--- title: "Best Campgrounds in Colorado 2026: Top 15 Mountain Camping Destinations" description: "Discover Colorado's best campgrounds for 2026. From Rocky Mountain views to riverside sites. Complete guide with reservations tips." date: 2026-01-01 keywords: best campgrounds colorado, colorado camping, rocky mountain camping, colorado rv parks --- # Best Campgrounds in Colorado 2026 Colorado offers some of America's most stunning camping, from alpine meadows to desert canyons. Here are the top spots for 2026. --- ## Rocky Mountain National Park Area ### 1. Moraine Park Campground The classic RMNP experience. Wake up to elk grazing and mountain views. - Sites: 244 (tent & RV) - Elevation: 8,160 ft - Reserve: 6 months ahead (sells out fast!) ### 2. Glacier Basin Campground Best for families. Shuttle access to Bear Lake area. - Sites: 150 - Season: Late May - early September --- ## Front Range Favorites ### 3. Mueller State Park Dark sky haven. 55 miles of trails and incredible stargazing. - Sites: 132 - Best for: Hiking, wildlife viewing ### 4. Golden Gate Canyon State Park Close to Denver, feels remote. Aspen groves and mountain streams. - Sites: 168 - Distance from Denver: 35 miles --- ## Western Slope Gems ### 5. Ridgway State Park Reservoir camping with San Juan views. Swimming, fishing, boating. - Sites: 287 - Water: Yes, lakefront sites available ### 6. Rifle Falls State Park Unique triple waterfall backdrop. Limestone caves to explore. - Sites: 20 (intimate, book early) --- ## Southern Colorado ### 7. Great Sand Dunes National Park - Pinyon Flats Camp beside North America's tallest dunes. Surreal landscape. - Sites: 88 - Unique: Sledding on sand! ### 8. Mesa Verde Area Ancient history meets camping. Base camp for cliff dwellings. - Sites: Various options nearby --- ## Booking Tips 1. Reserve early - Popular sites book 6 months ahead 2. Weekday arrivals - Better site selection 3. Consider dispersed camping - Free in National Forests 4. Check elevation - Nights cold above 9,000 ft even in summer --- Explore All Colorado Campgrounds →