Colorado has a number of great campgrounds full of scenic views and access to incredible hiking trails. These great campgrounds are perfect for families with children, so expect campsites with drive-in access, restroom facilities and unique features that are sure to keep the little ones entertained. No matter where you choose to roam in the state, there is a campground that is sure to fit into your family’s adventure. Introduce your children to Colorado’s pristine nature at these five family-friendly campgrounds in the state.
Molly Brown Campground is a great option because it’s along Turquoise Lake and is only five miles away from Leadville. However, if Molly Brown is full, there are a number of great camping options in this area too, seven other campgrounds to be exact. Expect a number of amenities like fire pits, toilets, drinking water and picnic tables. Now when it comes to recreational activities, this area has it all. Turquoise Lake is perfect for boating and fishing—the water is notoriously cold so swimming may not be ideal. From Molly Brown Campground, hit up the self-guided nature trail since the trailhead is accessible right from this campground.
Mesa Verde National Park, one of Colorado’s four national parks, is a great destination for all members of the family. There are a number of campgrounds in the park, however Morefield Campground is a great option since it does have flushing toilets and showers along with picnic tables and fire pits. While you’re at Mesa Verde however, don’t miss out on the park’s main feature: the cliff dwellings. A hike to the cliff dwellings is a great physical activity as well as an educational opportunity for kids.
Echo Park Campground offers incredible views and is even accessible to both tents and trucks with camper tops. Water and vault toilets are available at the sites but do be aware that you should pack out all your garbage here. The campground itself boasts beautiful canyon views and night time makes for optimal stargazing. This area is great for families because of the easy yet scenic hikes along with views of petroglyphs and fossils.
Located in the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, Piñon Flats Campground is located only a mile from the park’s visitor’s center. This campground has flushable toilets and running-water sinks. The main attraction at this park, which continues to draw families here year-round, is the massive sand dunes. Take the kids “sandboarding,” which is like snowboarding but on the sand. If you’re not interested in boarding the dunes, take a hike on them or even visit Medano Creek for some summertime fun.
This campground is near one of Colorado’s most beloved places, the Maroon Bells. Now there are a couple of other campgrounds in the area, such as Silver Bar and Silver Bell, just in case Silver Queen fills up during the busy summer months. Do keep in mind that reservations are required. Silver Queen has vault toilets, picnic tables and potable water. Expect a lovely grove of aspen trees and an incredible view of Pyramid Peak, a massive 14,000-foot mountain. This campground gains campers access to both hiking and horseback riding trails.
