Top 8 Best Camping Locations in Estes Park

Estes Park in Colorado boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Rocky Mountains, and whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or you’ve been itching to escape into nature for the weekend, Estes Park delivers! Towering trees, dense forests, and wildlife that strolls right past your campervan are all on offer when you take a road trip to this amazing place. But where exactly are the best campsites in Estes Park?

From RV parks equipped with hot showers and WiFi to more primitive camping options, we’ve scouted the best spots in and around Estes Park for you. We’ve got something for every need, too, from family-friendly sites to options for solo campers looking to escape from it.

Are you ready? Let’s dive straight in!

1. Estes Park Campground at East Portal

Not to be confused with “East Portal Campground”, Estes Park Campground at East Portal is located just outside the boundaries of the Rocky Mountain National Park, and it provides a quiet escape while still being close to downtown Estes Park. In short, this is the perfect campground if you’re looking for that classic mountain feel without being too far from civilization.

Here, you’ll find restrooms, coin-operated showers, and a small camp store that is ideal for stocking up on your essentials. Some sites also offer electric hookups, but you need to reserve these in advance as they are limited, and most have a picnic table and fire pit, making it easy to settle in for an evening of s’mores and storytelling by the fire. It’s pet friendly, too, so you can bring your furry friend along for the ride.

While this all sounds very idyllic, there are a couple of regulations you need to be aware of before making your reservations. Firstly, there is a two vehicle limit per site, and RVs can be no longer than 30 feet, so if you’re in a vehicle longer than this, you’ll need to find somewhere else to camp. Quiet hours are also in place here between 10 pm and 6 am, so if you’re planning to stay up late stargazing, you’ll need to keep your noise levels to a minimum.

In terms of nearby activities, the East Portal Trailhead is just steps away and this provides you with easy access to some awesome hikes, including the Glacier Basin Loop and Wind River Trails. You’re also only 10 minutes away from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, and if you’re looking for a relaxed day, the close proximity to town offers you interesting shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.

2. Spruce Lake RV Park

If convenience is a top priority for you, Spruce Lake RV Park should be your go-to spot. Situated just a mile from the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, this is a full-service RV park that is designed to make your stay as comfortable as possible, while keeping you close to the action, and as it’s one of the more developed sites in the area it’s ideal for family vacations.

Spruce Lake has 123 RV sites and is absolutely packed with amenities that will make you forget you’re out in the wilderness. From a heated swimming pool to miniature golf, you’ll never be short on entertainment, and there’s also free WiFi, cable TV, laundry facilities, showers, a playground, and a stocked trout pond where anglers can try their luck.

As you can imagine from a campground with so much on offer, reservations are highly recommended (keep in mind that the site is closed from October to May), and RVs of up to 45 feet are welcome here. All sites come with full hookups, and there’s even an on-site propane refill station.

Aside from its close proximity to the Rocky Mountain National Park, Spruce Lake is near downtown Estes Park, and you can easily explore the town or enjoy scenic drives along Trail Ridge Road. Or, if you’re into water-based activities, Lake Estes is just a few minutes away and is the perfect spot for kayaking or paddleboarding.

3. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park

For a fun, family-friendly camping experience, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is hard to beat, and if you’re traveling with kids, this is the ultimate destination. Located just outside of Estes Park, this campground provides endless activities that will keep the little ones entertained while you can kick back and relax in a truly stunning setting.

This campground is all about family fun. Think outdoor movie nights, a splash park, mini-golf, multiple playgrounds, and themed weekends where Yogi Bear himself might make an appearance! But what about amenities? Well, there are full hookups available on RV sites, as well as a camp store, laundry facilities, toilets, showers, and WiFi. Dogs are also welcome to join you here, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Unsurprisingly, bookings are a must if you want to camp here, especially during holiday weekends and on summer vacation. But before you decide this is the site for you, there are a couple of restrictions you should know. The first is that there is a maximum of six people per site, so if your party consists of more than this, you’ll need to book an extra site. Quiet hours are also enforced here from 10 am to 8 am.

In addition to the many on-site activities, Jellystone Park is just a short drive from both Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can explore hiking trails, go wildlife spotting, or spend the day shopping in town. There are also white water rafting and ziplining opportunities nearby, which is perfect for the adrenaline-seeking camper.

4. Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Resort

Situated on the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Resort is a fantastic option for campers who want to be close to nature, camp in a peaceful atmosphere, and have access to a few creature comforts. Basically, it offers a little bit of everything!

Full RV hookups can be found here, and sites can accommodate vehicles up to 75 feet in length, giving you loads of space if you’re in a bigger RV. There’s also a seasonal pool (open from May to October), well-maintained laundry facilities, toilets, and showers, and a small convenience store where you can pick up your essentials. There’s even a hot tub where you can relax after a day of hiking, and it’s not uncommon to spot an elk wandering past while you soak in the bubbles!

