Camping Near Denver - UPDATED w/ Pics

[mylsuhat]

Taking a quick trip with the fiancé up to Denver for her birthday August 19-23.

I want to camp one night but not sure where we should go.

ideally:
• quick drive from Denver
• decent hike in but nothing crazy (2-5 miles)
• bonus, maybe some elk summer range

I have decent camping experience from elk hunting, she has zero. Want a nice simple trip, let her experience the beauty.

 

[Bear Wrestler]

Look up Camp Rock Campground between Mt. Evans and Evergreen, and use it as a jumping off point. Since you're willing to hike in a bit you should be able to get away from people, which is tough to do anywhere near Denver. Less than a mile from the trailhead to Mt. Evans wilderness. The trail will take you past private land near the trailhead. Lots of elk and deer, a few moose in the area, and if you really want to hike there are bighorn sheep and mountain goats way up there. Expect a fire ban and post pics and report back if you decide to try it. It's on my list of places to check out.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recarea/?recid=80805

 

[mylsuhat]

Love that suggestion!


I am pretty sure we will do the Beartrack Lakes Loop. Camp overnight out at the lake and work out way back in the morning.

Beartrack Lakes Loop Hiking Trail, Idaho Springs, Colorado

Easy-going route with streams, views, and a beautiful alpine lake. Near Idaho Springs, Colorado.

www.hikingproject.com

 

[Clarkdale17]

I've camped at Beartracks lakes before although I came in the other direction from Rosalie/Tanglewood trail. Beautiful area but you will see people. If you can make it happen I'd recommend trying to do the trip during the week rather than the weekend. I was there on the weekend and there were about 4 or 5 camps at the lake

 

[mylsuhat]

We arrive late on Wednesday. I would like to do it on Thursday/Friday but I think it would be best if we took a day to acclimate a little (coming from South Louisiana). Because of that, I am thinking Friday/Saturday.

 

[mylsuhat]

@Bear Wrestler Thank you so much for the recommendation! We had an amazing trip and saw 6-7 different moose!

 

[Vandy321]

How were the crowds...looks like a fine spot to go throw feathers at some cutthroat

 

[mylsuhat]

There were 4-5 guys fishing on friday when we got there. Friday night more people showed up but we were out early in the morning Saturday.

 

[Bear Wrestler]

Looks like a great trip. I am jealous!