Campspot and happyly Partner to Share Their Favorite Unique Colorado Destinations

It’s always fun to explore a new area while camping. It’s even better to get recommendations from someone who really knows the area and can recommend unique destinations that you might have otherwise missed! We’ve partnered with our friends at happyly, an app that helps parents find hikes, walking trails, playgrounds, indoor activities, and kid-friendly eats, to share unique Colorado destinations recommended by their ambassador community!

Here are a few destinations in Colorado we think you might like: 

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs

This registered National Natural Landmark has gorgeous views of unique red rock formations surrounded by lush greenery. There are 15 marked hiking trails to choose from, all varying in difficulty and length. Choose from an easy 20-minute hike to a 4-mile challenge. Whatever hike you decide on, there is always a worthy payoff at the end. We recommend heading to the Visitors Center to pick up a physical copy of their trail maps that show the hikes and their level of difficulty. The Visitors Center is also home to a brand new world-class Geo-Trekker theater that shows an immersive and exciting video every 20 minutes that explains how the Garden of the Gods came to be. 

-Natalie Proctor, USA Ambassador for happyly 

Gem Lake Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park 

The 3.5-mile hike to Gem Lake is steep on the way up, but well worth it.  There are lovely views of Estes Park to stop at and admire (and catch your breath!), but the real highlight is the gorgeous little Gem Lake.  We stopped for a while at the lake to have lunch and were rewarded with gorgeous reflections in the clear water, a rocky wall on the far side of the lake, and tons of chipmunks ready to eat our food! 

-Emily O’Grady, USA Ambassador for happyly 

Clear Creek Canyon Park in Jefferson County

The hikes that are part of Clear Creek Canyon Park are the perfect way to feel like you’re taking part in the Colorado mountain life … without actually having to hike up a mountain. Although the entire Clear Creek Trail is 20.1 miles long, you can obviously pick where you start and for how long you hike. Luckily, the entire thing is fairly flat and easy and most parts are even paved, which means it’s very stroller friendly. The creek makes an excellent addition to your hike, and at certain areas throughout you can even head down to dip your feet in. Where we began our adventure — at the Big Easy Trailhead entrance — there were well-maintained restrooms and a few picnic areas before you even hit the trail. 

– Cheryl Lock, CO Ambassador for happyly 

Sweet Cow – Sweet Treat Spot with 6 Locations in Colorado

This Colorado-based sweet treat spot is one of our favorites! Locally sourced ingredients, small-batch ice cream, and compostable products are what make Sweet Cow more than just a sweet treat. The overall store design is inspired by a retro 1960’s soda fountain, complete with stools and all. The Denver location even has a giant disco ball hanging from the ceiling! Their menu consists of root beer floats, milkshakes, ice cream sundaes, ice cream sandwiches, and the simple but classic waffle cone scoop. 

-Natalie Proctor, USA Ambassador for happyly 

Swansea Park in Denver 

Swansea Park is one of Denver’s hidden gems! What I appreciated most about the playground was that it was actually designed by local elementary school children through Radian’s “Imagine Possibilities” youth leadership program. From the way my girls (ages 6, 10, 12) reacted, I’d say they did a fantastic job! When you arrive, you’ll park at the Swansea Recreation Center and will need to walk a short distance to get to the playground area. Along the way is a fitness park with a variety of equipment to get some exercise in! The large play structure is unique with its blue peaks and orange (very high) slides. There are rope obstacles inside and under the structure, a bridge to crawl through, and rope nets on the outside. You’ll also find single bars, rings, and complicated ways to climb inside. As if that part of the playground wasn’t exciting enough, there is also a long zip line high off the ground. It gives quite the thrill!

– Christy Schaefer, CO ambassador for happyly 

Campspot destinations that would make a perfect home base for your Colorado Adventure: 

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Larkspur in Larkspur, CO 

Whether you’re looking for camping near Denver or an RV park en route to Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Colorado when you stay at the award-winning Jellystone Park™ at Larkspur. This spacious 100-acre RV resort offers a wide selection of lodging options. Bring your RV, relax in your tent, or experience a fully-appointed cottage. 

The Farmhouse RV Resort at Royal Gorge in Canon City, CO

The Farmhouse RV Resort at Royal Gorge is located in the beautiful Royal Gorge region of Canon City, CO. This incredible valley provides unmatched mountain views, picturesque sunsets, and amenities the entire family will love. Enjoy walking trails throughout the park, a large playground area, jumping pillow, park events, and more. 

River Run RV Resort in Granby, CO 

Discover Granby, Colorado’s best-kept secret at River Run RV Resort. Vacation where the sky meets the land. Where foot meets the trail, fly meets the river, and eyes greet every sunset as they melt over the horizon. River Run offers a variety of RV sites, tent sites, and vacation rentals. While you’re there check out other fun amenities including an apex arcade, community center, pool & hot tubs, mini-golf, and more! 

Platte River Fort Resort & Event Center in Greeley, CO

Platte River Fort Campground is a destination like no other in Northern Colorado. The natural setting boasts grassy meadows and wildflowers, stately trees, and the beautiful South Platte River. The Lotus Belle glamping yurts and covered wagon are a decadent retreat for families who want to enjoy nature in comfort. 

Winding River Resort in Grand Lake, CO

Find the perfect vacation at Winding River Resort near Grand Lake, CO. Cabin Rentals and camping options are surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho National Forest. This mountain setting delivers an array of activities, including horseback riding, snowmobiling, and hiking. 

Discover nearby activities and adventure plans with the happyly app!

Activities include hikes, parks, playgrounds, bike rides, water activities, family-friendly restaurants, sweet treat spots, wineries, breweries, and much more. 

Follow these steps to claim your complimentary access:  

• Step 1: Go to www.happyly.com and click Redeem Code (top left corner)
• Step 2: Create an account and log in
• Step 3: Use code: CAMPSPOT to activate the membership *valid for a 45-Day Complimentary Village Premium Membership
• Step 4: Download the happyly app and login with your account credentials
• Step 5: Let the Adventures Begin!

*Offer expires on 6/25/2021