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Camping Around Rocky Mountain National Park

Cub Creek Primitive Campground

Backcountry Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park

If youre the back to nature type, this primitive camping area is for you. It is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out area with no trash receptacles, toilets or other amenities. The views, particularly in early morning, late evening and under starlit skies are spectacular.

  • Closest town: Estes Park
  • Specs: 2.2 miles from Cub Lake trailhead, water must be treated, toilet at the trailhead, open year-round
  • Amenities: None, this is primitive camping
  • Recreation: Hiking, photography, fishing
  • Reservations: Backcountry permit is required, registration tag must be placed on your vehicle dashboard at the parking area
  • Address: Cub Lake Trail, Estes Park, CO 80517
  • Directions: From Estes Park take East Elkhorn Avenue .1 mile, turn left on U.S. Highway 36, go 3.8 miles. Turn left on Bear Lake Road, go 1.3 miles. Turn right on Moraine Park Road, go .5 miles. Turn left on Fern Lake Road, go 1.5 miles, stay on Fern Lake Road and turn right, go .7 miles to the campground.

Best For Water Loving Campers:

Estes Park Campground at Marys Lake

8 Minutes from Estes Park

18 Minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park Entrance

Camp Sites: 128 Sites suitable for tents to big rig RVs.

Why it is Family Friendly: Estes Park Campground at Marys lake is great for families to have easy access to town, fishing in Marys lake, and heated outdoor swimming pool, and playground for the kids. There is also a camp store and laundry facilities.

How to Book: Reservations recommended.

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Rocky Mountain National Park Boondocking Locations East Entrance

The main entrances is on the east side of the park, located on highway 36 and 3.5 miles west of Estes Park, is the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. This station, which is one mile west of the parks headquarters and Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, usually receives the highest volume of visitors.

Serving visitors to the Wild Basin area of the park, approximately 19 miles to the south of Estes Park on highway 7, is the Wild Basin Entrance station.

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Backcountry Camping At Designated Campsites In Rmnp

The most popular and the best fit for most people who want to explore the backcountry of Rocky Mountain National Park is to camp at one of the over 120 designated wilderness campsites in the park. These campsites are located in every section of RMNP, as shown on the National Park Service map below:

Once youve decided on a campsite or campsites youd like to stay at, youll need to secure a backcountry wilderness permit for the specific night and campsite you plan to stay at. Permits cost $30 per trip and we highly recommend reserving in advance.

The National Park Service opens the wilderness permit reservation system for Rocky Mountain National Park in late-February or early-March at the website below:

Backcountry campsites can accommodate up to seven people per campsite and you are limited to a maximum of 3 consecutive nights at any one campsite.

Note that a carry-in bear canister is required for all backcountry camping below treeline between April and October in RMNP. We like this bear canister from Backpackers Cache as it can fit several days worth of food. Alternatively, you can also rent bear canisters from REI stores and locally in Estes Park or Grand Lake.

Welcome To The Rocky Mountain National Park Information Page

Glacier Basin Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park ...

Here you will find all you need to know about the natural history of the park.Learn about the geology, trees, mammals, birds, or other plants and wildlife of the area.

Rocky Mountain National Park is located in north central Colorado, west of and in between the cities of Fort Collins and Boulder, Colorado.

You can see images of Rocky Mountain here:

Getting to Rocky Mountain National ParkThe closest major airport is Denver about 70 miles south of the parkFrom the North

1. Take I-25 South to Highway 34 West to the park.

From the East

1. Take I-80 West to I-76 West to Highway 34 West to the park.

2. Take I-70 West to I-25 North to Highway 36 North to the park.

From the South

1. Take I-25 North to Highway 36 North to the park.

From the West

1. Take I-70 East to Highway 40 North to the park.

2. Take I-70 East to I-25 North to Highway 36 North to the park.

3. Take Highway 40 East to the park.

Additional Directions

The park can be reached from the North and South via I-25. From the East it can be reached I-70 and I-76 and via Highways 34, 36 and Stateroad 7, and from the West by I-70 and Highways 40 and 34.

Transportation

The nearest major rail, air and bus terminals are at Denver, 70 miles from Estes Park, and at Cheyenne, 91 miles to the northeast. Bus service from Denver to Estes Park is available from several companies.

Establishment the Rocky Mountain National Park

Size and Visitation of Rocky Mountain National Park

Acerage FY 2001Gross Area Acres 265,769

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Highlights Of Rv Camping At Rocky Mountain National Park

Reliance on nearby water bodies, such as wetlands or creeks, is a popular function among all backcountry campers. For order to avoid the transmission of waterborne pathogens and bacteria, any such water must be handled before it is drunk. Camping tanks, boiling agents and chemical agents, such as iodine, are all popular methods to do this. Proper sanitation, such as digging latrines downstream from water bodies, is also required to prevent pollution.

