Camping – one of the favorite all-American pastimes of the summer. Sure, each state has its own incredible campsites, but do they hold a candle to the best of the best that Colorado has to offer? We certainly don’t think so. Colorado has so much to offer in the world of camping, so we racked our brains to bring you this year’s top 5 camping spots in Colorado.
Buffalo Pass | Steamboat
Located minutes from downtown Steamboat, Buffalo Pass has something for everyone – from biking, hiking and fishing to backcountry skiing and snowmobiling. The mountain biking trails stretch to Fish Creek Falls and Rabbit Ears Pass, and the fishing is easily accessible from the top of the pass from a beautiful variety of small, hidden lakes, including the beautiful Summit Lake. Camping areas can we found scattered throughout and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Maroon Bells | Snowmass Aspen
The most photographed peaks in North America, the Maroon Bells can be found 10 miles southwest of Aspen. The peaks extend past 14,000 feet and serve as the focal point of the beautiful Maroon Lake. The valley occupied by the lake is also filled with fields of wildflowers, aspens, and evergreens, and serves as home to some incredible wildlife. The scenic area boasts three campgrounds – Silver Bar, Silver Bell and Silver Queen. The area is a great place for some rock climbing, fishing, hiking and a relaxing scenic drive. The beauty and popularity of the area makes last minute trips almost impossible, so be sure to reserve your space early!
Mary’s Lake | Estes Park
Estes Park, which can be found about 1 ½ hours northwest of Denver, serves as a gateway into the Rocky Mountain National Park. The campground at Mary’s Lake is an ideal location – it’s close to both the town and Mary’s Lake. Its valley location leaves it surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and makes it an ideal location for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing, and much more. The campground has 120 sites and more amenities you ever thought you would need. Booking Information
BLM Campground | State Bridge
What’s better than camping out under the stars after catching an amazing, and oftentimes free, outdoor show? Look no further than the BLM campground at State Bridge for such an experience! State Bridge, located about 130 miles west of Denver on the Colorado River in the small town of Bond, is known for its live music events in its riverside amphitheater. The BLM Campground is close to the amphitheater and is a shuttle stop during, before, and after each event. The camping sites are not designated, and campers are told to just pick a spot when they get there! Fees are event dependent and details can be found on the event calendar page for State Bridge.
Twin Lakes | Lake County
Situated at the base of Mt. Elbert, Colorado’s highest peak, Twin Lakes is home to the Lakeview Campground. The Continental Divide Trail passes by the campground and Mt. Elbert is accompanied by Colorado’s second tallest peak, Mt. Massive, in the nearby Mt. Massive Wilderness area. This beautiful area attracts hikers, mountain bikers, fishers, sailors, and more to its idyllic scene. Why not join in the fun and spend an evening at Twin Lakes, which just so happens to be Colorado’s largest natural glacier lake? Booking Information
Now that you know our favorite camping locations, it’s time to pack up the tent and your gear and get outside! Take advantage of the beautiful weather Colorado is offering and absorb all the beauty the great outdoors has to offer. And remember, if you need a ride from the airport, give Peak 1 Express a call.
Amber Boutwell is a published Denver photographer who loves capturing nature and food. She shoots with natural light but has a deep love for dark skies. When she’s not on mountaintops chasing the Milky Way, she’s managing the great brands behind AVA and The Outlaw Group as their Marketing Manager. She’s been known to quote Joe Pesci, over-kiss cats, enthusiastically eat cheese, and return pugs.
Her motto:
“Seek out places where the Wi-Fi is weak, the views are stunning, and don’t forget the snacks.”
