John Cassavetes once said that he’s “a great believer in spontaneity because I think planning is the most destructive thing in the world,” and we here at Only in Denver couldn’t agree more! However, sometimes our spontaneity doesn’t pan out, as such a thing as reservations exist. (Wah wah waaaaaah.) Before stressing out too much and changing your impromptu ways, check out these glorious campgrounds where you can enjoy some no-reservation camping in Denver!

1.) Platte River Campground (Deckers)
Platte River Campground, CO-67, Deckers, CO 80135, USA
Mike B/Google Maps
If you think this campground beside the tranquil Platte River looks peaceful, you are not alone, so be sure to get there early before the 10 designated tent sites are claimed! For more information, be sure to visit the Platte River Campground website.
2.) The Crags Campground (Divide)
The Crags Campground, Divide, CO 80814, USA
Yelp/O K.
The Crags may not be located in Denver, but fortunately, the trek to get there isn't too terrible (at just under 2 hours). Boasting 17 campgrounds for tents and small RVs, the Crags Campground is tucked away in the stunning Pike and San Isabel National Forests, making it the perfect place to spend any night. You can visit the Crags Campground website for all the information you need to help make your camping experience enjoyable.
3.) Deer Creek Campground (Bailey)
Deer Creek Campground, Bailey, CO 80421, USA
Jessy Jackson/Google Maps
After a long week of work, all you want to do is escape the ordinary, which is exactly what you will find at the heavily wooded Deer Creek Campground, which is situated alongside its namesake creek. Visit the Deer Creek Campground website for more details.
4.) Elbert Creek Campground (Leadville)
Elbert Creek Campground, Leadville, CO 80461, USA
Bryan White/Google Maps
Named one of the best "Last-minute camping in the Rockies" spots by Sunset, Elbert Creek is one of the state's favorite last-minute go-to's not only because of its close proximity to Mounts Massive and Elbert but also for the stellar fly fishing in nearby Emerald Lake.
5.) Flat Rocks Campground (Sedalia)
Flat Rocks Campground, S Rampart Range Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135, USA
Chris Roush/Google Maps
The best part of waking up isn't the Folgers in your cup... it's the view you will have of the rising sun from your tent at Flat Rocks Campground! (Please note that there is no dump station, electrical, or water hook-ups available at this site.) For more information, be sure to utilize the Flat Rocks Campground website.
6.) Springdale Campground (Woodland Park)
Springdale Campground, Rampart Range Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863, USA
iloveitontop/Google Maps
Have you ever gone camping and woken up sweaty and gross because of the sweltering temperatures? I have (and trust me, it wasn't pretty!), which is why I adore Springdale and all of its natural shade! Be sure to check out all the helpful information on the Springdale Campsite website.

Have you been to any of these campsites around Denver? Are there other places you enjoy that are also no reservation camping in Denver? Let us know in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!

For more Denver-area camping, check out these amazing camping spots around Denver that are an absolute must see!

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Camping Near Denver

Katie Feldkamp | April 12, 2023

Where are some great rustic campgrounds around Denver?

Camping in Denver has a little bit for everyone no matter your style, from the glamping to the rustic. While some people may not be ready to leave all their modern amenities, there are plenty of rustic campgrounds in Denver where you can truly disconnect. A few that make this list include:

  • Jones Pass Road near Idaho Springs
  • Bill Moore Lake near Empire
  • Golden Gate Canyon
  • James Peak Wilderness
  • Lower Crystal Lake

Check out this article for more information on these and several more of the best rustic campsites in Denver.

Are there any places for glamping in Denver?

If rustic camping isn’t your thing, glamping might be more your style. Fortunately, there are some incredible options for glamping near Denver. Consider the following locations:

  • Squaw Mountain Fire Lookout
  • Snow Mountain Ranch
  • Strawberry Park Hot Springs
  • 10th Mountain Division Hut Association
  • C Lazy U Ranch

If you’re intrigued to learn more about these and several other glamping sites around Denver, be sure to check out this article!

What are some great mountain cabins near Denver?

If you’d rather not pitch a tent but still want to spend an overnight in nature, consider any of the following mountain cabins and cottages near Denver:

  • Bear Creek Cabins near Evergreen
  • Colorado Cottages between Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park
  • The Timber Lodge just west of Colorado Springs

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