20 of the Absolute Best Places for Camping Near Boulder, CO
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Looking for spots for camping near Boulder?
Whether you are considering RV rental in Boulder, Colorado or pitching a tent, one of the best ways to truly enjoy the area is to find a spot for camping near Boulder, CO. Daniel and I fell in love with this little town not far away from Rocky Mountain National Park and Denver, and if you’re a nature lover, I wouldn’t be surprised if you feel the same way we did! After you’re done checking out the Boulder breweries and Boulder hikes, you have a scenic place to go back to and rest your head with these camping options.
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Fantastic places for camping near Boulder, CO you can’t miss
This list of camping near Boulder, CO, is ideal for those headed out on a Colorado road trip!
1. Rainbow Lakes Campground
Found in Nederland, this is one of the best campgrounds near Boulder, CO, that can accommodate last-minute camping excursions. It features 18 first-come, first-serve campsites with options for walk-in spots. There’s also a campsite for larger groups (up to 15 people).
Nearby the campsites, you’ll find pretty lakes and streams to hang out at. These spots offer ample opportunities for fishing. Vault toilets are also available at this camping near Boulder, CO spot. As a note, there are no hookups for RVs. One to two nights at this campground is best if you’re traveling in an RV.
2. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
92 Crawford Gulch Rd, Golden
+1 303 582-3707
The Golden Gate Canyon State Park is great to set up camp if you want access to miles of hiking and biking trails. Boulder camping in this spot also allows for horseback riding. This state park provides many options for camping with over 12,000+ acres of land. You can stay in a yurt, cabin, tent, or guesthouse while enjoying the park. Backcountry camping is also available if you want to get off the grid for a few days.
This Colorado state park also offers RV camping near Boulder, CO, with 59 sites at Reverend’s Ridge with electrical hookups. Head to this campground for ample opportunities for activities and lodging options.
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3. Longs Peak Campground
Longs Peak Rd, Estes Park
+1 970 586-1206
Open each summer; Longs Peak Campground is the perfect spot for Boulder, Colorado camping, if you’re searching for a smaller, tent-only area. These Boulder, CO campgrounds are nestled at the base of Longs Peak, offering access to incredible views after a six-mile hike. Make sure to bring hiking shoes, lots of drinking water, and appropriate attire for the hike to the glacier.
This campground features practical amenities like trash collection, food storage lockers, and friendly staff to assist you during your stay. Set only 20 minutes from Estes Park, you’ll have convenient access to this adorable city featuring cute boutique shops, a plethora of restaurants, and the infamous Stanley Hotel.
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4. Peaceful Valley
Middle Saint Vrain Creek
+1 303 541-2500
While some options for camping in Boulder, CO, are first-come, first-serve only, Peaceful Valley offers the option to reserve specific sites. Since you can reserve spots, planning longer camping trips is easier. Though, if you become too tired while driving, this campground also offers walk-in campsites.
While there are no hookups or dump sites, Peaceful Valley can accommodate RVs, tents, trailers, and campers. Onsite amenities include vault toilets, trash services, water, picnic tables, and fire grates. This campsite is a popular option in Boulder, CO, so it’s best to arrive earlier than Friday or make reservations before making the trip.
5. Gross Reservoir
Forest Service Rd 359
+1 303 541-2500
Gross Reservoir is an excellent option if you’re looking for family-friendly camping near Boulder, CO. This campground offers stunning views with an easy hike leading to the reservoir. You can spend your time here hiking or paddling, picnicking, and fishing. The available activities are a great option for a weekend getaway. The first-come, first-serve campsites fill up quickly, so you’ll need to arrive early.
Situated in an alpine forest, this campground is one of the most beautiful in the area. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxing trip where you can soak in the surrounding nature and views. You’ll need a 4×4 or similar vehicle to access the camping area.
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Recommended mess kit: Sea to Summit Delta Camp Set 🍽
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6. Indian Peaks Wilderness
Situated on the Continental Divide between Grand County and Boulder County, these Boulder Campgrounds are the perfect spot for wildlife viewing, hiking, and fishing. Lakes and streams offer a running water source during your trip, though you’ll need to treat the water before consuming it.
If you plan on traveling with a furry friend or livestock, this is a great camping near Boulder spot. It’s also nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, providing even more hiking trails to explore. During peak season (June through September), a permit is required, though outside of this season, you can camp for free at the campsites.
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7. Rocky Mountain National Park
+1 970) 586-1206
Rocky Mountain National Park spans an impressive 265,000 acres offering beautiful views of alpine tundra, mountains, and forests. This is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S. due to its diverse landscapes and ample hiking opportunities. Consider this spot when looking for Boulder, Colorado campgrounds, as it offers some of the best views of the Rocky Mountains. Not only that, but the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park will take your breath away.
