Timnath sits at 4,865 feet elevation in northern Colorado, positioned within a 40-minute drive of Rocky Mountain National Park's eastern entrance. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, requiring heated water hoses for extended RV stays. Summer humidity remains relatively low, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 75-90°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Fishing access: 10 minutes from most campgrounds: At Riverview RV Park & Campground, campers can fish the Big Thompson River directly from the property. "Nice sites, right on the Big Thompson. Sites are very close to each other, but plenty of room for privacy," notes camper Michael C. The river provides trout fishing opportunities without requiring a long drive.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or dusk: Many RV parks in the area offer wildlife spotting opportunities. "Nearly every day a deer would come munch on the greenery right behind our rig," reports Glen C. from Riverview RV Park. The area between Timnath and Estes Park is known for mule deer and elk herds that often pass through campgrounds during cooler hours.
Local farmers market: Saturday mornings: Loveland RV Resort hosts a weekly farmers market during summer months. "They also have an art night, and a farmers market and other weekly meetups here," mentions Marie G., who found the community activities welcoming even for travelers with older RVs.
What campers like
Mountain views without mountain prices: Campers staying at RV parks around Timnath appreciate the mountain scenery without the premium costs of parks inside Rocky Mountain National Park. "Verizon 5G signal is good. But you are packed in tight here and overpaying," notes Johny R. about parks in Estes Park, suggesting the better value found in Timnath area campgrounds.
River sounds: The Manor RV Park in nearby Estes Park offers sites along fast-moving water. "We got site 37 right along the fast moving creek. Amazing views in 360 degrees of the mountains," shares Michael M. Several campers mentioned the soothing background noise of flowing water enhanced their camping experience.
Proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park: Most Timnath area RV parks provide reasonable access to RMNP without the crowding of Estes Park. "About 45 minute beautiful drive to Rocky Mountain National Park entrance," Aaron notes about Riverview RV Park, which offers "beautiful river going beside many of the sites" and a "huge park with playground for kids."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: While some parks advertise spacious sites, reality often differs. "Sites are very close together and a bit noisy. We did not have any shade at any time of the day making our site very hot," reports Cindy C. about Riverview RV Park, suggesting requesting shaded sites when available.
Winter camping requires preparation: For cold-weather camping, Manor RV Park remains open year-round but with limited amenities. "This is an older park that is staying open during the 2021 winter season for the first time," explains Nancy C. Shower facilities may have temperature issues in colder months, as Amy notes: "Only cold to mildly warm water in the women's shower (which is too cold in CO.)"
Tree sap concerns: At some parks, cottonwood and other trees drop sticky sap during certain seasons. Kimberly D. warns about Loveland RV Resort: "The trees drop a horrible yellow sap that was on EVERYTHING after only one night, our shoes, our floors, our dogs, our rig, our vehicles, it was a mess."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. Spruce Lake RV Park includes family-friendly amenities like "a pool, hot tub, office with some supplies, full hookups, spacious sites, playground, fishing pond, laundromat, and a modest mini golf course," according to past visitors.
Kid-friendly recreation: Many campgrounds offer activities specifically for children. "We enjoyed seeing the kids playing in the playground and riding around the park on their bikes," reports Glen C. about Riverview RV Park, indicating the property is set up for safe cycling within campground boundaries.
Site selection for family privacy: Request sites away from main roads when traveling with children. "We stayed in a premium pull through because the basic pull through were soooo close together," notes Kimberly D., suggesting the value of upgrading to larger sites when camping with families at Loveland RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay discounts: RV Park properties near Timnath often offer weekly and monthly rates significantly lower than nightly fees. "This place is expensive ($440 a week) but very nice and it let me in with my older rig on the spot," explains Marie G., indicating some flexibility with older RVs that many higher-end parks reject.
Sewer connection placement: Check the location of hookups before setting up. "The site we stayed at had the sewer dump farther back than we are used to, but not a major problem just had to use our longer hose," advises Andrew about Manor RV Park, suggesting RVers pack extension hoses for all connections.
Weather preparation: Strong wind conditions can affect camping comfort. Glen C. notes: "It can be suddenly and very windy here, so most campers did not use awnings." This practical observation helps RVers prevent damage to equipment during unexpected gusts common to the area.
