Rocky Mountain National Park camping spans elevations from 8,000 to 12,000 feet across Colorado's diverse terrain. Temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees at night even in summer, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. The park's western side typically receives fewer visitors and offers better opportunities for viewing moose.
What to do
Hike to Adams Falls: Near Grand Lake, this short trail offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had a woman shout at me today when I was in my lane and she was stopped in the middle of an intersection... So kindof hit or miss!" reports a camper from Moraine Park Campground.
Explore Shadow Mountain Lake: Located adjacent to Green Ridge Campground, the lake provides fishing and waterfront activities. "Situated at Shadow Mountain Lake. Tent pad was a little small for out 6 person tent, but we made it work," notes a visitor who appreciated the proximity to water.
Utilize shuttle services: During peak season, take advantage of free shuttle buses to avoid parking issues. "The shuttle bus makes a stop near the check in station, and the Park & Ride is a short walk away. The location is very convenient to the most popular hikes in RMNP," explains a camper who stayed at Glacier Basin Campground.
Watch for moose: The western side of the park is known for moose sightings. At Arapaho Bay Campground, one visitor noted, "We had many moose sightings in the campground during our stay. Kayaking and swimming in Lake Grandby and hiking nearby areas was a lot of fun."
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution makes for exceptional night skies. At Green Ridge Campground, one camper reported, "Clean toilets, both flush and vault. Great walks/hikes or bike rides into the Rocky Mountains from the campground."
Morning wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer dawn wildlife opportunities. "Deer wander in the morning," noted a camper from Moraine Park Campground, while another mentioned, "The video I attached is from the campground just after sunrise, and we saw and heard tons of other elk as well."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance of park facilities. One visitor to East Portal Campground remarked, "Facilities are exceptional, clean, free with camping. Each site has a bear box/food locker to keep food items safe and stored near your site. So quiet at night...good sleeping!"
Proximity to water features: Many campsites are near creeks, rivers, or lakes. "Right next to a creek, nice to have a water feature," reported someone staying at Allenspark Dispersed Camping, while a Stillwater Campground visitor noted, "This park has a LOVELY location right on the lake; try and pay attention when you are booking to get a really good spot."
What you should know
Bear safety is essential: Proper food storage is mandatory throughout the area. "Bear security is a must here. Overall, campground is stocked and generally tidy, staff helpful, knowledgeable and friendly," warned a visitor to Timber Creek Campground.
Weather changes rapidly: Prepare for temperature swings and afternoon storms. One camper at Timber Creek Campground shared, "Both visits we have had rain every day around 5-8 PM, temps in mid 40s at night, mornings are stunningly perfect usually."
Reservations recommended: During peak season, campgrounds fill quickly. "RMNP was all full so we ended up here. Great spot close to town and the park entrance," noted a visitor to Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake.
Limited shade in some areas: Due to pine beetle damage, many campgrounds have lost mature trees. "The pine beetle infestation has left the campground with virtually no trees, so noise carries easily and there's no privacy," explained a camper at Timber Creek, though they added, "the lack of trees did provide some really nice views as well as good stargazing opportunities at night."
Tips for camping with families
Petting zoos and activities: Some private campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. At Winding River Resort, a visitor shared, "Lots of activities to do. Loved the petting zoo and stream to swim in. Also really enjoyed the horseback riding and ATV ride."
Look for playground facilities: Some campgrounds have play areas for children. A visitor to East Portal Campground mentioned, "The playground was small but my kids were satisfied. There was a rock climbing wall and swings."
Choose campgrounds with ranger programs: Educational activities keep children engaged. "Nightly talks/shows at the amphitheater," noted a Glacier Basin Campground visitor about the park's interpretive programs.
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy animal sightings from safe distances. "We passed so many parking lot campgrounds and were so happy we chose here. We had trees! My kids enjoyed playing with sticks and rocks in this little field," reported a family at East Portal, who also saw "Mule deer came through every evening right by our camper to eat grass."
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths before booking: Many campgrounds have length restrictions. "There is a limit of 35 feet for RV/Trailer length," noted a visitor to Glacier Basin Campground.
Consider private campgrounds for amenities: Some offer more services than national park sites. At Winding River Resort, an RVer mentioned, "We stayed two nights and were pleased with the services. Full hookups and lots of space at the lower numbered full hookup sites."
Road conditions matter: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. At Arapaho Bay, a camper warned, "Be warned: road in across the dam is ROUGH to the point of hazard, and lacks guardrail. Significant safety concern for others or those with large or unwieldy vehicles."
Exposure to wind: The lack of trees at some campgrounds affects RVs. "No shade, wind was a problem with our tent, but the views made up for it!!" explained a Glacier Basin visitor, highlighting a concern that affects RVs even more than tents.
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