Top Campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in the U.S., and camping inside the park is a great way to fully experience its natural beauty. Whether youre looking to hike, watch wildlife, or just relax under the stars, there are several campgrounds within the park that cater to different types of campers. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular campgrounds: Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, and Aspenglen.
Moraine Park Campground
Located on the east side of the park near Estes Park, Moraine Park is one of the most scenic spots for camping. With sweeping views of meadows and mountains, this campground offers easy access to many popular trailheads.
Amenities:
- Open year-round (limited services in winter)
- Over 240 campsites
- Flush toilets (seasonal), vault toilets in winter
- Fire rings and picnic tables at each site
- RV-friendly with some electric hookups
Reservation Info:
Campsites must be reserved through Recreation.gov during peak season (May–October). First-come, first-served sites may be available in off-season months.
Glacier Basin Campground
This family-friendly campground is perfect for those who want to be close to hiking trails and enjoy open spaces with mountain views. Its also a favorite for group camping.
Amenities:
- Open seasonally (typically late May through mid-September)
- 150+ campsites including group sites
- Flush toilets and potable water
- Picnic tables and fire pits at each site
- No electric hookups
Reservation Info:
Reservations are required during the open season and can be made online via Recreation.gov. This campground fills up quickly during summer months, so plan ahead!
Aspenglen Campground
Nestled near Fall River Entrance Station, Aspenglen offers a quieter atmosphere with beautiful aspen groves and nearby creek access. It’s a great pick for campers looking for a peaceful retreat while still being close to town amenities in Estes Park.
Amenities:
- Open seasonally (usually June through September)
- 50+ campsites including tent-only areas
- Flush toilets and drinking water
- Bears frequent this area — food storage lockers provided
- No hookups available
Reservation Info:
This smaller campground is reservation-only during its open season. Sites tend to book up early due to its limited capacity and tranquil setting.
Campground Comparison Table
| Campground | Season Open | # of Sites | Toilets/Water | RV Hookups | Reservations Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moraine Park | Year-Round* | ~244 | Flush/Vault Toilets, Water Available (seasonal) | Some Electric Sites | Yes (May–Oct) |
| Glacier Basin | Late May–Mid Sept | ~150+ | Flush Toilets, Water Available | No Hookups | Yes (All Season) |
| Aspenglen | June–Sept | ~50+ | Flush Toilets, Water Available | No Hookups | Yes (All Season) |
*Note: Winter camping at Moraine Park includes reduced services such as vault toilets only; water may not be available.
2. Best Time to Camp in the Rockies
Choosing the right time to camp in Rocky Mountain National Park can make or break your trip. Weather conditions, crowds, and natural beauty all vary by season, so planning ahead is key.
Ideal Camping Seasons
The most popular and accessible time to camp in the Rockies is from late June through early September. During these months, most park roads and campgrounds are open, and daytime temperatures are mild. However, if youre looking to avoid peak crowds or experience different sides of the park, consider other seasons too.
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Late Spring (May – Early June) | Fewer crowds, wildflowers begin to bloom | Some roads and higher elevation trails may still be closed due to snow |
| Summer (Late June – Early Sept) | All campgrounds open, warm days, full trail access | High visitor traffic, especially in July and August |
| Fall (Mid-Sept – Oct) | Stunning fall foliage, cooler temps, fewer crowds | Nights get cold; some services start shutting down |
| Winter (Nov – April) | Peaceful scenery, snowshoeing opportunities | Limited campground access, very cold conditions |
Weather Expectations by Season
The weather in RMNP can be unpredictable—especially at higher elevations. Summer brings daytime highs in the 70s°F (20s°C) but cool nights that dip into the 40s°F (single digits °C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Fall sees crisp days and chilly nights, with a chance of early snowfall starting in October.
Packing Tip:
No matter when you go, always pack layers. Even summer nights can feel freezing at higher altitudes.
