Looking for the best overnight summer camps in Colorado for 2025? Colorado offers some of the most incredible sleepaway camp experiences in the U.S., combining outdoor adventures, personal growth, and unforgettable memories. From hiking to horseback riding, and everything in between, there’s a perfect summer camp for every child’s interests. Explore our comprehensive guide to discover the top-rated overnight camps in Colorado and see how they compare:
- Cheley Colorado Camps
- Sanborn Western Camps
- Colvig Silver Camps
- Camp Granite Lake
- Geneva Glen Camp
- Camp Chief Ouray
We recommend using this search engine through the American Camp Association to help you find the kind of camp you are looking for.
Cheley Colorado Camps
At the heart of Colorado’s overnight summer camp experience is Cheley Colorado Camps, a family-owned camp that has been creating lifelong memories for over 100 years. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Cheley provides a balanced blend of outdoor adventure, leadership development, and a strong sense of community. Campers at Cheley don’t just hike, ride horses, and build campfires—they also develop character through Cheley’s Code of Living, a unique set of principles designed to foster respect, resilience, and responsibility.
Cheley campers experience:
- Character-building through the Code of Living: Our camp culture is centered around personal growth and leadership. Campers live by a set of values that encourage positive decision-making and self-reflection.
- Wide range of outdoor activities: From hiking to horseback riding, from archery to arts and crafts, and from rafting to backpacking, Cheley offers diverse experiences tailored to each camper’s interests.
- Legacy and tradition: For over a century, Cheley has been a transformative experience, building generations of strong, capable leaders. The intentional programming ensures every camper leaves camp not just with great memories but with a sense of accomplishment.
Why Cheley stands out:
- A unique focus on character-building through the Code of Living.
- A century of tradition, creating a community where campers return year after year.
- An intentional approach to programming, designed for deep personal growth, not just outdoor fun.
Sanborn Western Camps
Sanborn Western Camps has been dedicated to their mission of “living together in the out-of-doors providing a sense of self, a sense of community, a sense of the earth, and a sense of wonder through fun and adventure” since 1948. Located in Florissant, Colorado on 6000 acres of rolling hills, pine forests, rocky bluffs and valleys, Sanborn provides outdoor experiences for all ages. Some program highlights include a robust horse program allowing campers to experience the Colorado backcountry on horseback, access to 14,000ft peaks across the Collegiate and Mosquito ranges, rock climbing, mountain biking, canoeing, and endless in-camp opportunities.
What sets Sanborn apart:
- Sanborn emphasizes choice allowing campers to create their own schedule of trips and in camp programming for the session.
- Their campers fully disconnect from technology for a month, which creates an environment for everyone to connect with each other and the natural world.
- Their Sanborn Junior program is a camp within a camp that provides a two-week experience for younger campers to get used to camp before committing to the full month. This program is a sampling of the best parts of camp, including two overnights, a river all day, a trip to the Florissant National Fossil Beds, and four horse rides.
Colvig Silver Camps
Colvig Silver Camps, established in 1969 and based in Durango, is known for its focus on creating a close-knit community through adventure and environmental stewardship. The camp provides a coed experience where campers engage in outdoor activities, sustainability practices, and strong traditions. With a small camp size, Colvig offers personalized attention and fosters deep connections among campers.
What sets Colvig Silver apart:
- At Colvig, every camper participates in outdoor expeditions, promoting teamwork, resilience, and proficiency. Their Pathfinding program offers an extensive, immersive experience in wilderness skills and leadership.
- Campers enjoy four-themed special days throughout the summer, ranging from classic childhood books and Hollywood films to cultural appreciation and community service.
- Daily activities include Free Choice options, as well as Bags, Discoveries, and Explorations, providing a diverse and engaging camp experience.
Camp Granite Lake
For families seeking a balance between outdoor adventure and creative expression, Camp Granite Lake, near Boulder, offers a blend of arts, waterfront, and traditional camp activities like archery and kayaking.
What sets Camp Granite Lake apart:
- The camp’s programs prioritize choice and self-expression, offering a non-competitive space for campers who want a more relaxed camp experience.
- Camp Granite Lake creates a welcoming, inclusive environment where campers feel comfortable being themselves.
Geneva Glen Camp
Geneva Glen Camp, located in Indian Hills, combines traditional camp experiences with a unique set of themed programs. Operating since the 1920s, the camp boasts a deep legacy of building community and tradition. With themed sessions like “Knighthood” and “American Heritage,” Geneva Glen provides campers with an opportunity to dive into stories and traditions while enjoying the benefits of a summer in the mountains.
What sets Geneva Glen apart:
- From creative environmental programs like Alchemy to classic camp fun such as archery, riflery, and sports, Geneva Glen offers something for everyone. Campers can also engage in specialized activities including barn riding, crafts, drama and dance, and a challenging ropes course.
- Unique sessions such as “Knighthood,” “World Friendship,” and “Myths & Magic” blend traditional camp activities with storytelling and history, making Geneva Glen a standout choice for an immersive camp experience.
- Geneva Glen offers shorter session lengths, providing families with the flexibility to choose stays that fit their schedules. This allows campers to experience the camp’s unique programs and activities without a long-term commitment.
Camp Chief Ouray
Camp Chief Ouray, located near Granby, Colorado, is a YMCA camp renowned for its traditional camp experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Rockies. Its long-standing reputation and wide variety of outdoor activities make it a go-to for families looking for a solid all-around camp.
What sets Camp Chief Ouray apart:
- Camp Chief Ouray offers a broad spectrum of activities, including archery, hiking, swimming, and more. Campers can also enjoy specialized programs like horseback riding, high ropes, and climbing, ensuring a well-rounded adventure experience.
- The camp provides both day camp and week-long overnight camp options, offering flexibility for families and accommodating different schedules and preferences.
- Chief Ouray has a long 116-year history, giving families a sense of continuity.
Why Choose Cheley?
While all these camps provide unforgettable experiences in Colorado’s great outdoors, Cheley Colorado Camps offers something more—a chance for campers to build not just their skills but their character. The combination of adventure, personal growth, and a 104-year tradition of excellence creates a life-changing experience that sets Cheley apart from the rest.
Families looking for a summer camp that fosters independence, resilience, and leadership in a supportive, intentional community will find no better choice than Cheley.
Ready to Register?
If you’re ready to give your child the experience of a lifetime, check out each camp’s enrollment information for Summer 2025. But hurry—spots fill up fast!
