Drake sits along the Big Thompson River at roughly 6,400 feet elevation, nestled between Loveland and Estes Park in the Colorado Front Range. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Winter camping is limited by mountain access roads that can become difficult to navigate during snow conditions.
What to do
Wildlife watching: Moraine Park Campground offers excellent elk viewing opportunities, especially during fall. "We got to see some beautiful Elk very close by, which was definitely a highlight," noted a camper at Moraine Park Campground. Another visitor shared, "When we got farther into the field, we realized that the things that appeared to be small dead tree branches were not branches at all, but the antlers of a bull elk who was laying down in the grass."
Fishing access: Drake Campground puts you right on the Big Thompson River. At Riverview RV Park & Campground, located about 20 minutes from Drake, one visitor mentioned, "We spent 4 days in a spot right next to the river," making it ideal for anglers who want immediate water access.
Hiking opportunities: Hermit Park Open Space offers trails suitable for various skill levels. "The Kruger Rock Trailhead is inside the campground, and it is a nice hike with an amazing view of the Rockies and Estes at the top. Bring your crayons - there are two trailmarkers on the trail that you can do rubbings of," shared one visitor to Hermit Park.
What campers like
Mountain views: Camping in the foothills provides panoramic vistas. At Glacier Basin Campground, a reviewer noted, "The views of the surrounding peaks were great from our site!" Another mentioned, "The plus side to fewer trees is the better mountain views!" The elevation changes throughout the region create constantly shifting perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
Proximity to attractions: Most camping sites near Drake, Colorado offer quick access to both natural areas and towns. "Great location and amenities. Close to Estes Park downtown and a short drive to Rocky Mt Park entrance," wrote a visitor to Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake. The campground is approximately 20 minutes from Drake.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates stellar stargazing opportunities. One camper at East Portal Campground noted, "The stars were stunning too. We saw shooting stars and even the northern lights (flashing kind not curtains)." Fall and winter offer the clearest night skies, though summer evenings can also provide excellent celestial viewing.
What you should know
Water considerations: Dispersed sites typically lack water access. At Hell Canyon Dispersed camping area, you'll need to bring all your water. One reviewer noted, "Road up is a bit rough but I saw many SUVs make it, the gate sign recommends 4x4. Great views and only got busy on the 4th of July."
Seasonal changes: Weather patterns shift dramatically with season and elevation. A Moraine Park visitor observed, "Still some snow on the ground in late May," highlighting the unpredictable mountain weather even in late spring. Many camping areas above 7,000 feet can experience frost even in summer months.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds in the area require advance booking. One visitor to Estes Park KOA commented, "We lucked out and got the best tent site - it was huge. The other sites were a little small but nice." Reserve 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends at popular campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated activity spaces. A visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park noted, "Kid friendly campground with pool, mini golf, jump pad, camp store and golf cart rentals." Another family mentioned, "We are a family of 4, our boys are 11 and 8. The facility offered tons of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily."
Wildlife education: Use animal sightings as learning opportunities. At Moraine Park Campground, one camper shared, "Lots of animals sighting but also a lot of screaming kids to make them run away. Clean bathrooms, friendly staff." Consider bringing wildlife identification guides specific to the Rocky Mountains.
Family-sized sites: Seek campgrounds offering larger sites for family equipment. "We camped in site 154 in loop D, and it was perfect! The site was in the very back of the campground, had a large distance between the two neighboring sites, and faced the mountains," wrote a Moraine Park visitor, highlighting the importance of site selection for families.
Tips from RVers
Altitude awareness: Higher elevations affect RV systems and cooking. "Need 4wd but we made it without. One vehicle had a 20' cargo trailer. (Required 4x4)," wrote a visitor to Hell Canyon Dispersed camping, indicating the challenges even for larger vehicles. Water boils at lower temperatures at altitude, extending cooking times.
Leveling challenges: Mountain sites often require extensive leveling. At Jellystone Park, a camper noted, "They literally built this campground on the side of the mountain. It's a pretty fun place. Be prepared to have to walk up steep incline to get to your site." Bring extra leveling blocks for mountain camping near Drake.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in wilderness areas. "Full hookups offered, beautiful scenery and right outside the entrance to the national park!" shared an RVer at Estes Park Campground at Mary's Lake. Dump stations can be found at most established campgrounds, but dispersed sites require self-contained waste management.
