RV Campgrounds In Manitou Springs, Colorado -- Find Parks
38.8597° N, 104.9172° W
Quick Overview
Manitou Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak, where Victorian charm meets Rocky Mountain adventure in one of Colorado's most distinctive mountain towns. The mineral springs that gave this place its name still bubble up from the earth, and the town's historic architecture creates a backdrop unlike anywhere else in the state. You're looking at elevation around 6,300 feet, so expect crisp mountain air and stunning views from just about every angle.
The RV camping scene here runs several campgrounds that cater to different camping styles, with some offering free access for budget-conscious travelers. Most parks provide full hookups since this area attracts RVers who want comfort after days of hiking fourteeners or exploring Garden of the Gods. The campgrounds here tend to be smaller, family-owned operations rather than massive resort-style parks.
From your campsite, you're minutes from the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and the famous Incline trail that challenges even serious hikers. Garden of the Gods sits just down the road in Colorado Springs, offering easy access to those iconic red rock formations. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings provide a glimpse into ancient Puebloan culture, while the town's penny arcade and mineral springs create a quirky, old-fashioned atmosphere that kids absolutely love.
RVers here split between those seeking full amenities and mountain views, and others who prefer the authentic small-town vibe over resort-style camping. The elevation means cooler temperatures year-round, making this a popular escape from summer heat in lower elevations. Most campgrounds operate seasonally due to winter snow and freezing temperatures that can make RVing challenging.
Summer brings the biggest crowds as families flock here for hiking and sightseeing, while spring and fall offer better rates and fewer people. Winter camping requires serious preparation for snow and cold, though the views are spectacular.
Our listings below show exactly what each campground offers, from basic hookups to premium mountain views.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Manitou Springs
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All Dump Stations Near Manitou Springs
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pikes Peak RV Park | 0.9 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
| Crystal Kangaroo Campground | 1.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Garden of the Gods RV Resort | 1.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Garden Of The Gods RV Resort | 1.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Goldfield RV Park | 2.9 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
| Foot Of The Rockies RV Park | 4.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Northwoods Village Mature RV | 5.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Lone Duck Campground | 5.4 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
| Lone Duck Campground | 5.4 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
| Rocky Top Motel & Campground | 7.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Pikes Peak RV Park
0.9 miCrystal Kangaroo Campground
1.4 miGarden of the Gods RV Resort
1.7 miGarden Of The Gods RV Resort
1.8 miGoldfield RV Park
2.9 miFoot Of The Rockies RV Park
4.4 miNorthwoods Village Mature RV
5.1 miLone Duck Campground
5.4 miLone Duck Campground
5.4 miRocky Top Motel & Campground
7.1 miTraveling to Manitou Springs by RV
Highway 24 provides the main access route into Manitou Springs, connecting directly to I-25 through Colorado Springs about 6 miles east. The drive up from the interstate gains elevation steadily, so check your engine temperature if you're pulling a heavy rig. US-24 through the town itself gets narrow with Victorian-era buildings close to the road, making maneuvering larger RVs tricky in the downtown core.
Coming from Denver, take I-25 south for about 65 miles to the Cimarron Street exit, then follow signs west to Manitou Springs. The route from the south via I-25 through Colorado Springs offers easier navigation for big rigs. Avoid Manitou Avenue through downtown if you're over 30 feet - the street's narrow with tight turns and limited parking.
Fuel up in Colorado Springs before heading into town, as gas stations in Manitou Springs are limited and often crowded during peak season. King Soopers on 8th Street in Colorado Springs provides a good final supply stop with RV-friendly parking. The Walmart on South Academy Boulevard also works for last-minute supplies and has space for larger rigs.
Watch for seasonal road conditions on Pikes Peak Highway if you plan to drive to the summit - RVs and trailers aren't allowed on this route, but the information helps with general weather planning.
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Dump Station Costs in Manitou Springs
Nightly rates in Manitou Springs typically run $45-65 for basic full hookup sites, with premium mountain view spots reaching $70-85 during peak summer months. Currently a portion% of the area's several campgrounds offer free camping, while a portion% charge fees for hookups and amenities.
Summer pricing peaks from June through August when families visit for hiking and sightseeing. Spring and fall rates drop 20-30%, making May and September excellent value months with great weather. Winter sees the lowest rates, but many campgrounds close due to snow and freezing temperatures.
Passport America and Good Sam discounts apply at some area parks, potentially saving 10-50% on nightly rates. Harvest Hosts doesn't have locations directly in Manitou Springs, but several options exist within 30 minutes in Colorado Springs.
Groceries cost about 10-15% more than Denver metro prices, while gas runs 5-10 cents higher per gallon than Colorado Springs. Restaurant meals range from $12-18 for casual dining to $25-40 for upscale establishments. The free mineral springs and many hiking trails help keep entertainment costs low, though attractions like the Cog Railway ($40+ per person) and Cave of the Winds ($25+ per person) add up quickly.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Manitou Springs
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Best Time to Visit Manitou Springs by RV
Winter
December - February
15-45°F
Crowds: Low
Many campgrounds close due to snow and freezing temperatures. Limited services available but beautiful mountain scenery.
