Craving fresh mountain air, starry skies, and the peaceful sounds of nature? Camping in Fort Collins, Colorado offers the perfect escape, whether you’re pitching a tent by a lake, parking an RV under the pines, or heading deep into the backcountry for some solitude. Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is more than a vibrant college town, it’s a gateway to some of the most scenic and accessible campgrounds in Northern Colorado.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best camping spots near Fort Collins, from well-equipped family-friendly campgrounds to rugged dispersed sites in Roosevelt National Forest and the Poudre Canyon. We’ll also share insider tips, what to pack, seasonal advice, and local recommendations to help you make the most of your outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to exploring the outdoors, this is your go-to resource for Fort Collins camping in 2025 and beyond. So pack your gear, grab your map, and let’s find your perfect campsite.
Why Camp in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is a true outdoor lover’s paradise, where the comforts of a lively city meet the untamed beauty of Colorado’s wilderness. Located just minutes from the Rocky Mountain foothills, Fort Collins gives campers quick access to diverse landscapes, including alpine lakes, forested canyons, riverside meadows, and sweeping mountain vistas.
What makes camping near Fort Collins so special is its variety. Whether you’re setting up a tent beside Horsetooth Reservoir, enjoying a family weekend at Red Feather Lakes, or looking for solitude in the backcountry of Roosevelt National Forest, there’s a camping experience for everyone: beginners, backpackers, and RV travelers alike.
And the best part? Most campgrounds are within an hour’s drive of downtown. That means you can start your morning with a trail hike or paddle on the lake, and be back in town in time for a local beer or a coffee from your favorite Fort Collins café.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, cool mountain breezes in summer, and golden aspen leaves in the fall, Fort Collins camping is a year-round invitation to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature, just minutes from your own backyard.
Top Campgrounds Near Fort Collins
From lakeside escapes to quiet forest hideaways, Fort Collins offers some of the best camping in Northern Colorado. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top Fort Collins campgrounds, each with its own unique charm, amenities, and outdoor appeal.
1. Horsetooth Reservoir Campgrounds
Distance from Fort Collins: 10–15 minutes
Best For: Tent camping, RVs, families, water lovers
Amenities: Electric hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings, boat ramps, swim beaches
Reservations: larimer.gov
If you want to camp close to town without sacrificing mountain views and adventure, Horsetooth Reservoir is hard to beat. Just west of Fort Collins, this popular spot offers six different campground areas: Inlet Bay, South Bay, Sunrise, Satanka, and more, many of which are perched right along the water.
With easy access to boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, hiking, and biking, it’s a favorite for weekend warriors and family outings. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs, and many offer scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding foothills.
Local Tip: Book early, especially for summer weekends, as these sites fill up fast. For quieter experiences, try weeknights or spring/fall shoulder seasons.
Nearby Activities:
- Paddleboard rentals at Inlet Bay Marina
- Hike to Horsetooth Rock for sunrise
- Visit nearby Lory State Park for even more trails and wildlife viewing
2. Poudre Canyon Campgrounds
Distance from Fort Collins: 30–60 minutes (depending on site)
Best For: Tent camping, fly fishing, hiking, scenic drives
Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings; no hookups
Reservations: Recreation.gov for most sites; some first-come, first-served
Follow the Cache la Poudre River west into the canyon, and you’ll discover some of the most scenic and serene campgrounds near Fort Collins. The Poudre Canyon, Colorado’s only designated National Wild and Scenic River, offers a string of rustic campgrounds nestled among towering pines, rock walls, and flowing waters.
Popular options include:
- Ansel Watrous Campground (closest to town, great for fishing)
- Mountain Park Campground (larger, with open space for families and groups)
- Sleeping Elephant and Big South Campgrounds (further into the canyon, ideal for seclusion and hiking access)
These sites are ideal for those who want a true mountain camping experience without driving hours from Fort Collins.