Start Your Hikes Early

This is my number one tip for hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. Its the best way to beat the afternoon thundershowers as well as the crowds. Rocky Mountain National Park sees over 4 million visitors every year, and the Bear Lake corridor is the busiest area of the park. The parking lots are small, and some of the popular parking lots literally fill up by 6:00am, even on weekdays. For maximum solitude, youll want to hit the trail as early as possible. We were on the trail by 8:00am during our late August visit and found the crowds to be manageable, but we wouldnt have wanted to start much later. In peak season , you might want to start even earlier. Id also recommend avoiding weekends, if possible. You can check out this page of the Rocky Mountain National Park website which shows visitation by month as well as other interesting statistics.

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Your Campsite Is Just 5 Miles From Rocky Mountain National Park

Our campground is suited for small RV’s and Trailers. At 7,500 feet, this campground is an ideal base camp for exploring the town of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. During peak summer months, take a free shuttle to the town, and to the national park. Spend a day at the national park, with its pristine wilderness, hiking trails and plenty of elk, moose, bear, coyote and mule deer. Drive Trail Ridge Road for panoramic views from 12,000 feet. Across the street from the campground, you’ll find Lake Estes and the Big Thompson River with world-class fly-fishing. Rent pontoon boats, paddle boards, or bikes at the marina. Go horseback riding at Sombrero Ranch next door. Just down the road is a family fun park, with mini golf, bumper cars, bumper boats and rock climbing. During peak season, enjoy on-site pancake breakfasts, ice cream socials and free marshmallow roasts. There’s free Wi-Fi, and the store is stocked with supplies and souvenirs. Camp in a Tent, RV, Rustic Cabin or Deluxe Cabin.Your hosts: Greg & Peri Ann Query with adult children, Jamie and Mark.

Estes Park Koa Holiday

Rocky Mountain National Park Camping

Located near the town of Estes Park this KOA is a perfect launching pad for adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park. A campground with all the amenities, a short distance from the eclectic downtown experience of Estes Park this could be your perfect destination.

  • Closest town: Estes Park
  • Specs: 54 RV sites, 26 tent sites, 15 cabins, full hookups for tent and RV available, water, flush toilets, electricity, open May to October 16
  • Amenities: Showers, dog walk, laundry, tent-area bathhouse, free in-town shuttle, basketball court, playground
  • Recreation: Biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, shopping, wildlife viewing

This fully equipped, modern RV park has everything you need to set up your RV or trailer for a day, a week or longer in exploring nearby Estes Park ,and the spectacular scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park.

  • Closest town: Estes Park
  • Specs: 110 full hookup sites, 22 river shore sites, showers, water, open May 1 to October 15
  • Amenities: Laundry, playground, clubhouse, propane, Wi-Fi, cable TV
  • Recreation: Fishing, hiking, close access to biking, horseback riding, hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Reservations: call to book 794-7857
  • Address: 815 Riverside Drive, Estes Park, CO 80517
  • Directions: From Estes Park go .1 mile on East Elkhorn Avenue. Turn left on U.S. Highway 36, go 1.5 miles. Turn left on Marys Lake Road, go .3 miles. Turn left on Riverside Drive, go .3 miles, turn left .1 mile, turn right the campground will be on the left.

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Have Some Trails Picked Out Before Your Trip

There is no wi-fi or phone service in the park. I have Verizon and got limited signal at a few areas in Moraine Park campground, but it was barely enough to send a text. So what does that mean? You should do a bit of advanced planning. Ideally youll want to have a few must-do trails picked out in advance. Of course, you can get information at the Visitors Center, too, but dont plan on coming to the park and researching trails on your phone while hanging out at your campsite.Before our trip, I purchased The Essential Guide to Hiking Rocky Mountain National Park by Erik Stensland. That book is pure gold. Not only are the photos amazing, but the trail descriptions are spot on and the way the book is organized makes it very easy to find a hike thats right for you. I also purchased the National Geographic Rocky Mountain National Park hiking map. Im a map geek, and this map helps give you the full picture of how the park is laid out and how the trail system works.

Climb To Sparkling Alpine Lakes Lined With Towering Peaks

Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its sparkling alpine lakes carved into the slopes of rugged mountain peaks. Today we take in five of these gems on a beautiful loop hike. Situated in the Tyndall Gorge, Bear Lake is one of the most photographed lakes in the park. In addition to Bear Lake, we hike on a gradual ascent to Nymph Lake, lined by pond lilies and offering stunning views of Hallet Peak, Longs Peak and Glacier Gorge. One magnificent view leads to the next as we reach Lake Haiyaha in lower Chaos Canyon. Finally, we continue up a series of switchbacks to The Loch, another incredibly blue lake where we enjoy a picnic lunch. After a full day on the trail, our comfortable camp provides us just the right amount of pampering as we appreciate a delicious camp dinner and the camaraderie of our hiking companions. All meals included.

Note: In June, it’s possible that late-season snow might prevent us from completing the full loop hike outlined above. In this case, we will change the itinerary to out-and-back hikes that still allow us to see many of the lakes. The benefit of early season departures is the enhanced beauty of the mountains with snow still on the peaks, and the greater chance to see baby animals.

