No, Rocky Mountain National Park unfortunately doesn’t have RV hookups. This is because the campgrounds only have limited amenities that are more suitable for tents and small vehicles. Instead, RV owners can find nearby campgrounds and parks offering full hookups and facilities.

While several campsites within the park are open to RV camping and trailers (all of which require booking in advance), they generally contain bare-bones amenities.

However, if you require a hookup (including water, electricity, and dump stations), we have a few recommendations close to the park so that you can still visit worry-free. 

This article is for anyone hoping to bring their RV to see Rocky Mountain Park, including those looking for affordable, accessible, and family-friendly (including pets) options. 

In this article, we’ll go over: 

• Options for RV camping around Rocky Mountain National Park
• Popular activities in the park
• Tips for how to prepare for your trip. 

Let’s get into it!

Other RV Camping Options With Hookups Near Rocky Mountain National Park 

In this article, we’ve outlined a selection of campground options located close to the Eastern and Western entrances. Most of them are pet and kid friendly, and also offer accessible parking. 

Be sure to check their individual opening times, as they may vary between campsites and year-to-year!

Estes Park

Estes Park is located at the base of Rocky Mountain National Park, along the Eastern border. 

The village is close to two main entrances to the park: Beaver Meadows and Fall River.  Construction in this area has narrowed this entrance, so the park service currently recommends that visitors use Beaver Meadows.

Estes Park contains several campgrounds with hookups and dump stations for RVs and trailers, some of which have accessible options. This means you have plenty of choice, year-round. 

Despite being 7,522 feet above sea level, Estes Park is easy to get to even in an RV or while towing a trailer. However, travelers should be aware of traveling conditions in the winter months.

Estes Park has a number of other benefits, including: 

• Free seasonal shuttle busses to help you get around the town and to Rocky Mountain National Park
• A range of restaurants and shops
• And activities such as golf, skiing, fishing, and guided wildlife tours.

Estes Park Campground at East Portal

If you want a campground that’s at the doorstep of the national park, the East Portal is the choice for you! With scenic, natural views and plenty of activities to do, your stay at East Portal is sure to be a memorable time.

• Address: 3420 Tunnel Road
• Amenities: Playground area, sewer hookups, sanitary dump stations, showers, flush toilets
• Pet-friendly
• Enjoys an average of 4.6 stars, with reviews loving the clean place, accessibility to shops, and the wide range of amenities
• Reservations online at Reservation America
• Price ranges from $55 to $80 for RV hookups

Estes Park Campground at Mary’s Lake

Located right next to the idyllic Mary’s Lake, this campground is the perfect choice for Instagram-worthy pictures and a tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. 

It’s also close to the town center and the national park, so quick access shouldn’t be a problem.

• Address: 2120 Mary’s Lake Road
• Amenities: Playground area, sewer hookups, sanitary dump stations, showers, flush toilets, store, propane, outdoor pool
• Pet-friendly
• Enjoys an average of 4.3 stars, with reviews praising the views, the park’s quiet hours, top-notch amenities, and friendly staff
• Reservations online at Reservation America
• Price ranges from $60 to $65 for RV full hookups

Grand Lake 

On the Western side of the Park is Grand Lake, known as the “Western Gateway”. It’s located about a mile away from the only entrance on the west of the park. 

Surrounded on three sides by the Park, Grand Lake is known for its walkability and peaceful atmosphere.

Grand Lake is a fantastic option for those hoping to avoid the crowds of Estes Park! 

It’s also a good choice for those who like to be near or on the water. Other activities in the area include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and golf.

Grand Lake Koa Journey Campground (formerly Elk Creek Campground) 

Sitting just beside Rocky Mountain National Park, the Grand Lake Koa campground is another wonderfully scenic location. There are two big lakes in the area, as well as several smaller ones. 

• Address: 143 Co Rd 48
• Amenities: Firewood, propane, playground, dog park, Wi-Fi, game room, laundry room
• Pet-friendly
• Enjoys an average rating of 4.6 stars, with reviews praising the views, the park’s quiet hours, top-notch amenities, and friendly staff 
• Reservations online at KOA
• Recreation activities include trout fishing

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains (formerly River Run RV Resort)

Sun Outdoors is a resort paradise for RV tourists with plenty of standard and premium sites for you to choose from! 

Although it’s a bit far from the national park, it neighbors the Granby town center so you can always drop by for additional supplies and check out other nearby attractions.

• Address: 1051 Summit Trail, Granby
• Amenities: Pool, hot tub spas, golf cart rentals, Wi-Fi, dog parks, yoga lawn, gem mining
• Pet-friendly
• Enjoys an average rating of 4.2 stars, with reviews gushing about the activities and overall resort atmosphere
• Reservations online at the official website
• Plenty of recreational activities are available
• Price ranges from $67 to $85 for RV full hookups

Popular Activities in the Park for RV Campers 

RV camping is simply one of the best ways to unwind and take things slowly. Here are some other popular activities you can do to make the most of your stay!

• Hiking and Nature Trails: The park offers visitors 355 miles of hiking trails. They have a range of options for those new to hiking or requiring gentle walks, to hikes with elevations to challenge even the most experienced hikers. If you or a loved one needs it, check out their all-terrain wheelchair!
• Ranger-Lead Trails and Programs: These include bird and nature walks and talks, lasting up to an hour. Accessible walks are included.
• Scenic Drives: If you need a less intensive option, there are a number of scenic drives you can take. 
  The Old Fall River Road, in particular, gives you an insight into the way early visitors may have experienced the park.
• Fishing and Boating: The high-altitude lakes of the park include a number of trout, as well as varieties of suckers and sculpin. Fishing in the area will require a license. Please follow the guidelines and regulations to fish and wade in ways that protect the habitats.
• Wildlife Watching and Photography: Wildlife in the park includes a range of animals, both big and small. Visitors have the opportunity to see almost 300 bird varieties, as well as elk, sheep, mule deer, and more. Those keen on photography will love visiting this park. Be sure to follow the Park’s advice on wildlife photography to keep yourself and the animals safe.
• Campfire Cooking and Picnics: There are several picnic areas in the park, open year-round. Some even permit campfires (only in designated fire grates). 
• Stargazing: Stargazing in the area is incredible. You can also choose to stay in the park overnight (requiring a permit).
• Biking: Cyclists have an opportunity to have a breathtaking experience in the park. Just don’t forget to check which roads are open to cyclists, and when!
• Horseback Riding: There are stables located both inside and outside of the park which can take you on horse-back adventures.

Tips for a Successful RV Camping Trip in Rocky Mountain National Park 

You’ve packed your bags, and your RV is ready to go too. Excited for an unforgettable trip? Here are other tips you can follow to have the best camping experience possible!

• Make Campground Reservations in Advance: Most campgrounds in and out of the park require reservations — especially in the summer months! 
  
  To ensure a stress-free visit, make sure you book early.

• Get Passes For The Summer Season: In the busiest season for the park, you’ll require a Timed Entry permit. This may vary from year to year.

• Check Weather Forecasts And Pack Accordingly: Weather on the mountain can be unpredictable — even in the warmer months. 
  
  Fall tends to have generally dry weather. Make sure to check the forecast and pack several layers (including waterproof layers). Check the National Weather Service and NPS website for detailed information.

• Carry Extra Water and Stay Hydrated: Be sure to always carry extra water! Staying hydrated is essential, especially in hot weather.

• Prepare For High Altitude With Slow Acclimatization: Rocky Mountain is just that; for those not used to high altitudes, be aware that it might take some time to adjust! 
  
  Begin your explorations by taking shorter or flatter walks until you acclimatize, and always have enough supplies to take breaks when you need to.

• Follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ Principles: Help to care for our wild flora and fauna by making sure you leave nothing behind while you’re in and around the Park. 
  
  This includes taking your rubbish with you, but also means being mindful of what you use and how much rubbish you create in the first place.
  
  Another important element of Leaving No Trace is to stay on the trails as much as possible (and keeping your dogs on a leash!) — reducing your impact on the ecosystem and animal’s habitats.

• Store Food Securely To Prevent Wildlife Encounters: Most campsites in the area have bear-safe bins and storage. Be sure to use them and don’t feed any other wildlife you might see.

• Be Aware of Wildlife Behavior and Keep a Safe Distance: By keeping an appropriate amount of space from animals, you protect yourself as well as them! 
  
  The NSP recommends keeping a minimum of 75 feet (about 2 bus lengths) between yourself and most mammals — more for moose and bears.

• Bring a Map and Know Your Routes: Keeping a map on you — both physical and digital — will help to keep you safe if you get turned around or lost. 

• Respect Park Regulations and Guidelines: Park regulations are there for your safety just as much as for the wildlife. 
  
  You can find them here, or by asking in any of the information centers in the area.

FAQs