How to Beat the Summer Crowds
- Camp midweek: Weekends fill up fast—aim for Tuesday through Thursday stays.
- Reserve early: Book your campsite as soon as reservations open on recreation.gov.
- Start early: Hit trails before 7 AM to avoid parking hassles and enjoy more solitude.
- Avoid hotspots: Explore less-trafficked areas like the Wild Basin or Long Draw Road instead of Bear Lake Corridor.
Why Fall Camping is a Hidden Gem
If you’re okay with cooler nights and shorter daylight hours, fall might just be the perfect season. The golden aspen leaves light up the mountainsides from mid-September to early October. Wildlife like elk are also more active during their rutting season—just remember to keep a safe distance!
Quick Fall Camping Tips:
- Bring extra blankets or a cold-weather sleeping bag rated for below-freezing temps.
- Be ready for sudden weather shifts—snow isn’t unheard of by late September.
- Double-check campground closing dates; not all sites stay open past early October.
No matter when you go, each season offers its own unique charm in Rocky Mountain National Park. Planning around weather patterns and crowd levels ensures youll have a camping experience thats both enjoyable and memorable.
3. Must-See Sights and Hikes Near Campgrounds
One of the biggest perks of camping in Rocky Mountain National Park is the easy access to some of Colorado’s most stunning trails and scenic viewpoints. Whether youre staying at Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, or Aspenglen Campground, there are unforgettable hikes and must-see spots just minutes from your tent.
Top Trails and Attractions by Campground
| Campground | Recommended Hikes & Sights | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Moraine Park | Bear Lake Loop Alberta Falls Sprague Lake |
Easy family-friendly trails, wildlife viewing, lake views, photo ops |
| Glacier Basin | Emerald Lake Trail Nymph Lake Dream Lake |
Lakeside hiking, alpine scenery, wildflowers in summer |
| Aspenglen | Old Fall River Road Chasm Falls Deer Mountain Trail |
Less crowded trails, panoramic views, historic road drive |
Bear Lake Loop
This short, flat loop around Bear Lake is a must for any visitor. Its only 0.6 miles long and offers picture-perfect views of Hallett Peak reflecting off the water. The trailhead also connects to longer hikes like Emerald Lake and Nymph Lake.
Emerald Lake Trail
This 3.6-mile roundtrip hike starts at Bear Lake and takes you past Nymph Lake and Dream Lake before ending at the crystal-clear Emerald Lake. It’s one of the park’s most popular hikes for a reason—every stop along the way is breathtaking.
Trail Ridge Road
If youre looking for jaw-dropping mountain vistas without too much hiking, take a drive along Trail Ridge Road. This scenic highway climbs over 12,000 feet and offers multiple pull-offs for photos, short walks, and spotting elk or marmots.
Tips for Exploring Nearby Trails:
- Start Early: Parking lots fill up quickly, especially at Bear Lake.
- Pace Yourself: Higher elevations can be challenging if youre not acclimated.
- Bring Layers: Weather can change fast in the Rockies—even in summer.
- Use the Shuttle: During peak season, use the parks free shuttle system to access popular trailheads from your campground.
No matter which campground you choose, unforgettable adventures are always just a short walk or drive away in Rocky Mountain National Park.
4. Campground Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Stay
Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park is an unforgettable experience, but being prepared is key to making your trip safe and enjoyable. Here are some practical tips tailored specifically for camping in this unique environment.
Bear Country Basics
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to black bears, so it’s important to follow bear safety guidelines at all times. The park requires all campers to store food, toiletries, and scented items in bear-proof storage lockers or inside your vehicle.
- Never leave food unattended—even for a minute.
- Cook and eat meals away from your tent area.
- Dispose of trash in designated bear-resistant containers.
Follow Leave No Trace Principles
To help preserve the natural beauty of the park for future generations, practice these core Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the rules of the campground and pack accordingly.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Use existing campsites and trails.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and leftover food.
