Flying to Colorado for a Camping Holiday: Best Airports and Scenic Campsites
Colorado is a dream come true for every outdoorsy person. The adventure it offers across diverse landscapes attracts thrill-seekers from around the world. Nothing compares to the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains, mesmerising alpine lakes, pine forests, and spectacular desert landscapes you’ll find in this US state. So, if you are planning on flying to Colorado for a camping holiday, you have come to the right place.
Camping in Colorado is as memorable as it can get. From tent camping trips and campervan adventures to peaceful lakeside campsites, you will have plenty of options to satisfy your adventurous spirit. As a UK traveller, you will be flying to Colorado for a camping holiday. So, as you search for cheap flights to the USA, there are many things to consider for a smooth trip. From choosing the right airport to picking the most scenic campsites for your itinerary, a memorable holiday takes a lot of planning. We are here to help you through the process.
Best Airports to Fly Into for a Colorado Camping Holiday
Colorado has numerous airports that serve different parts of the state. The best choice depends on which national parks, mountain towns and camping areas you want to explore. Denver is usually the most convenient option for international visitors, while regional airports can save considerable driving time if you already have a specific destination in mind.
Let’s explore various options below.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Most international travellers arriving in the state arrive through Denver International Airport. It is considered the main gateway to the state. It offers extensive domestic and international connections, including flights from major cities across the UK and Europe. If you are planning a road trip through the Rocky Mountains, this might be the best starting point.
From Denver, you can drive to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, explore the Front Range, or continue west along Interstate 70 to mountain destinations such as Vail and Glenwood Springs.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
If you plan to visit Southern Colorado, Colorado Springs Airport might be a good alternative. It’s an ideal fit if you plan to combine your camping trip with visits to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the surrounding mountain landscapes.
It is not as big as the Denver International Airport. But you can get both domestic connections and car rental facilities here, making it a good choice for many travellers. From here, you can drive towards woodland campsites, mountain lakes and the spectacular scenery around Pikes Peak.
Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT)
If you are planning a camping holiday with a trip to red-rock landscapes, dramatic canyons and the western side of Colorado, this airport might serve you well. It provides access to Colorado National Monument, Fruita and the surrounding outdoor recreation areas.
The region offers a different experience from the state’s famous alpine destinations, with sandstone formations, desert scenery and spectacular sunset views. If that’s what intrigues you, landing at Grand Junction Regional Airport might be a good option.
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)
For travellers heading towards southwestern Colorado, Montrose Regional Airport is a good option. It provides access to the San Juan Mountains, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Ouray and Telluride.
You’ll enjoy the surrounding landscapes, with mountain scenery, hiking trails, alpine lakes, and quieter outdoor attractions. From Montrose, you can also explore the beautiful mountain roads around Ridgway and Ouray.
Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO)
Another considerable arrival option for travellers who want to explore southwestern Colorado. It is particularly suitable for visitors interested in the San Juan Mountains, Mesa Verde National Park and the scenic countryside around Durango.
The town is a great base for many outdoor adventures. Nearby mountains offer some of the area’s most breathtaking camping sites, lush forests, and stunning rivers.
Best Scenic Campsites in Colorado
Once you’ve chosen your departure airport and started searching for American Airlines flights, you can use this time to learn about the best scenic campsites in the state. Some of them are listed below.
Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park
If you have always wanted to witness the famous Rocky Mountain scenery, you will love this campsite. Moraine Park Campground is the best place to camp with the glorious mountain scenery, open meadows, and forested landscapes surrounding you.
You can camp here and explore the surrounding hiking trails. Also, don’t forget the wildlife you might get a chance to see here. The camp also offers enough facilities for a safe adventure.
Silver Bar Campground, Aspen
What’s more mesmerising than camping surrounded by glorious alpine scenery? Situated along Maroon Creek, this small campground is surrounded by trees and mountain landscapes, creating a peaceful setting for nature lovers.
Hikers and photographers love it for its location near the Maroon Bells. Your time here will be all about exploring scenic trails, enjoying mountain views, and photographing breathtaking Aspen landscapes. Only four walk-in, tent-only sites are available here, with limited facilities.
Piñon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park
For travellers who want to experience something different from typical mountain scenery, Piñon Flats Campground can be a great option. Located within Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, it sits beneath the impressive Sangre de Cristo Mountains, close to North America’s tallest dunes.
You get a beautiful contrast between golden dunes, rugged mountains and surrounding grasslands. This makes it one of the state’s most popular campsites. Adventure activities you can do here include hiking across the dunes, sandboarding, exploring the nearby Medano Creek when seasonal conditions allow, and stargazing at night. You also get enough facilities here.
Saddlehorn Campground, Colorado National Monument
Travellers who want dramatic desert scenery instead of mountains and alpine forests should head to Saddlehorn Campground. It is located within Colorado National Monument. While camping here, you will be surrounded by towering sandstone formations, deep canyons and rugged rock landscapes.
The campground sits among juniper and pinyon trees, offering a peaceful place to stay while you explore the monument. Rim Rock Drive is a prominent highlight of the adventure here. It features a scenic road that winds through the area’s impressive geological formations. Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Facilities here include picnic tables, charcoal grills, flush toilets and seasonal water.
Summing Up
Colorado is the hub of camping adventures. If you have always wanted to experience its scenic campsites, there is no better time than now. Now you know how easy it is to fly to Colorado for a camping holiday, with numerous airport options. So it is time to start planning your adventure to your favourite scenic campsite in this spectacular US state.
