There’s nothing like Colorado. With rugged mountains—numerous reaching 14,000 feet or higher—majestic ski towns, high desert, and alpine lakes, it’s no wonder that Colorado is a destination to visit. And we are proud to call it home.

Those aspects, and many more, are what make Colorado an ideal place to explore and camp. Camp cooking is always a big part of the journey, so there’s no doubt you will bring your outdoor stove to cook one pot meals or elaborate ones in the Centennial State. Just remember, water takes longer to boil at higher elevations.

Camping in Colorado? Bring Your Outdoor Stove to These Spots

Here are the campgrounds you should explore with your outdoor stove in the wilds of our great state of Colorado.

Gold Park Campground, Homestake Valley

Photo courtesy of Andrea S.

Trails to alpine lakes and hikes around serene creeks are all within a short jaunt from the Gold Park Campground. Located in White River National Forest along the Homestake Creek, Fancy Lake and the Missouri Lakes are just under five miles away from the campground, and provide a great respite from city life. If you’re into fly fishing, there’s plenty of critters to be caught close to the campsite in the creek. This campground is great for a getaway filled with fishing or hiking.

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Molas Lake Public Park, Silverton

Photo courtesy of Nicholas V.

Head over to the southwest region of the state near Silverton, Colorado and explore Molas Lake Public Park. This campground is located at about 10,000 feet in elevation, so be cautious of acute high altitude symptoms if you’re not used to higher elevations. But the views and the sunsets are worth it. Located on Molas Lake, which is surrounded by mountains, this western spot is as scenic as it gets. The campground is close to a trail system and offers plenty of access to fishing. You can also rent fishing gear, SUPs, and kayaks to take out on the lake. Though it is a popular spot, the campground offers privacy to its campers. Grab your outdoor stove, and plan that lakeside meal for this scenic spot.

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Silver Queen Campground, Aspen

Photo courtesy of Steph A.

Aspen is nestled in the Rock Mountains, and is known as a ski destination in the winter, but is also a great place to explore during the other three seasons—with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Silver Queen Campground sits at just under 8,500 feet, so those not used to higher elevations might have to acclimate their first few days. The campsite is a short walk to Maroon Creek and possesses a view of  Pyramid Peak, one of Colorado’s 14ers. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area is a great location for hikers and backpackers, with plenty of trails to explore and beautiful natural features including creeks, boulder fields, alpine trees, and larger than life mountains. Consider skipping a ski trip to Aspen, and explore this place instead.

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Prospector Campground, White River National Forest

Photo courtesy of Emily V.

Mountain and lake views steal the gaze of campers who stay at Prospector Campground. Located near Lake Dillon, campers have access to 26.8 miles of shoreline where they can swim, fish, kayak, or sail. Those who would prefer to hike can take advantage of the 50-mile Summit County trail system. While campers are cooking dinner on their outdoor stove, they might hear the bugles of bull elk at dusk, or catch a glimpse of bighorn sheep through binoculars.

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