The Rocky Mountain region near Coalmont, Colorado sits at elevations between 8,000-9,500 feet with drastic seasonal temperature variations. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from October through April, making seasonal availability a critical consideration for RV travelers. Many campgrounds near Coalmont operate only during warmer months when access roads remain clear of snow.
What to do
Fishing access: 15-minute drive to nearby streams from Buffalo Pass Dispersed camping areas. The road requires high-clearance vehicles but rewards with seclusion. "Found a dirt road that took off from the main road but my car couldn't handle it (AWD)," notes one visitor, highlighting access challenges.
Mountain biking trails: Multiple difficulty levels available near Eagle Soaring RV Park. "We stayed at Eagle Soaring campground for three nights. We were in our class C while slowly making our way across the country. Sites are gravel for the RV, very level, and very well maintained," shares one reviewer who visited to ride nearby trails.
Winter activities: Snowmobiling and skiing accessible from several rv sites near Coalmont, Colorado. "Perfect location if want to hit up Winter Park resorts and Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, or Breck!! You can take 40 to Winter Park in about 50 minutes," explains a winter visitor at Red Mountain RV Park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Elk and moose sightings common around Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park areas. A visitor at Grand Lake / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Journey reports, "We had moose everywhere here. Cool paid spot. We have visited twice and love it."
Riverside sites: Premium locations with water views. "This is an older park that is staying open during the 2021 winter season for the first time. Some sites are right on the creek, but don't have views of the mountains," shares a guest at Manor RV Park, appreciating the variety of site options.
Ample amenities: Resort-style facilities at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain include swimming pools and recreational activities. "Great place to visit! Came to visit Rocky Mountain but couldn't wait to get back to river run to relax. Friendly staff and very clean!" reports a camper who found the on-site amenities more compelling than the national park itself.
What you should know
Cell service reliability varies: Mountain terrain affects connectivity. A camper at Sentinel Mountain RV noted, "AT&T coverage is a little complicated; on the South side of the RV service ranged from 1-2 Bars of 4G/LTE with service up to 8 MB/s up, but on the North side service ranged from no service to 4 bars of 3G."
Seasonal operating schedules: Most RV parks close during winter months. "Drove a long ways to find out the gate isn't open like prior post of members and will not open until June 15 on the steamboat side as posted at gate," warns a visitor to Buffalo Pass Dispersed camping area.
Fire restrictions change frequently: During dry periods, bans may be implemented with little notice. "Currently a stage 2 fire ban so no campfires allowed," reported a Buffalo Pass camper, highlighting the importance of checking current regulations before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and arcade access: Multiple entertainment options at Spruce Lake RV Park keep children occupied. "Nice place to stay when visiting the area. There was a large meadow separating the campground from the road. Seating areas with fire pits were available by the meadow," notes one visitor.
Wildlife educational opportunities: Schedule visits around elk rutting season (September-October) for viewing. "Two bull elk were hanging out at our site one day. The big herd was just down the street," reports a Manor RV Park visitor.
Book well in advance for summer: Peak season fills quickly, especially at campgrounds with family amenities. "Huge place! We loved our 6 nights here. Set up like a Disney property but in the mountains. It's not even 1/3 full & feels great but at full capacity it could feel very overwhelming," cautions a visitor about potential crowding.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require blocks or levelers due to mountain terrain. A visitor to Paradise on the River notes, "You do have to squeeze into your site but they help you back-in and pull out when you are ready to go," highlighting the staff assistance available at tighter campgrounds.
Sewer connection positioning: Several campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. "The sewer receptacle is not threaded, so you'll need to otherwise secure your sewer hose," advises an RVer, while another mentions, "The site we stayed at had the sewer dump farther back than we are used to, but not a major problem just had to use our longer hose."
Road condition awareness: Access to some rv sites near Coalmont requires careful planning. "Rough road up, in a sprinter 4x4, not a lot of great options. Seems better for tent camping. Did see one or two RVs up, shocked they made it," warns a Buffalo Pass visitor about dispersed camping access.
