The Best Camping Spots In and Around Fort Collins
Camping is part of the Colorado lifestyle, and living in Fort Collins means you’re surrounded by incredible places to sleep under the stars. Whether you prefer lakeside tent camping, forested mountain retreats, or family-friendly campgrounds with hookups, Northern Colorado has something for everyone.
1. Horsetooth Reservoir Campgrounds (15 minutes)
Some of the most convenient—and scenic—camping is near town.
Great for:
- Tent camping
- RV sites
- Kayaking, boating, paddleboarding
- Sunsets over the foothills
Reservations are essential in summer.
2. Lory State Park (20 minutes)
Camping is part of the Colorado lifestyle, and living in Fort Collins means you’re surrounded by incredible places to sleep under the stars. Whether you prefer lakeside tent camping, forested mountain retreats, or family-friendly campgrounds with hookups, Northern Colorado has something for everyone.
A beautiful alternative to Horsetooth with quieter sites.
Why people love it:
- Wooded campsites
- Access to hiking and mountain biking
- Easy walk to the shoreline
A perfect quick weekend getaway.
3. Poudre Canyon Campgrounds (30–60 minutes)
Dozens of campgrounds line the Cache la Poudre River, each with its own vibe. Top picks:
- Ansel Watrous
- Stove Prairie
- Big South
Expect: shady riverfront sites, fly-fishing right from camp, and cooler temperatures in summer.
4. Red Feather Lakes Area (1 hour)
A favorite for families and people who love forest camping.
What you’ll find:
- Quiet pine forests
- Lakes for fishing and paddling
- Group and dispersed camping options
It feels remote without being too far from home.
5. State Forest State Park / Cameron Pass (1 hour 15 minutes)
Higher-elevation camping with big views.
Why it’s special:
- Moose sightings are common
- Cooler summer temps
- Miles of trails and alpine lakes
Great for adventurous campers looking for a true Colorado mountain experience.
Camping Permits & Reservations
- Colorado State Parks (Lory, some areas near Horsetooth): require day passes + campground reservations.
- Larimer County Parks (Horsetooth, Carter Lake): Reserve early—weekends fill up fast.
- National Forest Lands (Poudre Canyon, Cameron Pass): mix of reservable and first-come-first-served sites.
Summer weekends book quickly everywhere, so plan ahead when possible.
Best Time of Year to Camp
- May–October is prime season.
- June–August: warmest and most popular.
- September–October: incredible fall colors and fewer crowds.
• Winter camping is possible in select areas but requires proper gear and experience.
Why Camping Matters for Homebuyers
Many people move to Fort Collins because they want the Colorado lifestyle—and camping is a big part of that. Whether you want quick access to Horsetooth, the quiet forests of Red Feather, or the alpine lakes near Cameron Pass, choosing the right neighborhood can make weekend adventures even easier. We help buyers find homes that match the outdoor life they want.
~ By The Levi Group Brokered by Real ~
Your Personal Guide to Fort Collins
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Jason Levi
The Levi Group Brokered by REAL, LLC
Call Me: 970-426-8916
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