Just 15 miles from Vail Pass, camping in this area provides access to both high-alpine landscapes and lower-elevation valleys with pine, spruce, and aspen forests. The campgrounds near Vail sit at elevations between 8,000-9,500 feet, where summer temperatures typically range from 45-75°F. Many campgrounds remain accessible into October, though early snowfall can affect late-season camping plans.
What to do
Trail access from camp: At Gore Creek Campground, you're just minutes from hiking options. "We loved staying here! You could hear the river from our site (site 14) it was very spacious, plenty of trees for hammock camping. The views are awesome, we enjoyed just walking around the little trails around camp," notes Emily M.
Off-highway adventures: Kremmling's Red Mountain RV Park serves as a gateway to backcountry trails. "Plenty of land behind for hiking and dirt riding! You can take 40 to Winter Park in about 50 minutes. And then can take other highway down into silverthorne in 45 min," says Tommy H.
Four-season activities: Winter sports enthusiasts can use these campgrounds as a base. "Breckenridge Colorados premier all season resort. Full service RV sites or mountain chalets (cabins) await you near Breckenridge Ski Resort, Copper Mountain, Keystone, A-Basin and Vail," explains Pepper I. about Tiger Run RV Resort.
What campers like
River proximity: Multiple campgrounds offer creek or river access for cooling off. "Kids were happy to play in the field and win in the river. Showers were nice and clean. Price was reasonable," says Kristen about Riverdance RV Resort.
Convenient town access: Many campers appreciate being close to amenities. "The location of this site is truly the best feature. It's a 1/2 block off main street on the south side- close to 2 Mile Brewing," notes Lisa about Leadville RV Corral.
Winter camping options: Several RV sites near Vail, Colorado remain open year-round. "This RV resort is a fantastic location & open year-round. The park is clean and has lots of shade," mentions Cindy S. about Tiger Run RV Resort.
What you should know
Highway noise: Interstate proximity affects some campgrounds. "You could hear the river from our site (site 14)... The bathrooms are pit toilets but kept clean. No complaints here!" says Emily M. about Gore Creek, while Rebecca notes, "Only downside is sound off of interstate. Otherwise it was perfect!"
Reservation timing: Summer booking requires significant advance planning, especially for holiday weekends. Popular RV sites fill completely 3-6 months ahead during peak season.
Variable hookup options: Not all RV parks offer complete hookups. "The lots are paved, nice and wide. The location, close to Breckinridge, is very nice," reports Kimberly about Tiger Run, though she noted maintenance issues at this particular campground.
Tips for camping with families
All-inclusive resorts: Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain offers extensive family amenities. "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 Jenny S.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated children's areas. "This place has everything! 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," reports Meghan T.
Multi-day activities: Plan for changing weather conditions, especially in spring and fall. "We stayed here over Memorial Day weekend for 4 days 3 nights and couldn't have had a better experience (except for the rain all day Sunday) but even then, it gave us a great opportunity to enjoy our camper," says Cody N.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal utilities: At Sugar Loafin' RV/Campground, winter camping presents unique challenges. "Early season means snow is guaranteed. We were one of only 3 campers in the lot being that it was still so early. Woke up to 4" of snow overnight (it was 50 the night prior)," reports Reames C.
Leveling considerations: Many RV sites near Vail, Colorado require adjustments. "The sites are a bit small but full hook ups with a lodge and general store on-site. Only about 5 minute drive the lake and Leadville," notes Greg T.
Shower facility access: Some campgrounds have limited bathroom facilities. "They have a laundry and bathrooms that are good. They did give us a 10% discount. I guess the 74.00 a night is what got me," mentions Debbie M. about Idaho Springs RV Resort, which offers a higher-end option within driving distance of Vail.
