Best Camping in and near Roosevelt National Forest

83% (41 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Roosevelt National Forest adventure.

Get out in nature without straying far from the city in this wooded national forest.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Roosevelt National Forest

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Roosevelt National Forest

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North Fork Poudre Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Narrows Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

This isn't exactly the view from the campsite, but Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak are spectacular. The trailhead is just down the road

Meeker Park Overflow Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Brainard Lake Recreation Area

47 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Dutch George Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Kelly Flats Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Stub Creek Cabin

1 site In Roosevelt National Forest

Pawnee Campground

47 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Ansel Watrous Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

67%

(3)

Dowdy Lake Campground

62 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Aspen Glen Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Big Bend Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Tom Bennett Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Tunnel Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Peaceful Valley Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Bellaire Lake Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Chambers Lake Campground

51 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

West Lake Campground

35 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Browns Park Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Some great adventures and made lasting memories

Grandview Campground

9 sites In Roosevelt National Forest

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Camp Dick Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Lower Narrows Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

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Stove Prairie Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Jacks Gulch Group and Equestrian Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Kelly Dahl Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Olive Ridge Campground

53 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Mountain Park Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

67%

(4)

Rainbow Lakes Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Big South Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Jacks Gulch Campground

64 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Long Draw Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Sleeping Elephant Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Roosevelt National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Roosevelt National Forest

92%

(227)

A-Lodge Boulder

11 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Boulder, CO

A-Lodge Boulder is a 30 room lodge just 2 miles above downtown Boulder, Colorado. We are located in a wilderness area of Boulder Canyon, right at the junction with Fourmile Canyon. We have three #vanlife sites and four tentsites for offer on Hipcamp. We have a BRAND NEW barrel sauna, hot tub, grills, seasonal pool (Memorial Day to Labor Day), meeting space, outdoor beer garden, bathrooms and showers for campers and a wonderful trail to Betasso Preserve right from your campsite. The Fourmile Creek runs through our property along our large lawn area. Great views and you might see bear, deer, elk, moose, foxes, or even a mountain lion! Walk-in sites are just a short hike, about 100 feet, on an unmanicured trail to our platforms. We provide the platform for your tent as well as access to all of our lodge's amenities; front desk, lobby, bar & beer garden, fire pits, grills, bathrooms, shower, outdoor common areas, free wifi, etc. Our guests love us too! Check out what a fellow camper had to say: "First time Hipcamper and A-Lodge visitor here, I’d definitely recommend checking this place out if you’re traveling to the Boulder area. The tent platforms were easy to get to and spaced far enough apart for privacy and generally a nice break from setting up a tent on a gravel pad. WiFi was stable throughout my visit and I was able to get some work done before heading home."

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Buford Canyon

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Buford, WY

We purchased 40 acres several years ago and built our home on the west side. We wished we could better access and appreciate the amazing views on the east side so we built two off grid cabins and a campsite. We have been encouraged to share this very special location with others. We have found it very rewarding to share this spot with others.

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(336)

Creekside Paradise

6 sites · Lodging, Tents42 acres · CO

Located perfectly between Boulder, Nederland, and Rocky Mountain National Park, and very close to other stunning hikes, this spot is a great landing pad to have easy access to some of the most beautiful places in the Rockies as well as offering it's own breathtaking scenery. This land is the sacred land of the Arapaho tribe. Chief Niwot and his tribe spent winters here. It is a very special place. The property is a mile long so there is plenty of space with the tent sites being 1/2 mile from the yurt and separate entries for each. There are currently 2 tents sites available, a bell tent, and a yurt.

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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. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time.

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Boulder Chicken Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Valmont, CO

Welcome to our charming 2-acre farm nestled in East Boulder with a view of Long’s Peak. Just minutes from town - near walking trails, a bike park, shopping, and restaurants. A great pitstop on your way to or from the mountains. We have a 4 meter Glamping tent complete with a queen sized bed, rocking chairs, and a wood burning stove - as well as spots in the meadow for RVs & tents. We limit the meadow to 3 RVs and 3 tents sites so there always remains plenty of open space for everyone. The tent sites can accommodate smaller vans if need be. We can handle RVs around 40 feet in TOTAL LENGTH - truck and trailer. It’s a big field, but a narrow, winding and steep ramp to get in and out. If you are a nervous driver, perhaps choose another place to rest your head. Prior to your exit, open the gate. Don't hesitate while going up the driveway - if you stop on your way up, you may not get going again. We have a community fire ring with a big pile of free burn wood, though the big logs are getting few and far between, so having your own firewood is recommended. If it's windy, please skip the fire. We have well water to offer up by the house, but I wouldn’t drink it without purification… makes for a great cold outdoor shower. We have fresh eggs! The chickens free range during the day, so please keep an eye on your dogs… leash if necessary. Our gals won’t run away. Venmo code at the coop for your convenience. THE GOOD: *Easy in and out location *Most affordable rates in all of Boulder. *Beautiful view of the Longs Peak. *Lots of sun *Fresh eggs!!! *5 day maximum stay THE BAD: *Daytime road noise (pretend ocean waves??). *Limited shade. *Total RV length 40 feet - Truck AND Trailer - due to a steep and winding entrance and exit. *Good Morning Roosters *Midsummer Mosquitoes Please reach out with any questions you may have. I’ll do my level best to help in any way I can. Safe travels! Sincerely, Patrick

