Riverside Campground

Introduction / Overview

Nestled within the stunning landscape of Eleven Mile Canyon, Riverside Campground offers an authentic and beautiful Colorado camping experience. This is a place where the majestic views and the soothing sounds of the South Platte River become the backdrop for your mountain getaway. Situated at an elevation of 8,000 feet, the campground provides a scenic and refreshing escape from the Front Range. While the campsites may be more open than some wooded areas, the trade-off is spectacular panoramic views and a feeling of spaciousness. It’s an ideal spot for those who seek a peaceful base camp from which to explore the surrounding natural wonders. Whether you’re a family looking to introduce your kids to the great outdoors, an angler seeking the perfect catch, or a hiker ready to hit the trail, Riverside Campground provides a welcoming and picturesque setting for your adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Riverside Campground is conveniently located on Co Rd 96, Florissant, CO 80816, USA. Its prime location places it across the road from the South Platte River, a major draw for many visitors. The campground is situated in Eleven Mile Canyon, a geologic wonder carved by the river itself and bordered by impressive granite walls. This location makes it a central hub for outdoor activities in the area. Access to the campground is straightforward, and the road through the area is generally well-maintained. A notable feature is the campground's commitment to accessibility, offering both a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making it a viable option for a wider range of visitors. On-site parking is available, and some sites can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet in length, providing a good level of convenience for those with larger vehicles. The short drive to various attractions, including Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and the town of Lake George, adds to its appeal as a central and accessible destination.

Services Offered

• Tent and RV Camping: The campground caters to both tent campers and RV enthusiasts, with a variety of spacious sites available. Note that some tent sites are walk-in only.
• Public Toilets: Vault toilets are available on-site for the convenience of all campers. While tidiness may vary, they are a welcome amenity in this natural setting.
• Running Water: Running water is available at the campground, a crucial and convenient service for campers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a large fire pit, perfect for cooking, gathering, and enjoying the evenings.
• Good for Kids: The open space, easy river access, and nearby hiking trails make this campground an excellent choice for a family trip. There's plenty of room for kids to explore and play safely.
• Dogs Allowed: For those traveling with their furry companions, dogs are welcome at the campground, ensuring the whole family can enjoy the trip together.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The campground features a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance, making it more inclusive for visitors with disabilities.

Features / Highlights

• Easy River Access: One of the most significant highlights is the direct and easy access to the South Platte River. This proximity makes it a premier spot for fishing, wading, or simply relaxing by the water. The river is known for its abundant rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout, making it a dream destination for anglers.
• Scenic Eleven Mile Canyon: The campground’s setting in Eleven Mile Canyon is a major attraction. The canyon is known for its stunning, polished granite cliffs and is a popular spot for scenic drives, rock climbing, and photography.
• Hard Rock Interpretive Trail: A one-mile self-guided interpretive trail starts from the campground, leading to a fantastic overlook of the canyon. It’s an easy and educational hike that offers beautiful views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
• Abundant Wildlife and Wildflowers: The area is rich in wildlife, with frequent sightings of elk, mule deer, and various smaller animals. Depending on the season, the surrounding landscape is filled with beautiful wildflowers, adding vibrant color to the views.
• Spacious Campsites: While some sites may lack shade, they are generally large and open, providing ample space for campers to spread out. The large fire pits are a plus for group gatherings.
• Central Base Camp: Riverside Campground serves as an excellent starting point for exploring nearby attractions, including the historic town of Florissant and the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, a significant fossil deposit that tells the story of prehistoric Colorado.

Contact Information

Address: Co Rd 96, Florissant, CO 80816, USA
Phone: (719) 836-2031
Mobile Phone: +1 719-836-2031

What is worth choosing?

Choosing Riverside Campground is about prioritizing location and a high-quality outdoor experience. For Colorado residents, this campground offers a quick and rewarding escape into the heart of the Rocky Mountains without the long drive to more remote areas. The most compelling reason to choose Riverside is its unparalleled access to the South Platte River and the stunning Eleven Mile Canyon. If you are an avid angler or simply enjoy the calming presence of flowing water, this campground is a perfect fit. The river's easy accessibility from the campsites means you can be fishing or skipping rocks within minutes of waking up.Furthermore, the campground is a fantastic choice for families. The open, spacious sites provide a safe environment for children to play, and the nearby trails are manageable and exciting for younger hikers. The opportunity to see abundant wildlife and beautiful wildflowers adds a layer of discovery and wonder to every stay. While some may note the lack of shade, this can be easily remedied with a canopy, and it allows for clear, unobstructed views of the stars at night—a truly magical experience in a dark sky area.The combination of key amenities like running water and toilets with the more primitive setting strikes a perfect balance. It provides a comfortable and convenient camping experience without feeling overly commercialized. For those who want to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature, while still having access to nearby attractions and easy access, Riverside Campground stands out as a top-tier destination. It offers the kind of scenic beauty and recreational opportunity that defines a quintessential Colorado camping trip, making it a place you’ll want to visit again and again.

Riverside Campground

Co Rd 96, Florissant, CO 80816, USA