The College Budget Stay in CO

Hey guys,

Two of my friends and I are trying to do a short (about a week) summer trip to Colorado. We're all in love with what we have heard of many of the parks and now that we said we could go, we're really into the idea. None of us have ever been, nor do we have close friends or family there. We can't afford a huge learning curve on our budget...

We are fine eating very very cheaply but we want to force accommodation and access to certain activities (hiking, exploring, namely) to fit to a minimal price tag. Do you guys have any advice? I have heard that there are places to camp for free (!!!) but we are not seasoned to hiking in that region of the States (we are Georgians) and definitely don't want to be so secluded that it becomes dangerous. Our equipment includes solid backpacks, first aid obviously, and camping equipment, but not light, backpacking tents.

Can we do this?