Local Tip: Bring layers; even in summer, temperatures drop at night in the canyon. Cell service is limited, so plan ahead.
Nearby Activities:
- World-class fly fishing in the Poudre River
- Whitewater rafting in early summer
- Hikes like Greyrock Mountain and Big South Trail
3. Red Feather Lakes Area Campgrounds
Distance from Fort Collins: ~1 hour northwest
Best For: Families, quiet getaways, fishing, scenic camping
Amenities: Vault toilets, potable water (in season), fire rings, picnic tables
Reservations: Recreation.gov (recommended for peak season)
Nestled in the Roosevelt National Forest, the Red Feather Lakes area is a peaceful mountain escape that feels worlds away from city life, yet it’s just a scenic hour-long drive from Fort Collins. Surrounded by pine forests and tranquil lakes, this is one of the best areas for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unplug and unwind.
Top campgrounds in the area include:
- Dowdy Lake Campground – Popular and picturesque, with campsites right along the lake shore. Great for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
- West Lake Campground – Another family-friendly option with scenic views, lake access, and well-maintained sites.
- Bellaire Lake Campground – Quieter and more secluded, offering peaceful mountain scenery and fewer crowds.
Many of these campgrounds sit at elevations over 8,000 feet, making for cool summer nights and golden aspen views in early fall.
Local Tip: Bring bug spray in late spring and early summer. Mosquitoes can be persistent near the lakes!
Nearby Activities:
- Rent a canoe or kayak in Red Feather Lakes Village
- Fish for trout in Dowdy Lake or Parvin Lake (state permit required)
- Hike the Lady Moon or Mount Margaret trails for moderate, scenic loops
4. Carter Lake & Pinewood Reservoir Campgrounds
Distance from Fort Collins: ~45 minutes south
Best For: Lake camping, RVs, scenic drives, fewer crowds
Amenities: Restrooms, electric hookups, picnic tables, boat ramps, fire pits
Reservations: larimer.gov
Looking for a beautiful place to camp near Fort Collins without the hustle and bustle of the more popular spots? Head south to Carter Lake and Pinewood Reservoir in Larimer County. These lesser-known gems offer stunning water views, peaceful campsites, and easy access to boating, fishing, and hiking, all just under an hour from town.
Carter Lake is larger and ideal for boating and RV camping, with three designated campgrounds: Eagle, North Pines, and Big Thompson. Each features spacious sites, many with electric hookups, and panoramic lake views.
Just above Carter Lake sits Pinewood Reservoir, a smaller and quieter option perfect for tent camping, paddleboarding, and stargazing. Its single loop campground has fewer than 20 sites, offering an intimate, back-to-nature feel.
Local Tip: Because these lakes sit at a slightly lower elevation than Red Feather or Poudre Canyon, they warm up faster in spring and stay comfortable into early fall, perfect for shoulder season trips.
Nearby Activities:
- Hike the Flatiron Reservoir trail
- Fish for walleye and trout
- Visit Carter Knolls for panoramic views of the valley
5. State Forest State Park
Distance from Fort Collins: ~1.5–2 hours west (via Highway 14 through Poudre Canyon)
Best For: Remote camping, wildlife viewing, scenic hiking, backcountry adventure
Amenities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings; some electric hookups at Ranger Lakes
Reservations: cpw.state.co.us
If you’re looking to take your Fort Collins camping trip off the beaten path, State Forest State Park delivers everything you’d expect from wild Colorado. This sprawling wilderness area offers more than 70,000 acres of rugged peaks, alpine lakes, dense forests, and open meadows, home to one of Colorado’s largest moose populations.
There are several campgrounds within the park, but most visitors start at:
- Ranger Lakes Campground – The most developed site, with electric hookups and access to stocked fishing lakes. Great for RVs or first-time visitors.
- North Michigan Reservoir – Ideal for tent and car camping, with lakefront views and fewer crowds.
