As we get closer to spring/summer (and rafting season!), we continue to hear more and more about lodging deals for Colorado vacationers. But no room discount can come close to the cash you’ll save if you camp during your Colorado rafting vacation. In the second post of our three-part piece on camping in Colorado, we’ll cover camping options in and around Idaho Springs. The town is home to our Clear Creek office, which sets up whitewater rafting trips for all experience levels.

Idaho Springs Camping
Since there’s so much to do in Idaho Springs, aside from amazing whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, you may want to stay awhile. If your stay involves camping rather than lodging, you could save the family a bundle.

In-town RV Parks
If you’re looking for a place in downtown Idaho Springs to park the RV, you have two options. Indian Springs Hot Springs Resort offers a campground that features water and electrical hookups. Campers receive discounts toward baths and pool. Cottonwood RV Campground can accommodate large RV’s but does not allow tents.

To save even more money on your Colorado rafting vacation, dispersed camping or national forest sites are usually a cheaper way to go. At the foot of Mount Evans Highway (State Highway 103) sits the USFS Clear Creek Ranger Station. Here, you’ll find great information on local trails, campgrounds, scenic areas, picnic spots and more. Some of our favorite developed USFS campgrounds in the Clear Creek Ranger District include

• West Chicago Creek: Popular for both tents and smaller RV’s, this campground features well water, vault toilets and a day picnic area. At only $13/night, it’s a great deal, especially considering there’s a hiking trailhead inside the campground.
• Mizpah: Closer to Empire than Idaho Springs, this 11-site campground sits near plenty of fishing and mountain bike opportunities, so it’s perfect for those who want to add a little adventure to their Colorado rafting vacation.
• Echo Lake: Expect amazing views of Mount Evans at this 18-site campground. It’s the perfect starting point for both scenic drives and major backcountry hikes. Vault toilets and well water are available.

For more campgrounds in the Clear Creek Ranger District, visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/arnf/recreation/camping-picnicking/developed/district/index.shtml and scroll down to the Clear Creek section. Many campgrounds in this district are near other historic Colorado towns, including Georgetown and Central City. Most are popular, so make reservations if available.

With so much forest area surrounding Idaho Springs, Colorado, it’s easy to find good dispersed camping. Ask at the Ranger Station for any rules or updates regarding dispersed camping.