Best Campgrounds near Estes Park, CO

Estes Park is the gateway to Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. Expect long entrance lines heading through Estes Park into Rocky Mountain but know that your campsites will be worth it.

Obviously, the best camping near Estes Park is in Rocky Mountain National Park. RV and tent camping spots go quickly in Rocky Mountain, especially in peak season, so get your reservations well in advance. If you can’t get a spot in one of the park’s campgrounds, you can utilize ample Forest Service land on the other side of Estes Park. If you’re looking for something a bit less trafficked, head towards Pinewood Springs, CO, and climb any of the numerous mountains on the way.

Best Camping Sites Near Estes Park, Colorado (347)

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Recent Reviews near Estes Park, CO

2201 Reviews of 347 Estes Park Campgrounds



Guide to Estes Park

Camping near Estes Park, Colorado, offers a fantastic mix of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

  • Explore Rocky Mountain National Park: This park is a must-see for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. One camper mentioned, "It’s a place I’ve camped so many times. Just beautiful and in the park so don’t deal with timed entry," highlighting the convenience of staying at Moraine Park Campground.
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. A visitor at Glacier Basin Campground noted, "The hiking trail to Sprague Lake is about a mile with plenty of birds and other critters."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for moose and elk. One happy camper at Timber Creek Campground shared, "Wonderful place. Moose in campground, and elk calling at night."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views. A review from Cottonwood Campground said, "The beaches off of the campground are nice with shaded outdoor tables and small food vendors."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake remarked, "Common bathroom, shower, dish and clothes washing facilities centrally located, clean and well maintained."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peacefulness. One reviewer at East Portal Campground noted, "Quiet, no generators heard as big rigs won’t fit!"

What you should know:

  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Glacier Basin Campground operates from May 23 to September 11.
  • Crowded Conditions: Popular spots can get busy. A camper at Moraine Park Campground mentioned, "It's a bit overcrowded. Lots of beetle damage."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Gordon Gulch Dispersed Area warned, "The road is in very poor condition and there were at least 2 large piles of trash."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A reviewer at East Portal Campground said, "Big playground and not crazy expensive."
  • Plan for Wildlife Encounters: Teach kids about local wildlife. One camper at Timber Creek Campground shared, "We saw elk and mule deer in the campground on multiple occasions."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers. A visitor at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake noted, "It gets windy in the afternoon so might want to skip the awning/canopy."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds have size limits. A reviewer at Timber Creek Campground mentioned, "RV allowed up to 30 feet."
  • Look for Hookups: If you need electricity, choose campgrounds that offer it. A camper at Deer Creek Campground appreciated, "Great place to RV camp with a good amount of hookups and showers/bathrooms on site."
  • Be Prepared for Road Noise: Some sites are near busy roads. A visitor at Timber Creek Campground noted, "There’s a bit of road noise from Trail Ridge Road traffic but we didn't think it was too bad."

Camping near Estes Park, Colorado, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort, there's a spot for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Estes Park, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Estes Park, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 347 campgrounds and RV parks near Estes Park, CO and 109 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Estes Park, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Estes Park, CO is Moraine Park Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 89 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Estes Park, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 109 free dispersed camping spots near Estes Park, CO.

  • What parks are near Estes Park, CO?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Estes Park, CO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.