Rocky Mountain National Park offers exceptional RV camping across 5 campgrounds with over 500 sites, featuring America's most spectacular alpine scenery along the famous Trail Ridge Road, diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, and year-round outdoor adventures spanning three distinct ecosystems. Moraine Park and Glacier Basin campgrounds provide the most RV-friendly sites with easy access to trailheads, while strategic locations like Estes Park RV rentals and Boulder camper van options offer prime access to this 415-square-mile wilderness that welcomed over 4.3 million visitors in 2024, making advance reservations essential for summer camping.
Soaring to 14,259 feet at Longs Peak's summit, Rocky Mountain National Park showcases the raw majesty of Colorado's Front Range through pristine alpine lakes, thundering waterfalls, and meadows carpeted with wildflowers. This 415-square-mile sanctuary protects three distinct ecosystems—montane, subalpine, and alpine tundra—each offering unique wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures accessible by RV.
The park's crown jewel, the 48-mile Trail Ridge Road, ranks among America's most spectacular drives, climbing above treeline to 12,183 feet where mountain goats graze and pikas call from rocky slopes. This engineering marvel provides RV travelers with front-row seats to some of the continent's most dramatic mountain scenery, including sweeping vistas across the Continental Divide.
Wildlife enthusiasts find endless opportunities to spot elk bugling in autumn meadows, bighorn sheep navigating rocky cliffs, and black bears foraging in berry patches. The park's 350+ miles of hiking trails range from easy lakeside strolls perfect for families to challenging alpine ascents for experienced adventurers. Pristine lakes like Bear Lake and Sprague Lake offer excellent fishing and photography opportunities, while the park's 150+ named peaks create a mountaineering paradise.
Summer temperatures range from pleasant 70s in the valleys to crisp 50s at high elevations, providing comfortable RV weather and natural air conditioning. Even winter brings magic with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities, though most high-elevation areas become inaccessible. Located just an hour from Denver and Boulder, Rocky Mountain National Park serves as Colorado's most accessible wilderness experience, combining urban convenience with pristine alpine beauty.
The park experienced record visitation in 2024 with over 4.3 million visitors, making timed entry reservations essential for summer visits and campground reservations critical for securing RV sites during peak season.
Rocky Mountain National Park is easily accessible via well-maintained highways suitable for RVs of all sizes. The Beaver Meadows Entrance near Estes Park serves as the primary gateway, accessed via US Highway 36 from Boulder or US Highway 34 from Loveland. The Fall River Entrance provides an alternative route via US Highway 34, while the Grand Lake Entrance on the park's west side connects via US Highway 34 over Trail Ridge Road (seasonal closure applies).
Mountain Gateway Access: Estes Park RV rentals position you at the park's doorstep, just 5 minutes from the Beaver Meadows Entrance. This charming mountain town provides immediate access to popular destinations like Bear Lake and Alberta Falls, plus full-service amenities including RV supply stores, dining, and outdoor gear shops.
Front Range Hub Access: Boulder camper van rentals offer excellent access to Rocky Mountain National Park's east entrances while providing urban amenities and a University of Colorado atmosphere. Located 45 minutes from the park, Boulder serves as an ideal base for multi-day Colorado adventures combining mountain and city experiences.
RV parking is available at all major trailheads and visitor centers, though spaces fill quickly during peak summer months (June-September). The Bear Lake parking area offers the largest RV-accessible lot, while Sprague Lake and Alberta Falls provide smaller but adequate parking for most RVs. Arrive before 9 AM during summer for best parking availability, or utilize the park's shuttle system from Estes Park.
Open from late May to late September, Aspenglen offers 54 sites accommodating RVs up to 30 feet in a peaceful setting along Fall River. This smaller campground provides a more intimate camping experience with excellent access to the Fall River area and Alluvial Fan. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground's location near the Fall River Entrance makes it convenient for exploring both east and west sides of the park.
