Home Camping Adventures 9 Beautiful Places in Colorado That Need To Be On Your Bucket List
9 Beautiful Places in Colorado That Need To Be On Your Bucket List

5 min

September 7, 2023

Colorado’s breathtaking mountain hikes, stunning waterfalls, towering canyons, and rich history make this state the perfect camping destination.

If you’re looking for exciting outdoor recreation and jaw dropping sights, add these 9 beautiful Colorado destinations to your bucket list.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

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If you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, Rocky Mountain National Park is your new must-see destination. From dense forests and alpine lakes to majestic mountains and an abundance of wildlife, this park has something for everyone. Visitors can explore more than 300 miles of hiking trails that lead to meadows bursting with wildflowers, cool forests, and glimmering lakes. This park is home to the Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the US at a staggering 12,000 feet.

2. Garden of the Gods

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Stand amongst towering sandstone formations as you bask in the glory of snow-capped Pikes Peak. This National Natural Landmark boasts 15 miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, biking, and endless awesome photo opportunities, and best of all, it’s free.

Where to camp: Mountain View RV Resort

3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

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The Gunnison River has been sculpting these breathtaking cliffs for more than 2 million years. Experienced climbers and hikers will meet their match at this beautiful park, but easy nature trails are also available for those looking for a relaxing stroll. Kayaking, fishing, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing are also popular at Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Where to camp: The Hunter’s Lair

4. Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake

After a short but steep hike, you will come upon this magical turquoise lake complete with enchanting waterfalls. Nestled within Glenwood Canyon, Hanging Lake is perched on the edge of a cliff and looks like it was plucked from a fairy tale. Swimming isn’t allowed due to the fragile ecosystem, but feel free to take as many photos as you’d like!

5. Mesa Verde National Park

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Named a World Heritage Site in 1978, this beautiful park protects thousands of amazing archaeological sites. Mesa Verde is home to hundreds of cliff dwellings, and they are well-known for being some of the best preserved sites in North America. Numerous trails can be found throughout the park as well as 200 species of birds and 75 species of mammals.

Where to camp: The Views RV Park and Campground

6. Great Sand Dunes National Park

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If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, add Great Sand Dunes National Park to your list. With 30 square miles of dunes, you can spend hours sand sledding or hiking in this beautiful park. Venture through Medano Creek, watch for wildlife, and at sunset, sit back and marvel at the beautiful colors splashing across the sand.

Where to camp: Blanca RV Park

7. Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness

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One of Colorado’s most visited locations, the majestic twin peaks of the Maroon Bells are surrounded by crystal clear streams, pristine lakes, lush forests, and alpine meadows. You can explore this beautiful wilderness on more than 100 miles of hiking trails. In the winter months, relax in deliciously warm hot springs, go snowshoeing, or discover wildlife while cross-country skiing.

8. Dinosaur National Monument

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NPS

Located on the border between Colorado and Utah, Dinosaur National Monument boasts 200,000 acres of mountains, rivers, canyons, and desert. Discover fossils still embedded in rock, intriguing petroglyphs, go on a rafting adventure, or take a ranger-led tour.

Where to camp: Wild Skies Cabin Rentals

9. North Clear Creek Falls

This dramatic waterfall is one of the most photographed falls in Colorado. The stroll to the overlook at this observation point is short and sweet, and offers great vantage points for pictures. If you like picnics this would be an amazing spot to stop for lunch. The waterfall is surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest which is known for its hiking trails, fishing, mountain views, biking, and scenic drives.

Where to camp: South Fork Lodge & RV Park


Want to explore campgrounds? Discover beautiful Colorado campgrounds with amazing amenities and stunning views on Camp Native.

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