Located 6,500 feet above sea level in Colorado's Front Range, Glen Haven offers convenient access to camping facilities with 30 and 50-amp electrical hookups. Visitors need to book well in advance during peak season from June through August when temperatures typically range from 45°F to 75°F. RV sites near Glen Haven remain open primarily from May through October, with most closing for winter season.
What to do
Fishing access: Look for riverside spots at Riverview RV Park, where sites are positioned along the Big Thompson River. "We had a great time at this campground. We spent 4 days in a spot right next to the river. Close to Rocky Mountain National Park. Really enjoyed the river, dog park, live music on sat. night and laundry," reported Tyler D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early mornings or evenings for the best chance to see elk and deer. "Elk occasionally pass thru the front area which was really cool! There is also a little area next to the RV park where I think they park stored vehicles and it's a great place to walk," shared Julia M. about Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort.
Mountain biking: Pack appropriate gear for trails ranging from easy to challenging within 15-20 minutes of most campgrounds. "This is real close to RMNP and yet around the corner from Estes park. It is a bit dusty like a lot of Co. But RR's are well maintained and clean," mentioned Larry M.
What campers like
River sounds: Sites positioned along waterways provide natural white noise. "Sites are very close to each other, but plenty of room for privacy," noted Michael C. about Paradise on the River, adding that it's a "Quaint peaceful property" with sites positioned right on the water.
Proximity to necessities: RV sites with grocery access save time on resupply trips. "Location is not too far from town but easy to get in and out of Estes Park. Beautiful views, friendly staff and very accommodating," shared Andrew about Manor RV Park, noting the convenience to town while maintaining a natural setting.
Pool and hot tub amenities: Summer visitors appreciate cooling off after hiking. "Pool, hot tub and pool were wonderful for days after hikes. They had live music and drinks on the weekends, plus free pancakes in the morning on Sunday!" explained Ally K., highlighting the refreshing amenities at Elk Meadow Lodge after active days in the national park.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Most campgrounds enforce limits on open flames. "We kept going back to River Run to relax. Friendly staff and very clean! Construction didn't bother us and highly recommend!" reported Eddie G. about Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain, where designated fire pits are available despite regional restrictions.
Site spacing: Prepare for close neighbors at most RV parks in the area. "The sites are level, but wide roads and turns; easy to navigate throughout the campground; quiet; picnic table; spacious, no shade, needed levels on one side of our RV," Julia M. observed about the layout at Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort.
Weather preparedness: Pack for variable conditions as mountain weather changes rapidly. "It can be suddenly and very windy here, so most campers did not use awnings," Glen C. advised about Riverview RV Park, indicating that sudden weather shifts are common in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose parks with dedicated play areas to keep children entertained. "We had a great stay 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," Sharayah H. shared about her family's experience at Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort.
Budget considerations: Compare amenity fees before booking as costs vary widely. "Great Sam's RV park with full amenities. We booked a water/electric online, but got bumped up to full hookups. Beautiful river going beside many of the sites. Newer bathrooms. Huge park with playground for kids," Aaron explained about Riverview RV Park & Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Request sites near facilities when traveling with young children. "We enjoyed seeing the kids playing in the playground and riding around the park on their bikes. Nearly every day a deer would come munch on the greenery right behind our rig," Glen C. noted about the family-friendly atmosphere at Riverview RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Bring extended hoses for water and sewer connections that may be awkwardly placed. "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," Andrew commented about Manor RV Park, highlighting a common challenge.
Cell service reliability: Verizon typically performs best in the Glen Haven area with other carriers showing weaker signals. "WIFI/ CELL SERVICE= provided, but not reliable. We used our AT&T hotspot the entire time bc we work remote. Cell service was 4 bars and worked fine in the entire campground," noted Julia M. about connectivity options.
Laundry facility access: Plan washing days strategically as facilities are limited. "The laundry machines are old and expensive. The activities center was never open, even on the 4th of July," Erin S. mentioned about Spruce Lake RV Park, indicating that timing laundry days can be challenging.
