Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at approximately 6,500 feet elevation, Glen Haven offers a gateway to wilderness experiences with diverse camping options. The area experiences summer temperatures averaging 75°F during the day and dropping to 45°F at night, creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation. Several campgrounds near Glen Haven are open from May through October, with most requiring reservations during peak season.
What to do
Hiking at Kruger Rock Trail: Located within Hermits Hollow Campground at Hermit Park, this trail offers stunning 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," notes Erin K.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The campgrounds around Glen Haven provide excellent wildlife spotting chances. "Wildlife is very abundant. Bear Lake and Fern Lake are amazing hikes for the fam," shares Troy C. from Glacier Basin Campground.
Water activities on nearby lakes: Carter Lake offers water recreation options near Glen Haven. "You're close to paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming. Wildlife walks thru usually daily, shaded spots go quickly! The Marina with small $$ general store, you can get fishing license there too," explains Elizabeth M.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. At Hermits Hollow, "The sites aren't sitting on top of each other, and some spots feel relatively secluded. It is within a few miles of Estes Park, so we hike during the day and dash into town for a drink with our dogs in the afternoon," says Erin K.
Proximity to multiple destinations: Locations that provide access to both natural attractions and town amenities are highly valued. "Location good for Rocky Mountain National Park & brewery nirvana: Longmont, Berthoud, Loveland, & Ft Collins," mentions George R. about Carter Lake South Shore Campground.
Campground facilities and amenities: Well-maintained facilities make glamping close to Glen Haven, Colorado more comfortable. "Good electrical hookups, easy to pull in sites which were well maintained. A great view of the lake and we spotted an eagle amongst other wildlife," states Russell T.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "We spent a week at a tent site here. Our site was number 8, had a tree, and was by the bathrooms. The bathrooms were clean, and had a nice shower as well," notes Sharayah H. about Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort.
Weather considerations: The mountain environment can bring unpredictable weather changes. "The weather and views were absolutely amazing!" says Sarah E. about her stay at Glacier Basin Campground, though other campers mention wind can be an issue at exposed sites.
Road noise varies by location: Some campgrounds are affected by proximity to highways. "The downside of the location is that it is just down the road from a riding stable. As a result, the campground is frequently filled with the smell of horse manure. Another downfall is that the location is right on a fairly busy road into Estes," Christopher H. explains about his experience at Estes Park KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. "Kid friendly campground with pool, mini golf, jump pad, camp store and golf cart rentals. Also has nice laundry facilities," shares Kaylene H. about Jellystone Park at Estes Park.
Bathroom access considerations: Families often prioritize clean bathroom facilities. "Vault toilets are very clean, well kept. You can fish from shore. We took the 3 mile hike behind campground which is beautiful but rocky - wear shoes that can withstand rocks," advises Carol J.
Daily ranger programs: Some campgrounds offer educational activities. "Nightly talks/shows at the amphitheater. Only downfall was the loop that we stayed in was almost treeless because of trees that have died, so wind was a problem with our tent, but the views made up for it!!" mentions Haley C.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: RVers should be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. "Wide roads and turns; easy to navigate throughout the campground; quiet; picnic table; spacious, no shade, needed levels on one side of our RV; dirt roads throughout so, unless it rained, it was very dusty," explains Julia M. about her experience at Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort.
Access limitations: Certain campgrounds have restrictions on RV size. "Some sites are a little challenging to get into with a big camper, but doable. We'd defininately go back again. Just a few minutes from downtown Estes Park. Beautiful setting!!" shares Jason B. about Jellystone Park.
Hookup availability: The types of hookups vary significantly between campgrounds, affecting comfort for upscale glamping near Glen Haven. "Great location and amenities. Close to Estes Park downtown and a short drive to Rocky Mt Park entrance. Clean facilities, friendly staff and very affordable!" notes Cisco M. about Mary's Lake Campground.
