Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is the ideal place for unbeatable outdoor adventures and camping. From fly fishing at the Cache de la Poudre River to cooking dinner while the sun sets over the mountains, there are endless opportunities for a memorable camping experience just a stone’s throw from town. Whether you’re looking for a private or public campground, family-friendly, or a completely remote off-grid spot, Fort Collins has a little bit of everything within reach. As the premier dealer of Fort Collins teardrop trailers, it’s our goal to get you outside and inspire you to stay there – and we hope these campsite recommendations do just that!
Ansel Watrous Campground
First up, we have the Ansel Watrous Campground, which is located right on the Cache de la Poudre River just 22 miles northwest of Fort Collins. With an upper and a lower campground situated off the river and campsite reservations on a first-come, first-serve basis, this campground is a hot commodity and spots go quickly so be sure to plan ahead. Enjoy hiking, fishing, and rafting all within close vicinity of camp and end your night relaxing in a hammock or by the campfire watching the sunset over the river.
Fee Area – Yes
Distance – 22 miles
Time – 30 minutes
Horsetooth Reservoir South Bay Campground
A classic recreation area for Fort Collins folks, Horsetooth Reservoir boasts an immense amount of trails for hiking, biking, and running. On top of that, this reservoir is popular for fishing, boating, paddle boarding, and water skiing in the summer. With hundreds of campsites to choose from, Horsetooth Reservoir is the perfect place to spend an action-packed weekend with friends, family, or the pups! Just a 10-mile drive from downtown Fort Collins, you really can’t beat the convenience of Horsetooth. Even better, the campsites are designed to fit every type of camper from tent camping to teardrop trailers to large RVs – it’s a place for everyone to kick back, relax and enjoy an outdoor weekend close to the city.
Fee Area – Yes
Distance – 10 Miles
Time – 20 minutes
Monastery Campground
Located in Drake, Colorado, Monastery Campground is located up a gravel road on US Forest Service land. To get to this spot, we recommend having at least a high-clearance, two-wheel-drive vehicle, as well as checking the weather and taking the season into consideration before going. It is a steep climb up the mountain so this location isn’t for those squeamish of heights or with small towing vehicles. There are many open dispersed spots to choose from ranging from ones with great mountain views to others nestled in the trees for more privacy. While there are no designated amenities since this is on forest service land, there are a bunch of options for hiking and climbing in close proximity to camp. If you’re looking for stellar views, fewer people, and activity nearby – this more off-grid option is probably for you!
Fee Area – No
Distance – 33 miles
Time – 1 hour
Kelly Flats Campground
For another great river campsite, look no further than the Kelly Flats Campground. This campsite is situated off of Highway 14 and offers a beautiful open conifer forest setting along the Cache de la Poudre River. Campsites are first-come, first-serve and amenities include a picnic table, bathrooms, and a fire grate.
Fee Area – Yes
Distance – 31 Miles
Time – 50 minutes
Pack your bags, grab your fishing rod or hiking shoes and get out there and enjoy all that Fort Collins has to offer! If you’re in the market for an adventure rig or rental, we’re the spot for Fort Collins teardrop trailers so feel free to drop us a line.
