the challenge of driving in the Rockies.
4. Visit the City of Denver
Try to spend at least one day in the city. Denver is well known for its history, museums, breweries, and great food. Popular activities include a visit to the State Capitol, Denver Art Museum and the History Colorado Center.
5. Visit the Smaller Towns Around Denver
Take some time to explore one of Colorado’s mountain towns. There are many to choose from, many within a short drive of Denver. Steamboat Springs, Leadville, and Vail are all great towns to visit. Each town offers a look at the history of the region, along with shopping and opportunities for adventure.
6. Bring Your Active Gear
Be sure to pack your adventure gear! From rock climbing to mountain biking to river tubing, you will want to be active during your stay. If it is not possible to bring your own gear, there are numerous recreational outfitters throughout the region.
7. Cell Service and Mountains Don’t Go Together
Cell service is reliable throughout the greater Denver area. Once you get into the Rocky Mountains, service can be spotty or nonexistent. Depending on where you are going on your adventure, you may need to plan to be without coverage at times.
8. Higher Elevations Can be Snowy
During the winter months, Colorado at times issues a mandatory snow chain requirement. While it is rare for this law to apply to vehicles with four-wheel or all-wheel drive, the law is implemented frequently for cars without these features. If your vehicle does not have four-wheel or all-wheel drive, be sure to look out for weather advisories and the mandatory snow chain traction laws.
RV Rentals in Denver
If you do not have your own RV, consider an RV rental. RV rentals are a popular option for people without RVs or if you are flying into the Denver area who want to camp in an RV or travel trailer. There are several options to choose from. This information will help you make the best decision for your situation.
Full-Service RV Rental
If you are looking for a full-service, locally-owned RV rental company in Denver, check out Around the Park RV Rentals. Around the Park offers a wide variety of rentals including motor homes, RVs, campers and travel trailers. They will even deliver and set up your rental camper for you!
Renting from Around the Park is an excellent idea for first-time RVers planning to visit the Denver area. In addition to the rig, you can rent all of your needed gear. They also rent fun items like inflatable kayaks, WiFi HotSpots, and even bear spray!
Corporate RV Rental Companies
Cruise America is one of the leading corporate RV rental companies in the nation. They have a rental location in the Denver area, making them convenient for your vacation.
Cruise America offers a variety of rental options ranging from truck campers to larger RVs. The largest option can fit up to seven people. You can also bring your pets.
Camper Van Rentals
Camper Vans are quickly becoming a popular way to travel and camp on a budget. To try out the craze, check out Escape Camper Vans. Their rentals come with a convertible bed, kitchen with sink, refrigerator, and stove and small dining area. You can rent bedding, kitchen sets, and other items for an additional fee.
There are four models to choose from that sleep anywhere from two to five people. The new Indie Campers even have a bathroom.
Escape Camper Vans has a location in Aurora, a suburb of Denver, that is convenient to the airport as well as the downtown area.
Private RV Owners Who Rent Their RV
If you prefer to rent an RV or travel trailer from an individual but want the peace of mind that comes from renting from a company, Outdoorsy or RVshare may be right for you.
There is a wide variety of RVs and travel trailers to choose from, so you are sure to find something that meets your needs.
Both companies provide insurance, lease, damage deposits, and handle the payment process so you can rest easy.
Conclusion
There is so much to see and do in and around Denver, Colorado. It is well worth your time to visit the region and explore its diverse terrain. From top-notch museums to the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, there is something for everyone in the mile-high city. We hope you have a great trip.
