High winds shake tents throughout the night at this 9,400-foot elevation campground, where the thin mountain air and exposed setting create challenging conditions for unprepared campers. Located directly at the Longs Peak Trailhead within Rocky Mountain National Park, this first-come, first-served facility draws serious hikers preparing for the 14,259-foot summit attempt.
The campground operates on a no-reservation basis, with 26 sites that fill quickly during peak summer months. Most campers arrive either planning multi-day ascents or recovering from the grueling 15-mile round-trip climb. "Bring a portable water filter, there will be mountain streams running all around you," advises Michael E., referencing the reliable water sources that flow near the camping area year-round.
Basic amenities include vault toilets, fire pits, and bear boxes at each site, though water gets turned off during winter months when the campground closes. The proximity to a neighboring private summer camp creates noise issues during certain periods, with evening activities carrying across the valley until late hours. Rangers acknowledge the sound concerns but cannot control the adjacent property's operations.
Sites accommodate both tents and smaller RVs, though the winding mountain access road and high elevation challenge larger vehicles. The campground provides direct trail access without requiring passage through busy Estes Park, appealing to hikers seeking immediate wilderness entry. Weather changes rapidly at this elevation, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months.
For those seeking additional options in the region, tent sites around Rocky Mountain National Park include both reservation-based and walk-up alternatives. The challenging conditions and serious hiking focus make this location well-suited for experienced mountain campers rather than casual family outings.
Description
Longs Peak Campground is closed for the 2024 season. This campground opens in early July and closes each year in early September. Located about 20 minutes south of Estes Park on Hwy 7. This small, tents-only campground is located in a forested area that is 9,500 feet above sea level (3000 m). This campground has vault toilets and there is no water available. Campers must bring their own drinking water when camping at Longs Peak Campground.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLongs Peak Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park is located in Colorado
Directions
From Estes Park, take CO Hwy 7 south for 20 miles. Longs Peak Road will be on your right with signs for Longs Peak Ranger Station and Longs Peak Campground.
Coordinates
40.274794 N
105.557704 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/12/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/12/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/12/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/12/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 50 min from Boulder, CO
- 1 hr 6 min from Fort Collins, CO
- 1 hr 10 min from Greeley, CO
- 1 hr 18 min from Denver, CO






















