Cheyenne Mountain State Park
00 review410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80926, United States
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
$28.00 - $41.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$41.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites cost $28-$41 per night, depending on type. An additional $9 per day park entry fee applies, making the total cost $37-$50 per night for campers.
About this campground
Discover your perfect basecamp at Cheyenne Mountain State Park, where 61 thoughtfully designed campsites await your arrival. Choose from 51 full-service sites equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, or embrace a more rustic experience at one of 10 secluded walk-in tent sites. Each campsite features a paved parking pad, picnic table, and fire pit for those memorable evening gatherings under the stars. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here – enjoy flush toilets, hot coin-operated showers after a day of hiking, and even laundry facilities to refresh your gear. The welcoming Visitor Center serves as your gateway to adventure, while families will love the playground and evening programs at the amphitheater where rangers share stories of the mountain's rich heritage.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers a variety of camping options, including full-service RV sites, walk-in tent sites, and cabin rentals.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadow of history at this remarkable park, neighboring the legendary Fort Carson military installation and the iconic NORAD headquarters buried deep within Cheyenne Mountain. This storied landscape has watched over Colorado Springs for generations, from Native American hunting grounds to Cold War command centers, making every sunrise here a connection to the past.
ElevationPerched at nature's perfect balancing point where the Great Plains kiss the Rocky Mountains, this unique campground offers the best of both worlds. Here, prairie grasses give way to pine forests, creating a dramatic transition zone that captures the essence of Colorado's diverse landscapes in one spectacular setting.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to breathtaking panoramas where Cheyenne Mountain rises majestically above your campsite, while the twinkling lights of Colorado Springs spread out like a jewel box below. This stunning natural amphitheater serves as home to curious deer, soaring hawks, and occasional black bears who remind visitors they're guests in a thriving ecosystem. The dramatic meeting of plains and peaks creates an ever-changing canvas of colors and textures, from golden prairie grasses swaying in the morning breeze to rugged granite cliffs glowing pink at sunset.
Geological RegionNestled against the eastern flank of Cheyenne Mountain, this geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's artistry along the southern Colorado Front Range. The park protects a rare tapestry of ecosystems where ancient granite peaks plunge into rolling grasslands, creating diverse habitats that remain remarkably untouched by development. This pristine transition zone offers campers a front-row seat to observe how dramatically Colorado's landscape transforms from horizontal plains to vertical peaks, all within a single magnificent view.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers some handicap-accessible trails and picnic tables. Multiple users noted that the campground and facilities are modern and easy to navigate.
Sites SizeSpacious sites with large, paved pads and gravel tent areas. Walk-in sites are smaller but offer seclusion among scrub oak.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels; some sites are well-separated with scrub oak providing natural barriers, while others are more exposed.
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent campers are recommended to choose walk-in sites for seclusion, particularly in the Meadows Loop.
Best CampsitesSite 47 is frequently praised for privacy and natural surroundings. Site 13 in Gobbler Grove and site 48 for tent camping are noted as exceptional.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in allowed from 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 days per 28-day period as per Colorado Parks regulations.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of six people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at www.cpwshop.com or via phone at 800-244-5613.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up tent sites are available but limited, requiring a short hike from the parking lot. Demand is high, even during off-season months like November, according to reviews.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are subject to a 14-day freeze period for changes if made outside the six-month reservation window. Cancellation policies are managed via cpwshop.com.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers diverse activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The park features 28 miles of trails and an archery range. Visitors frequently highlighted the well-maintained, marked trails and stunning views.
Hiking
The park features 28 miles of trails varying in difficulty, from leisurely walks to challenging routes. Trails like Sundance and Talon Loops provide scenic overlooks. Dogs are allowed on designated trails only.Biking
Trails accommodate mountain bikers with diverse terrains, including technical routes like Cougar's Shadow.Wildlife viewing
Common sightings include deer, rabbits, and prairie dogs. The park's undisturbed natural setting enhances wildlife opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
The visitor center offers interpretive displays and programs like family-friendly events in the summer.Winter Activities
Limited winter activities due to cold temperatures, but trails remain accessible for hiking.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Each campsite includes a fire pit and grill. Firewood must be purchased on-site or brought by campers. Emergency water hoses are strictly for fire emergencies.
Hazards
General hazardsMountain lions, bears, and rattlesnakes have been reported in the area. Wildlife hazards are noted by local residents and campers.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services, including hospitals, are within 10 miles in Colorado Springs.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are located throughout the park near campsites and common areas. Specific pickup schedules are not mentioned.
Common complaintsMany reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the additional daily park fees ($9), noise from Fort Carson (bugle calls and artillery), and lack of shade at campsites. Coin showers often have limited functionality.
HostCampground hosts sell firewood at $6 per bundle, manage visitor inquiries, and assist with reservations.
Campground Map
410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80926, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-25, take exit 135. West on Hwy 83/Academy Blvd. to Hwy 115. South on Hwy 115. Go to Nelson Blvd (Gate 1 of Fort Carson will be to the left) and turn right onto JL Ranch Heights and into the park.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. There were no explicit mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain affecting accessibility.Nearby places
Colorado Springs is the nearest city
distance and specific travel time not provided.
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, fuel stations, and dining options are within 10 miles in Colorado Springs. Walmart and other essentials are reported nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cheyenne Mountain State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews are highly positive, emphasizing the park's cleanliness, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities. Some users mentioned drawbacks like minimal shade and the proximity of Fort Carson causing occasional noise.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, abundant trails, spacious campsites, and picturesque views. Many users appreciated the peace and quiet and the proximity to Colorado Springs' attractions.
Common Concerns
Noise from Fort Carson's artillery drills and reveille, occasional issues with shower water temperature, and limited privacy in some campsites.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve campsites well in advance due to high demand, bring quarters for laundry and showers, and prepare for potential noise from Fort Carson.
Seasonal Insights
Campground use is high year-round, with summer offering the most activities and winter being quieter. Wildlife activity and trail conditions vary by season.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The views were second to none!' 2. 'One of the most beautiful, clean, and quiet places we have camped.' 3. 'The bathrooms and showers are by far the best ones I've ever used.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 13 in Gobbler Grove is highly praised for its spaciousness and hookups. Walk-in sites like #32 offer seclusion but require a short hike from parking.
Accessibility Features
Several users confirmed good accessibility for RVs and individuals with disabilities, mentioning level sites and accessible trails.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome but limited to designated trails. Owners are advised to keep pets leashed due to wildlife like mountain lions and bears.
Last updated August 10, 2025