Operating from late May through early September, Glacier Basin features 150 sites suitable for RVs up to 40 feet in designated areas. This popular campground provides convenient access to the Bear Lake corridor and shuttle system, making it ideal for families seeking easy trail access. Amenities include flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, and a camp store. The campground's proximity to Sprague Lake and Bear Lake trailheads makes it a favorite among photographers and day hikers.
Open from late May to late September, Moraine Park offers 244 sites accommodating RVs up to 40 feet, with tents and trailers welcome. This expansive campground sits in a beautiful glacial valley with stunning mountain views and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Amenities include flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. The nearby Moraine Park Discovery Center provides educational programs, while multiple trailheads offer access to Cub Lake, Fern Falls, and the Fern Lake Trail system.
When you take an RV road trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll be in a fishing haven, where you have the chance to catch native trout. The middle of the day is the best time to go fishing as it is the warmest part of the day. Some of the most popular fishing spots include Glacier Creek, Dream Lake, and the Upper Thompson River. You’ll need to get a Colorado fishing license before you start hooking your bait.
One of the experiences you won’t want to miss during your RV trip to Rocky Mountain National Park is a hike to Cub Lake. Here you’ll be greeted by a glistening mountain forest and colorful plant life. Just under five miles round trip, this moderate trek passes through unique terrain that was damaged by the Fern Lake Fire in 2012. At the end of your journey, you’ll end up at the serene backdrop of Cub Lake and Stones Peak.
The fall is a beautiful time of year to visit one of the many amazing waterfalls at the park known as Copeland Falls. You can take an easy walk or hike just .3 miles up the Wild Basin Trailhead to be greeted by the majestic sight of this cascading rocky waterfall dazzling in the forest. If you want a chance to snap more pictures of other nearby waterfalls you can take a short detour to Ouzel Falls.
This hike is extremely picturesque, so you will definitely want to take time to just enjoy the beauty of the natural setting that surrounds you. However, make sure you pay attention to weather and dress in appropriate layers.
The Hiker Shuttle operates during summer months, connecting Estes Park to popular trailheads and reducing parking congestion. This free service runs from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride lot, then continues to Moraine Park, Fern Lake, and Bear Lake areas. The shuttle accommodates basic gear but not large RVs, making it perfect for day trips from your campground base.
The park's only west-side campground, Timber Creek operates from late May through mid-October with 100 sites suitable for RVs up to 30 feet. Located near Grand Lake, this campground offers access to the Colorado River headwaters and different ecosystems than the eastern campgrounds. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the Kawuneeche Valley and accessing Trail Ridge Road's western approach.
Open year-round, Longs Peak Campground provides 26 tent-only sites designed for serious mountaineers and backpackers. While not suitable for RVs, this campground offers overflow parking for RV travelers attempting technical climbs or accessing the Longs Peak area. The campground features vault toilets, potable water (seasonal), and serves as the primary staging area for Longs Peak climbing routes.
Rocky Mountain National Park offers outstanding backcountry camping opportunities for adventurous RVers seeking multi-day wilderness experiences. Over 120 designated backcountry campsites provide access to remote alpine lakes, pristine watersheds, and challenging peak ascents. Permits are required for all overnight backcountry stays and must be obtained in advance through the park's reservation system.
Explore more RV parks and campgrounds across Colorado's Front Range for your next adventure.
For those seeking premium amenities and full-service facilities, the Estes Park KOA provides the ultimate Rocky Mountain National Park basecamp experience. Located in the heart of Larimer County just minutes from park entrances, this award-winning campground offers heated swimming pools, recreation facilities, and convenient access to Estes Park's shops and restaurants while maintaining that authentic mountain atmosphere.
Several other excellent private campgrounds operate near Rocky Mountain National Park, particularly around Estes Park. These facilities often provide full hookups, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and additional amenities like swimming pools, recreation rooms, and camp stores. Popular options include KOA campgrounds, independent RV parks, and resort-style facilities offering luxury amenities with mountain views.