- Leave What You Find: Don’t take rocks, plants, or historical objects.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Use camp stoves instead of fires when possible.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down and yield on trails.
Altitude Awareness
The park’s campgrounds sit at elevations between 8,000 and 10,000 feet. At these heights, you may experience altitude sickness if youre not acclimated. Here’s how to stay healthy:
- Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water before and during your trip.
- Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can worsen altitude symptoms.
- Pace Yourself: Take it easy the first day or two to let your body adjust.
- Know the Symptoms: Watch for headaches, nausea, or dizziness—these could be signs of altitude sickness.
Packing Checklist for Rocky Mountain National Park
Packing smart makes a big difference when camping at high elevation in variable weather conditions. Heres a checklist to help you prepare:
| Essentials | Campsite Gear | Clothing | Other Must-Haves |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tent with rainfly & footprint | Bearing-proof food container | Insulated jacket | Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF) |
| Sleeping bag (rated for cold nights) | Camp stove & fuel | Base layers (thermal) | Sufficient drinking water or filter system |
| Pillow & sleeping pad | Lighter or waterproof matches | Rain gear (jacket/pants) | First aid kit |
| Navigational tools (map/compass/GPS) | Lawn chair or camp stool | Wool socks & hiking boots | Headlamp with extra batteries |
A Few Extra Tips
- Reserve Early: Campgrounds like Moraine Park fill up fast—book months ahead through Recreation.gov.
- No Cell Service: Don’t rely on cell phones; download offline maps or bring printed versions.
- Dress in Layers: Weather changes quickly—mornings can be freezing while afternoons warm up fast.
The more you prepare, the more time you’ll have to enjoy starry skies, wildlife sightings, and peaceful mountain mornings at Rocky Mountain National Park campgrounds.
5. Nearby Towns and Local Experiences
Before or after your camping adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park, dont miss the chance to explore the nearby mountain towns of Estes Park and Grand Lake. These charming towns offer unique local experiences, great food, outdoor gear shops, and cultural attractions that will make your trip even more memorable.
Estes Park: Gateway to the East Side
Estes Park is the main eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and is full of small-town charm with a wide range of things to do.
Things to Do in Estes Park
- Stroll Downtown: Enjoy walking along Elkhorn Avenue, where you’ll find souvenir shops, art galleries, and candy stores.
- The Stanley Hotel: Visit this historic hotel known for inspiring Stephen Kings “The Shining.”
- Riverwalk: A peaceful path along the Big Thompson River with access to shops and cafes.
Where to Eat in Estes Park
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern | American | Live music, cozy log cabin feel |
| You Need Pie! | Diner/Bakery | Award-winning pies and comfort food |
| Twin Owls Steakhouse | Steakhouse | Lodge-style dining with mountain views |
Gear Shops in Estes Park
- Estes Park Mountain Shop: Offers rentals for hiking, climbing, and winter sports.
- Kirk’s Flyshop: Great spot for fishing gear and guided tours.
Grand Lake: Laid-Back Vibes on the West Side
Sitting at the western entrance of the park, Grand Lake offers a quieter, relaxed vibe with plenty of lake activities and scenic beauty.
Things to Do in Grand Lake
- Main Street Shopping: Wooden boardwalks lined with local shops and ice cream parlors.
- Paddleboarding or Kayaking: Rent gear to enjoy time out on Colorado’s largest natural lake.
- Kauffman House Museum: Step back in time at this preserved 1890s log hotel turned museum.
Eats Around Grand Lake
| Café/Restaurant | Cuisine | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sagebrush BBQ & Grill | Bbq/American | A favorite for ribs and burgers—grab peanuts while you wait! |
| Dairy King | Desserts/Fast Food | A classic stop for soft serve and quick eats near the lakefront. |
Tackle Last-Minute Gear Needs
- NAPA Auto & Outdoor:A handy spot for basic outdoor supplies or emergency car gear before heading into the park.
