The best family-friendly glamping near Estes Park, Colorado

Whether you like to hike and climb in the mountains or just want to enjoy the views, you’ll find so many options for things to do in and around Estes Park. Not only is it the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, but the town itself offers opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and water sports. Campers will also find everything from amenity-packed RV resorts and glamping yurts close to downtown Estes Park to secluded tent spots in Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding national forest.

94% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Whether you like to hike and climb in the mountains or just want to enjoy the views, you’ll find so many options for things to do in and around Estes Park. Not only is it the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, but the town itself offers opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and water sports. Campers will also find everything from amenity-packed RV resorts and glamping yurts close to downtown Estes Park to secluded tent spots in Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding national forest.

94% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Arapaho Valley Ranch

91%

(379)

22mi from Estes Park · 71 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Granby, CO

Arapaho Valley Ranch is a gorgeous, family-owned guest ranch in Colorado’s beautiful Grand County. Our ranch is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and is nestled in one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. This area features hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic steam engines from the old town of Monarch. We have a private hiking trail that leads to our “kissing swing” overlooking the headwaters of the Colorado River Valley. Property Description Disclaimer: The amenities, features, and services displayed in photos on our website or promotional materials are for illustration purposes only. AVR does not guarantee the availability, condition, or quality of these amenities at the time of your visit, and they are subject to change. AVR reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue any feature or service without notice at any time. Guests must be at least 18 years of age or older to book and stay at Arapaho Valley Ranch.

2. Neverland Camp Wilder

92%

(354)

28mi from Estes Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nederland, CO

Welcome to Camp Wilder! We are an off-the-beaten-path camp offering peace and solitude. The cabin is very special to my family and me. It was passed down as a mining claim from my grandmother who founded it in the '60s. The vision for the land was simply perfect. A small 10 x 10 cabin with the whole mountain to explore and whoever they wished to bring with them. The town of Nederland is 10 minutes down the road where you can fish at Baker Reservoir. Lots of fun little stores in town to keep the family busy. Wildlife is everywhere up by the cabin/campsite, always remember don't leave food lying around with lots of great things to look for around the magical town of Nederland. The cabin sleeps up to 8 with the futon downstairs being very comfortable and 3" foam upstairs in the loft for more sleeping area. Bring your sleeping bags to stay cozy at night. There are lanterns inside to light up your night with a wood stove to keep you warm at night. The ground around it is sloped so you may have a hard time setting up any tents around the cabin. The grocery store is in Nederland where you can buy food, Coleman green propane bottles, gallon jugs of water and wood. There is a 3 burner Coleman, stove to cook on with limited pots & pans as well as silverware. Road disclaimer, the road to the cabin is one lane dirt road. The drive up to the cabin is pretty good but the turn onto the single dirt road to the cabin has a slight dip, if you have a low-clearance car it may bottom out when you are turning so be careful. No Trailers. They will not be able to turn around once there. Recommend vehicles with AWD. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles. Park on the left. Hike down to the cabin between yellow stakes. We are @ 10,000 feet and it is a slight hike to the cabin. Go 3.4 miles up Caribou road. Turn right @ yellow stakes go .4 miles When leaving please make sure both door locks are locked, put the key in the lock box and mix the code for the next camper.

3. Camp Always Choose Adventures

90%

(74)

40mi from Estes Park · 30 sites · Tents, Lodging · Central City, CO

⚠️ Important Policies ⚠️ • No refunds – please read carefully before booking. • Check-in by 8:00 PM only. • All payments are considered donations to our nonprofit. • You must text or call your ETA before arrival! ⸻ Welcome to Camp Always Choose Adventures, the nation’s first off-grid outdoor educational campground. Located at 9,300 feet in Central City, Colorado, we’re just 15 minutes from Idaho Springs. Our property offers a Tipi, a tiny house on wheels, 5 premium campsites and dispersed camping sites in the heart of the Rockies, where you may see elk, moose, deer, and even bears. 🚫 No RVs or campers. We have one on site but cannot host others unless you call us first. Our driveway is the gateway to Yankee Hill, the largest Off-Road Highway Vehicle area in the Front Range, with endless trails for hiking and exploring. 🌲 Arrive empty-handed and still camp! We rent tents, sleeping bags, and outdoor gear so anyone can enjoy a full mountain experience. We’re a one-stop-shop for your Colorado bucket list: camping with premier gear, 4x4 adventures, and everything in between. ⸻ Accessibility We’re proud to offer Extreme Motus off-road wheelchairs, designed for rugged terrain so guests with disabilities can join hikes, off-road rides, and fully enjoy the outdoors. ⸻ Our Mission Camp ACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to breaking barriers in the outdoors for youth and individuals with disabilities. Funds from camping directly support underserved youth and those with disabilities, ensuring the outdoors is accessible to all. 🙏 Thank you for supporting our mission. Learn more: AlwaysChooseAdventures.org

