Denver is the perfect basecamp for a Colorado holiday spent out in nature. With dozens of Front Range attractions and seemingly endless camping opportunities, there’s no better place to explore with a camper van rental.
But with gas prices on the rise, driving to far off destinations sounds less appealing. A recent survey by The Dyrt found that almost 24% of their community members said they plan to camp closer to home because of rising gas prices.
In Denver, we’re lucky there are so many incredible spots less than an hour away where you can park your camper van and have a blast—whether that’s with your friends, family, or on a solo adventure.
Rising gas prices mean Coloradans need to camp smarter. Here are six Colorado campgrounds outside of Denver you can get to in under an hour and with a quarter tank of gas.
1. Chatfield State Park
Centered around the Chatfield Reservoir, this Littleton State Park is super popular from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Campers are permitted to bring powerboats and jet skis. So water sports are especially prominent during the summer months.
There’s also a big off-leash park where your pup can mingle and meet new friends!
What to know before camping in Chatfield:
- You have to make your reservation ahead of time either online or over the phone by calling 1-800-244-5613.
- Daily vehicle passes are $10.
- Camping site fees start at $36.
- Dog off-leash pass: $3 a day or $25 annually.
- Facilities include coin-operated showers, flushing toilets, laundry, picnic areas, and marina rentals.
- Check-in time is 12pm and check-out time is 1pm.
Chatfield State Park is one of the Colorado campgrounds that are open year-round, but the reservoir closes for its off-season from December 1-March 1.
Per Colorado camping laws, reservations must be made for campsites in State Parks. Each park will require a fee or pass, but those rates will vary. You can also opt for purchasing annual passes for easier access to camping in State Parks throughout the state.
2. Buffalo Creek Recreation Area
There are over 50 miles of multi-use, non-motorized trails around the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area. There is also lots of hiking, backpacking, or riding.
The sites at Buffalo Creek are pretty big and spread out. That means you can wake up with a cup of coffee and enjoy the sounds of the woods, not your neighbor.
These are great campsites near Denver to visit if you’re looking for a little isolation while you’re out in nature. During the summer months, this area can become busy and attract larger crowds.
What to know before camping in Buffalo Creek:
- Make a reservation at least 4 days in advance online or by calling 877-444-6777.
- There’s a Friday and Saturday night minimum when staying on a weekend.
- You may only park and camp in designated areas (there’s signage) or you can face a hefty fine.
- Facilities include toilets and picnic tables.
- Dogs must remain leashed at all times.
- Open year-round with limitations during the winter months due to snow.
There are other developed camping options available at nearby Colorado campgrounds like Green Mountain, Kelsey, and Meadow Group campground.
