Rocky Mountain National Park surrounds Estes Park at an elevation of 7,522 feet, creating dramatic temperature swings between day and night that average 30°F in summer months. Dispersed camping options provide alternatives to crowded park campgrounds, with the nearest locations requiring 4WD vehicles to access rugged forest roads.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: At East Portal Campground, visitors regularly spot large herds of deer and elk during morning and evening hours. "Mule deer came through every evening right by our camper to eat grass. One morning 3 large Bull Elk and a young bull came through the valley and up through the campground," reports Jennifer G.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Allenspark Dispersed Camping offers creek-side camping with trout fishing opportunities. "The sites get narrow and crammed up between the road and the creek. A lot of shade, not a lot of bugs," notes Johny R., making it suitable for anglers looking for easy water access.
Hiking Kruger Rock Trail: Hermits Hollow Campground features an on-site trailhead leading to panoramic views. "The Kruger Rock Trailhead is inside the campground, and it is a nice hike with an amazing view of the Rockies and Estes at the top. Bring your crayons - there are two trailmarkers on the trail that you can do rubbings of," advises Erin K.
What campers like
Campsite privacy levels: Aspenglen Campground offers walk-in sites with increased seclusion. "I got a walk-in site, and, besides not having trees perfectly situated for my hammock, I had no complaints - secluded, quiet, well-maintained, beautiful scenery," reports Kyle K.
Modern facilities: At Estes Park KOA, campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms. "The facilities are excellent. There are combo shower/bathroom stations throughout the campground so you never have to walk far to clean up. These stations also have dish washing sinks, and the the campground provided free dish soap," notes Joey C.
Temperature variations: Weather conditions require preparation at high elevations. "Still some snow on the ground in late May," reports Megan B. about Moraine Park Campground, highlighting the need to pack gear for potential cold snaps even in spring and summer months.
What you should know
Bear activity levels: Multiple campgrounds report bear encounters, with proper storage critical. "A huge bear got into my tent while I was gone for 2 hours and absolutely destroyed it," warns Renee at Allenspark Dispersed Camping, underscoring why bear boxes are mandatory at established sites.
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Hell Canyon Dispersed camping requires specific vehicles. "Road up is a bit rough but I saw many SUVs make it, the gate sign recommends 4x4," says Jon S., while another camper notes, "My 2wd van made it up a little but I couldn't get passed one of the big hills."
Reservation requirements: Dog friendly campgrounds near Estes Park fill rapidly during peak seasons. "RMNP was all full so we ended up here. Great spot close to town and the park entrance," explains Tayler S. about Mary's Lake Campground, highlighting the need for advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Jellystone Park provides extensive activities for children. "The facility offered tons of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily to the point of falling asleep while eating dinner. They made lots of friends and proclaimed it the best part of our 18 day trip," shares Ashley L.
Best shower facilities: Finding campgrounds with family-friendly bathrooms matters with children. "The showerhouse was cleaned twice daily and the shower stalls were VERY roomy," notes a family at Jellystone, while East Portal offers "exceptional facilities, clean, free with camping."
Nature programs: Glacier Basin Campground provides educational opportunities. "Nightly talks/shows at the amphitheater," mentions Haley C., offering families structured activities within the park boundaries.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many Estes Park campgrounds require adjustment for RVs. "Some sites are a little challenging to get into with a big camper, but doable," notes Jason B. about Jellystone Park, which sits on a mountainside with varied terrain.
Hookup locations: Mary's Lake Campground provides full-service options for RVs. "Full hookups offered, beautiful scenery and right outside the entrance to the national park," explains Marie P., noting its proximity to park attractions.
Size restrictions: Dog friendly campgrounds near Estes Park often limit vehicle length. "There is a limit of 35 feet for RV/Trailer length," reports Judy B. about Glacier Basin Campground, an important consideration when selecting sites at national park campgrounds.
