Colorado is an amazing state for lovers of the outdoors. In fact, it is likely what most people think about when they think of mountain camping, owing to the stunning Colorado Rockies. Knowing which family campgrounds in Colorado to visit can be tough. There are so many options available narrowing down where you want to stay and what you want to do is a chore. Do you know what comes with these options? Well, you have the ability to select any type of camping that you want. High mountains, plains camping, and even a desert-type feel in the southwest corner of the state. No matter what you choose you are sure to find something for your family on this list!

With such diversity selecting only the five top family campgrounds in Colorado was no easy task. Luckily I have taken a bit of time to narrow it down for you! You may want to explore all across the great state of Colorado to see which is your favorite of these top five!

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Taking in the stunning vistas as you drive is pretty incredible! However, some kids need more to prevent boredom. Here is how to keep your passengers occupied!

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This Top 5 is not in any particular order so find the one that matches where you would like to explore!

5. Green Mountain Reservoir

Green Mountain Reservoir is a fantastic place to head if you have little fish in your life. This is one of the top family campgrounds in Colorado because it is set up to accommodate first-time campers. There are so many different activity options available. These include hiking, biking, animal viewing, and spots for some great photos. There are numerous day hikes that will serve any level of hiker in your group! Additionally, the reservoir means that you can swim or even boat.

At this reservoir, you will find multiple campgrounds. Seven of them to be exact. This gives the first-time or family options on where to stay. Luckily, they all have easy access to the water and to hiking trails. While not all of them will have water views the proximity on a hot Colorado afternoon is sure to make up for it as you sink into the water. The vast majority of these campsites are first-come, first-serve. You will want to take this into consideration so you can beat the crowds to the water!

All camping that is done here will be basic rustic camping. This means that you need to pack in everything that you need. No you won’t be carrying your gear miles. However, there is no electricity, potable water, or RV parking. This campground is for those who love camping for what it truly is, communing with nature. This is the perfect place to instill that John Muir spirit into your children.

4. Moraine Park, Rocky Mountain National Park

The next campground on my family campgrounds in Colorado is Moraine Park at Rocky Mountain National Park. While there are many campgrounds in this National Park this one is fantastic for families. This is arguably the most established campsite. There are meadows and mountains for views. However, you are away from the hustle and bustle of civilization. The campground gives a feeling of remoteness in a very busy park. You are able to car camp as well as pull in some RVs. Just know that there are some winding roads into the park! This is also a very busy park so get your reservations and planning done early in the year!

The Moraine Park Campground is near the Beaver Mountains. The campground itself sits at 8,160 feet! So if you are a flatlander be prepared for the altitude. What you gain in elevation you also gain in grandeur. You will be surrounded by stunning mountain vistas which you can take in from numerous hikes. I haven’t mentioned the wildlife viewing yet but it is amazing. Don’t stop there either! The kids will have a blast with all of the park’s Jr. Ranger programs and activities.

3. Chalk Creek Campground

The Chalk Creek Campground is next on my list of top family campgrounds in Colorado. This campground sits within the mighty Collegiate Peaks. If you are looking to stand at the base and gaze up at Colorado’s soaring 14,000 foot peaks then this is the place. From this campground you will have easy access and view of nearly a dozen different 14k mountain peaks! On the other hand you may never want to leave the campground as you sit near your tent and listen to the creek that runs right alongside your site. Though the area is also known for its hot springs so you may want to venture away after a day of hiking to enjoy those.

Speaking of things for the family to do without leaving the campground! Dip your toes into the Chalk Creek to cool off. Maybe you want to hit the camp store for ice cream. Better yet, let the kids burn off their remaining energy at the playground, horseshoe pits, or other outdoor games. If this still isn’t enough, the wonderful hosts will give you complimentary coffee, play candy bar bingo with you, and even lead you in some Rubber Ducky Races on holiday weekends! Chalk Creek Campground is definitely a great basecamp for families looking to venture into the Colorado wilderness but still have some wonderful creature comforts!

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Use your camping experience to build resiliency

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2. Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park

The next on my list of family campgrounds in Colorado that I am going to highlight is just north of Mesa Verde National Park. The Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park is about as close as you can get to the park without actually staying in it. In fact, you can access the park within about 3 minutes of leaving your campsite! They tout having rustic luxury in the heart of Mesa Verde Country. Truly they are not blowing smoke. The sites are large and the campground amenities are fantastic. These include a recreation cabin with games, propane refills, two dog parks, horseshoe pits, a playground, hot tub, mini-golf, and a camp store. If these weren’t enough there is also horseback riding and a bike trail right on site!

Being as close as you are to the history of the Ancestral Puebloans though, means you are not going to want to stay at the campsite all day. As I mentioned though, you are right next to Mesa Verde National Park. Dive into North America’s ancient past and see how the canyon walls became home to so many people. This is one of my favorite National Parks because there is so much history that we don’t learn about our first nations. The rangers and programs at this park do an outstanding job of bringing history alive. The sheer cliffs and stunning overlooks are simply amazing as well. The wonderful night’s sleep and easy access from this campground make it even better.

1. Grand Junction KOA

The final spot on my list for the top family campgrounds in Colorado is the Grand Junction KOA. With all of the stunning mountains in the middle of Colorado, you likely haven’t considered venturing to the western edge of the state. However, Grand Junction, Colorado is home to Colorado National Monument. The scenery at this site stands in contrast to the rest of Colorado. The red stone rock faces are truly a sight to behold as you walk around the monument. Not to mention the stunning drive just to get to the visitor’s center! If you need a basecamp for exploring this area then the Grand Junction KOA is a fantastic family campground that you should consider. I found it to be one of the best KOAs I have stayed at.

Venturing out to Colorado National Monument is certainly the highlight of your trip to Grand Junction. However, after a long day of hiking and site seeing the creature comforts of this KOA are great. The campground has a great playground for kids and even mini-golf to keep them occupied. If it is a hot summer afternoon though the pool is a welcoming and relaxing site. The children also appreciate the movie nights and ice cream. The biggest drawback for me here was the traffic noise. This campground does sit right off of US Highway 50. So if you are tent camping know that it can get a little noisy. With kids though you may have your own noise to contend with!

Tell us your favorite!

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*All costs and other information shown on this page are at the time of research and are subject to change. Please check linked reservation tools or contact facilities directly for the most up-to-date prices, availability, and site regulations/information.