Rocky Mountain National Park camping spans elevations from 8,000 to 12,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates across various campgrounds. Sites west of the Continental Divide near Grand Lake typically have milder summer conditions than those on the eastern side near Estes Park. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below 10°F, while summer nights rarely exceed 60°F at most established sites.
What to do
**Horseback riding access: ** At Winding River Resort, campers can ride directly from their sites. "They offer all sorts of activities such as horseback riding, ice cream social, chuckwagon breakfast, square dancing, cowboy church," notes Mary D. Guided rides often pass through meadows where elk graze alongside the horses.
Disc golf between hikes: Several campgrounds maintain small courses for alternative recreation. "If you have a disc golfer in the group, bring the discs to play a round or three on the 9-hole course throughout the campground," suggests Tanner S. from Winding River Resort, providing an easy activity on rest days between more strenuous hikes.
Creek access for cooling off: Allenspark Dispersed Camping offers free sites along running water. "Lots of spots available... most camp spots are along the creek," writes Jason H., perfect for cooling off during hot summer days. The rushing water also provides natural white noise that masks sounds from nearby campsites.
What campers like
Morning wildlife viewing: Moraine Park Campground offers predictable animal sightings in early hours. "Deer wander in the morning," reports S M., while Amanda M. details, "The noise is eerie if you are not familiar with elk calls, but we thought it was very neat to hear." The meadow areas provide open viewing of grazing animals at dawn.
Natural sound barriers: Creek-side camping spots mask noise from other campers. "Creek is loud and drowns out noise," says johny R. about Allenspark Dispersed Camping, creating a more private feel despite relatively close campsites. This feature is especially valuable during peak summer months when most sites are occupied.
Winter camping solitude: Several campgrounds maintain limited winter operations. "Still some snow on the ground in late May," mentions Megan B. about Moraine Park Campground. Off-season visitors often have entire sections to themselves, though facilities may be limited and higher-elevation roads closed.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Glacier Basin Campground and others have shared storage requirements. "One negative is that 4-6 sites had to share a bear box," notes Paul Y., while Amanda M. emphasizes, "You ARE in bear country - be bear smart and safe and use your bear box!" All food, toiletries, and scented items must be secured.
Booking timing differences: Campgrounds operate on varied reservation systems. "Along with Longs Peak, Timber Creek are the only two first come/first served campgrounds in RMNP," explains Brent K. Most sites open for booking six months in advance, with few same-day options available during summer months.
Wind exposure conditions: Many areas have limited tree cover. "No trees meant no shade, wind breaks, hammock, or privacy," Brent K. warns about Timber Creek. Sites at higher elevations or in beetle-affected areas may require extra tent stakes and wind-resistant setups.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: East Portal Campground offers kid-focused facilities. "The playground was small but looked nice. There's a bocce ball court with a basketball hoop," reports Jona R., though conditions change seasonally as "the playground was there but they were redoing it," according to Megan L.
Hiking difficulty levels: Many campers recommend specific trails for children. "Bear Lake and Fern Lake are amazing hikes for the fam," advises Troy C. from Glacier Basin Campground. These routes feature shorter distances with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities suitable for younger hikers.
Petting zoo access: Several private campgrounds offer animal interactions. Tina K. mentions, "Loved the petting zoo and stream to swim in," at Winding River Resort. These facilities provide entertainment during afternoons when thunderstorms often make hiking unsafe.
Tips from RVers
Dump station limitations: Stillwater Campground and others have seasonal restrictions. "Water Dump was not available and some toilets were closed," reports Marcus K. during shoulder season. Many facilities close progressively as temperatures drop in September and October.
Wind protection strategies: Exposed sites require preparation. "Be careful with setting up awnings or tents it can be very windy this close to the lake!" warns Katie H. about Stillwater Campground. RVs should position with doors away from prevailing winds and secure all exterior items.
Cell service variability: Coverage differs dramatically across the region. Paul Y. notes at Glacier Basin, "ATT cell service was pretty good, Verizon okay," while at Allenspark Dispersed Camping, there's "Zero cell service not much of a view." Eastern campgrounds generally have better connectivity than western locations.
