Top 12 Van Camping and Campground Locations in Colorado Springs

If you’re yearning for an epic van camping adventure, Colorado Springs should be at the top of your list. With the dramatic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and Pikes Peak, the area has everything from cozy RV parks with all the comforts of home to off-the-grid campgrounds where you can fully disconnect from the usual daily grind.

But where are the very best campgrounds in this beautiful corner of the world? To help make planning your trip easy, we’ve compiled a list of van camping and campground locations in and around Colorado Springs. Whether you want mountain views or a mix of urban exploration and outdoor fun, you’ll find it all here.

Are you ready? Let’s go exploring!

Foot of the Rockies RV Park

Let’s kick things off with a perfect blend of city convenience and natural beauty – the Foot of the Rockies RV Park. As the name suggests, this park is located right at the base of the Rocky Mountains, and this means you’ll get amazing views of Pikes Peaks and easy access to the great outdoors.

There’s a double bonus to staying here, too. While you’ve got nature right on your doorstep, you’re also just a stone’s throw away from downtown Colorado Springs. Need to do a quick grocery shopping run or simply can’t start your day without a latte, even when camping? You’re only minutes away from both opportunities.

The campground also provides full hookups, WiFi, and cable TV, so you can even binge-watch your favorite shows after a day of adventuring and upload those envy-inducing photos of your adventures to Instagram.

Speaking of adventures, you’re just a short drive from Garden of the Gods, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, and, of course, Pikes Peak. This really is an awesome basecamp for both laid-back sightseeing and hardcore outdoor activities, and it’s also super-friendly to last-minute campers (although reservations are always recommended).

Colorado Springs KOA Holiday

Looking for a family-friendly spot packed with activities? Colorado Springs KOA Holiday has got you covered. This place isn’t just a campground; it’s practically a vacation destination in itself. Your van will be cozily parked among the fully-equipped campsites, each of which has full hookups, but the real fun begins when you explore everything KOA has to offer.

From a swimming pool to a hot tub and mini-golf to movie nights and pancake breakfasts, you might be tempted to spend all your time right at the campground. There’s also an on-site dog park where you can watch your four-legged friends run around and have the time of their lives.

When you’re ready to venture out, you’ve got some of Colorado’s top attractions nearby. Head over to Garden of the Gods for jaw-dropping red rock formations, or spend a day exploring Manitou Springs. Or, if you really want to challenge yourself, take a crack at hiking to the top of Pikes Peak – just don’t forget to treat yourself to the donuts you’ll find at the top. Yes, you did read that correctly – there is a donut-producing machine at the top, and you can pick up a tasty treat for under $2.

Garden of the Gods RV Resort

If the idea of waking up near one of the most iconic landmarks in Colorado Springs excites you, then Garden of the Gods RV Resort is where you need to go. With the park’s famous red rock formations practically in your backyard, this resort gives you instant access to some of the best hiking and photography spots the state has to offer.

The campground has all the goodies: full hookups, WiFi, a swimming pool, and even cozy cabins if you feel like changing things up with a night or two away from your van. You’ll also love the laid-back, friendly vibe here, and it’s ideal for solo and group travelers alike.

Also, since you’re just minutes away from the entrance to Garden of the Gods, you can head out for an early morning hike before the crowds arrive or stick around for a truly spectacular sunset. Manitou Springs is close by, too, with its quirky shops, fantastic restaurants, and healing mineral springs. Basically, this is the spot to soak up all the natural and cultural wonders of Colorado Springs.

Fountain Creek RV Park

For van campers who like a mix of nature and local flavor, Fountain Creek RV Park is definitely worth considering. Located in Old Colorado City, you’ll have easy access to both outdoor adventures and some of the coolest historic spots in the area.

The campground itself is very well-kept, with full hookups, WiFi, showers, toilets, and clean facilities. There are also mature trees throughout, which help provide plenty of shade on those hot summer days, and if you’re traveling with your canine companions, you’ll be pleased to learn that Fountain Creek RV Park is pet friendly.

Along with its fantastic amenities, one of the best things about camping at Fountain Creek is that it’s close to everything. You can spend your mornings hiking the nearby Bear Creek Regional Park or wandering through the incredible rock formations of Garden of the Gods. In the afternoon, explore Colorado Old City, where you’ll find great restaurants, galleries, and local shops. It’s the best of both worlds – nature and culture right at your fingertips.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

If you’re looking for that full-on, wild Colorado experience, Cheyenne Mountain State Park should be on your must-visit list. This is a sprawling space, and you’re given the chance to really immerse yourself in the surrounding nature without having to sacrifice modern comforts.

The sites here are spacious (as you’d expect from such a large area), with full hookups and pull-through spots. Plus, the views of Cheyenne Mountain are downright spectacular. Expect to wake up to the sounds of birdsong, and you might even be able to spot a deer or fox wandering through the campgrounds throughout the day.

Once you’re parked and settled in, you’ve got more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore right from your doorstep. This includes one of the best hikes in the area, Dixon Trail, which takes you up to the top of Cheyenne Mountain, where the views are well worth the sweat you’ll break getting there. And, if you’re traveling with kids or just love wildlife, make sure you check out the nearby Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Mueller State Park

Just a bit west of Colorado Springs, Mueller State Park offers the perfect escape into the mountains. If you’re a van camper who loves peace, quiet, and endless hiking opportunities, this is your kind of spot.

The campsites here are beautifully spread out, so you won’t feel as though you’re on top of your neighbors, and while not all of them have hookups, many do offer electrical connections. You’ll also be surrounded by forests and meadows, giving the park a tranquil vibe that means you’ll have no issues unwinding. Wildlife is abundant here, too, and you might even be able to spot a head of elk roaming by your campsite.

