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4.6(198 reviews)

Rainbow Lakes Campground

Nederland, CO 80466, United States

Plain-text version · Denver (plain text)

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About This Campsite

Welcome to Rainbow Lakes Campground

Situated in the stunning landscapes of Colorado, Rainbow Lakes Campground offers a serene escape into nature. With its picturesque surroundings and access to beautiful hiking trails, it's a perfect spot for both adventurers and those seeking tranquility.

What to Expect

  • Camping Facilities: The campground boasts clean facilities, including pit toilets that are well-maintained by the diligent camp hosts. Each camping site is equipped with a fire pit, bench table, and bear box. Note that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so heading out early in the week is a strategic move.
  • Access: Reaching the campground involves a somewhat challenging drive, ideally suited for vehicles with all-wheel drive. While sedans have been seen making the trip, it's not universally recommended without caution.
  • Activities: Rainbow Lakes offers a pleasant hike to the lakes, which is generally accessible with some rocky patches. The trail suits hikers of various skill levels, making it particularly family-friendly.
  • Fees: Camping is priced at $18 per night with an additional $8 fee per vehicle. Remember to bring cash or checks for payment.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Arrive early as spots aren't reservable and fill up quickly, especially during weekends.
  • Be prepared for the elements by packing sunscreen, bug spray, and a trash bag since there are no public trash cans.
  • If you're planning on using a less robust vehicle for the drive, go extra early and note the road conditions.
  • For a more peaceful experience, consider arriving on a weekday; later in the week can make it more difficult to find an available spot.

Overall Thoughts

Rainbow Lakes Campground is more than just a camping ground; it's an adventure nestled amongst nature's beauty. Its welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by a dedicated host, providing clean facilities and a connective community ambiance. Whether you're there for the rugged hiking experience or to relax by the campfire, this campground is certain to rejuvenate your spirit and offer a memorable getaway.

Photos

Photos provided by Google

Reviews

Reviews provided by Google

Zachary Thayer

08/21/2024

Rainbow Lakes and the Campground was gorgeous! A very clean campground with bathrooms. The campground is first come first serve so ideally head up in the morning during a weekday. The sites are great for small campers and Vans as well as easy tent setups. The road to the trailhead and campground is a bit rough so probably best to head up in an suv with AWD at least. We did see a handful of sedans that made it up so it is definitely possible but I wouldn't necessarily recommend it. The trail to the lakes has a bit of ascent but overall is quite easy. Overall this place is definitely worth the trip up. Be sure to stop in Ward or Nederlands on the way back for some good food!

sarah soptic

07/31/2024

We couldn't stay at the campground because it's first come first serve. But we drove through and it looked amazing. Clean bathrooms clean sites and close to hiking. Beautiful hiking trail. No trashcan! Bri g a trash bag. Please don't throw your trash on the ground. It does get windy and super sunny. Pack sunscreen and bug spray. The flies were pretty bad. The lady at the camp ground was super nice. And there were some park ladies that gave us some directions also super friendly. Rainbow lakes is a good hike for kids. It's challenging but not to long. It does get rocky in some areas. Gotta love Colorado. It is also kinda a long windy drive to get there. Not good if you get car sick. We also did the 505 4 wheel trail. It's no joke. Honestly unless you have a huge vehicle and know what you're doing I wouldn't try it. Lots of other camping close by too.

Amie Conant

07/18/2024

We went up on a Sunday not knowing if we would get a spot to camp as they aren't reservable. We drove our Rivian with a trailer. No problem with that. We found a spot that someone was leaving. But many other people that came up didn't get a spot. Every campsite has a bear locker. Everything that the bear might think is sweet must be locked up at night in locker or trailer. Lots of college students like this place. To them, camping is about staying up until at least midnight singing, dancing, playing music and everyone from campsites around get to join in if they want. They have fun. There is a hike to the lakes and to see the glacier. For me with hip problems and 2 poles, it was a struggle to make it to the first lake. And There always seems to be an approaching storm to add to the ambiance. The first day, the bathroom had plenty of toilet paper. When it ran out on the 3rd day we were there, the camp host was there within the hour to refill. There's no antibacterial stuff in the dispenser and no light at night, so bring your own.

Thomas Johnston

08/13/2024

Awesome camp ground. Went on a little solitude trip the other Sunday night and came back to Denver refreshed. The camp host, Omyra, is awesome! She was very kind and made sure that I had everything that I needed. Love this spot.

Jayne Lightner

06/29/2024

No reservations first to arrive get a spot. Big camping areas fire pit, bench table, bear box. Pit toilets but clean! I saw the host clean the toilets at least twice per day. Nice hiking trails to nearby lakes. $18 per night plus $8 per vehicle (cash/check only) I suggest arriving on a Thursday morning to ensure a spot, it's a long dirt road to have to turn around if it's full. Just take the extra day off work! It's worth it.

Rainbow Lakes Campground — the United States's Camp Guide