Camping
by the season
Colorado’s diverse landscapes offer an adventure for every season. Whether you're seeking the vibrant blooms of spring, the warm sunshine of summer, the colorful foliage of fall, or the frosty beauty of winter, camping in Colorado is an experience that changes with the seasons. We’ve put together these resources to help you make the most of each season, with expert tips and insights on where to go, what to pack, what to drive and how to make the most of your time outdoors.
A Fresh Start to Adventure
As the snow melts and the flowers begin to bloom, spring in Colorado is a magical time to hit the trails and set up camp. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than summer, it’s the perfect season for those looking to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty in a quieter, more peaceful environment.
Expert Tips:
Best Spots: Head to higher elevations like Rocky Mountain National Park or the San Juan Mountains for a chance to catch the tail end of the snowpack, or explore the foothills for budding wildflowers and crisp air.
What to Pack: Pack layers! Spring temperatures can vary widely, so bring both warm clothing for the chilly mornings and afternoons, as well as lighter clothes for the midday sunshine. Don’t forget your rain gear—spring showers are common in Colorado.
Activity Ideas: Spring is ideal for wildflower hikes, bird watching, and fishing in the still-cold mountain streams. It’s also a great time to test your skills on a new trail or reconnect with nature after a long winter. For help in planning your routes, explore our Route Planning Ideas to discover the best locations for your spring adventure.
What to Drive: Opt for a heated campervan for easy access to higher elevations and flexibility in exploring both snowy and sunny spots.
SUN, blue skies, and endless fun
Summer in Colorado brings endless possibilities for outdoor fun. With warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, it's the perfect season for hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring Colorado’s stunning national parks.
Expert Tips:
Best Spots: Consider camping at locations like the Flatirons in Boulder or the Great Sand Dunes National Park. These spots offer a mix of adventure—from towering sand dunes to expansive views and endless hiking trails.
What to Pack: Since summer can bring intense sun, pack plenty of sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and moisture-wicking clothing. Bring bug spray to keep the mosquitoes at bay and a portable fan or cooling towels for the heat.
Activity Ideas: Summer is all about adventure! Whether it’s a multi-day hike, rafting on the Arkansas River, or a relaxing night by the campfire, the options are endless. Don’t miss out on the incredible wildflower displays at higher elevations! For a fully customized trip, check out our Custom Trips to plan a unique and personalized camping experience.
What to Drive: A 4x4 overland vehicle with a rooftop tent will give you the freedom to explore remote summer destinations with ease, especially for more rugged terrain and adventure.
Our Favorite Season
If you ask any Coloradoan, fall camping is often the most magical time of year. Crisp air, fewer crowds, and breathtaking foliage make it the perfect season to camp. The Rocky Mountains come alive with shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more comfortable.
Expert Tips:
Best Spots: Head to areas like Maroon Bells or Kebler Pass for some of the most vibrant fall colors in the state. If you love photography, fall in Colorado is nothing short of a dream.
What to Pack: Bring layers to stay warm in the mornings and evenings, as temperatures can drop quickly. A good sleeping bag is essential for chilly nights. Also, be sure to pack your camera—this is the season where Colorado’s beauty is at its peak!
Activity Ideas: Fall is the season for scenic drives, autumn hikes, and cozy campfires. Don't forget to check out the fall festivals happening around Colorado—many feature local produce, handmade goods, and outdoor activities that pair perfectly with camping.
What to Drive: Choose a campervan for a cozy, scenic experience as you take in the fall colors and access quieter, off-the-beaten-path camping sites or dispersed camping areas.
The Ultimate Adventure for the Bold
Winter camping in Colorado is not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace the cold, it’s one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences. The state transforms into a snowy wonderland, with quiet trails and pristine landscapes waiting to be explored. While winter camping poses unique challenges, it also opens the door to epic adventure.
Expert Tips:
Best Spots: Head to places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Crested Butte, or the San Juan Mountains for some of the best winter camping spots in Colorado. These regions offer a combination of deep snow and rugged terrain that will take your winter adventure to the next level.
What to Pack: Pack for the cold—think layered, moisture-wicking clothes, an insulated sleeping bag rated for freezing temperatures, and a four-season tent to protect you from the elements. Winter hiking boots and gaiters are a must, as well as crampons if you plan on trekking on icy terrain.
Activity Ideas: Winter camping in Colorado is all about embracing the season. Try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or simply soaking in the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. If you’re feeling adventurous, spend the day exploring a frozen waterfall or try your hand at ice fishing.
What to drive: Hit the slopes in our Rivian RS1, the ideal vehicle for mountain roads. The Rivian offers all-wheel drive and rugged capabilities to navigate snow-covered roads with ease. Or grab a heated campervan and enjoy your own private ski lodge.
Get the Full Winter Camping Guide
We've spent countless hours compiling the best tips, locations, and gear recommendations to help you enjoy winter camping to the fullest.
To dive deeper into the world of winter camping, grab our Colorado Winter Camping Guide, which is packed with expert advice, in-depth regional recommendations, and Gaia GPS locations and pins to help you plan your perfect winter getaway.
Not Into Winter Camping?
If winter camping doesn’t sound appealing, why not escape the snow and head to the warm, sunny desert instead? During the winter season, some of our Titus vehicles head to the desert, offering the perfect winter road trip getaway. Rent a campervan or overland vehicle from our Las Vegas location, and enjoy the beauty and serenity of the desert landscapes. From exploring iconic desert parks to relaxing under the clear skies, this is the ideal way to spend your winter without the cold.
Expert Tips:
Best Spots: The desert offers stunning destinations, including Valley of Fire, Utah’s Big 5, Canyon De Chelly, and Joshua Tree—each known for unique landscapes and remote camping.
What to Pack: Be sure to bring light, breathable clothing for warm days, layers for cooler nights, sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, and a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures.
Activity Ideas: Enjoy hiking, stargazing, photography, and off-roading in your overland vehicle to uncover even more hidden desert gems.
What to drive: Rent an overland vehicle from our Las Vegas location for a warm, rugged road trip to explore the stunning desert landscapes in comfort and style.
For more information and booking, check out our Las Vegas Campervan & Overland Rentals.
Each season in Colorado offers something special, and with the right preparation and mindset, every camping trip can become a memorable adventure. From the vibrant blooms of spring to the pristine beauty of winter, we’ve got you covered with expert tips, detailed guides, and all the resources you need to experience the best of Colorado camping, no matter the time of year.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your gear, grab your guide, and get ready for the camping trip of a lifetime!