Upper Wind River is located near the Rocky Mountain terrain, offering a landscape of forests and rivers. Temperatures range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during spring and fall to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include Rocky Mountain National Park and the town of Estes Park, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring local shops and eateries.

No campfires allowed here - only portable stoves.

Site Location: Site is in a lodgepole pine forest near some beaver ponds on Wind River. Site is across river from trail. A wood sign indicates the path to the site; the path may be marked by red arrowheads on trees. Camp safely away from standing dead trees, as near as is safely possible to the silver metal arrowhead.

Number of Sites: 1
Elevation: 8,940 feet
Distance: 1.6 miles from East Portal TH, 1.9 miles from Sprague Lake TH
Approximate Travel Time: 1 to 2 hours
Elevation Change: 620 feet gain from East Portal TH, net gain 230 feet from Sprague Lake TH (320 feet gain; 90 feet loss)
Privy: YES

Water Source: Water may be available from river. RIVER MAY BE DRY AFTER MID-JULY. Boil or adequately treat all water.

To Reach the Trailhead (TH): East Portal TH: From Beaver Meadows Visitor Center follow Hwy 36 approximately 0.7 mile east and turn right onto Hwy 66. Drive to the end of the Hwy 66 (approximately 3 miles). Park your vehicle in the asphalt parking area on the east edge of the loop at the end of Hwy 66. Do NOT park in the Day Use Picnic Area.

Upper Wind River

Estes Park is the gateway to Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. Expect long entrance lines heading through Estes Park into Rocky Mountain but know that your campsites will be worth it.

Obviously, the best camping near Estes Park is in Rocky Mountain National Park. RV and tent camping spots go quickly in Rocky Mountain, especially in peak season, so get your reservations well in advance. If you can’t get a spot in one of the park’s campgrounds, you can utilize ample Forest Service land on the other side of Estes Park. If you’re looking for something a bit less trafficked, head towards Pinewood Springs, CO, and climb any of the numerous mountains on the way.

Estes Park

Estes Park, CO is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Estes Park campgrounds just for you. Discover great camping spots near Estes Park, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Estes Park, Colorado

This small campground is good for a backpacking group. It is in the pine forest next to two small streams.  Elk frequent the area. Nothing too special. 

Photos of Upper Wind River

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