You aren’t going to be short of things to do in the surrounding area, either, as the park’s location makes it an ideal basecamp for exploring the Rocky Mountains. The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is just down the road, where you can grab maps and information on the best hiking trails, and for an easier day trip, head into Estes Park for some local food and shopping.

5. Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Holiday

KOA campgrounds are very well known for their quality and convenience, and Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Holiday is no exception. Located just outside of downtown Estes Park, this campsite combines the beauty of the Rockies with a whole suite of modern conveniences, and whether you’re in an RV or a tent, there’s something for everyone.

Full hookups, WiFi, and cable TV are all available at RV sites here, and there are also shaded, grassy areas with fire pits and picnic tables that add to the camping experience. You’ll also find hot showers, laundry facilities, and a dog park where you can exercise your four-legged friend. There are also family-friendly facilities, including a playground and a bike rental shop, giving you a whole new way to explore the area.

And believe us, there’s much to explore! There are several trailheads nearby like the Upper Beaver Meadows Trail and Deer Ridge Junction, as well as Estes Park itself. Or, if you’re up for it, you can ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for a bird’s-eye view of the valley.

You don’t need to stray from the campgrounds either for a day of fun, especially if you have kids, as the friendly staff here host activities throughout the week, such as pancake breakfasts and craft nights. It’s also right next to Lake Estes Marina, where you can rent a boat and head out on the water or enjoy an afternoon of fishing.

6. Estes Park Campground at Mary’s Lake

If you want to combine lake views with mountain vistas, head straight to Estes Park Campground at Mary’s Lake. This quiet, scenic campground is a little more off the beaten path compared to others, but this means you’re offered a peaceful retreat while still being just minutes from the town and the national park.

There is a mix of 120 tent camping sites, RV sites with full hookups, and cabins on offer here, and the amenities include flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and a seasonal pool that is ideal for cooling off in on a hot summer day. Picnic tables and fire rings are also available at all campsites, and you can purchase firewood at the on-site general store.

One of the best things about camping here is that, as its name suggests, Mary’s Lake is right inside the campground. So, if you’ve been looking forward to an afternoon of fishing, you don’t even have to leave the grounds to cast your line.

Fishing isn’t the only pastime you can enjoy here, though, and you’ll be just a short drive from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can spend the day wildlife watching or hiking the Twin Sisters or Lily Mountain trails. There are also rock climbing and jeeping opportunities if you’re looking to get your adrenaline rush, or if you prefer a quieter way of life, the lake area itself is perfect for a peaceful picnic surrounded by mountain views.

7. Hermit’s Hollow Campground

Are you looking for something a little more “rugged” in your Estes Park camping trip? Hermit’s Hollow Campground is a back-to-basics option set in a forest surrounding, and it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in nature without straying too far from some modern conveniences.

Even though it’s only located a few miles from the town, the atmosphere here feels worlds away. There aren’t as many bells and whistles as in some other RV parks, but you will find toilets, picnic tables, drinking water, and fire pits. There’s also a covered pavilion with a charcoal grill that all guests are welcome to use. Just keep in mind that there are no electric hookups, so you’ll need to be prepared for a more traditional camping experience.

If you’re looking for wildlife spotting opportunities paired with a beautiful walk, the nearby Gem Lake Trail offers you some of the best views in the area and the chance to see native birdlife in its natural habitat. It’s also an easy hike, so you don’t need to be experienced to enjoy it. Also, if you want to ramp things up a level and spend the day biking or horseback riding, head to either the Kruger Rock Trail or Pole Hill Road Trail, both of which can be easily accessed directly from the campgrounds.

8. Manor RV Park

Manor RV Park is just a stone’s throw from the town center, and this makes it a perfect getaway spot for campers who want a cozy place to relax and take in those amazing Rocky Mountain views, while still having easy access to shops, restaurants, and more.

You’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay here, including full hookups, reliable WiFi, showers, and laundry facilities – ideal for keeping your hiking gear fresh after a day of exploring! There’s also an on-site dog park, so your canine companion can run around and their fun, too, and each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, making it super easy to unwind at the end of the day.

As well as being very close to downtown Estes Park, you’re a quick drive away from Rocky Mountain National Park and it’s numerous walking trails. Lake Estes is also close by, which is perfect if you’re idea of heaven is spending the day boating, fishing, or simply relaxing along the water’s edge.

Final Thoughts

With options ranging from full-service RV resorts to more rustic sites that feel removed from civilization, there’s a campsite for everyone in Estes Park. And, with Traveller Autobarn’s fleet of campervans and unlimited miles, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your pace, visiting several different sites should you wish!

Looking to extend your road trip beyond Estes Park? Check out some of the best campgrounds in the USA, and start planning your next unforgettable vacation.