RV camping near Redstone, Colorado offers access to multiple campgrounds across varying elevations between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with daytime highs in summer averaging 75-85°F but dropping to 45-55°F at night. Road conditions can be challenging between November and April, with many facilities closing for winter.
What to do
River activities at Gateway RV Park: Located along the Roaring Fork River, this campground provides direct access to water recreation. "Great headquarters for Aspen, to Glenwood Springs and Marble. FHU, friendly hosts, right on the bike path and next to the Roaring Fork River," notes Kimberly H. from Gateway RV Park.
Trail access from multiple locations: The area connects to various hiking paths and mountain biking routes. At Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins, one visitor points out it's a "Great base camp to go explore lake Isabel and crested butte and black canyon."
Fishing opportunities: Blue Mesa Reservoir offers excellent fishing access. "Great location to access a ton of hiking, boating, etc... I took my mountain bike on but not being used to 7,000 feet I was sucking air but got to some great views without having to drive anywhere," shares Wyatt about his experience at Blue Mesa.
What campers like
Scenic mountain settings: Many campgrounds offer mountain views with minimal light pollution. A camper at Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch shared, "Nice cool nights and love the dark nights to star gaze."
Swimming options: Several parks offer water recreation beyond just fishing. Jessica S. mentions, "One of the major highlights for us was the amazing pool setup—both indoor and outdoor pools were clean, well-maintained, and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring."
Shaded campsites: Tree coverage provides welcome relief during summer months. At Mountain Time RV Park & Cabins, Katie H. describes it as "nestled in a beautiful section of forest with a pond on site. Great walking around the park for our pups, reliable hook ups, clean facilities, and very friendly staff."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the region. At Blue Mesa, one camper reports, "The only thing I have against Thousand Trails Blue Mesa is the lack of internet. To have internet, you must have Starlink or a satellite dish."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. At Elk Creek Campground, "All sites have scan and pay tags that require you to go to Reservation.gov to pay."
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer privacy while others place RVs close together. "If you are tent camping I would try and get a site that is next to the reservoir. Makes for a great sunset view! Overall the campsite is well maintained," notes David L. about Elk Creek Campground.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly regardless of season. Prepare for afternoon wind, as noted at Blue Mesa: "Afternoons always seemed to get pretty windy too."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated activities: Some locations offer more than just camping. At Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch, Eliza S. shares: "There is so much to do on the ranch such as swim in the pools, play games, horseback ride, etc. The bathrooms and showers were clean and nice."
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some locations more than others. A visitor at Gunnison Lakeside Resort mentioned, "Speed limit was a strict 5 mph and they enforced it! Playground was a little older, but the kiddos liked it."
Water access for children: Sites near water provide entertainment value. Katie B. observed at Blue Mesa: "We loved our stay here! There is an indoor and outdoor pool, playground, cool mini golf set up, horses, and a lake for kids to fish in!"
Tips from RVers
Site depth considerations: Many RV sites have limitations on length. A Riverdance visitor noted, "Driving through the Vail valley and we needed a place to cam... Kids loved playing frisbee in the field and swimming in the river. Just had some construction and sewers aren't hooked up at sites but there is a dump station."
Elevation affects performance: Engine efficiency decreases at higher altitudes. A camper at Heron's Nest RV Park remarked, "After a particularly busy park schedule we like to just chill. This KOA is super for that! Clean, quiet, and patio spots right on the CO River."
Leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional equipment. At Blue Mesa, a reviewer observed, "The back in sites are fairly level. Some need a wedge level to bring your rig closer to level. Class A's have no issues backing into spots."