- Dispersed Sites & Backcountry Camping – Numerous primitive sites are available throughout the park for those who prefer solitude and self-sufficiency.
This park is truly a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent hiking, stargazing, photography, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Local Tip: Stop at the Moose Visitor Center (near Gould) for trail maps, wildlife viewing tips, and real-time trail conditions.
Nearby Activities:
- Hike Lake Agnes or the American Lakes Trail
- Spot moose in the early morning or at dusk
- Explore the nearby town of Walden for supplies or local eats
Dispersed Camping Near Fort Collins
If your ideal camping trip includes solitude, starlit skies, and no neighboring RVs, dispersed camping near Fort Collins might be exactly what you’re looking for. Dispersed camping refers to camping outside of designated campgrounds, typically on public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It’s free, remote, and best suited for campers who are self-sufficient and experienced with Leave No Trace principles.
Where to Go Dispersed Camping
The Roosevelt National Forest, which surrounds much of the Fort Collins area, offers many legal and scenic dispersed camping options:
- Pingree Park Road (CR 63E): A popular area with multiple pull-off sites along gravel roads. Close to trailheads like Emmaline Lake.
- Crown Point Road (Forest Road 139): Remote and quiet, great for 4WD vehicles and backcountry explorers.
- Deadman Road (near Red Feather Lakes): Offers numerous dispersed sites with big views and cool summer temps.
- Boyd Gulch and Green Ridge Roads (near Poudre Canyon): Beautifully forested spots, some with views of the river.
Know Before You Go
- Pack in, pack out. No trash services.
- Camp at least 100 feet from water and trails to minimize environmental impact.
- Use existing fire rings only and check for fire bans before starting a fire.
- Cell service is limited. Bring maps or download offline navigation tools like Gaia GPS or Avenza.
Local Tip: Stop at the Canyon Lakes Ranger District office in Fort Collins before your trip for maps, seasonal road updates, and current fire restrictions.
Pros of Dispersed Camping
- No fees or reservations required
- More privacy and natural beauty
- Ideal for experienced campers and off-grid enthusiasts
Cons to Keep in Mind
- No bathrooms, water, or amenities
- Requires self-contained waste systems or digging catholes
- Access roads can be rough. Check vehicle clearance beforehand
Best Campgrounds for Families Near Fort Collins
Camping with kids? Whether you’re introducing little ones to their first s’mores night or planning a full weekend of outdoor fun, these family-friendly campgrounds near Fort Collins combine accessibility, safety, and just enough adventure to make it a memorable experience for everyone.
1. Dowdy Lake Campground (Red Feather Lakes)
- Why It’s Great for Families: Calm, paddle-friendly waters; short hiking loops; wildlife spotting (without major elevation gain).
- Amenities: Vault toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings
- Extra Perk: A short trail around the lake makes for an easy, scenic family stroll.
2. Horsetooth Reservoir – South Bay & Inlet Bay Campgrounds
- Why It’s Great for Families: Close to town with easy access to swimming, boating, and kid-friendly trails.
- Amenities: Electric hookups, restrooms with showers, marina, picnic areas
- Extra Perk: You can rent kayaks or paddleboards at the marina, perfect for keeping kids entertained!
3. Mountain Park Campground (Poudre Canyon)
- Why It’s Great for Families: Spacious sites with room to roam, large grassy areas, and access to the Poudre River for supervised wading or fishing.
- Amenities: Vault toilets, drinking water, fire rings, playground
- Extra Perk: Educational signs and ranger-led programs in peak season.
4. Boyd Lake State Park (Loveland)
- Why It’s Great for Families: Large campground with level, paved pads ideal for RVs and trailers; bike paths and sandy swim beach.
- Amenities: Full hookups, flush toilets, showers, water/electric
- Extra Perk: Great choice for first-time campers or families with younger children needing modern amenities.
Local Tip: Summer weekends can book up fast at family-friendly sites. Make reservations early and consider weekday stays for quieter experiences.
