How to Camp Under Stars at Eldorado Canyon, Denver

Camping under the stars at Eldorado Canyon, just outside Denver, Colorado, offers an unforgettable fusion of rugged natural beauty, star-filled skies, and the quiet solitude that modern life often steals away. Nestled in the foothills of the Front Range, Eldorado Canyon State Park is renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs, lush riparian corridors, and remarkably dark night skies—making it one of the most accessible and rewarding locations in the Denver metro area for stargazing and overnight camping. Unlike crowded urban campgrounds, Eldorado Canyon delivers an immersive wilderness experience within a short drive from the city, perfect for weekend adventurers, photography enthusiasts, and nature lovers seeking to reconnect with the cosmos.

This guide is designed for anyone—from first-time campers to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts—who wants to camp under the stars at Eldorado Canyon. We’ll walk you through every practical step, share expert best practices, recommend essential tools, highlight real-world examples, and answer the most common questions. Whether you’re planning a solo retreat or a romantic night under the Milky Way, this comprehensive tutorial ensures you’re prepared, informed, and respectful of the environment.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Visit

Before packing your gear, begin with thorough research. Eldorado Canyon State Park is managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), and its policies, seasonal closures, and reservation systems can change. Visit the official CPW website to confirm current conditions, fire restrictions, and campground availability. The park’s main campground, the Eldorado Canyon Campground, offers 28 sites, but only 12 are designated for overnight camping with tent access. The rest are for day use or vehicle access only.

Reservations are required year-round and can be made up to 12 months in advance through the Colorado State Parks reservation system. Popular weekends—especially during spring, summer, and early fall—book out quickly. Aim to reserve at least 3–6 months ahead for weekends. If you’re flexible, midweek stays (Tuesday–Thursday) offer better availability and fewer visitors, enhancing your stargazing experience.

2. Choose the Right Campsite for Stargazing

Not all campsites at Eldorado Canyon are created equal when it comes to night sky visibility. Sites

1–#6, located near the northern edge of the campground, offer the most unobstructed views to the west and south, where the Milky Way arcs overhead during summer months. These sites are slightly elevated and farther from the main park road, reducing light pollution from passing vehicles.

Avoid sites directly under dense tree canopies or those facing east toward the canyon entrance, as sunrise light and ambient glow from nearby roads can interfere with night vision. If you’re unsure, call the park office before arrival and ask for the best sites for stargazing. Park rangers often have real-time knowledge of tree growth, new obstructions, or recent changes in lighting.

3. Pack the Right Gear for Night Camping

Even in summer, temperatures at Eldorado Canyon can drop into the 40s°F (4–7°C) after sunset. Your gear list should prioritize warmth, comfort, and minimal light disruption:

• Tent: A 3-season, freestanding tent with good ventilation is ideal. Avoid cheap, thin materials—condensation can form quickly in the canyon’s humid microclimate.
• Sleeping Bag: Choose a bag rated for at least 20°F (-6°C), even in July. Down bags offer superior warmth-to-weight ratio, but synthetic fills perform better if moisture is a concern.
• Sleeping Pad: Insulated pads (R-value of 3.5 or higher) are essential. The ground here is rocky and retains cold overnight.
• Headlamp: Red-light mode is non-negotiable. White light destroys night vision and disturbs wildlife and other campers.
• Portable Power Bank: For charging headlamps, star apps, or a small camera. Solar chargers are ineffective at night.
• Star Chart or App: Download SkySafari, Stellarium, or Star Walk 2. Enable “Night Mode” to preserve your eyes’ sensitivity to dim light.
• Thermal Clothing: Fleece, wool base layers, and a windproof shell will keep you warm during late-night viewing.
• Water Filter or Purification Tablets: While potable water is available at the campground, bringing your own ensures you’re never without clean water.

Pro tip: Leave all unnecessary electronics behind. The goal is immersion—not distraction.

4. Arrive Before Sunset

Arriving before dusk gives you time to set up camp without rushing and allows your eyes to begin adjusting to low light. This process, called dark adaptation, takes 20–30 minutes. Once your tent is pitched and gear organized, take a short walk around the campground to identify the best viewing spots. Avoid using white lights after sunset. If you need to see something, use your red-light headlamp or wrap a red cloth around a flashlight.

Use this time to note landmarks: the position of the North Star, the Orion constellation rising in the east, or the bright planet Venus setting in the west. These will serve as reference points later when the sky fully darkens.

