We’re so glad you’re making the trip! North Park is quiet, wild, and full of classic Colorado beauty. If you’re extending your stay or looking for something to explore while you’re here, below are some local adventures and easy day trips. Some of the areas require a full day due to their distance from Rand. Reach out to Griff and Amanda if you'd like itinerary ideas.
No plans? Perfect. Old Homestead Campground is a destination all on its own and a great place to slow down and soak it all in.
What’s available on site:
The lodge will be open with Farkel, puzzles, board games, and cozy hang‑out space until around 2pm on Saturday.
Kids playground
Plenty of room for the kids to ride their bikes in the campground and play in the dirt
Crafts for kids and adults
Yard games and wide open space to play
Go at your own pace:
Bring your own activities or projects to share (or work on solo)
Find a shady spot or head down by the river with a good book
Relax, unplug, and enjoy being at camp
This is the perfect option for anyone who wants a low‑key, no‑agenda kind of day.
At a glance, Old Homestead Campground located near these destinations:
Steamboat Springs – 60 miles (1.25-hour drive) northwest via CO-14 W and US-40 W.
Grand Lake – 50 miles (1-hour drive) southeast via CO-125 S and US-34 E.
Granby – 45 miles (45-minute drive) south via CO-125 S and US-40 E.
Walden – 20 miles (30-minute drive) north via CO-125 N.
Drive: ~30 minutes from Rand
Colorado’s hidden gem with wide‑open meadows, alpine lakes, and one of the best chances in the state to see moose.
Scenic drives and picnics
Hiking and mountain biking
Wildlife viewing (moose, elk, birds)
🔗 https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/StateForest
Drive: ~1 hour
A charming mountain town on Colorado’s largest natural lake and the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Walk the boardwalk and grab a bite
Kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating
Lakeside picnics and short hikes
Drive: ~1 hour 45 minutes (via Grand Lake)
Iconic alpine scenery, wildlife, waterfalls, and unforgettable hikes. If you're coming to/ from Denver, you could make this a day trip on your journey.
Scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road
Hiking all levels
Elk and wildlife viewing
Drive: Starts in Walden ends in Fort Collins (~30 minutes from Rand)
One of Colorado’s most scenic drives following the Poudre River through mountains and canyon walls. This is a great way to get to and from Denver if you want to take the scenic route.
Scenic overlooks and photography
River picnics
Easy walks and wildlife spotting
🔗 https://www.visitnorthparkco.com/scenic-drives
Saratoga Hobo Hot Springs (WY)
Drive: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Free, 24/7 hot springs right in town.
🔗 https://www.saratogachamber.info/play/mineral-hot-springs
Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa (CO)
Drive: ~50 minutes
Historic hot springs resort with multiple soaking pools and spa options. Include this on your trip to or from the Eagle area. Be forwarned...it lives up to its name and is kinda stinky.
🔗 https://www.hotsulphursprings.com
Drive: ~20 minutes
North Park is known for its wide valleys, rivers, and abundant wildlife. The Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge is just a short drive away.
Trout fishing in nearby rivers and lakes
Moose, elk, deer, and bird watching
Sunrise and sunset wildlife viewing
🔗 https://www.fws.gov/refuge/arapaho
You don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors.
Casual walks around the campground’s 80 acres and down to the river.
Short hikes near Rand and Walden
Longer adventures in Mount Zirkel or Never Summer Wilderness
A glimpse into Colorado’s mining past.
Teller City Ghost Town
North Park Pioneer Museum in Walden
🔗 https://www.visitnorthparkco.com/ghost-towns-of-jackson-county/
🔗 https://northparkpioneermuseum.com
Drive: ~30 minutes
A (very) small mountain town with local restaurants, shops, and classic North Park charm.
Stop by the Rand Store on your way to Walden - it has gifts
Strolling Main Street
Moose spotting (yes, really!)
Weather can change quickly, layers are your friend
Check with a local before you head down dirt roads you've never been on, espeically if they are wet or rain is in the forecast
Please give wildlife plenty of space
Reach out to Old Homestead Campground for more ideas or details