Ranch camping in Colorado with campfires

Enjoy year-round recreation and a wild diversity of landscapes in this colorful state.

94% (5105 reviews)
94% (5105 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Colorado

Star Hosts in Colorado

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top ranch campgrounds in Colorado with campfires

94%
(529)

Little Scraggy Camp

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents95 acres · Pine, CO
Little Scraggy Camp is located on 95 acres of an historic 160-acre ranch that was homesteaded by our family in the 1890’s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. This totally off-grid ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest, yet has easy access from a paved road. We offer several accommodations and glamping sites, as well as sites for moderate sized RVs, travel trailers, truck campers, vans, tents, and hammocks. Additionally, we have sites for small groups (up to 14 people) and large groups (35-200 people). NEW FOR 2024: All campers can take advantage of our Hipcamper golf discounts at Little Scraggy Disc Golf Course. Across the road from Camp is our newly constructed 18 hole course with PDGA regulation baskets, a pro shop with LSDG discs available for purchase and loaner discs available for those wanting to try out disc golf. Potable drinking water is available from onsite 270-gallon water tanks. Portable toilets are only a short walk away from sites. Friendly dogs are welcome to enjoy YOUR campsite off leash, but please clean up after your dog. If your pet has any aggressive tendencies, it must be leashed. The camp has a 4 basket disc golf putting course with loaner discs provided. We also have a cornhole toss game at both the glamping/rv camp area and tent/rv area. We are an ideal basecamp for the casual or dedicated trail enthusiast. The ranch itself has several trails and easy trail loops to explore within and just outside of the ranch’s fence lines, with direct access to the 9.5-mile Little Scraggy Trail and Segment #3 of the Colorado Trail. Just 3.5 miles away is the Little Scraggy Trailhead, where you will find easy access for biking, hiking, or horseback riding on the many other trails of the Buffalo Creek area. Additionally, we have an extensive network of hiking and horse trails that avoid conflicts with mountain bikers. You might prefer rock climbing Little Scraggy or fishing the gold-medal waters of the South Platte River canyon below Cheesman Dam and the waters near Deckers. For a day trip, Wellington Lake is only 30 minutes away for no-wake water sports. Many people enjoy kayaking on the North Fork of the South Platte downstream from nearby Buffalo Creek. This is a working ranch where we raise and train horses and ponies. Our particular interest is in carriage driving, and we offer driving experiences upon request. Our site called Mountain Horse Camp, provides 3 individual porta-panel horse corrals. There is limited cell service.
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$25
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99%
(591)

Bright Star Campground

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cortez, CO
We have COMPLIMENTARY Wifi, Drinking Water, Ice, Hot Showers, Bathrooms, Shade, and an equipped Camper's Kitchen for our guests to enjoy from April 15 - Oct 15! There are TIPIS, CAMPING CABINS, TENT and BOONDOCK SITES. WE ALSO HAVE A NAVAJO HOGAN (wood yurt) OPEN-YEAR ROUND. All of our sites are not listed here. We can also accommodate groups and small events but not public events. We have a private covered group site as well. Bright Star Campground: Once used as a church camp, it is now a Campground for all to enjoy! We are a perfectly located vacation campground on 40 acres with amenities and wide-open spaces. Amenities include hot showers, an equipped community kitchen, a pavilion with hammocks, tables, ping pong, etc. Enjoy complimentary coffee, eggs, filtered drinking water and more. Bright Star Campground is located in the Great Sage Plain in the shadow of Mesa Verde National Park with panoramic mountain/mesa views of the Four Corners region, all only 5 miles southeast of Cortez. We are in an arid desert climate. Water is scarce, stored in cisterns for use in camp. Because of this we ask that you be conservative with water use in camp. We are a cannabis-friendly destination but ask that Cannabis use stay at your campsite, cabin or tipi. There are many things to do/see nearby: Mesa Verde National Park, Canyons of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument and Phil's World Mountain Biking. Raft down the Dolores river, maybe rent a SUP or kayak and chill on a quiet reservoir. There are museums and cultural centers in the area as well. Durango is 45 min, Telluride is 1.5 hrs away, and Moab is about 2.5 hours away-including Arches and Canyonlands National parks. The best/nearest airport is in Durango. Cortez has Denver Air (Key Lime Air) with connections to Denver and Phoenix. The nearest large international airport is in Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
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$38
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98%
(920)