4. Laughing Valley Retreat

96%

(113)

44mi from Estes Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Idaho Springs, CO

Solitude, views, mining history, near many summer tourist activities.

5. Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

94%

(200)

28mi from Estes Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nederland, CO

This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.

6. Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%

(363)

16mi from Estes Park · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lyons, CO

A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.

7. Riverview RV Park and Campground

91%

(47)

18mi from Estes Park · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Loveland, CO

Riverview RV Park and Campground is set in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the Big Thompson River. The quiet countryside setting of our family-oriented park, with its gorgeous surroundings and charming wood carvings, is a favorite for groups or a romantic getaway. Hidden beneath the cottonwoods at 5100 ft elevation, Riverview RV Park and Campground is near the Big Thompson Canyon entrance. We are 30 minutes from the beauty of Estes Park and 20 minutes from unique shops, art district, and numerous family friendly activities within Loveland and Ft Collins. Cheyenne and Denver are about an hour’s drive from Loveland on I-25.

8. Gordon Creek RV Park

99%

(43)

25mi from Estes Park · 23 sites · RVs, Lodging · Livermore, CO

Enjoy peace and tranquility on 80 acres of private land. Hook into one of our RV sites with full hookups or stay in one of our beautiful cabins with close access to the nightlife of Ft. Collins as well as the gorgeous Red Feather Lakes area and all it has to offer. Visit Rigby's roadhouse for dinner and drinks right here on the property or take the family on a trail ride with Tattered Saddle. Wildlife is abundant in the area and you might see deer, elk, fox, bear, hawks, and bald eagles. Close to many trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, fishing, backcountry skiing, hunting, and even a golf course close by.

Camper favorites near Estes Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Laughing Valley Retreat

96%

(113)

44mi from Estes Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Idaho Springs, CO

Solitude, views, mining history, near many summer tourist activities.

Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

94%

(200)

28mi from Estes Park · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Nederland, CO

This forested and open meadow property is located on a seasonal creek 2 miles from the quaint mountain town of Nederland, Colorado. A short drive to both Boulder & Denver and situated in the picturesque Front Range, Nederland has convenient access to skiing, mountain biking, hiking & camping, including many points of access to the Continental Divide. The property is within walking distance of Boulder County Open Space and Indian Peaks Wilderness trails for endless biking and hiking adventures. Sites are private and secluded. There is a 20-foot tipi, a quaint treehouse, and a tent site camp that can be rented separately or together for larger groups. Toilet, picnic table, and potable water all available onsite. We have endless hiking, biking, and mountain fun activities onsite and nearby! Space for camper vans as well! We look forward to hosting you soon.

Rocky Mountain Glamping

98%

(363)

16mi from Estes Park · 6 sites · RVs, Lodging · Lyons, CO

A Rocky Mountain Glamping Experience Relax streamside in our private camp overlooking lush nature and towering rock outcroppings. Stroll along a rushing stream or head up challenging Moose Track trail to Balancing Rock. After your day of adventure or kicking back enjoy a hot shower. Share your revelations of the day around the campfire, roast marshmallows, or relish your favorite treat as you unwind. Bliss Canyon features 4 accommodations: 2 Gypsy Wagon Campers and 2 spacious Tent Cabins and a boondocking RV site. Teardrop camper sleeps 2 as an addition to any accommodation. The open-air, covered Kitchens have sinks, fresh, potable hot water, kitchenware, gas stove —pots, pans, dishes, utensils, etc, BBQ with side burner, critter-resistant food safe, bear-proof trash can, and picnic table outside. We provide a convenient propane campfire for safety since our climate is dry and often windy. No candles or open flames please. Limited WIFI available. There are easy trails on property along the lush stream (the original riverbed of the Middle Saint Vrain Stream), fishing or swimming in the pond (no lifeguard on duty), or challenging trails into Roosevelt National Forest from the property. (Ask Hiker Dot for guidance.) Several National Forest access points, where you can enjoy peaceful walks away from crowds, are a short drive. New this year Bliss Camp is adding a 12' x 14' Glamping Tent Cabin. Bliss Canyon is a spur off of breathtaking, picturesque South Saint Vrain Canyon. Stroll on over to the South or Middle for renowned fly fishing. For climbers, there are over 50 climbs in South Saint Vrain Canyon! Dark Skies: If you like to watch the stars and meteor showers, Bliss Canyon is blessed with dark skies with little light from the plains. Bring your telescopes and explore the Universe. Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the five Crown Jewels of the National Park Service, is nearby. The closest trailhead in RMNP is 10 miles, the next trailhead at Wild Basin entrance to the park is 13 miles, and the Beaver Meadows entrance (main entrance) is 36 miles. Rocky Mountain National Park has breathtaking drives, easy strolls with interpretive signs, and 360 miles of trails. (Advance reservation required for entry 9:00 am to 3:00 pm for main park, or 5:00 am to 6:00 pm for Bear Lake corridor.) Indian Peaks Wilderness also has several nearby access points and trailheads. Ask Dot for details. The charming town of Lyons is 20 minutes away with coffee shops, restaurants, bars, lots of great live music, and quaint shops. Also, Spirit Hound Distillery received the award for the #1, Best Whiskey in the World in 2022, hmmm, it might be worth a tasting! Due to our popularity reservations often fill up quickly. We suggest you make your reservations in advance especially if you have a group to rent the entire camp. At times there are last minute cancelations which allows for last minute openings. Dot and Byron look forward to hosting you in our spectacular Rocky Mountain Paradise.

Riverview RV Park and Campground

91%

(47)

18mi from Estes Park · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Loveland, CO

Riverview RV Park and Campground is set in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the Big Thompson River. The quiet countryside setting of our family-oriented park, with its gorgeous surroundings and charming wood carvings, is a favorite for groups or a romantic getaway. Hidden beneath the cottonwoods at 5100 ft elevation, Riverview RV Park and Campground is near the Big Thompson Canyon entrance. We are 30 minutes from the beauty of Estes Park and 20 minutes from unique shops, art district, and numerous family friendly activities within Loveland and Ft Collins. Cheyenne and Denver are about an hour’s drive from Loveland on I-25.

Gordon Creek RV Park

99%

(43)

25mi from Estes Park · 23 sites · RVs, Lodging · Livermore, CO

Enjoy peace and tranquility on 80 acres of private land. Hook into one of our RV sites with full hookups or stay in one of our beautiful cabins with close access to the nightlife of Ft. Collins as well as the gorgeous Red Feather Lakes area and all it has to offer. Visit Rigby's roadhouse for dinner and drinks right here on the property or take the family on a trail ride with Tattered Saddle. Wildlife is abundant in the area and you might see deer, elk, fox, bear, hawks, and bald eagles. Close to many trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, fishing, backcountry skiing, hunting, and even a golf course close by.

Stories from the community

N

Nate

October 2025

4 nights at Laughing Valley Retreat

We had an awesome time at the Laughing Valley Ranch! Bill showed us around and we loved looking at the animals, he’s a very knowledgeable and kind man. The campsite was an a gorgeous outlook that made for fantastic views. We are birders, so loved all of the cool birds around. Joe also made our stay super easy and comfortable! He gave us rides to the site, made sure we had wood and water, and showed us some cool spots around the land. Big shoutout to Joe! Overall we really enjoyed our time here, great place to get away and take in the mountain view’s for a couple of days, while not being super far from Denver and the cute town of Idaho Springs. Recommend this spot for any hiking, camping, or overall nature lovers.

B

Brian

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

Amy and her tiny home far exceeded our expectations. The host and location could not have been a better fit. Even with my scheduling conflicts she made it happen. Highly recommended and looking forward to our next chance to reserve the tiny house.

You can Glamp in in your own Frontier Tent, are you ready for adventure where gold miners use to prospect?

V

Valerie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Rocky Mountain Glamping

Dot & Bryon’s place is great! Very peaceful and with everything you need. Dot helped us narrow down things to do and we had a wonderful stay.

S

Sarah

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Laughing Valley Retreat

We had a fantastic stay at Laughing Valley a few weeks ago. The tent, campsite and amenities were impressive, making our experience comfortable and enjoyable. What truly stood out was our engagement with Joe, who took us on a tour and showed us all the cool ranch animals — his enthusiasm and kindness made the visit memorable. When a storm was approaching, Joe went above and beyond to ensure our tent was securely latched and that we felt safe and comfortable. Overall, we felt genuinely taken care of and already look forward to returning for another trip. Highly recommend!

The new 12' x 14' Explorer Tent with outdoor kitchen and propane campfire

JulieandLance

October 2025

3 nights at Rocky Mountain Glamping

Love the frontier tent at Dot & Bryon’s. The property was beautiful and the amenities were amazing!!!

A

Anna

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Laughing Valley Retreat

William was great with my son showing him all the animals! Thank you!! The tent was well stocked and cozy. We had a great evening under the stars at this little slice of Heaven.

H

Hannah

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

Camping here was absolutely wonderful! From the drive up to the view from the porch, the scenery was gorgeous. The site itself is a bit tricky to find which was my only issue. Otherwise the location is perfect, and the lodging was stocked with a multitude of useful resources. I would definitely visit again!

D

Dennis

September 2025

2 nights at Rocky Mountain Glamping

Everything is well explained. And everything that you need for a wonderful glamping, experience is included!!!

A

Adam

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Neverland Camp Wilder

Excellent location. Friendly host. Beautiful views! And very private.

A

Ashley

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocky Mountain Glamping

Dot and Byron were fabulous hosts! Everything was great for introducing my two little ones (3 and 1) to camping. The hosts met me and gave me all kinds of local advice. The kitchen was so useful. The little fireplace was great for their first smores. The property had all kinds of games and cute Knick knacks to find. Lots of seating options. The beds were actually comfortable! We’re already planning our next getaway. Thank you Dot and Byron!!

N

Nicole

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Neverland Camp Wilder

Beautiful views and quite comfy. 3 burner stove works great. Plenty of firewood in the area. Hammock was very comfy as well. Deer were in the area and bearberry grows on the hill. Would definitely stay again.

S

Scarlet

September 2025

2 nights at Rocky Mountain Glamping

This is a magical place! The property is gorgeous, the explorer tent was beyond comfortable with every detail thought out to perfection. I couldn't believe we had a private outdoor kitchen area, propane fire pit, personal picnic area and outdoor hot shower! I loved everything about this experience. The hosts were wonderful, helpful and very kind. Highly recommend:)

C

Carissa

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Laughing Valley Retreat

The views from the spot were fantastic, and I was really impressed with how attentive and proactive the host was - from texting and driving us up to being there again when we left. It’s rare to have a host physically present both on arrival and departure, and it made the stay feel extra cared for. The tent is in good repair and tall enough to stand in comfortably and we appreciated many of the extras like woodstove and drinking water. My daughter especially loved seeing the animals and getting to take a donkey ride, which was a highlight of the trip.

E

Emily

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rocky Mountain Glamping

We had an awesome time celebrating my husbands birthday with friends at Bliss Camp. All the little touches make such a big difference! From start to finish a perfect trip

A

Amelia

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Neverland Camp Wilder

We will definitely be back. The views were INSANE and the land was very well maintained. Our dogs loved romping around.

C

Carolyn

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Laughing Valley Retreat

Great location, cute asses, comfy yurt, possible Sasquatch sighting.

Jerrod

September 2025

With kids

2 nights at Laughing Valley Retreat

We loved our stay in Idaho Springs!! The mountain views were just breathtaking! And Bill was super welcoming, friendly, and very accommodating. (Worth the trip just to get to know this very cool human being.) He was so kind with our boys, and we got a great tour of all his animals and of course, burro rides! Also Joe helped us quickly pack up and get up to our safari tent before a big rain storm came through. He worked very hard to make sure we didn’t get soaked, which was greatly appreciated! All in all, it was a very unique and gorgeous place to stay and we felt very well taken care of. Our boys loved it and had a ton of fun building forts, exploring little caves, and hiking the land. (Speaking of forts, if you see a big hole with tons of sticks over it, that was our boys’ handy work. We’ll see how long it lasts! 🙃) Things to note: It’s a little bit of an intimidating dirt road up the mountain to get to the property, but even without four wheel drive, we were able to make it just fine. Also it’s quite a hike up the mountain to the actual safari tent, but we were able to load our stuff and ourselves onto the ATV, and Bill came and picked us up whenever we needed a ride down, which again was super accommodating. All in all, we loved it and would go again! It’s exactly the kind of place we are looking for when HipCamping - unique and welcoming!

D

Dede

September 2025

2 nights at Rocky Mountain Glamping

Dot & Byron were great! Very welcoming and had lots of recommendations for some great hikes. Great communication and I would definitely stay here again. The tents were beautiful, the outdoor kitchen and shower were amazing! They truly thought of everything. ❤️

A

Aidan

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sherwood Creek Camp and Glamp

Amy’s Treehouse was the perfect retreat spot. It’s 12 minutes from town, yet still feels like you’re dispersed camping with the campfire ability and seclusion amid Nederland’s forest. Would recommend this for anyone who wants a cozy, quaint stay without having to camp. Bathroom facilities were extremely clean too. We will be back! P.S. The husky was the cherry on top!

K

Katie

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Laughing Valley Retreat

My kiddo (8yo) and I loved our stay and will definitely return. The campsite feels remote but safe with the BEST 360 views. We could have just sat on the porch all weekend staring at the mountains and had a swell time. When we arrived, Bill gave us a quick tour of his ranch and had so many interesting things to share about his life and animals. What a neat guy. Joe picked us up on our way out and was very nice to talk to. Good folks and a great space all around. The tent and cots were cozy and we made good use of the wood burning stove on cold evenings (we got set up with plenty of firewood thankfully). The camp area has solar-powered lights that illuminate the area, so spending time outside in the evening was so pretty. Definitely check out the hike to the abandoned mine and be sure to thoroughly wander the campsite for interesting features. The only thing we would do differently is to bring disinfecting wipes to wipe down the kitchen and remember our aluminum foil to cook on the grate over the fire pit.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Estes Park guide

Where to go

Estes Park Village

Only 90 minutes from downtown Denver, Estes Park makes a great basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. You’ll find several RV parks with full hookups just outside the city limits and some have tiny cabins and yurts available for rent too. Mary's Lake is a popular family-friendly spot. In town, you can take a stroll along the riverwalk where you’ll find dozens of coffee shops, restaurants, and galleries and visit Estes Lake, where you can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and pontoon boats to get out on the lake. Wildlife is so plentiful here it’s not uncommon to see a herd of elk walking through downtown.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Known for its high mountain scenery and endless trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is a main reason to head to Estes Park. The Beaver Meadows Entrance Station and Visitor Center is less than a 10-minute drive from Estes Park, with free shuttle buses running from Estes Park to park trailheads in summer. Campers will find five campgrounds with RV, tent, and group sites—four are set near Estes Park and the other is near the Grand Lake entrance on Trail Ridge Road. You can also find plenty of backcountry sites. Reservations are highly recommended for Rocky Mountain National Park campgrounds but some first-come, first-served sites are available.

Roosevelt National Forest

For those looking for some scenery away from the crowds in Rocky Mountain National Park, Roosevelt National Forest rivals the national park and provides even more opportunities for outdoor recreation. The forest borders Rocky Mountain along the north and east sides, and is just an hour or so drive from Estes Park. The Long Draw and Tom Bennett campgrounds offer fantastic views and are incredibly popular spots for Colorado locals.

When to go

The best time to camp and hike in Estes Park is from late May through mid September as long as you’re prepared for chilly nights. Estes Park sits at 7,522 feet above sea level and many of the campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest are even higher, meaning that you can expect cool evening temperatures even in summer. The area is busiest in summer and when fall colors are at their peak, typically in late September through early October. A few Estes Park campgrounds stay open in winter for those looking to ski and snowshoe.

Know before you go

Camping in Estes Park is extremely popular. Book campground reservations well in advance.
No hookups are available at any area national park campgrounds, although dump stations can be found at Glacier Bay and Moraine Park.
Estes Park is bear country. Store food in campground bear lockers.
Free shuttle buses run from Estes Park into Rocky Mountain National Park during the summer months. This is a great way to enjoy the park sights without the hassle of finding parking and dealing with traffic.
For an introduction to the mountains surrounding Estes Park, head to the top of Prospect Mountain on the Estes Park Tram. You’ll enjoy views of Longs Peak, the Continental Divide, and the entire Estes Park Valley.