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Top Pet-Friendly Camping Spots In Denver

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Summer camping season is officially here, but don't leave Fido out of all the fun. There are lots of spots all over Colorado that are pet-friendly, and you can take your pup with you for lots of summertime family fun. Most places do require that you leash your pet at all times, and they typically require a leash that is less than six feet long. Be sure to bring a water dish with you so your pet has plenty of water to drink, and let him or her rest often, because the altitude and heat can get to them as much (or worse) than it gets to you. Here are five great pet-friendly spots to go camping with your dog near Denver.
Winding River Resort Village
1447 County Road 491
Grand Lake, CO 80447
(970) 627-3215
www.windingriverresort.com

Price: Camping rates range from $35 to $49 per night, based on double occupancy

One of the most beautiful camping spots in Colorado is about a two-hour drive from Denver. Grand Lake is always a fantastic camping location thanks to the picturesque scenery, stunning wildlife and amazing panoramic views. The Winding River Resort Village is one of many lovely campground in the area, and it's totally pet friendly. Of course, you'll need to keep your pooch leashed at all times, and you can even bring horses to this expansive camping area. There is a lot to enjoy in the natural beauty surrounding you at Winding River Resort Village, so bring along your pup for a memorable trip for the entire family.

Pikes Peak RV Park
320 Manitou Ave
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
(719) 685-9459
www.pprvpk.com

Price: Camping rates range from $30 to $50

Located at the base of world famous Pikes Peak, in the center of beautiful and historic Manitou Springs, the Pikes Peak RV Park is a perfect basecamp for anyone who loves to hike with their dog. It's located near the Garden of the Gods and is walking distance to downtown Manitou Springs, plus dogs are allowed at your site, but no more than two. This is strictly an RV camping location, however, so if you're looking for a tent camping spot, you'll need to look elsewhere. If you've got your own camping RV, and you want a fun place to visit with your pooch(es) then check out this beautiful location.

Related: Top Pet-Friendly Hotels In Denver

Rifle Falls State Park
5775 CO-325
Rifle, CO 81650
(970) 625-1607
www.cpw.state.co.us

Price: Camping rates range from $10 to $28 per night

Have you been to Rifle Falls State Park yet? It may be one of the longer drives on this list but it's the closest you can get to a tropical vacation in Colorado. This massive falls create a stunning backdrop for hiking and picnicking. There are lots of different campsites available here as well, from basic tent camping to electric hookups and more, so bring the whole family and the pooch out for this one. Dogs are allowed, but make sure to keep him on a leash that is no more than six feet long and always clean up after him. Then you'll have the perfect family vacation at the stunningly beautiful Rifle Falls. Don't forget the camera, you'll want it for this trip.

Glacier Basin Campground
Highway 36 west
Estes Park, CO 80517
(970) 586-1206
www.nps.gov

Price: Camping rates start at $26 per night

Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin is one of the best spots to camp with your pup. You can take your pooch on a hike to check out the many 14,000 foot mountains in the area, or you can check out one of the many nature programs presented by the Park Rangers at Rocky Mountain National Park. Dogs are allowed here, but you must keep them on a leash that is under six feet long and, as always, clean up after your pooch. It's pretty much tent-only camping here, but with views like this, you'll be thrilled to take your whole family to Glacier Basin.

Related: Top Dog Walking Trails In Denver

Cherry Creek Reservoir
4201 S. Parker Road
Aurora, CO 80016
(303) 690-1166
www.cpw.state.co.us

Price: Camping rates range from $18 to $26 per night

If you're looking for a super close spot to take your pup for a quick camping getaway, look no further than Cherry Creek Reservoir. This local hot spot is always a popular place to visit with your leashed pooch. Camping is mostly tent-only, though there are some full hook-up sties with electric, water and sewer. Your pup will love the off-leash area, which is a 107-acre fenced in area where your pup can run free. Keep in mind that you must keep in sight of your dog and clean up after him or her at all times. No more than three dogs are allowed per person, but it's a truly fun way to tire out your pooch during your family getaway.

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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