Due to the park’s size, many campgrounds are available with options for reserved sites and first-come, first-serve spots. Choose between smaller, more intimate campgrounds or options with 150 campsites. Tent camping and RV camping are permitted in this park.
8. Reverends Ridge Campground
313 Reverends Ridge Rd, Black Hawk
+1 303 642-3856
Found in Golden Gate State Park, this campground is situated in the mountains offering incredible views. This Boulder, CO camping area is only a short drive from Denver, providing convenient access to nearby attractions like farm-to-table restaurants, museums, shops, and more.
The Reverends Ridge Campground is one of the top Rv parks near Boulder, CO, providing access to electrical hookups during your stay. You’ll also find tent campsites and the option to camp in your car. This campground is an ideal spot for couples, small friend groups, and medium-sized families as each site has a maximum of six people allowed.
9. St. Vrain State Park
3785 Weld County Road 24, 5, Longmont
+1 303 678-9402
St. Vrain State Park is easily accessible from the major travel way (Colorado 119), making it a great spot to stop for camping near Boulder, CO. This park is open year-round with the ability to park your RV at an electrical only or full hookup campsite.
These camping areas are split between eight campgrounds nearby multiple ponds. This is one of the RV parks in Boulder, CO, that offers an extensive list of activities. Bird watching, fishing, kayaking, and walking are all found here. Depending on which campsite you stay at, you’ll also have access to vault or flush restrooms, coin-operated showers, and a meeting room.
10. Arapaho National Forest
+1 970 295-6600
If you’re looking for camping near Boulder, CO, with incredible mountain and forest views, try Arapaho National Forest. This forest is found in Denver, CO, and was established in 1908 by Theodore Roosevelt. This national forest is spread over 1.5 million acres of land, providing a perfect spot for outdoorsy folks who enjoy exploring natural surroundings.
24 various campgrounds await you in Arapaho National Forest with options for tent or RV camping. Both reservable and first-come, first-serve campsites are available in this forest. There are also ample outdoor activities to participate in, like trout fishing, swimming, off-roading, climbing, paddling, and boating.
11. Pawnee Campground
+1 303 541-2500
Pawnee Campground is a hidden gem in the Indiana Peaks Wilderness area. This campground is clean, well-built, and offers incredible views of blue waters. If you’re camping in Boulder, Colorado, in August, this campground is especially pretty, with partially melted icecaps floating on the water.
There are many lodging options with the ability to park in RVs, campers, tents, and trailers. The campground also features several perks like vault toilets, water, fire grates, picnic tables, and trash services.
It’s a great spot to camp year-round, especially in the summer when the nearby spruce and fir trees provide shaded spots for tents.
12. Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon
661 CO-46, Black Hawk
+1 303 582-9979
Base Camp sits at a high elevation, making it an excellent option for a unique Boulder campground. This camp is affordable, clean, and only an hour away from Denver. Set in the mountains, Base Camp has everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll find coin-operated laundry services, a gas fill-up station, and a convenience store onsite.
You’ll find ample camping options, from RV sites to tent campsites and cabins. This RV park in Boulder, CO, features water and electricity at each site. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of fun events to keep you entertained, such as an annual beer fest, opera house, and more.
13. Camp Dick
+1 303 541-2500
Established in the 1930s, this dispersed camping area is found near middle St. Vrain Creek. It offers a stunning combination of flowering meadows and thick forests in a glacial valley. You’ll be greeted by a friendly host and views of wildlife throughout the camp area.
When searching for camping near Boulder, CO, keep Camp Dick in mind as you’ll find many activities from hiking trails to biking, guided horseback riding, and even off-roading areas. Other campground amenities include vault toilets, fire grates, picnic tables, trash services, and a bear locker for tent campsites. RVs, campers, trailers, and tents are welcome at this campground.
14. Olive Ridge Campground
CO-7 Scenic, Allenspark
+1 303 541-2500
South of Rocky Mountain National Park lies the Olive Ridge Campground. Spacious RV sites help create a pleasant experience while camping in Boulder at this campsite. This campground is also very tent-friendly, featuring level tent pads that are well-maintained.
A combination of shaded and sunny camping spots allows you to find the ideal spot for your stay. With a maximum of eight people allowed per campsite, this campground is perfect for families, friend groups, couples, and solo campers. You won’t have to leave the campground for entertainment, as a playground and amphitheater are found onsite. You can grab a seat at the theater for educational programs each summer weekend.
15. Gordon Gulch Campgrounds
A short drive from Boulder, you’ll find the Gordon Gulch Campgrounds. This campground provides the option of 15 campsites spread out along the road, offering privacy during a getaway. Like most camping near Boulder, CO, you can stay a maximum of 14 days at this campground before needing to move a few miles down the road or to a different campsite. It’s an ideal spot for short-term and long-term camping excursions.