Best Camping for Solitude & Scenery
If your perfect camping experience involves mountain silence, dramatic landscapes, and the sound of the wind through the pines (instead of a generator or crowded loop), these quiet, scenic campgrounds near Fort Collins are your best bet.
1. Bellaire Lake Campground (Red Feather Lakes)
- What Makes It Special: Tucked into a peaceful pine forest with fewer crowds than nearby Dowdy or West Lake. The small, calm lake reflects alpine skies and makes for beautiful morning views.
- Vibe: Quiet, relaxed, ideal for reading, reflection, or photography
- Best Site Tip: Choose a lake-facing site for the best sunrise views
2. Chambers Lake Campground (Poudre Canyon – Cameron Pass Area)
- What Makes It Special: A high-elevation gem with cooler temperatures, glassy lake views, and access to hiking trails that see far fewer visitors than lower-elevation areas.
- Vibe: Remote, peaceful, and popular with serious anglers
- Best Site Tip: Arrive early for walk-up sites; many have water access and panoramic views
3. Jack’s Gulch Campground
- What Makes It Special: A lightly trafficked site located in a forested meadow off Pingree Park Road, offering both tent and equestrian sites. Hiking and wildflowers abound.
- Vibe: Hidden, woodsy, and uncrowded
- Best Site Tip: Look for a spot in the walk-in loop for ultimate peace and privacy
4. North Michigan Reservoir (State Forest State Park)
- What Makes It Special: A gorgeous alpine lake surrounded by spruce and fir, with direct access to backcountry trails and jaw-dropping mountain views.
- Vibe: Serene and scenic, perfect for campers who want to get away from it all
- Best Site Tip: Head to the west side of the lake for the most secluded tent sites
Local Tip: For the best chance at solitude, plan your trip midweek and avoid holidays. Many of these spots are walk-in only or have limited availability, so arriving early in the day is key.
RV Camping Near Fort Collins
Whether you’re rolling in with a fifth wheel, Class A motorhome, or a cozy camper van, Fort Collins has several excellent RV-friendly campgrounds that offer hookups, easy access to amenities, and stunning scenery. Here are the top spots to park your rig and soak in Northern Colorado’s outdoor charm.
1. Horsetooth Reservoir – South Bay & Inlet Bay Campgrounds
- Distance: ~15 minutes west of Fort Collins
- Hookups: Electric (30/50 amp), dump stations available
- What Makes It Great: Lakeside RV sites with direct access to paddleboarding, boating, and hiking. One of the most scenic RV spots close to town.
- Best For: Families, weekend getaways, water recreation
2. Fort Collins / Lakeside KOA Holiday
- Distance: ~10 minutes northeast of downtown
- Hookups: Full hookups (electric, water, sewer), Wi-Fi, cable TV
- What Makes It Great: A resort-style KOA with modern amenities including a pool, mini golf, fishing pond, and laundry. Ideal for families or first-time RVers.
- Best For: Comfort-focused campers and long-term stays
3. Carter Lake Campgrounds (Eagle & Big Thompson)
- Distance: ~45 minutes south
- Hookups: Electric only; water available nearby
- What Makes It Great: Spacious RV sites with views of the reservoir, good separation between sites, and great stargazing.
- Best For: Couples, quiet retreats, scenic lakeside camping
4. Boyd Lake State Park (Loveland)
- Distance: ~30 minutes south
- Hookups: Full hookups (electric, water, sewer)
- What Makes It Great: Paved, level RV pads near a large reservoir with swim beaches, bike paths, and boat ramps. One of the most accessible and well-maintained RV parks in Northern Colorado.
- Best For: RVers with boats, families, cyclists
RV Travel Tips Near Fort Collins:
- Make reservations early, especially in summer.
- Be prepared for tight mountain roads if heading to places like Poudre Canyon or Red Feather Lakes with larger rigs.
