Try These Longmont Campgrounds, RV Parks, & Tent Camping Near Town
If you’re looking for a quick camping getaway, Longmont is the perfect place to start- there are so many options close by! Easy access to parks in the mountains and along the Front Range, proximity to trails, and available amenities have made Longmont campgrounds a popular base camp for exploring Northern Colorado.
Top Longmont Campgrounds (Closest)
While campgrounds in Longmont may not offer the same experience as a secluded mountain campsite, they’re great for shorter, more comfortable camping trips. Whether you want to stay closer to home or simply don’t like giving up all the comforts of modern life, these are the best and closest Longmont campgrounds:
St. Vrain State Park:
Located only six miles southeast in Firestone, St. Vrain State Park offers 87 campsites, most of which are equipped with electrical hookups. It’s a popular spot for RV and tent campers thanks to its access to eight fishing ponds and multiple walking trails. The park is also known for bird watching, with over 200 species recorded.
However, its location just off I-25 means traffic noise is common, especially at night. It won’t feel like a true wilderness campout, but St. Vrain is great for families and camping with kids or groups!
Related: 8 Most Stunning Parks in Boulder County, According to Photographers ➔
LaVern M. Johnson Park:
About 10 miles west of Longmont in Lyons, this park offers 16 tent sites along North St. Vrain Creek. The availability of restrooms, showers, and a playground are all an added bonus to campers. That said, this park is quite popular and it might be hard to find a spot, depending on the season.
Less than a quarter mile from downtown Lyons restaurants and shops, LaVern M. Johnson Park is ideal for families or anyone wanting to stay close to the city.
Boulder County Fairgrounds:
This campground is located right in Longmont, 2 miles from downtown. It has 96 sites total, with six designated for tents. Rates range from $10 to $35 per night, and all sites are first-come, first-served. While amenities are basic, the location makes it a convenient choice.
Union Reservoir Nature Area
Union Reservoir, located just east of Longmont, offers limited but convenient tent camping right on the water. There are 6 primitive sites available by reservation, each with picnic tables and fire rings. While there are no hookups or showers, campers can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. It’s a quiet, low-key option for those who want to stay local and wake up to lake views.
Related: Where Can You Swim and Do Watersports near Longmont? Best Longmont Lakes & Reservoirs ➔
Dispersed Camping in the Mountains
If you’re looking for a more remote, off-grid experience, dispersed camping near Longmont offers privacy, views, and direct access to public lands. These sites are free to use, usually first-come, first-served, and have minimal to no facilities. They’re ideal for tent campers who prefer fewer neighbors and more immersion in nature.
Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area:
Just outside Nederland, Gordon Gulch is one of the closest dispersed camping areas to Longmont within Roosevelt National Forest. It offers flat, forested pull-ins with room for tents and small campers. Basic fire rings are available, but no water or toilets. It’s popular with boondockers, so expect company on weekends and holidays.
Ceran St. Vrain Trail Area:
Located near Peaceful Valley, this trailhead-based camping area is ideal for tent campers looking to stay close to the creek and forest. Heavily shaded and walk-in only, this site has no amenities, only water access. Great for hikes and anyone who wants to enjoy the forest in solitude. Camping is allowed at sites 200 feet away from the trailhead, creek, and trail.
Allenspark Dispersed Camping:
Higher in elevation and a bit more remote, Allenspark offers scenic views and fewer crowds. Temperatures stay cooler in the summer, and sites are spaced out. There’s little to no cell service, so plan ahead before heading here.
Nearby State Parks for Tent Camping
Several state parks near Longmont offer well-maintained campgrounds, scenic landscapes, and a range of recreational options. While they require a bit more of a drive, these locations are popular for weekend trips and provide more amenities than typical dispersed sites. Here are three nearby parks worth considering.
Boyd Lake State Park:
Located in Loveland, Boyd Lake State Park is known for its large reservoir, boating, fishing, and swimming. The park includes paved bike paths and drive-in tent sites, making it a good fit for families. It’s often busy in the summer, so reservations are recommended.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park:
This park sits about 40 miles southwest of Longmont and features dense forests, diverse wildlife, and over 100 tent-friendly campsites. Elevation here is higher, so expect cooler temperatures and shaded areas, especially in the Reverends Ridge campground.
Carter Lake Campgrounds:
Just west of Berthoud, Carter Lake has several developed campgrounds around its reservoir. It’s an easy drive from Longmont and offers both tent and RV camping, including great lake views.
Longmont CO RV Parks
If you’re not as focused on tent camping, some RV parks near Longmont also accommodate tents or provide additional amenities for mixed groups. These spots are ideal if you need hookups or prefer a more developed site with restrooms, showers, and easier access.
Gopher Gulch RV Park:
Gopher Gulch is a locally known park offering full RV hookups and basic facilities. Tent camping is allowed upon request. It’s a practical choice for campers who want electricity, water, or extended stays.
Riverview RV Park:
Located near the river and a short drive from Longmont, Riverview a beautiful RV park. It’s a good base for exploring Boulder, Estes Park, and other nearby attractions. Amenities include restrooms, Wi-Fi, and shaded lots.
Finding Lesser-Known Longmont Campgrounds
For campers looking to keep costs low, there are plenty of free and low-cost camping options near Longmont. Many of these are located on public land managed by the Forest Service and are ideal for tents. Amenities are minimal, so be prepared to pack in everything you need.
Freecampsites.net is a helpful tool for finding user-reviewed camping spots on public land. The site features a GPS-based map interface and focuses heavily on Forest Service areas, making it a go-to resource for budget-conscious campers.
To find campgrounds that are more hidden gems, use satellite view on mapping apps to look for clearings off forest roads. Avoid private property, and always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these areas clean and accessible for others.
FAQs
Can you camp for free near Longmont, CO?
Yes, there are free dispersed camping options near Longmont, including Gordon Gulch and Ceran St. Vrain, both located on Forest Service land. These sites have no services but offer scenic, quiet spaces for campers.
What are the best family-friendly tent campgrounds near Longmont?
LaVern M. Johnson Park and St. Vrain State Park both offer restrooms, recreation areas, and water access, making it ideal for families with kids.
Are there any campgrounds in Longmont itself?
Yes, the Boulder County Fairgrounds has affordable, in-town camping with basic amenities and easy access to shops.
What’s the best time of year for tent camping in Longmont?
Late spring through early fall is best. June to September offers warm temps and dry conditions, though popular campgrounds can fill quickly on weekends.