Spring
March - May
35-65°F
Crowds: Medium
Campgrounds reopen gradually. Great rates and fewer crowds, though weather can be unpredictable with late snow possible.
Summer
June - August
45-80°F
Crowds: High
Peak season with highest rates and crowds. Book well in advance for summer weekends and holidays.
Fall
September - November
25-70°F
Crowds: Medium
Excellent weather and aspen colors. Good rates return after Labor Day, but some campgrounds close by late October.
Explore the Manitou Springs Area
Garden of the Gods RV Resort in nearby Colorado Springs offers the most amenities if you want resort-style camping with mountain views, though it's about 15 minutes from downtown Manitou Springs. For a more authentic mountain experience, smaller parks right in Manitou Springs put you walking distance from the mineral springs and historic downtown.
Boondockers should check out dispersed camping options in Pike National Forest, though you'll need to drive 20-30 minutes from town to find suitable spots. The forest roads can be rough, so scout locations with your tow vehicle first.
Park your rig and walk everywhere once you're settled - Manitou Springs is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, and parking downtown is nearly impossible with an RV. The mineral springs are free to sample, and each has a different taste and mineral content. Bring a water bottle to try them all.
The Cliff House and Briarhurst Manor offer upscale dining, while Adam's Mountain Cafe serves excellent breakfast in a casual setting. For groceries, drive to Colorado Springs since Manitou Springs only has small convenience stores. Most restaurants welcome dogs on patios, making this a great destination for RVing with pets.
National Parks Nearby
Other Cities in Colorado
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Manitou Springs
What are the best RV campgrounds in Manitou Springs?
The area offers small, locally-owned campgrounds that provide full hookups with mountain views. Garden of the Gods RV Resort in nearby Colorado Springs provides resort amenities about 15 minutes away. Most parks in town focus on location and charm rather than extensive facilities.
Is there free RV camping near Manitou Springs?
Currently no free campgrounds operate directly in Manitou Springs, but dispersed camping is available in Pike National Forest about 20-30 minutes from town. These forest roads can be rough, so scout locations carefully and come prepared for primitive camping without hookups.
What is the best time of year to camp in Manitou Springs?
Late spring through early fall offers the best conditions, with May and September providing excellent weather and lower rates than peak summer. Summer brings crowds but guarantees all campgrounds are open. Winter camping is challenging due to snow and cold temperatures.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Manitou Springs?
Yes, the campgrounds in Manitou Springs typically offer full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections. Most parks cater to RVers who want comfort after hiking and exploring the area's mountain attractions rather than primitive camping experiences.
Can I take my RV up Pikes Peak?
No, RVs and trailers are not allowed on Pikes Peak Highway due to steep grades and narrow roads. You'll need to take the Cog Railway or drive a separate vehicle to reach the summit. The highway has strict vehicle restrictions for safety reasons.
How difficult is it to navigate Manitou Springs with a large RV?
Downtown Manitou Springs has narrow Victorian-era streets that are challenging for RVs over 30 feet. Plan to park at your campground and walk or drive a smaller vehicle into town. The main access roads are RV-friendly, but avoid downtown streets.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Manitou Springs?
The area offers small, locally-owned campgrounds that provide full hookups with mountain views. Garden of the Gods RV Resort in nearby Colorado Springs provides resort amenities about 15 minutes away. Most parks in town focus on location and charm rather than extensive facilities.
Is there free RV camping near Manitou Springs?
Currently no free campgrounds operate directly in Manitou Springs, but dispersed camping is available in Pike National Forest about 20-30 minutes from town. These forest roads can be rough, so scout locations carefully and come prepared for primitive camping without hookups.
What is the best time of year to camp in Manitou Springs?
Late spring through early fall offers the best conditions, with May and September providing excellent weather and lower rates than peak summer. Summer brings crowds but guarantees all campgrounds are open. Winter camping is challenging due to snow and cold temperatures.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Manitou Springs?
Yes, the campgrounds in Manitou Springs typically offer full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections. Most parks cater to RVers who want comfort after hiking and exploring the area's mountain attractions rather than primitive camping experiences.
Can I take my RV up Pikes Peak?
No, RVs and trailers are not allowed on Pikes Peak Highway due to steep grades and narrow roads. You'll need to take the Cog Railway or drive a separate vehicle to reach the summit. The highway has strict vehicle restrictions for safety reasons.
How difficult is it to navigate Manitou Springs with a large RV?
Downtown Manitou Springs has narrow Victorian-era streets that are challenging for RVs over 30 feet. Plan to park at your campground and walk or drive a smaller vehicle into town. The main access roads are RV-friendly, but avoid downtown streets.
Are there free dump stations in Manitou Springs?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Manitou Springs.
All Dump Stations Near Manitou Springs (72)
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