Golden Gate Canyon State Park - Backpacking/Camping

Review

Intro

Golden Gate Canyon State Park is very accessible to all Front Range towns and offers a wealth of activities, including overnight camping. Of course day visitors will also enjoy the biking, hiking, trail running and wildlife viewing, which is prevalent in this sprawling park. Despite the easy access to this beautiful park, there is generally no cell phone service here, adding to the wild feel of the place.

What Makes It Great

But there’s nothing like spending a night or two out of town under the stars. For that Golden Gate Canyon offers ample opportunity. And, unlike National Parks, dogs are welcome in the backcountry here.

Backcountry campers looking for something more remote can take advantage of four Appalachian Trail-style three-sided structures that can sleep six people each, as well as about 20 backcountry camping sites.

Front country campers can take advantage of more than 100 developed camp sites. There’s even a group camping area with a cabin that can be rented for family gatherings, but it doesn’t allow dogs.

One of the coolest features about this park is the cabins and yurts available for rent. This is the best way to have an authentic overnight Colorado experience without having to travel more than an hour from downtown Denver. Some of these shelters even allow dogs and they are all very nice and affordable.

Who is Going to Love It

With so many camping options and things to do around the park during the day, Golden Gate Canyon State Park is the ideal place for any camper. 

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Check the park’s website for fee information, seasonal restrictions and reservations. It’s open year round in varying capacities and is a great place to practice your winter camping skills relatively close to home.