In terms of activities, Mueller State Park is a hiker’s paradise. There are over 55 miles of hiking trails winding through meadows, forested ridges, and valleys here, and in the fall, the golden aspens create an unforgettable landscape. Woodland Park is also a short journey away and the perfect place to head when you’re ready for a bit of civilization.

Falcon Meadow Campground

Head northeast of the Springs, and you’ll find Falcom Meadow Campground, a family-owned business with a home-from-home feel. What makes this place so special is its laid-back, peaceful atmosphere paired with spectacular views of the Front Range.

Full hookups are on offer here, along with clean restrooms and WiFi, which is perfect should you feel the need to check in with the outside world while you’re on vacation. Also, the sites are wide open, so you can kick back with a cup of coffee and enjoy some of the best sunrises and sunsets you’ve ever seen, totally unobstructed by neighbors or buildings.

Once you’ve settled in and are ready to go exploring, one of the best spots to head to is the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, where you will find colorful geological formations that look like something from another planet. Not many people know about it either, so it’s a perfect place to go if you’re looking for a quiet day trip mixed with a bit of easy hiking.

Thunder Ridge Campground

For van campers who prefer a more rustic, back-to-nature experience, Thunder Ridge Campground (which is located in Pike National Forest) is the perfect getaway destination. This spot offers you a real slice of the Colorado wilderness, with towering pines and close proximity to Rampart Reservoir.

You won’t find any amenities here, but that’s all part of the charm. There are vault toilets and picnic tables, so you aren’t entirely without facilities, but there are no hookups or WiFi. The trade-off for this, however, is the chance to unplug and relax in nature without feeling the need to reach for your phone.

Just keep in mind that spaces here are offered on a first-come-first-served basis, so plan to arrive early if you’re hoping to snag a spot. Another important thing to note is that this is one of the few wheelchair-accessible campgrounds in the area, so it’s an excellent option if this is one of your requirements.

As we touched on, Rampart Reservoir isn’t too far from Thunder Ridge Campground, and this is the place to go if you want some water-based fun, including fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There are also a ton of great hiking and biking trails in the area, so there’s no fear of running out of outdoor activities to keep you busy!

Springdale Campground

Looking for a quick and convenient stop-over during your Colorado Springs adventure? Springdale Campground is a no-frills, budget-friendly spot located right off Highway 24 and it is the perfect pit stop for van campers on the go.

Now, you might think that somewhere you can use as a short-stopping place might not have very much to offer, but Springdale Campground actually has some great amenities. These include electric hookups, restrooms, and easy-to-access sites. Also, some of the sites are shaded by surrounding trees, which is ideal for keeping yourself and your van cool during a summer vacation.

Even if you’re treating this campground as a quick stop-over, take some time to explore the surrounding areas. You’ll be close to some major attractions like the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, and if you have some extra time, be sure to check out the historic town of Manitou Springs or head up to Ute Pass for some Instagram-worthy views. Make sure to follow good packing tips so you have everything you need before going to Springdale.

The Crags Campground

Located near Divide, Colorado, The Crags Campground is an absolute dream destination if you’re the kind of person who craves peace and solitude from a camping vacation. It’s also secluded, off-the-grid, and has some of the best views around.

As you would expect from what we’ve described above, the campsites here are basic, with vault toilets and picnic tables, but no hookups. What you do get, however, is plenty of privacy and breathtaking mountain scenery. You do need to keep in mind that it’s a first-come-first-served situation, though, so aim to get there early, especially if you’re visiting in the peak summer season.

This campground takes its name from the Crags Trail, and this is one of the must-do hikes in the area, leading you through forests and meadows and up to stunning overlooks with views of Pikes Peak. If you’re feeling super adventurous, the nearby Devil’s Playground Trail will take you all the way to the summit of Pikes Peak – just brace yourself for a strenuous climb!

Clyde Campground

Another good option if you want a quiet, no-hassle spot deep in the Pike National Forest, Clyde Campground is small and ideal for van campers looking for a simpler camping experience surrounded by nature.

There aren’t any hookups here, but the campground does offer plenty of shade, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Not to mention, the peaceful atmosphere surrounding the camp makes it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.

You’re not far from some amazing outdoor activities here, either. There are several hiking trails that weave through the forest, and Eleven Mile Reservoir is nearby and is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon fishing or kayaking. Also, if you’re up for it, Pikes Peak is within easy reach for a challenging day hike.

Goldfield RV Park

Last, but certainly not least, we have Goldfield Park. If you like being close to the city but still want easy access to the mountains, the central location of this campground is your ideal base camp, no matter what you want to spend your time doing.

There are full hookups at Goldfield, as well as WiFi and laundry facilities, so you’ll have all the comforts of home while you’re exploring the area. It’s pet friendly, too, so your furry travel buddy can come along for the ride – just make sure you keep them on a leash outside of the confines of your campervan.

When you’re ready to venture out, you’re just minutes away from some of the region’s most iconic spots like Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, and Pike. All of these should satisfy your craving for nature, and for those times you want to enjoy some culture, take a stroll through Old Colorado City for some history and shopping, or head to Manitou Springs for a fun day out.

Final Thoughts

From epic mountain views to laid-back RV resorts, Colorado Springs is truly a camper’s ultimate destination. Whether you want to be close to the action or completely off the beaten path, there’s a campground here that will perfectly fit your vibe.

When it comes to hitting the road in style, Travellers Autobarn has you covered with van rentals that include unlimited miles, so you can explore as far and wide as you want. The fun doesn’t have to end in Colorado Springs, either, and when you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider extending your road trip by visiting some of the best campgrounds in the US.

Wherever the road takes you, have fun, stay safe, and keep the spirit of adventure alive!