Summer is slowly coming to a close, but it wouldn’t be a Colorado summer without a few camping trips. Just in case you’re still looking for your ultimate spot or wanting to try somewhere new, we decided to throw out a few of our favorites!
Independence Pass Camping
If you're looking for the feeling of being far away, with the amenities of car camping, Independence Pass is what you need! Take the exit towards Copper Mountain off I-70 and follow it all the way through Leadville, which is a perfect place to enjoy the heights and stop for lunch. After lunch, keep following Highway 82, which will lead you to Independence Pass. The drive itself is worth the trip, with breathtaking big mountain views. There are seven developed camping areas, all of which are close to streams, lakes or reservoirs. Choose your favorite one, park your car and there you are. It can be the first stop on a backpacking trip or a good car-camping spot for the whole Labor Day weekend.
State Bridge/Rancho Del Rio
Billed as a riverside adventure resort, State Bridge is the perfect place to spend an affordable summer weekend in nature. One of the state’s most scenic outdoor live music venues, State Bridge hosts headlining blue grass, reggae and jam bands most Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the summer months. Reserve a camp spot at nearby Rancho Del Rio, a beautiful property situated on the banks of the Colorado River, just five miles up the road from State Bridge, where you’ll enjoy both calm waters to float in and free shuttle service to and from the shows at State Bridge. Or, if you’re more of an upscale camper, choose your wilderness lodging from amongst an assortment of yurts, tee pees and cabins (with indoor plumbing). From Denver, take I-70 west to Silverthorne. Go north on CO-9 for approximately 33 miles toward Kremmling. Just before Kremmling, turn left (west) on the Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway (Grand County Route #1) and follow the river for 19 miles. Rancho Del Rio is on the right.
Chambers Lake
Camping with a view is the best part about this location. This lovely car-camping spot just 60 miles north of Fort Collins sits right on the edge of Chambers Lake and the evergreen forest. Fishing and boating are allowed on the lake and the area is full of bike and hiking trails for you to explore. With restrooms, a playground area and boat ramp on site, this might be a little more gourmet than you’re used to, but it’s well worth the treat! A few things to note: reservations need to be booked at least four days in advance and there is a two-night minimum on the sites.
Fourmile Campground
Located near Fairplay up scenic Highway 285 is the Fourmile campground. Nestled among groves of spruce and aspen trees, Fourmile is a favorite as it feels very remote and secluded, but is easily accessed and not too far of a drive from the city. The 14 sites here are situated along Fourmile Creek, so you can listen to the rushing water as you kick back in your camping chair. Whether you choose to relax or be active, this area will suit your fancy. There is ample hiking and fishing all around, but with so much beauty right at your campsite, you don't even have to leave your seat next to the fire to access it. A final reason this is a favorite: restrooms at the base of the campground!
Summer is slowly coming to close, but it wouldn’t be a Colorado summer without a few camping trips. Just in case you’re still looking for your ultimate spot to go or wanting something new, we decided to throw out a few of our favorite spots to go for you!