Hiking: 7.5 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +2,738 / -2,738′

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Scenic Drives At Rocky Mountain National Park

While exploring Rocky Mountain National Park on foot allows you to discover all of its hidden treasures, you can experience the very best of this stunning destination from the comfort of your car. Head to Trail Ridge Road to immerse yourself in an epic journey along the highest continuously paved road in the US. Or, travel along Glen Haven Drive to encounter spectacular views of Twin Sisters Peak and Longs Peak. Whatever the weather, youre sure to be in for a treat.

Estes Park Campgrounds Near Rocky Mountain National Park

Discover the Best Campground in Rocky Mountain National ...

Dreaming of exploring Rocky Mountain National Park from one of Estes Park Campgrounds?

Rocky Mountain National Park is our countrys third most visited national park, boasting over 260,000 acres of pristine rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, and attracting over 4.5 million visitors a year. With gorgeous views, accessible landscapes, moose encounters, and all of Colorados best activities, it is no wonder it is so popular.

Just because its popular doesnt mean you need to overpay for lodging when you can camp in one of the many Estes Park Campgrounds. Whether you love solitude, want to fish from your campground, are looking for an extra long RV spot, or seeking a last-minute getaway, Estes Park has the perfect campground for you.

Note: Some campgrounds have delayed openings due to Covid-19. Check individual campground websites for reservation options.

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Discover A Trio Of Beautiful Backcountry Waterfalls

This morning we take a scenic drive along the eastern slope of Longs Peak in the Tahosa Valley to the Wild Basin Trailhead. Here, we load up our daypacks with lunch, snacks and cameras before setting out to visit three beautiful waterfalls. Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls are all uniquely captivating and offer a variety of great photographic opportunities. In the rushing streams, the songbird known as the water ouzel entertains us as it flies along the water in a never-ending search for aquatic insects. This afternoon, those wanting to get back out on the trail can join our guides for a hike along the Lateral Moraine Trail with many scenic overlooks. Our guides prepare a special farewell dinner for us tonight, providing an opportunity to reflect on our exploratory adventures in this magnificent national park. All meals included.

Hiking: 4.9 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +887′ / -1670′ Lateral Moraine hike : 1.5 miles, Minimal elevation change Van transfer: 1.5 hours roundtrip

Backpacking Loops In Rocky Mountain National Park

If youve thought about traveling to Rocky Mountain National Park, chances are you think youll only have time to explore a fraction of the park. Alas! One way to check off some of the best hikes in RMNP is by linking them on a multi-day backpacking trip.

Backpacking in Rocky Mountain National Park offers the visitor a tremendously unique perspective and experience because a majority of the parks visitors only have time for single-day outings. Such adventures vary from trip to trip, depending on such factors as: season, number of days, region of the park, and desired difficulty. All of these questions are up to you, the traveler.

Luckily, the best backpacking in RMNP is as diverse as the visitors. From single overnight trips, to circuit hikes, and the many backpacking routes in Rocky Mountain National Park, no visitor should feel limited by whats available. Weve anticipated your desire for diversity, and put together a few multi-day hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park below. Bon Appetit!

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Campground In Estes Park Coyogi Bears Jellystone Parktm

Located just minutes from the beautiful valley town of Estes Park, Colorado is our Yogi Bears Jellystone ParkTM of Estes Campground. Situated in the midst of the Colorado Rockies and the Roosevelt National Forest, Jellystone ParkTM of Estes is the perfect Campground and RV Park for your family to explore nature at its best! Yogi is sometimes spotted wandering through our Estes Park Campground, as you take in the awe-inspiring views surrounding this amazing family Campground. Your family is sure to enjoy nature at its best and the stars as you settle in for an evening of story telling and Smores by the campfire. A perfect pastime to end a day of family fun & activities. Our Estes park campground presents the very best in camping for the entire family. We are excited to see you soon!

Fun For The Whole Family!

Bring your family and your friends to our beautiful Estes Park Campground! Join in the fun! Relax as you surround yourself in Colorado Rocky Mountain nature or join in our planned activities for kids of all ages. See our Activity schedule on the events calendar. Make your Reservations early so you dont miss out on all the fun! Jellystone ParkTM of Estes has amenities to please: RV & Estes Park Camping sites, Cabins a heated pool, mini golf, game room, pavilion, and a well stocked store with essentials you may have forgotten and Yogi souvenirs too!

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Best Hikes In Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park | Winter Camping

With 355 miles of hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is a go-to destination for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Heres a list of 15 of our favorite hiking trails in and around the park:

Easy, perfect for families:

  • 4 Seasons Inn on Fall River
  • Rocky Mountain National Park Airbnb

    If youd prefer not to go camping or stay in a hotel, theres always the option to stay in one of many incredible Airbnb properties based in or around Rocky Mountain National Park. Despite its small size, the charming town of Estes Park is one of the most popular areas to stay in an Airbnb. Estes Park has a huge variety of stunning accommodation options available whether youre on a budget or looking to immerse yourself in pure luxury!

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