Biking is a popular sport at Rocky Mountain National Park since you can cycle on any of the established roads, except for Grand Ditch Road. If you’re looking for a thrilling uphill ride during your RV vacation to the Rockies, you won’t want to miss a chance to cycle the Trail Ridge Road. You’ll ride up to a maximum of over 12,000 feet while zooming past gorgeous hillside views, awe-inspiring mountain peaks, and lush lines of forest. Cycling on trails is prohibited. Bicycles must share the road with cars, so be careful while riding around. If you need to rent a bike, you'll have to go to Estes Park or another nearby town.
Horses have a special importance in the history of the Rocky Mountain region. You can experience part of that heritage by enjoying a horseback ride through the incredible scenery found on the premises. Choose from taking a ride on your own or hiring a professional for a guided tour by one of the commercial vendors in the area.
You’ll love the chance to get out of your camper and enjoy an unforgettable ride past majestic mountains, grassy meadows, and enchanting forests. Horseback riding is permitted on 260 miles of park trails. Pack a bag which includes some snacks, sunscreen, and drinking water to carry with you on your horseback riding adventure. You'll find horse stables at Glacier Creek Stables and Moraine Park Stables.
If you want to get out of the motorhome and take a hike to one of the most spectacular views in the park, you’ll love a trip up Deer Mountain. This moderate three-mile trek is one of the most popular in the park, allowing you to soak up the incredible scenery glimpsed at Longs Peak and Hallett Peak. At the summit, you can enjoy a mountain picnic while taking in the amazing panoramic views that surround you. Pack a picnic lunch and be sure to include lots of drinking water to quench your thirst. Dress appropriately for a hike, including comfortable shoes.
Climbing and mountaineering have been popular sports in the Rockies since the 1800's. This national park is a world-renowned destination for rock climbers with hundreds of peaks and rock faces to tackle. Some of the most common spots for these adventures include the 14,249-foot Longs Peak, Lumpy Ridge, and Hallett Peak.
An RV trip to Rocky Mountain National Park offers wondrous opportunities for climbing and mountaineering unlike anything else seen in other areas of the country. If you are not an experienced climber, consider hiring a professional guide to accompany you. To ensure your safety, be certain to bring along the correct safety equipment.
If you want to learn more about the cultural history of the Rocky Mountains, you won’t want to miss a tour of Holzwarth Historic Site. Whether you venture to this historic site on your own or take a ranger-led tour, you’ll love the chance to explore a ranch, lodge, and cabins built by early 20th-century settlers. This the perfect spot to step back in time during your summer RV adventure to the Colorado Rockies. You'll find a parking lot, vault toilets, and picnic tables nearby.
One of the best ways to experience the majesty of some of the park’s greatest lakes is to take a guided tour. Held several days a week all summer long, these ranger-led walks will take you around these enchanting lakes where you can see the glorious wonder of the Rocky Mountains reflected in the water. Surrounded by tranquil forests, these spots are some of the most breathtaking in the entire park. You won’t want to miss these sights during your RV trip to the Rockies.
An incredible way to celebrate the summer when the sun dips below the horizon is to attend one of the regularly scheduled night sky and astronomy programs at the park. You can soak in dazzling celestial surprises by looking through telescopes, learning about the astronomy in the Rockies, or listening to thrilling ranger stories.
If you’re taking your RV trip in August, you can enjoy a visit to the Rocky Mountain National Park Night Sky Festival, which encompasses three fun-filled days of lectures, activities, and night sky viewing. Pack a blanket to roll out on the grass or a comfy lawn chair from which you can recline enjoy your view of the stars. Since it can get chilly at night, dress in layers to remain toasty warm.
A spring RV visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best times to see over 280 species of birds that make this park their home. At Cub Lake, you will likely spot wrens and waterfowl, while Alluvial Fan is a great place to catch a glimpse of bluebirds and owls. With so many beautiful creatures flying through the skies, the Rockies are a paradise for birding enthusiasts of all levels. Bring along your binoculars, your camera, and a naturalist's guide to spot, identify, and record your discoveries. Proper walking shoes are a must as well.
There are many varieties of wildlife to see during your RV visit to the Rockies. During your trek through the premises, you will spot all kinds of different interesting animals including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and mule deer. If you are especially lucky, you might even get to spot coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, badgers, and bears.
