Camping in Colorado doesn’t have to break the bank. These top spots fit any budget!
Colorado and camping go together like campfires and s’mores. And for those of us lucky enough to live here (or visit), there are plenty of budget-friendly options. Check out these top sites for some classic Colorado camping experiences that'll allow you to make memories and explore the hidden spots our state has to offer, all within a reasonable budget. In fact, most – if not all of these camping sites are $25/night and under.
Angel of Shavano Campground – $20/night
Courtesy of Angel of Shavano Campground (Facebook)
Angel of Shavano Campground is a small site with only 20 campsites, but it's quiet and secluded. Located near the North Fork of the South Arkansas River, it's nestled inside the San Isabel National Forest and is about three hours from Denver. A campsite will cost $20 per night and are first-come, first-serve. Tent camping and camping trailers are allowed here and will require a two-night stay on weekends, two vehicles, or one RV per site. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. This campsite is busiest on summer weekends and is one of the state’s best kept secret camping spots.
Crags Campground – $18/night
The Crags Campground near Divide offers 17 sites for tents, small trailers, and RVs at $18 a night (add $6 for an RV). Another first-come, first-served campground, the campground is a pristine mountain area in the Pike National Forest. Near the beloved Crags Trail, The Devil’s Playground Trail, and amazing views and access to the mountains, this is one spot you won’t want to miss. If you are into primitive and backcountry type camping, this one is for you.
Bear Lake Campground – $21/night
Bear Lake Campground is another spot in the San Isabel National Forest that offer the Colorado camping experience at its fullest. This rustic spot has 14 campsites, an on-site host, and access to amazing hiking, biking, fishing, and views. The Spanish Peaks Wilderness is 15 miles from the campground and a tributary of the Cuchara River runs right through the camp, and Blue Lake is one mile away. This is the perfect spot for a mountain getaway and at $21/night you really get far more than you pay for.
Molas Lake Park & Campground – $20/night
Molas Lake Park & Campground is run by the town of Silverton. Granted to the town in 1925 by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the 137-acre campground sit in the San Juan mountains, along the Million Dollar Highway. Adjacent to the Weminuche Wilderness, there are picturesque views in all directions and several spots for $20 a night. RV and tent camping is permitted, as well as leashed pets. This campground has a camp store, hot water showers ($5 per use), fishing, kayaking, and paddleboard rentals, and plenty of biking and hiking opportunities.
Medano Creek 2019, image courtesy of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (Facebook)
Pinon Flats Campground – $20/night
Pinon Flats Campground run by the National Park Service is located one mile north of the visitor center at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. There are 88 spots here that start at $20 a night, reservations are taken up to six months in advance, though cancellations can occur leaving open sites as first-come, first-serve. During peak season from late May until early June expect this campground to be booked, especially when Medano Creek is high. Restrooms with flush toilets, sinks, and water spigots are onsite, RVs up to 35 feet in length are allowed but this site has no hookups. There is a campground store with snacks supplies, convivence food, and firewood between Loop 1 and 2.
Sunset at Arapaho Bay, photo provided by Danielle DeGroot
Arapahoe Bay Campground – $21/night
Arapahoe Bay Campground near Grand Lake is bound to make the top of your list for favorite camping spots. Located on Lake Granby, southeast of Grand Lake, this campground is in the Arapaho National Reservation Area and part of the Roosevelt National Forest, offering fishing, boating, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, and incredible views. The crisp mountain waters, fresh air, and spectacular views will keep you coming back for more each year. Well-kept, isolated, and scenic spots here start at $21 a night and can be reserved online.
We know Colorado has so many amazing camping spots, and it's impossible to name them all, so we want your help! Please share with us your favorite spots and camping tips in the comments below!
