Rocky Mountain National Park offers several RV camping options, each with unique features and amenities. This guide explores the top-rated campgrounds, their facilities, and important regulations for RV campers. From the popular Moraine Park Campground to the scenic Timber Creek Campground, discover the best places to park your RV and enjoy the breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Where Are the Best RV Camping Sites in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Rocky Mountain National Park boasts several excellent RV camping sites, each offering unique experiences and amenities. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the top-rated campgrounds:
- Moraine Park Campground
- Glacier Basin Campground
- Timber Creek Campground
- Aspenglen Campground
Let’s dive into the details of each campground to help you choose the best spot for your RV adventure.
What Makes Moraine Park Campground Special?
Moraine Park Campground is the largest and most popular campground within Rocky Mountain National Park. Here are its key features:
- Capacity: 244 sites
- RV Length: Up to 40 feet
- Amenities:
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Food storage lockers
- Dump stations
- Flush toilets
- Potable water
Note: Moraine Park Campground is currently closed until fall 2024 due to construction.
What Does Glacier Basin Campground Offer?
Glacier Basin Campground is another excellent option for RV campers:
- Location: Six miles south of the Beaver Meadows entrance
- Season: Open from late May to early September
- Capacity: 150 sites (including 13 group sites)
- RV Length: Up to 35 feet
- Amenities:
- Picnic tables
- Fire pits
- Food storage lockers
- ADA sites
- Dump stations
- Flush toilets
- Potable water
- Shuttle bus service
Why Choose Timber Creek Campground?
Timber Creek Campground, located on the west side of the park, offers a unique camping experience:
- Season: Open from late May to early October
- Capacity: 100 sites
- RV Length: Up to 30 feet
- Amenities:
- Picnic tables
- Fire pits
- ADA sites
- Dump stations
- Flush toilets
- Potable water
Highlight: Known for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
What Are the Features of Aspenglen Campground?
Aspenglen Campground is a smaller, more intimate option for RV campers:
- Season: Open from late May to late September
- Capacity: 52 sites
- RV Length: Up to 30 feet
- Amenities:
- Picnic tables
- Fire pits
- Food storage lockers
- ADA sites
- Dump stations
- Potable water
What Are the RV Camping Regulations in Rocky Mountain National Park?
When planning your RV camping trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s crucial to be aware of the following regulations:
- Vehicle Size Restrictions: Each campground has specific RV length limits:
- Moraine Park: 40 feet
- Glacier Basin: 35 feet
- Timber Creek: 30 feet
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Aspenglen: 30 feet
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Waste Disposal: All campgrounds provide dump stations for proper waste management.
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Generator Usage: Some campgrounds have restricted generator usage times. For example, at Aspenglen Campground, generators are allowed only from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
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Reservations: Most campgrounds require reservations, which can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov. Longs Peak Campground is the only first-come, first-served option.
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Timed Entry: Campers with reservations receive timed entry permits, allowing them to enter the park starting at 1 p.m. on the first day of their reservation.
What Challenges Might RV Campers Face?
While RV camping in Rocky Mountain National Park can be an incredible experience, there are some challenges to be aware of:
- Road Conditions and Accessibility:
- High elevation can affect road conditions, especially during winter months.
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Timber Creek Campground has limited shade due to pine beetle infestation.
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Campground Availability:
- Moraine Park Campground’s closure until fall 2024 may impact overall availability.
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Other campgrounds fill up quickly, so early reservations are essential.
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Water Availability:
- Longs Peak Campground (first-come, first-served) does not have water available. Campers must bring their own.
How Can I Make the Most of My RV Camping Experience?
To ensure a memorable RV camping trip in Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Plan Ahead: Make reservations well in advance, especially for peak summer months.
- Check Vehicle Restrictions: Ensure your RV meets the length requirements for your chosen campground.
- Be Prepared: Bring necessary supplies, including extra water if staying at Longs Peak Campground.
- Respect Wildlife: Store food properly and maintain a safe distance from animals.
- Follow Park Rules: Adhere to quiet hours, generator restrictions, and waste disposal guidelines.
By following these tips and being aware of the campground options and regulations, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable RV camping experience in Rocky Mountain National Park.