The Winter Park area sits at elevations between 8,500-9,000 feet, requiring campers to prepare for significant temperature drops at night even during summer months. Most RV sites near Winter Park, Colorado remain open year-round, though winter access requires preparation for mountain driving conditions. The area's high-altitude camping presents unique challenges for propane systems and water lines during colder seasons.
What to do
Hiking access to Colorado Trail: At Tiger Run RV Resort, located about 40 miles south of Winter Park, campers can directly access segments of the Colorado Trail. "Multiple segments of the Colorado trail are accessible right from the park," notes one visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Kayaking on nearby lakes: The area provides multiple water recreation opportunities within short driving distances. A camper at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain mentions, "It's a short drive to Lake Granby and Willow Creek for some great fishing and also a pond on site for fishing as well."
Urban exploration: For campers interested in experiencing Colorado's urban amenities, some RV parks offer easy transportation options. At Applewood RV Resort, "the bus to Union Station leaves every hour just outside the campground - so with an easy 30 min trip, you are in the center of Denver!"
Mountain biking routes: The region features extensive trail networks suitable for cycling enthusiasts. A reviewer at Applewood noted, "Located right behind it is a large green belt with ponds, a park, biking and walking path as well as Clear Creek."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The campgrounds near Winter Park offer chances to see Colorado wildlife in natural settings. At Grand Lake / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Journey, one camper enthusiastically reported, "We had moose everywhere here. Cool paid spot. We have visited twice and love it."
Indoor recreation during inclement weather: When outdoor activities aren't possible, some resorts provide indoor alternatives. At Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain, facilities include "bowling alley, arcade, restaurant, bars (yes more than one!) they had live music, they have fishing, and dog parks."
River access: Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations providing soothing natural soundscapes. Clear Creek RV Park offers sites "along the river" where campers enjoy "sitting by the river" according to one reviewer who appreciated this water-adjacent setting.
Mountain views: The visual setting remains a highlight for many visitors. A camper at Idaho Springs RV Resort & Campground appreciated their "site 39" because it was "perfectly level with beautiful surroundings. Great view of the mountains right outside our window."
What you should know
Winter RV operation challenges: Operating an RV during winter months requires preparation beyond what's typical for summer camping. One visitor at Tiger Run noted it "is open year-round" which is significant since many campgrounds in the area close seasonally.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. One camper at Tiger Run mentioned, "The wifi was a snail pace. We couldn't keep anything logged in," emphasizing the importance of having backup connectivity options.
Off-season pricing opportunities: Some campgrounds offer significant discounts during shoulder seasons. A visitor at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain mentioned, "Later in the season we got a free day if we paid for two days."
Winter road conditions: Mountain passes and access roads can become difficult to navigate during snow events. One camper at Clear Creek RV Park noted they were "stranded in Denver by a snow storm ahead," highlighting the unpredictable nature of mountain travel.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Some resorts feature exceptional facilities designed specifically for family enjoyment. A Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain visitor with children shared, "Bring your kids here! They won't want to leave! Come for at least a few nights, if able, so you can make the most of it."
Pet restrictions vary: RV parks have different policies regarding pets, particularly about containment methods. One camper cautioned about their experience: "Portable dog pens are not allowed. Tethering is not allowed... At this park they can only be on a 6 ft leash attached to a human."
Activities scheduling: Organized events can enhance family stays, but availability varies by season and day of week. A Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain visitor mentioned their "kids enjoyed activities - popsicle eating contest, t-shirt tie dye, and donut decorating."
Playground access: Facilities for younger children differ significantly between campgrounds. One Clear Creek visitor noted, "The play set for kids is small," indicating families should research specific amenities before booking.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Terrain at some campgrounds presents challenges for larger rigs. At Clear Creek RV Park, a camper observed, "The A3 site chosen is gravel with a hole or two and significantly tilted low to the front left... requiring a 4 high stack."
Campground navigation: Some RV parks have tight interior roads requiring careful driving. About Tiger Run, one visitor advised, "Must be an experienced driver to navigate the tight lots and roads."
Power requirements: Electrical systems vary between parks, requiring adaptability. One camper at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain mentioned, "Our 25' fresh water hose was too short. Needed about 29' so it was nice to have a store on property."
Overnight parking alternatives: For skiers with self-contained RVs seeking proximity to slopes, limited options exist beyond established campgrounds. Some private RV parks remain open year-round, offering alternatives to parking lot camping with hookup services.