Dawn and dusk are actually some of the best times to snap photos of these majestic creatures as they are most active then. There’s no one best spot for sightings since the entire park is full of wondrous animals. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and camera.
If you want to park your travel trailer and get out into the wild, you’ll love the chance to explore one of the most picturesque regions in the park, the Wild Basin Area. This is a prime destination for hiking where you can discover gorgeous waterfalls, lush forests, and hidden creeks. There are several trails full of wonder to explore that will take you from serene lakes to mystifying cascades. Beyond the stunning mountain views, you’ll be greeted by beautiful, blooming wildflowers in the spring months.
A spot with many picture-perfect moments to offer, you'll want to have your camera on hand to capture them, for sure. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing and bring along drinks and snacks to enjoy. Keep in mind that Wild Basin Road is gravel and not recommended for large RVs.
Spring is a wondrous time in the Rockies, filled with glowing green meadows and blooming wildflowers. If you want to spend a relaxing day in the serenity of nature’s beauty, there are many idyllic picnic spots where you can get comfortable. You can use the on-site grills provided for public use. There are also several picnic tables housed throughout the grounds in many different locations. Some of the most picturesque picnic spots include Copeland Lake, Endovalley, Lily Lake, Beaver Ponds, and Lake Irene.
Rocky Mountain National Park is a mecca for photographers since there are limitless opportunities for eye-popping photos. Capture it all from soaring mountain peaks to magical lakes. Some of the best spots for incredible pictures include Emerald Trail Lake, Sky Pond, Alberta Lake, Longs Peak, and the Trail Ridge Road. Along any of these hikes, you will discover an abundance of interesting geographical features including rich mountainous terrain, diverse plant and animal life, and verdant green forests.
If you love hiking in the winter, a unique way to explore the park is with snowshoes. Most trails are open to snowshoeing, so you can park the RV and get out onto the land where you can enjoy the beautiful views of snow-capped trees and frozen lakes. Keep an eye out for regularly scheduled snowshoe ranger-led programs, so you can learn from the experts as you coast around this wondrous wilderness. Some of the most popular snowshoeing trails include the Emerald Lake Trail, the Glacier Gorge Trail, and Cub Lake Trail Loop.
As long as you pack warm clothes in your travel trailer, you’ll love a winter stroll in one of the most picturesque routes in the park, Bear Lake Nature Trail. On warmer winter days, this gravel trail is an easy half-mile loop that will take you through snowy forests to the base of Flattop Mountain and Hallett Peak, where you can snap some unforgettable photos. Don't forget to wear appropriate footwear and to bring along drinking water and snacks to keep hunger and thirst at bay.
If you’re an avid climber and up for a new challenge, ice climbing at Rocky Mountain National Park should be on your bucket list. There are dozens of ice climbing routes around the park, but one of the most popular is at Hidden Falls since it’s easy to access and offers climbs of up to 90 feet in height. For highly experienced ice climbers, you can tackle Alexander's Chimney on the east side of Longs Peak. Your climb will take you on an epic adventure through one of the most stunning areas in the country.
For those who are not experienced ice climbers, it is an excellent idea to consider hiring a guide to accompany you and your family. Be sure to bundle up against the cold by dressing in layers. Carry adequate drinking water with you to remain hydrated.
A fun activity the whole family can enjoy during your motorhome trek to the Rockies is sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley Snow Park. Located inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Hidden Valley is the perfect place to take the kids for a day of fun in the snow. They offer an easy sledding and tubing hill, warming hut, and heated bathrooms. If you don't bring your old sled or saucer, you'll need to rent one from rental shops in Estes Park.
If you want to explore a rustic winter wonderland, you’ll be in the perfect place for cross-country skiing during your winter RV excursion to Rocky Mountain National Park. You’ll coast along serene freshly fallen snow through alpine wilderness against the backdrop of awe-inspiring mountain peaks. The best area for cross-country skiing is the one located on the western side of the park where the snow is deeper. Hidden Valley Snow Park is one of the most popular spots where you can head out on cross-country skiing trails.
