Popular camping resource The Dyrt has published the results of their 2024 ‘Best Places to Camp’ awards, which is broken down into six regions found around the country. Colorado is included in the ‘Mountain Region,’ and ended up with two camping areas making the cut to be included in the region’s ‘top 10.’

Ranking 2nd among all spots in the ‘Mountain Region,’ was a dispersed camping area found in the San Luis Valley – Sacred White Shell Mountain.

Here’s The Dyrt’s description of the spot:

“Nestled up against the side of Blanca Peak, this dispersed camping area is very close to Great Sand Dunes National Park, and only about a five-minute drive from the excellent hike to Zapata Falls. It’s another great place for stargazing or night-sky photography. Fire pits are about the only amenity here, but supplies and civilization await in the nearby town of Alamosa.”

As noted by The Dyrt, the amenities at this spot are few, but that’s often preferred by some campers. It’s also worth mentioning that this campground doesn’t offer much protection from the elements. That said, few places in the state are better for stargazing than the San Luis Valley and given this camping area’s high capacity and close proximity to nearby attractions, it’s sure to be a hit – just don’t go when it’s really windy or rainy.

Sacred White Shell Mountain camping area has a 4.5-star rating (out of five stars) on The Dyrt, with 43 reviews. Learn more here.

The second Colorado spot to be featured among the ‘top 10’ camping areas of the ‘Mountain Region’ was Prospector Campground, located in Summit County.

Here’s The Dyrt’s description of that spot:

“With views of Dillon Reservoir in the White River National Forest in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this high-altitude campground is a favorite among boaters and anglers. The campground also has easy access to the 50-mile Summit County trail system for hikers and bikers, as well as plenty of other hiking trails that lead to epic mountain views. Local wildlife includes elk and bighorn sheep. Campsites have picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets and drinking water, but no electrical hookups. A good base for exploring the fun mountain towns of Frisco and Silverthorne.”

While Frisco and Silverthorne get a shoutout in the description from The Dyrt, it’s also worth mentioning that Breckenridge, Keystone Resort, and Arapahoe Basin Ski Area aren’t far away, either, each offering a collection of activities year-round. Plus, this camping area’s close proximity to Dillon Reservoir makes it a great place to stay for those seeking to participate in water activities. Those without their own kayak or paddleboard are able to find rental equipment in nearby towns.

Prospector Campground has a 5-star rating with 45 reviews on The Dyrt. Find more information here.

“Camping is more of a year-round activity now than it’s ever been, but I still love May because it’s the traditional beginning of the camping season, and we get to unveil our annual lists of the Best Places to Camp in each region of the country,” says Sarah Smith, founder of The Dyrt. “On this year’s lists we see private campgrounds that are working harder than ever to provide the amenities that campers desire these days, while also remaining true to the essence of providing an experience in nature. Free camping locations on some of the most naturally beautiful land in the country dominate this year’s lists, as well. Congratulations to all the winners. Campers, update your bucket lists!”

According to The Dyrt, they’re the number one app for camping availability, campsite photos, and campsite reviews. The Dyrt provides a great tool for finding campsite options around the country.

Find The Dyrt’s full list of best camping spots in the ‘Mountain Region’ here, which includes camping areas in Wyoming, Montana, Arizona, New Mexico, Idaho, and Utah among their ‘top 10’ selections. Top campsites in other parts of the country can be found here.