5. Prepare for Nighttime Stargazing

Once darkness falls, turn off all lights—including your tent’s interior light. Close the tent flap. Let your eyes adjust for at least 20 minutes. Use your star app to identify what’s visible. During summer months (June–August), the Milky Way is clearly visible from around 10:30 PM to 3:00 AM, arching from northeast to southwest. Look for the Summer Triangle: Vega, Deneb, and Altair.

In autumn (September–October), the Milky Way shifts to the northwest, and Jupiter and Saturn become prominent in the south. Winter (November–February) offers crisp, clear skies with Orion’s Belt dominating the southern horizon. Spring (March–May) brings the Pleiades and Hyades clusters into view.

Bring a blanket or reclining camp chair. Lying flat on the ground is uncomfortable on rocky terrain. A low-profile, insulated recliner designed for astronomy (like the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker) allows you to gaze upward without strain.

6. Capture the Night Sky

If you’re interested in astrophotography, bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings, a wide-angle lens (14–24mm), and a sturdy tripod. Use these settings as a starting point:

• Aperture: f/2.8 or wider
• Shutter Speed: 15–25 seconds (longer exposures risk star trails due to Earth’s rotation)
• ISO: 1600–6400 (adjust based on noise levels)
• Focus: Manual, set to infinity (∞). Use live view and zoom in on a bright star to fine-tune.

Use a remote shutter release or the camera’s 2-second timer to avoid shake. Shoot in RAW format for maximum editing flexibility. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries—cold drains them quickly.

7. Respect Quiet Hours and Wildlife

Eldorado Canyon enforces quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Keep conversations low, avoid playing music—even through headphones—and never use fireworks or lanterns. The canyon is home to coyotes, mountain lions, black bears, and numerous bird species. Store all food, trash, and scented items (toothpaste, deodorant) in the provided bear-proof lockers. Never leave food in your tent.

Even the faint scent of peanut butter or energy bars can attract wildlife. Use odor-proof bags (like Opsak) and keep your campsite clean. If you hear unusual noises at night, stay inside your tent. Most wildlife will move on without incident.

8. Pack Out Everything You Bring In

Eldorado Canyon is a protected state park with a strict “Leave No Trace” policy. This includes not just trash, but also biodegradable items like fruit peels, napkins, and food scraps. Even compostable items can disrupt local ecosystems. Use the provided trash and recycling bins, or carry out your waste if bins are full.

Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites if you need to relieve yourself. Cover and disguise the hole with natural materials. Never use soap in streams or rivers—even biodegradable soap harms aquatic life.

9. Depart with Care

Before leaving, do a final sweep of your campsite. Check under rocks, inside tent vestibules, and around your fire ring (if permitted). Even a single candy wrapper or plastic tie can remain visible for years. If you used a fire ring, extinguish all flames completely and scatter cold ashes. Do not leave rocks or sticks arranged as “art”—they alter the natural landscape.

Thank the park rangers if you see them. Their work is vital to preserving this space for future visitors.

Best Practices

Minimize Light Pollution

Light pollution is the greatest enemy of stargazing. Even a small phone screen or a glowing camp lantern can ruin the experience for others. Always use red-light settings on devices. Cover any blinking LEDs on electronics with black electrical tape. If you’re using a camera, disable the LCD preview after taking a shot.

Encourage your group to use only one headlamp at a time. Rotate who is responsible for lighting during setup or cooking. Teach children the importance of darkness—explain how stars are hidden by artificial light.

Timing Is Everything

The best stargazing occurs during the new moon phase, when the sky is at its darkest. Check a lunar calendar before planning your trip. Avoid full moon weekends if your goal is to see fainter stars and the Milky Way. The moon’s brightness can wash out thousands of stars.

Also consider weather. Clear, dry nights are ideal. Humidity and high clouds obscure the sky. Use apps like Clear Outside or the National Weather Service to check cloud cover forecasts for the Eldorado Canyon area. Even a few high cirrus clouds can diffuse starlight.

Know the Park’s Rules

Firewood collection is prohibited. All firewood must be purchased from the park or brought from outside (certified pest-free). Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings. Never leave a fire unattended. Extinguish completely with water—not dirt.

Drone use is strictly prohibited in state parks without a special permit. This includes recreational photography. The canyon is a protected habitat, and drones disturb wildlife and disrupt the peace of other visitors.

Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on hiking trails beyond the first 0.5 miles. Keep them close during nighttime hours to avoid startling wildlife.

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

Follow the seven core Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impacts.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

These aren’t suggestions—they’re the foundation of sustainable outdoor recreation. Eldorado Canyon sees over 300,000 visitors annually. Each person’s responsibility adds up to either preservation or degradation.

Stay Weather-Ready

Mountain weather changes rapidly. Even on a warm summer day, a thunderstorm can roll in from the west by late afternoon. Pack a waterproof rainfly for your tent and a compact emergency blanket. Lightning is a real danger in the canyon’s exposed ridges.

If you hear thunder, stop all outdoor activities immediately. Seek shelter in your tent or vehicle. Do not stand under tall trees or on ridgelines. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before resuming activities.

Learn Basic Star Navigation

You don’t need a degree in astronomy to enjoy the night sky. Learn to find the Big Dipper and Polaris (the North Star). The Big Dipper’s two outer stars point directly to Polaris, which remains nearly stationary in the sky. Once you find it, you can orient yourself regardless of where you are in the campground.

Learn the difference between stars and planets. Planets don’t twinkle—they glow steadily. Jupiter and Venus are often the brightest objects in the night sky after the moon. Recognizing them adds depth to your experience.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps

• SkySafari 6 Plus: The most accurate star map app for iOS and Android. Includes real-time sky simulation, satellite tracking, and AR mode to point your phone at the sky and identify objects.
• Stellarium Web: A free, browser-based version of the desktop planetarium software. Great for pre-trip planning on your laptop.
• Clear Outside: Hyperlocal weather and cloud cover forecasts for stargazing. Shows transparency, seeing conditions, and moon phase for your exact coordinates.
• Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD): NASA’s daily curated image of space. Inspires what to look for and when.
• AllTrails: For locating nearby trails and viewpoints that offer panoramic night sky vistas beyond the campground.

Recommended Gear

• Tent: MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 — lightweight, durable, and excellent ventilation.
• Sleeping Bag: Western Mountaineering UltraLite — 20°F down bag with exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio.
• Pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm — R-value of 6.9, ideal for cold ground.
• Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 400-R — red light mode, rechargeable, and waterproof.
• Star Chart: Sky & Telescope’s Pocket Sky Atlas — compact, durable, and detailed for naked-eye viewing.
• Camera: Sony Alpha a6400 with Sigma 14mm f/1.8 DG HSM Art lens — excellent for astrophotography in low light.
• Thermos: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth — keeps coffee or tea hot for hours during chilly nights.

Books and Guides

• NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe by Terence Dickinson — a classic for beginners and experts alike.
• The Stars: A New Way to See Them by H.A. Rey — uses simple illustrations to teach constellations.
• Colorado State Parks Field Guide by Colorado Parks and Wildlife — includes trail maps, wildlife info, and seasonal highlights.

Online Resources

• Colorado Parks and Wildlife – Eldorado Canyon — official site for reservations, alerts, and rules.
• Dark Site Finder — shows light pollution maps. Eldorado Canyon ranks as a “Green Zone” (Bortle Scale 3), ideal for stargazing.
• Astronomy Magazine — monthly sky guides and event calendars.
• Galactic Imaging — tutorials on astrophotography techniques specific to Colorado’s high-altitude skies.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Photographer’s Retreat

Emma, a 28-year-old photographer from Boulder, planned a solo trip to Eldorado Canyon during the new moon in July. She reserved Site

3, arrived at 5:30 PM, and spent the hour before sunset setting up her tripod and testing her camera settings. As darkness fell, she captured 47 long-exposure shots of the Milky Way arching above the canyon walls. She used a red-light headlamp to adjust settings without disturbing her night vision. She stayed up until 2:00 AM, listening to the rustle of a coyote pack moving through the brush. She left at sunrise, packed every scrap of trash, and posted her images on Instagram with the caption: “The sky here doesn’t just dazzle—it hums.” Her post went viral among astrophotography communities, drawing attention to the park’s underrated night sky.

Example 2: A Family’s First Camping Experience

The Ramirez family from Thornton, Colorado, brought their two children (ages 7 and 10) for their first overnight camping trip. They reserved Site

12, which had a nearby picnic table and water access. They used glow-in-the-dark stars on the tent ceiling to make bedtime fun. After dinner, they lay on a blanket and used the SkySafari app to identify Jupiter and Saturn. The kids were amazed when they saw the rings around Saturn on the screen. The parents taught them how to find the Big Dipper and pretend it was a spoon scooping up stars. They didn’t take photos—they just watched. The next morning, the children asked to go back next month. “We didn’t need Wi-Fi,” said the father. “We had the universe.”

