Golden packs more into a small footprint than almost any Front Range town. Clear Creek runs through downtown, a brewery tour sits at the end of Main Street, and the foothills climb straight up from the edge of town. If you are mapping out things to do in Golden Colorado, the good news is that most of it sits within a short drive of an RV basecamp on Denver’s west side.
This guide organizes Golden by how you will actually spend a day: the creek and downtown, the mountain drives, and the trails. Hours, fees and reservations change, so confirm with each site before you go. Last verified October 14, 2026.
Where to Base Your RV Near Golden
Applewood RV Park sits at 11600 W 44th Ave in Wheat Ridge, minutes off I-70 on Denver’s west side. It was formerly Prospect RV Park, so older maps and listings may still show that name. The park lists full hookup sites, pull-through sites, pet-friendly grounds and free Wi-Fi, and you can reach the front desk at (303) 872-0677. Golden, Red Rocks and Lookout Mountain are all a short drive from the gate.
Downtown Golden and Clear Creek
Clear Creek Trail and the Whitewater Park
Clear Creek is the town’s front porch. A paved trail follows the water through downtown, and the whitewater park draws kayakers and tubers when flows allow. Even on a cool fall day, a walk along the creek is an easy first stop. Check current water conditions before you plan on getting in.
Coors Brewery Tour
The Coors brewery sits right in town and offers guided tours. Reserve ahead for weekends and plan on an hour or more. It is a good rainy-day pick because most of the visit is indoors.
Museums and Main Street
Downtown Golden has a walkable Main Street with shops, cafes and breweries. The Golden History Museum and the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum round out an indoor afternoon. Parking in the core fills up on event days, so a morning start helps.
Red Rocks and the Mountain Drives
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks is a short drive south of Golden and close to Applewood. The park is open for hiking and walking the amphitheater when no show is running, and the sandstone formations are worth a visit on their own. In late fall the concert season winds down, which means easier parking and quieter trails. Check the event calendar first, because show days limit daytime access.
Lookout Mountain and the Lariat Loop
Lookout Mountain Road climbs from Golden to a ridge with wide views over the plains and the city. Up top you will find the Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve and the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave. The road is steep and winding, so leave the RV at camp and take the tow vehicle or a car.
Trails and State Parks
North Table Mountain
North Table Mountain Park sits on the northeast edge of town and offers flat-topped mesa trails with views of the foothills and the Denver skyline. It works well for a morning hike before the day warms up.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden Gate Canyon State Park lies northwest of Golden in the foothills, with hiking, fishing and aspen groves that turn in early fall. A state parks pass or day-use fee applies, and the access roads are not suited to big rigs, so go in a smaller vehicle.
A Sample Weekend From Your RV Basecamp
Day one: Morning walk on Clear Creek Trail, lunch on Main Street, then the Coors tour or a museum in the afternoon. Day two: Sunrise or early hike at Red Rocks, then drive Lookout Mountain Road to the Buffalo Bill Museum. Day three: Hike North Table Mountain or head up to Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Planning Tips for Golden
Fall and winter bring cooler mornings and occasional snow, so pack layers and check road conditions before the mountain drives. Weekends in town and at Red Rocks run busier than weekdays. If you are comparing the wider metro, see our guide to camping near Denver and our overview of camping in Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Golden from Applewood RV Park?
Golden is a short drive west from the park in Wheat Ridge. Plan on roughly 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Can I take my RV up Lookout Mountain?
The road is steep with tight curves. Most RVers leave the rig at camp and drive a car or tow vehicle.
What is the best time of year to visit Golden?
Early fall brings cooler weather and aspen color in the foothills. Summer is the busiest season, and winter is quieter with a chance of snow.
Do I need reservations for the Coors tour or Red Rocks events?
Tours and shows can sell out, so book ahead for weekends and event nights.