You can gather water from the nearby streams for use, though it will need to be treated. Camping at Gordon Gulch Campgrounds is free, so it’s perfect for those on a tight budget or those traveling for extended periods.
16. Boulder County Fairgrounds
9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont
+1 303 678-6235
The Boulder County Fairgrounds offers the best of both worlds – excellent camping near Boulder, Colorado, and shops within walking distance. This campsite is easily accessible from the highway and does not require a reservation, making it an excellent option for spontaneous travelers.
A dump station, electric hookups, and water hookups make this site RV-friendly. Other amenities include restrooms and showers that are open seasonally. Campers are also acceptable at the fairgrounds, though tents are not allowed. Boulder County Fairgrounds are children and pet-friendly, making it a top spot for traveling families. This campground is cash-only, so make sure to bring sufficient funds to stay at the fairgrounds.
17. Flatiron Campground
10528-10932 W County Rd 18E, Loveland
The Flatiron Campground is a hidden gem open year-round, offering a great spot with friendly hosts to stay at. Situated at a picturesque small lake, you’ll find plenty of scenic views regardless of the season. Regardless of how you’re traveling, you’ll find this campground easy to access as they offer drive-in, walk-in, hike-in, and boat-in campsites.
When camping near Boulder, CO, consider Flatiron Campground for RV, tent, cabin, and group camping. Some amenities include pull-through sites, water hookups, drinking water, firewood, toilets, phone service, and WiFi. You can enjoy being immersed in nature while staying connected to your loved ones.
18. Crater Lake Campground
If you’re on the hunt for a scenic campground that you can hike to, you’ll want to check out Crater Lake Campground. It’s one of the smaller campgrounds in Boulder, Colorado, yet it offers some of the mightiest mountain views.
Intermediate to avid hikers will find this campground ideal, as you’ll need to hike on rocky trails to reach the campground near the high mountain lake. Expect a two-mile hike through stunning alpine trees and ample wildlife. This backcountry camping area is perfect for a technology-free getaway as cell service is spotty. Check the campground website beforehand, as some seasons require a camping permit.
19. Aspen Meadows Campground
92 Crawford Gulch Road, Golden
+1 303 582-3707
Colorado has many family-friendly campgrounds, yet the Aspen Meadows campground is one of the top spots. When spending time at this Boulder, CO, camping location, you’ll be near shady pine trees in the Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Reserve a campsite from May through October to ensure you get a spot at this popular campground. Tents, trailers, and RVs are welcome at this campground, with the option to stay at 35 sites. Each campsite has a fire ring, table, and fire grate. You’ll also find showers, laundry, flush toilets, and a dumpsite at this campground. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear as there are great fishing opportunities.
20. Sawmill Hiker Campground
White Ranch Open Space Park lower parking lot, Golden
+1 303 271-5925
If you prefer smaller, more intimate campgrounds near Boulder, Colorado, you’ll want to stay at Sawmill Hiker Campground. This camping area features 12 sites with tent pads, fire rings, food storage lockers, and picnic tables. You’ll find this campground on the edge of the Hoover Wilderness, near Lee Vining Creek.
This campground is more remote, and the only way to access the sites is via a quarter-mile hike. Vault toilets and no running water (besides the creek) help you enjoy nature fully. There’s also plenty of parking nearby the campsites, with 15 spots available. Reservations are not taken for this campground, so you can stop at this campsite as needed.
Tips for camping in Boulder
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time camping near Boulder!
- Prepare for weather variations: Boulder can experience drastic temperature changes, even within a single day. It’s not uncommon for warm days to transition into chilly nights. Pack layers of clothing to accommodate these changes. Also, always have rain gear ready – sudden showers can pop up!
- High altitude tips: Boulder is located at high altitude, and some nearby camping areas are even higher. It can take a few days for your body to adjust to the thinner air, so take things slow when you first arrive. Hydrate frequently and consider bringing foods high in potassium, which can help mitigate some of the effects of altitude sickness.
- Bear safety: This region is home to black bears. When camping, always use bear-proof containers or bear lockers (when provided) to store food and scented items. Hanging food between trees when dispersed camping is a good alternative. Remember, a fed bear is a dead bear – they can become dangerous when they become accustomed to human food.
- Fire safety: Always follow local fire regulations. If permitted to build a campfire, only do so in designated fire rings and ensure it’s fully extinguished before you leave or go to sleep. During dry periods, there might be fire bans in place, so it’s good to have alternatives for cooking and warmth.
- Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural environment. This includes packing out all trash, not disturbing wildlife, and respecting other visitors.
Conclusion: camping near Boulder, CO
Boulder offers an array of beautiful camping options that can provide an immersive outdoors experience, filled with scenic beauty and local charm. Don’t forget to come prepared, respect nature, and make the most out of your adventure under the Boulder stars.
Have you ever stayed at these places for camping near Boulder, CO? Let me know which ones in the comments!
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