- Dump stations are available at Horsetooth, Boyd Lake, and KOA, but may be limited at more remote campgrounds.
Seasonal Camping Tips for Fort Collins
With its blend of high plains and alpine elevations, the Fort Collins area offers diverse camping conditions that change dramatically by season. Whether you’re planning a spring escape, summer family trip, or fall foliage adventure, here’s what to expect and how to prepare.
🌸 Spring (April – May)
- What to Expect: Cool temps, muddy trails, snow lingering in higher elevations, budding wildflowers
- Best Spots: Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake (lower elevations thaw sooner)
- Tips:
- Pack layers and waterproof gear; spring weather is unpredictable.
- Check for seasonal road closures in Poudre Canyon and Roosevelt National Forest.
- Bring insect repellent; mosquitoes emerge early in some areas.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
- What to Expect: Warm days, cool nights, busy weekends, wildflower blooms, fire bans possible
- Best Spots: Red Feather Lakes, State Forest State Park, Poudre Canyon
- Tips:
- Reserve sites early; campgrounds often book months in advance.
- Expect afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the mountains. Avoid exposed areas.
- Fire restrictions are common; check the Larimer County Fire Ban page before lighting a campfire.
🍂 Fall (September – October)
- What to Expect: Crisp air, golden aspens, fewer crowds, frosty mornings
- Best Spots: Chambers Lake, Bellaire Lake, Pingree Park Road
- Tips:
- Dress in warm layers. Temps can swing from 70°F in the day to below freezing at night.
- Prime leaf-peeping season is mid- to late September in most higher elevation areas.
- Some facilities start to shut down after Labor Day; check ahead for water and restroom availability.
❄️ Winter (November – March)
- What to Expect: Snow, cold temps, closed roads, very limited access to campgrounds
- Best Spots: Backcountry areas for experienced winter campers (e.g., State Forest State Park yurts)
- Tips:
- Most traditional campgrounds close in winter; check for open seasonal yurts or cabins.
- Bring avalanche-safe gear and knowledge if venturing into deep snow zones.
- Use winter-rated sleeping bags and gear, and always let someone know your route.
Local Tip: For real-time trail and road updates, check the Canyon Lakes Ranger District or Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) app before your trip.
Local Recommendations: Coffee, Beer & Camping Gear Near Fort Collins
Camping trips start with good planning, and sometimes, the perfect cup of coffee or a cold local brew. Whether you’re gearing up for a weekend away or winding down after a hike, these Fort Collins favorites will keep your spirits high and your backpack stocked.
Coffee Shops to Kickstart Your Morning
- Bean Cycle Roasters
A Fort Collins staple known for its expertly roasted beans and cozy vibe. Perfect for grabbing a strong pour-over before hitting the trails. - Harbinger Coffee
Specialty coffee with a commitment to quality and community. Try their espresso drinks or cold brew for a refreshing boost. - Lima Coffee Roasters
Small-batch roasting and a great spot for a quick takeaway or relaxing sit-down.
Breweries to Celebrate After Camping
- New Belgium Brewing Company
Famous for Fat Tire Amber Ale, their tasting room in Fort Collins offers creative brews and fun tours—a must-visit for beer lovers. - Odell Brewing Company
Family-owned and craft-focused, Odell is a local favorite with a great lineup of IPAs and seasonal releases. - Fort Collins Brewery
Smaller but beloved, with outdoor seating and live music on weekends.
Where to Stock Up on Camping Gear & Supplies
- JAX Outdoor Gear
Local, family-owned outdoor store with expert staff who know the Colorado outdoors inside and out. Great for last-minute gear and advice. - REI Fort Collins
The outdoor giant offers everything from tents to trail snacks, plus rentals and classes if you want to sharpen your skills - The Gearage
- Tellus
- Sierra
Local Tip: Many of these shops also offer maps, trail updates, and advice tailored to Fort Collins camping and hiking adventures—stop by before your trip to get insider tips and support local businesses.