RV sites near Rocky Mountain National Park range from secluded mountaintop locations to convenient in-town setups with river access. Most campgrounds around the national park operate between May and October, with an average elevation of 7,800 feet requiring proper vehicle preparation. Cell service significantly decreases on the western side of the park near Grand Lake compared to Estes Park.
What to do
River fishing access: Paradise on the River provides camping directly beside the Big Thompson River. "Each site has a deck over the river. Can't beat the sound of water rushing," notes a camper who spent three nights in July at this Paradise on the River.
Mountain view photography: The mountainous backdrop creates ideal photography conditions from strategic campground locations. "Our site #62 was a back-in so the big windshield of our Class A had an amazing view of mountains. RMNP, Beaver Meadows entrance is only 2 miles," explains a visitor at Manor RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Wildlife often wanders through campgrounds near park boundaries. "We had moose everywhere here. Cool paid spot. We have visited twice and love it," shares a camper at Grand Lake / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Journey, highlighting the regular wildlife sightings.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Water features significantly enhance the camping experience for many visitors. "Amazing views in 360 degrees of the mountains. Was able to get this site last minute. Very quiet. Mule deer met us when we arrived," writes a camper who secured site 37 along the creek at Manor RV Park.
Recreational facilities: Larger resorts offer extensive amenities beyond basic camping. "Bowling, an amazing pool and hot tubs, super clean facilities, full hookups, rent an airstream or chuckwagon for the weekend, stay in a tiny home - really, there's so much to do especially for families," explains a visitor at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain in Granby.
Town accessibility: Several campgrounds offer strategic positioning between town services and park entrances. "Location of this park is great, not too far from town but easy to get in and out of Estes Park," notes a camper who appreciated the convenience of their RV site.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Freezing temperatures impact facility operations during shoulder seasons. "We called to see about getting last minute site, but they were closed for the season. We rode by. It is min. from RMNP and Estes Park. Grocery, restaurants, shopping are all within walking distance," explains a visitor who attempted to book at Spruce Lake RV Park during early October.
Space constraints: Site configurations vary dramatically between campgrounds. "Spots are a little close, beautiful area w/lots of Hiking, biking, walking trails. Golden is an awesome area to explore & very close to Denver," notes a camper describing the layout at Clear Creek RV Park.
Wildlife interruptions: Large mammals frequently visit campgrounds. "Two bull elk were hanging out at our site one day. The big herd was just down the street," reports a winter visitor, highlighting that wildlife encounters aren't limited to summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Resorts with multiple facilities keep children entertained during downtime. "Beautiful campsite with pool, arcade, bowling, kayak rentals, awesome gym…so much more! The kids will be entertained here, and it's a short drive to Rocky Mountain National park," shares a family that stayed at River Run RV Resort in Granby.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment specifically for younger visitors. "There is a bathhouse with showers and a 2nd bathhouse without showers. Water, electricity and sewer is at each site," notes a reviewer who appreciated the playground at Manor RV Park.
Off-peak wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening hours typically offer better wildlife spotting opportunities from campgrounds. "As a past resident of Colorado this really should upset local people and visitors," cautions a long-term visitor regarding fire safety concerns during high-risk periods.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choosing sites with natural barriers improves privacy. "We had a great spot (RV33) which had privacy due to being surrounded by bushes on the sides between the abutting sites, and just a grassy lawn behind us. Not every site had this, and some of the sites were very open, close to the next site, not offering any privacy," explains a camper at Elk Creek Campground near Grand Lake.
Water pressure considerations: Variations in water system quality affect RV operations. "The water pressure could be a lot better. The restrooms are dated. The shower took a while to heat up and the room was a little chilly," notes a camper who otherwise enjoyed their experience.
Leveling requirements: Uneven sites can present challenges for larger rigs. "Our site was number 8, had a tree, and was by the bathrooms. The bathrooms were clean, and had a nice shower as well," shares a tent camper who found their spot reasonably level.