Example 3: The Astronomy Club’s Annual Gathering

Each September, the Denver Astronomical Society holds its annual “Canyon Star Night” at Eldorado Canyon. Up to 30 members gather, bringing telescopes ranging from 6-inch Dobsonians to 12-inch reflectors. They set up at the far end of the campground, away from the main road. Volunteers give short talks on celestial events, and visitors are welcome to peer through the lenses. One year, they captured a meteor shower with 12 visible meteors per minute. The group left no trace, even collecting stray cigarette butts left by previous campers. Their event has become a model for responsible public astronomy outreach.

Example 4: The Unexpected Storm

In June, a group of four friends from Lakewood arrived for a weekend getaway. The forecast was clear, but by 9:00 PM, dark clouds rolled in from the west. Thunder cracked. They quickly packed their gear, retreated to their tents, and waited. The storm passed in 45 minutes. When it cleared, the sky was clearer than ever—crisp, dewy, and filled with stars. They stayed up until dawn, watching the Milky Way reappear like a river of light. “The storm cleaned the air,” said one member. “We saw more stars than we ever had before.”

FAQs

Can I camp anywhere in Eldorado Canyon, or only in designated sites?

You may only camp in designated campsites within the Eldorado Canyon Campground. Backcountry or dispersed camping is not permitted. This protects the fragile ecosystem and ensures visitor safety. Violations can result in fines.

Is there cell service at the campground?

Cell service is spotty. Verizon and AT&T may have weak signals near the entrance, but coverage drops sharply within the campground. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergency calls. Carry a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach if you’re traveling alone.

Are pets allowed during overnight stays?

Yes, pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on hiking trails beyond the first half-mile. Keep them quiet at night to avoid disturbing wildlife and other guests.

Can I bring a fire pit or portable grill?

You may use only the designated fire rings. Portable grills and open fires outside the ring are prohibited. Always use park-provided firewood.

What’s the best time of year to camp under stars here?

Summer (June–August) offers the most visible Milky Way and warmest nights. Autumn (September–October) provides crisp air and fewer bugs. Spring (April–May) has blooming wildflowers and clear skies. Winter (November–February) is cold but offers the clearest air and brightest planets. Avoid July 4th weekend—it’s extremely crowded.

Do I need a permit for stargazing or astrophotography?

No permit is required for casual stargazing or personal photography. However, commercial photography or filming requires a special use permit from Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Are there restroom facilities?

Yes. Flush toilets and running water are available at the campground. Vault toilets are located at trailheads. Always use designated facilities.

Is it safe to camp alone here?

Yes, but take precautions. Inform someone of your plans. Carry a whistle and emergency blanket. Keep your tent zipped. Most visitors are respectful, and the park is patrolled regularly. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave or contact park staff.

What should I do if I see a mountain lion or bear?

Stay calm. Do not run. Make yourself look larger. Speak firmly and back away slowly. Never turn your back. If it approaches, throw rocks or sticks—not food. Report sightings to park staff immediately.

Can I bring a drone to capture night sky footage?

No. Drone use is prohibited in all Colorado state parks without a special permit, which is rarely granted for recreational purposes. Respect the silence and the wildlife.

Conclusion

Camping under the stars at Eldorado Canyon is more than a weekend escape—it’s a return to wonder. In a world saturated with screens, noise, and distraction, this quiet canyon offers something rare: the unfiltered majesty of the cosmos, viewed from a place where the earth meets the heavens without interference. The towering cliffs, the whispering pines, the distant howl of a coyote, and the slow drift of the Milky Way above—it’s a sensory experience that lingers long after you’ve packed your gear.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to plan, prepare, and preserve. From selecting the perfect campsite to capturing the Milky Way with your camera, from respecting wildlife to leaving no trace, every step matters. You are not just a visitor here—you are a steward. The stars have shone over Eldorado Canyon for millennia. It’s our responsibility to ensure they continue to do so for generations to come.

So pack your red-light headlamp, your warmest sleeping bag, and your sense of awe. Drive the winding road from Denver. Set up your tent beneath the ancient sandstone. And when the last light fades, look up. The universe is waiting—not to be conquered, but to be witnessed.