Raptor Glen Campground

Hello, Colorado outdoor enthusiasts! Are you dreaming of a camping experience that combines breathtaking mountain views, abundant wildlife, and easy access to an extensive network of trails, all with the convenience of modern amenities? Then it's time to discover Raptor Glen Campground, nestled within the magnificent Cheyenne Mountain State Park in Colorado Springs, CO. This is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a "clean amazing campground" that serves as a fantastic basecamp for exploring one of Colorado's "crown jewels" in its state park system. For local users, Raptor Glen offers a versatile and highly enjoyable outdoor escape right in your backyard. Let's delve into what makes this campground a premier choice for your next Colorado adventure.

Raptor Glen Campground is one of the distinct camping loops located within the expansive Cheyenne Mountain State Park, just south of Colorado Springs, CO. This state park is renowned for its preservation of significant open spaces along the Colorado Front Range, boasting diverse ecosystems from prairies to mountain tops. Raptor Glen offers a variety of campsites, catering to both RV enthusiasts and tent campers, including 51 full hook-up sites (water, electric, sewer) and 10 unique walk-in tent sites. What consistently stands out in visitor feedback is the campground's impeccable cleanliness and exceptional views. Campers rave about the "clean amazing campground" and the "spectacular" views overlooking Colorado Springs, especially at night. Situated at an elevation of around 6,000-7,000 feet, Raptor Glen provides a refreshing mountain escape with abundant wildlife sightings, including deer, turkeys, and rabbits. The park's commitment to superior facilities is evident, with well-maintained restrooms, coin-operated hot showers, and even a laundry room available at the Camper Services building (seasonal). It's an ideal setting for those looking to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor adventurers alike.

Raptor Glen Campground is centrally located within Cheyenne Mountain State Park at 410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA. This address places it conveniently just south of downtown Colorado Springs, making it highly accessible for residents of the Front Range and beyond. From I-25, visitors can take exit 135, then head west on Highway 83/Academy Blvd. to Highway 115, and finally south on Highway 115 to Nelson Blvd (which is JL Ranch Heights). The paved roads leading into and within the park are well-maintained, ensuring easy access for all types of vehicles, including large RVs, although some individual sites within Raptor Glen may have moderate grades or shorter pads, so checking specific site details on reservation platforms is always recommended. The campground's tiered layout on the side of Cheyenne Mountain maximizes the "amazing views of Colorado Springs below with the majestic Cheyenne Mountain above." Its strategic location means that while campers feel immersed in nature, they are still within a short drive of Colorado Springs' numerous attractions, including the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Garden of the Gods, and local amenities, offering the best of both worlds.

• Full Hook-up RV Sites: 51 sites equipped with water, electrical (30 & 50 amp), and sewer hookups.
• Walk-in Tent Sites: 10 unique, secluded tent-only sites accessible via a short walk from a designated parking area.
• Paved Parking Pads: All sites feature paved parking areas for convenience.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill grate for cooking and campfires (always check current fire restrictions).
• Restrooms: Clean, modern flush toilets are available in multiple locations throughout the campground loops.
• Coin-Operated Hot Showers: Accessible at the Camper Services building, providing a welcome comfort after a day of activities (building typically open April-November).
• Coin-Operated Laundry Room: Available at the Camper Services building for guest convenience (seasonal).
• Dump Station: An RV dump station is available within the park.
• Potable Water: Available at full hook-up sites and at communal hydrants.
• Firewood and Ice Sales: Available at the Camper Services building (seasonal).
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are located within the park for children.
• Visitor Center: Offers interpretive displays, a gift shop, and information on park activities and programs.
• Pet Friendly: Leashed pets are welcome in developed areas, including campgrounds, and on designated trails near campgrounds.

• Stunning Views: Campers at Raptor Glen are consistently amazed by the "amazing views" of Colorado Springs and the plains stretching for miles to the east, as well as the majestic presence of Cheyenne Mountain to the west. Night views of the city lights are particularly spectacular.
• Extensive Trail System: The campground offers direct access to Cheyenne Mountain State Park's "over 28 miles of hiking and biking trails," catering to various skill levels and offering diverse landscapes from prairies to woodlands and forests. This is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Abundant Wildlife: The park is teeming with wildlife, providing frequent sightings of deer, rabbits, wild turkeys, and even coyotes, enhancing the sense of being immersed in nature.
• Clean and Modern Facilities: Reviews consistently highlight the "clean amazing campground," including "clean showers and bathrooms," which are a significant comfort for campers. The availability of laundry facilities is another notable convenience.
• Versatile Camping Options: With both full hook-up RV sites and secluded walk-in tent sites, Raptor Glen accommodates a wide range of camping preferences and styles.
• Proximity to City Attractions: Despite its natural setting, the campground is just a short drive from popular Colorado Springs attractions like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Garden of the Gods, and historical sites, offering a perfect blend of wilderness and urban exploration.
• Generously Sized Sites: Many sites are described as "generously sized" and "private enough," ensuring comfort and space for campers.
• Educational Programs: The park offers educational and interpretive programs, including nature hikes and birding walks, enriching the visitor experience.

• Address: 410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA (This is the address for Cheyenne Mountain State Park, within which Raptor Glen Campground is located.)
• Park Office Phone: (719) 576-2016
• Email: cheyenne.park@state.co.us
• Website for Reservations: Reservations for campsites at Raptor Glen are made through ReserveAmerica. It is highly recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak season, as this is a very popular campground. Search for "Cheyenne Mountain State Park" on ReserveAmerica.

For Coloradans seeking an exceptional and convenient outdoor escape, Raptor Glen Campground within Cheyenne Mountain State Park stands out as an ideal choice. Its immediate suitability for local users stems from its prime location just south of Colorado Springs, offering a swift transition from urban life to stunning mountain wilderness without extensive travel. This accessibility makes it perfect for weekend getaways, mid-week escapes, or simply a quick nature fix.

The campground’s remarkable combination of natural beauty and modern convenience truly caters to the diverse preferences of local campers. Whether you're an RV enthusiast seeking the comfort of "full hook-up sites" or a tent camper desiring a more "secluded" and "private" walk-in experience, Raptor Glen delivers. The consistently praised "clean showers and bathrooms" and the availability of laundry facilities are significant amenities that enhance comfort, particularly for families or those on longer trips. Beyond comfort, the park's "over 28 miles of hiking and biking trails" provide endless opportunities for outdoor activity, appealing to Colorado's active population. The abundant "wildlife" sightings and the "spectacular" views of the city lights and mountains create a profound sense of connection to our state's unique landscape. Furthermore, its proximity to Colorado Springs' beloved attractions means that locals can seamlessly blend outdoor adventure with cultural and recreational pursuits. Raptor Glen Campground offers a versatile, well-maintained, and deeply rewarding experience, making it a perfectly tailored destination for Coloradans looking to immerse themselves in nature's beauty right in their own vibrant backyard.

Raptor Glen Campground

Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA