Do you enjoy camping in your car? Do you like the conveniences of an RV? In the backcountry, why not get back to basics? Do you dare to sleep on a cliff’s edge portaledge? Everything is accessible from Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. This book will help you arrange the perfect rocky mountain camping vacation.

Campground types

Frontcountry sites are located in or near town and range from amenity-packed campground lots with car camping sites, RV hookups, and yurts to camping loops with more privacy, nature, and fewer facilities. Backcountry campsites can be found all around Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest, with one even allowing you to sleep on a cliff’s edge.

RESERVE AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE.

Now that you know where to camp, take the most critical piece of advice and book your spot as soon as possible. Camping is quite popular in this area, and campgrounds and campsites fill up quickly. Rocky Mountain National Park’s campsites are frequently booked months in advance (reserve yours up to six months in advance). Camping sites in Estes Park fill up rapidly as well, so the earlier you make a reservation, the better. Use the buttons above to learn more or to secure your slot.

The Longs Peak Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park is first-come, first-served, unlike most campgrounds. These locations fill up quickly as well, so plan ahead and arrive early to ensure that you snag one of these desirable spots.white and brown wicker basket with white textile

WHEN SHOULD YOU GO CAMPING?

The decision of when to reserve your campground is tangled up in the details of reserving your area early. The optimum time to visit Estes Park is from mid-June to mid-September. Warm to hot days and cool to cold nights characterize this time period. Because this is the mountains, the nights will always be cooler, although they will be the coldest in June and September.

HOW DO YOU CAMP?

This answer varies widely due to the variety of camping options accessible. Check out our camping how-to and Rocky Mountain National Park’s guide on camping in the park and what to anticipate in the wilderness for more information.

WHERE CAN I BUY AND RENT EQUIPMENT?

Food can be purchased at the local grocery store or at The Country Market & Deli. The Estes Park Mountain Shop, which also rents camping gear, is a great place to pick up any forgotten warm layers or camping goods.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If you spend time in the wilderness, you will almost surely become one with nature. Check out these pointers on how to take the best animal photos and, just in case, how to stay safe around bears.

Car camping in or near town has its perks: if you’re looking for a taste of civilization during your camping excursion, check out the town’s event calendar.