Glenwood Springs sits at 5,761 feet elevation where the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers meet, creating a unique microclimate that extends the camping season beyond typical mountain destinations. Located within the White River National Forest, the region features steep canyon walls and mineral hot springs that remain accessible year-round. Campground occupancy peaks in July and August when daytime temperatures average 85°F.
What to do
River recreation access: Gateway RV Park in Carbondale provides easy river access for fishing and boating. "Located just above a beautiful river, the campground is close to a partially-paved 40+ mi bike path (Aspen to Glenwood Springs)," notes one visitor who appreciated the nearby trail system.
Hot springs relaxation: Ami's Acres Campground offers camping just 5 minutes from Glenwood's famous hot springs. A camper mentioned, "Glenwood springs, which is a definite must do if you're looking for some relaxation and views," highlighting the proximity to thermal waters.
Hiking nearby trails: Several RV sites near Glenwood Springs serve as trailhead bases. "Gateway is a great headquarters for Aspen, to Glenwood Springs and Marble. FHU, friendly hosts, right on the bike path and next to the Roaring Fork River," as one camper noted about the convenience for outdoor activities.
What campers like
Mountain views: River Dance RV Resort offers scenic valley vistas. One guest mentioned, "We arrived late at night after looping down through Fairplay, Breckenridge, and Vail after i-70 was closed. If you need a quick stopover on your way to Utah, you could certainly do worse."
River sounds: Campers at Ami's Acres Campground consistently mention enjoying the sounds from nearby water. "Sheltered from wind and extreme heat," noted one visitor who appreciated the natural location.
Clean facilities: Rifle Gap State Park Campground maintains well-regarded bathrooms and showers. "The showers and toilets were clean. 10/10 recommend and will be coming back!" shared one camper, while another noted, "The bathrooms were clean and the water nice and hot."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Most RV campgrounds near Glenwood Springs experience some road noise. At Gateway RV Park, "While there is quite a bit of highway noise when outside, it didn't bother us when we were inside our trailer," according to one camper.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water. "Bring your own drinking water. We filled our water bottles at the park," advised one Ami's Acres visitor who found the taste unpleasant.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At River Camp RV Park, one camper noted, "The WiFI was poor even with the camp half empty. I walked around and did some speed tests around the camp, best speed was 500kb. No Verizon service, decent TMobile service."
Tips for camping with families
Riverside recreation: River Dance RV Resort offers water access for children. "Kids loved playing frisbee in the field and swimming in the river," shared one parent about their experience.
Park amenities: Rifle Gap State Park provides family-friendly spaces near water. "Lots of spots to park a kayak near your camp sites. Bathrooms and showers are clean," mentioned a visitor with practical information.
Unique campground features: Some sites offer distinctive experiences for children. At Hideout at Glenwood Springs, "Nice creek through the property. Several families live there," showing the family-friendly environment.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites near Glenwood Springs require leveling. At Trail and Hitch RV Park, "Less expensive spots are not level so I chose the more expensive option," advised one RVer sharing practical experience.
Tight maneuvering areas: Some parks have limited turning space. "The campground is built on the side of a mountain so the individual sites are tiered. I could see it making a few people nervous to back in but it's no big deal," noted a camper at Ami's Acres.
Hookup locations: RVers should check utility placement before arrival. At River Camp RV Park, "The sewer connections are varied distances, extensions are probably needed. Our sewer connection has a small uphill to it, but still slightly below our tank bottoms," explained one visitor with helpful details.