Rustic Creek Ranch

32 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Bailey, CO
The 160 acre ranch was homesteaded by my grandfather over 100 years ago. He was an engineer. The plan was to use this property as summer grazing for his cattle. The cattle were wintered at the other ranch about 10 miles away, which was homesteaded by my great grandfather. Because my grandfather could survey, he made sure the property lines zigzaged up the valley so the small creek was in the middle to provide water for the animals. He chose well. It is a beautiful, quiet place with elk, deer and wild turkeys. There are tons of wild flowers in the summer. Columbines, the Colorado state flower, wild roses, paintbrushes and lots of wild chokecherries. With nice views of nearby mountains, open pastures, evergreen forests and aspen groves, it looks like it did 100 years ago. Plus, there are a couple of ponds for your dogs to cool off in. Since the first cattle, the ranch has also been home to goats, chickens, horses, and now more goats, alpacas and llamas. And of course the Great Pyrenees ranch dogs. I had a house built a few years ago and live on the property full time. The ranch is surrounded by Pike National Forest with the Colorado Trail connecting the property in a number of places. Some of the highest ranked mountain bike trails are nearby. There are lots of places on and off the property to hike, mountain bike and ride your horse. On a clear night you can see thousands of stars and hear coyotes howl. For a drone video of the ranch check out: YouTube's Midsummer 2020 Flyover. Elevation 8,000 feet, Average Summer Temperatures: Days 60-80 f, Nights 45-60 f, Sunshine Average 73-80%, Colorado Trail Segment 3, USGS Maps: Windy Peak; Green Mountain quadrangles. This is the official info. Basically, the weather is usually similar to the Denver area - just 10 degrees cooler. About 8 miles away is the small town of Bailey. It has just about everything you might need: small grocery store, coffee shops, gas, laundry, a dollar store, hardware store, camping and sports equipment, brew pub, winery, a few restaurants, potable water station and more.
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$30
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92%
(149)

Arapaho Valley Ranch

68 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Granby, CO
Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley.
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$65
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95%
(55)

Uncle Charlie’s Ranch

13 sites · Tents5 acres · Black Hawk, CO
Uncle Charlie’s Ranch is an escape from the big city, we are only 45 minutes from Denver. Our property hosts the experience of Colorado’s nature and so much more; we offer therapeutic spring water soaks, warmed via our wood burning stove, fresh mountain spring drinking water and easy access to local trails and fun. Our lake is paddle board friendly, and while we do not offer fishing on the property, there are several locations nearby to fish. Message us for more information regarding camp sites and things to do!
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$60
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93%
(34)

Aspenwald

6 sites · RVs, Tents85 acres · Guffey, CO
*Port-a-potty added for this season* June-September. 85 acres of ranch land with mixed Aspen and Pine Forest. Campsites are separated along a small creek. Each campsite has a fire pit and FREE firewood provided at a central location. The firewood is replaced weekly. It is first come/first served. Excellent shade and 8500 feet of elevation to help keep you cool during warm months. Endless miles for gravel biking. Close to Eleven mile, Pike National Forest, Cripple creek, and Florissant Fossil Beds. Please make sure you note the gate code in the arrival instructions upon booking a campsite. I hope you have a great stay.
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$35
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97%
(702)

High Peaks Campground

22 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Moffat, CO
Welcome to the San Luis Valley; the highest Alpine Valley in the world! This campground sits close to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. You can also see the San Juan mountain range to the east in the distance. San Juans are part of the NW rim of the Continental Divide. Great Sand Dunes are visible from every site. With unlimited mountain views, beautiful starry night skies, come see the Milky Way, Eclipse, Meteor showers!!! Previously known as High Desert Ranch Campground, this land was originally part of a large ranch in the 1980s. The main ranch is still up and running but this parcel was used for many purposes over the years. In 2021, we were featured in USA Todays Ten Best for star gazing! My property has 360 degree mountains views with the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range as our back yard. Nearby you can find many different trail systems for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to jeeping, ATV or dirt biking and equestrians - you can find it all! You will be surrounded by ranch land and state land with Wildlife Refuge just two miles away. Accommodations for those with livestock, just make sure you chat in advance your initial message. Close to BLM, and National Forest as well as 3 hot springs within 20 miles and the Great Sand Dunes. We are still under construction and making changes often so bear with us while we continue to add and change things for the better!
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$38
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90%
(63)

Armstrong Highlands

9 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Woodland Park, CO
Nestled at a breathtaking elevation of 8500 ft above sea level, just a stone's throw away from the picturesque town of Woodland Park, CO, our property offers unparalleled views of majestic Pikes Peak. Situated on 10 sprawling acres along Hwy 67, our charming retreat boasts rolling pastures, serene Aspen groves, and enchanting pine forests. With easy access to local amenities and activities, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape while enjoying the convenience of nearby attractions. Whether you're traveling with an RV, pitching a tent, or seeking a unique accommodation experience, we have ample space to accommodate your needs. As dedicated pet lovers ourselves, we welcome furry companions of all kinds, including horses, dogs, and cats. Our pet-friendly facilities, complete with stables and kennels, ensure that every member of your family can enjoy a comfortable stay. We kindly ask that all pets be well-socialized and under control during their visit, and we appreciate responsible pet ownership, including the proper disposal of pet waste. For those with special requests or specific accommodation needs, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. As flexible hosts, we are committed to ensuring that your stay with us is tailored to your preferences and requirements. Experience the beauty of Woodland Park and Pikes Peak from our idyllic retreat, where nature's wonders await at every turn. Join us for a memorable stay filled with tranquility, adventure, and the warm hospitality that defines our property. PLEASE NOTE: We are at 8,500
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$45
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94%
(47)