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Logan Ranch Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Tie Siding, WY

Welcome to our property! This is a very scenic property, that is rich with history. The Virginia Dale Stage Station is about three miles away and the overland trail has several branches going through here. We are also a fifth generation cattle ranch. We are in Wyoming, on Highway 287 between Fort Collins, CO. and Laramie, Wyoming. We are still building out our property with a General store, and Western Themed Town coming soon. We have campsites for RV’s or Tents. We have an amazing 1000 acres to have your own hiking, wildlife, birdwatching, adventure. We have great hiking and wildlife viewing, marmots, pronghorn, antelope, deer, elk, and an occasional moose. Birds of every feather gather here so bring your binoculars. Hikes include balancing boulders and rock formations. Wonderful stargazing, our stars are so bright it seems like you can reach up and touch them. We are a working ranch and do have livestock. Don’t mess with the bull!Firewood, for $7.00 per bag delivered to your campsite. The bags make a great trash bag when empty! Do not bring your own firewood, as we don’t want more pine beetles and noxious weeds. Due to the high volume of people coming in separate vehicles, after two vehicles per site, its $10.00 per vehicle extra per night. We have portable outhouses available.

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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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Rocky Mountain Glamping

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Lyons, CO

A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience! *** Bliss Camp awarded Runner-Up for Best Glamping in Colorado for 2023 and 2024 *** November 2024 Update: Winter has arrived and after a very successful 2024 Glamping season, Bliss Camp is taking a break until April 2025. 2024 provided exceptional weather which enhanced all of our many Glampers' experiences. Temperatures were delightful all the way until October 30. Wildflowers were abundant most of the season, and autumn colors were spectacular for nearly two months. Bliss Camp is now accepting reservations for our 2025 Glamping season. We will be reopening April 25, weather permitting. Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations as much as six months in advance if you are that organized and especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Big news flash: Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Wall Tent in 2025. We have it in our possession now! This is larger than our Frontier Tent. It will have an early settler / gold miner theme which is fitting since Bliss Canyon may have been the northern most gold mines in Colorado. The tent will be placed uphill in a private location in the vicinity of the Frontier Tent. It will be situated about 300' from the Frontier Tent so privacy will be maintained for all accommodations. The view of rock formations is spectacular. It will have it's own well-stocked kitchen, private hot shower and propane fire pit for those romantic moments! Oh, did we mention there is flat parking within 30' ! Dot and Byron look forward to greeting our many returning guests and are eager to meet new Glamping adventurers. Happy Trails and towards the fun! Dot and Byron Welcome to Bliss Canyon! Relax stream side in your private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite beverage or special treat as you unwind. The open air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. Fall Colors are forecasted to be over the top this year starting in September to late October. Bliss Canyon explodes with color and is a great base camp for Aspen viewing along Peak to Peak Highway, Rocky Mountain National Park and all the surrounding areas. The famous Fall Elk Rut starts the beginning of September. According to Byron, the Elk Rut is one of the best National Geographic Moments on the Planet! This is a must experience event! We are located near Rocky Mountain National Park which typically provides the best opportunities to view the Rut, as well as other areas near the Park. During the Fall we provide "Little Buddy" propane heaters for the Gypsy Wagons and the Frontier Tent to help you warm up during cold evenings. Additionally, with a new Starlink booster we now have internet at all camps. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, library with free wifi, and quaint shops*. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise. Wir sprechen auch Deutsch!

