Colorado Springs is the base for two of the most visited sights in the state: Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. It sits about 70 miles south of Denver on I-25, and it has state park and private campgrounds that handle larger RVs.
Sights worth planning around
Garden of the Gods is a free city park with red sandstone formations, paved walks and a visitor center. Parking lots fill by late morning in summer, so leave the RV at camp and take a smaller vehicle if you have one.
Pikes Peak rises to 14,115 feet. You can reach the summit by the Pikes Peak Highway, a toll road, or by the cog railway from Manitou Springs. Do not plan to drive a large motorhome to the top. The road is steep and winding, and the thin air at the summit affects both engines and people.
Camping near the city
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, on the southwest edge of the city, has a campground with views back over town and trails that start near the sites. Private RV resorts near Manitou Springs and along US-24 put you close to Garden of the Gods. Book summer dates early.
Family time
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, on the mountainside southwest of downtown.
- Manitou Springs, a small town with mineral springs and walkable shops.
- Golf courses across the city, if you want a tee time arranged as part of the trip.
When to go
Summer is peak season. The Pikes Peak Highway can close or restrict access in bad weather, so check before you go. Fall brings cooler days and fewer crowds; nights can drop below freezing.