Parrish Ranch Campground

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · CO
We are a Full Grass, 6-acre campground at the base of Rabbit Mountain. The Little Thompson River runs through the property and is wonderful to take a dip in. Carter Lake is only a 5-minute drive away. 20 Minutes away from Longmont Colorado is far enough away that you can escape from the city but close enough to be able to run into town if you need anything. As long as you are by your post, we don't care how you park, pull in, back in, pull through, we are easy going. Be aware this is a Rustic experience.
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$60
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100%
(24)

Apollo Ranch

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Bennett, CO
5 acres with a 50-foot-long asphalt pad with Water hook up and 50amp, 30amp, or 20amp electrical hook ups. RV site that will accommodate up to 38-foot camper/travel trailer/fifth wheel. Tent sites will accommodate smaller RVs, camper vans, 5th wheels, and Tents. Great view of Pikes Peak! Easy pull through spot. Country vibe and only 35 minutes from downtown Denver. Five minutes off I-70. 28 minutes from Denver International Airport. 20 minutes from Aurora Reservoir. Very little light pollution for wonderful star gazing. Great local Diners close by and amenities including grocery stores and fuel stations only 5 minutes away. Dogs are welcome!! Off Leash area provided! If you happen to be traveling with horses, we can accommodate two horses if needed. Two large 25x22 pens with stalls available for additional charge of $30 per pen with 12x12 stall. Heated automatic waterer. First bag of shavings included. Secure and gated property. Plenty of room for Horse Trailer parking.
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$35
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84%
(50)

Terry Bison Ranch Resort

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Cheyenne, WY
Terry Bison Ranch has a history all the way back to the 1800's. The ranch was once owned by F. E. Warren (The first governor of the state of Wyoming). President Teddy Roosevelt was also a guest at the ranch and a picture of him in the main house, hangs on the wall in the Senators Steakhouse. For more in depth history of this amazing ranch, come visit and ride the bison train tour, let your kids take a pony ride, or enjoy a family fun trail ride! Learn more about this land: Terry Bison Ranch Resort is a functioning bison ranch with adventures to explore. We have a bison train tour that takes you out to feed the bison, a steak house, horseback trail rides, and plenty of animals to look at. The dry camping is in the fields surrounding the park.
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$40
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92%
(271)

Campe Diem!

49 sites · RVs, Tents72 acres · CO
Do you want a large, private, uniquely situated, pet friendly CampSpot™ to yourselves or family with a BATHHOUSE where it can be so quiet and some days there are stars for as deep as you can see? We have about 300 of those days and nights. Usually can stay longer on Sundays! We are 72 acres of piñon trees, some small animal life and crickets tucked against a mesa just a few minutes from town. Bring your shoe prints! We have sandboards! $15 per day! We are approximately a 35 minute beautiful drive from the National Sand Dunes around Mt. Blanca. (14'r). 5 minutes from the Mountain Home State Wildlife Park and reservoir where you can fish swim chill cookout etc. You can bike, hike, Swim, jet ski or fish at the newly stocked reservoir. Firewood must be purchased at the campsite. Pet friendly!
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$35
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Ranch camping in Colorado with campfires guide

Overview

With 42 state parks and four national parks, Colorado has long been a shining star among lovers of the great outdoors. This western state offers a wide variety of landscapes, with ancient mountains, massive canyons, ski resort towns that range from quaint to ultraluxe, many within easy access of the capital city of Denver. Camping areas abound throughout the state, ranging from simple backcountry tent sites to developed campgrounds with full hookups and dump stations, many managed by Colorado State Parks. Best of all, pretty much every outdoor activity under the sun is available, from biking and horseback riding to birding and stargazing.

Where to go

Western Colorado

Western Colorado shares quite a bit in common with neighboring Utah to the west, with massive sandstone rock formations—including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park—plus fantastic opportunities for winter and summer recreation alike. Towns worth checking out include Steamboat Springs and Aspen—both popular ski resorts—as well as cute towns such as Montrose and Durango that make excellent bases for exploring the wilds of the San Juan Mountains. If you’re interested in history or archaeology, don’t miss the chance to visit the Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

Denver and North-Central Colorado

Stretching from Fort Collins near the Wyoming border all the way down just past Denver, this region is largely urban but still offers plenty for campers. You can take in fantastic views of the region from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or by driving the Trail Ridge Road scenic byway through Rocky Mountain National Park. Or, pack up your tent and head out on a backcountry camping trip in the Arapaho and Roosevelt national forests.

South and South-Central Colorado

This part of the state offers a mix of wide-open plains and towering massifs, including Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, a scenic mountaintop that served as the inspiration for the patriotic tune America the Beautiful. Popular area activities include fishing and whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande and sledding down the sands at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. If you want to soothe tired muscles after a weekend of adventure, head to the hot springs towns of Buena Vista and Salida—both just outside the Pike and San Isabel national forests.

Eastern Colorado

Quiet Eastern Colorado features a mix of grasslands and canyons, with massive expanses of grazing lands and farms that give way to charming small towns. You can learn about life in the 19th century at the Old Fort National Historic Site and the Boggsville Historic Site, or head down to the John Martin Reservoir, a great place for birdwatching and boating.

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