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Gold Nugget Tree House

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gold Hill, CO

Come visit our sweet little treehouse in the woods. Our property is just steps away from the bustling historic town of Gold Hill, a destination for tourists and road bikers alike. The treehouse is a glamping experience with just enough amenities to keep you comfortable. Food - Bring your cooler with food supplies or take out in Boulder before you head up the mountain. Or grab a coffee, pizza, snack or a glass of wine at the Gold Hill store. If you'd like a full service dining experience, make a reservation for a 5 course meal at the Gold Hill Inn. What To Do: Walk around the historic town of Gold Hill. We promise you will be entertained. Ask a local about the museum, the cemetery, or the historic two room school house, or any other favorite spots they have around the area. Love the woods and nature, but would like a little action? Attend a local live music concert at the Gold Hill Store or the Gold Hill Inn on a beautiful summers night. Drive to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park to explore for the day. Boulder - 20 minutes Nederland - 35 minutes Estes Park - 45 minutes The Treehouse is furnished with Queen size bed and plenty of blankets to keep you warm, but feel free to bring your sleeping bag if you prefer. A roll out twin size feather bed for the floor is available upon request if you have a few more folks joining. We provide a portable toilet with WagBags. Please always pack out all human solid human waste. Gold Hill Store offers a toilet for a minimal fee and the Gold Hill Inn has a toilet for customers. A camp stove is available for outdoor use. The camp stove and the propane heater both use 1 lb propane canisters, so feel free to bring your own fuel to cook and keep you warm. A can of propane is always available for your use of the stove. * A note to novice campers and regular hotel patrons: Though you are in a shelter, you are still exposed to the elements. The treehouse is not insulated. Wind, bugs, and critters may all be a part of the variable treehouse experience mother nature has planned for you. If you are not comfortable camping, getting dirty, swatting flies, being too hot, being too cold, hearing the noises of animals at night, waking up to the sound of magpies, and who knows what else, this experience may not be for you.

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North Shore RV Park & General Store

20 sites · Lodging, RVs3 acres · Loveland, CO

Located west of Loveland, Colorado, North Shore RV Park and General Store offers full 20/30 amp water and sewer sites along with cabin rentals for those seeking something a little more different. One may enjoy the many amenities offered that include laundry facilities, fire ring/grill, trash services, general store and a fire pit to name a few. Spend the day outside enjoying outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, canoeing, stargazing, waterskiing and wildlife viewing. Whether it’s for a night or two, we hope to see you soon!

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The Bluebear at Y Double-K Ranch

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Ward, CO

We border a national forest where you can hike and just enjoy the outdoors. The Ceran Saint Vrain trailhead is less than one mile away and Brainard Lake is a short 20 minute drive. If you feel as you need to go to town, Boulder, Estes Park, and Nederland are all a 30 min drive. Away, yet close enough!

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Neverland/Camp Wilder

5 sites · Lodging, Tents7 acres · Nederland, CO

Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.

The best camping near Roosevelt National Forest guide

Overview

About

Administered in conjunction with the Arapaho National Forest and the Pawnee National Grassland, the Roosevelt National Forest is a popular getaway from nearby Fort Collins, attracting campers and day trippers alike throughout the year. The Cache la Poudre River, the only designated Wild and Scenic River in Colorado, winds through the forest, and attracts experienced white-water rafters and kayakers in search of thrills as well as its fair share of anglers, particularly in spring and summer. The greater Arapaho-Roosevelt-Pawnee area offers 53 designated campgrounds plus 10 wilderness areas ideal for backcountry adventures.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RV camping: North Fork Poudre Campground can accommodate RVs measuring up to 35 feet in length.
Best for short breaks from the city: Sleeping Elephant Campground is just over an hour from Fort Collins.
Best for planning ahead: about half of the sites at the Peaceful Valley Campground can be reserved during high season

Tips for snagging a campsite

The Roosevelt National Forest offers a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served (FCFS) campsites. If you’re looking for an FCFS site, it’s usually best to arrive early in the morning to beat crowds or to nab a site from a departing camper.
Arrive mid-week for the best shot of securing a good site, particularly if you want to camp in the busy summer season.
Reservable sites open for bookings at 8am Mountain Time, six months in advance. If you’re trying to book a popular spot or a cabin, try to reserve as soon as it’s released.

When to go

The Roosevelt National Forest is a year-round destination, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure no matter the season. Popular wintertime activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. Early spring and summer are popular for white-water rafting along the Cache la Poudre River, while July and August see the biggest crowds when it comes to camping and hiking; if you want a bit more forest to yourself, September is a great alternative.

Know before you go

Cell service can be spotty at best in the Roosevelt National Forest. Be sure to download offline maps before heading out. Having a paper map as a backup is wise, too.
Forest fires are an issue in Colorado, particularly in the summertime. Be prepared for burn bans and potential road and campground closures.
Check ahead for the latest information on snow-related road closures if you’re visiting during the wintertime. It’s a good idea to also pack chains or get snow tires if driving in higher altitudes during the cooler months.
Bicycles are not allowed in wilderness areas, and dogs must be kept leashed at all times.

Nearby attractions

Experience the beauty of camping in Poudre Canyon, a picturesque mountain getaway. Set up camp amidst towering cliffs, hike scenic trails, and listen to the soothing sounds of the Poudre River. Enjoy fishing, spot wildlife, and create lasting memories in this tranquil natural paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Poudre Canyon have first-come, first-served camping?

Yes, there are several campgrounds in Poudre Canyon that offer first-come, first-served camping. Some of these campgrounds include Ansel Watrous, Stove Prairie, and Mountain Park. However, it is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak camping season, as these sites can fill up quickly. Keep in mind that some campgrounds may also have a limited number of reservable sites available. Always check the specific campground for its policies and current availability before planning your trip.