Camping at Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is one of the best ways to fully experience the park’s alpine scenery, wildlife, and peaceful mountain mornings. That said, choosing the right campground—especially as a beginner—can make or break your trip. I’ve camped at several of RMNP’s main campgrounds, and each one offers a very different experience depending on location, size, and vibe.
Below, I’ll walk you through the main campgrounds beginners are most likely to consider. For each one, I’ll highlight amenities, my favorite and least favorite aspects, and who I think each campground is best suited for.
Glacier Basin Campground
Large, busy, and well-located
Amenities:
Glacier Basin is the largest campground in Rocky Mountain National Park. It has flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, and easy access to shuttle stops. Its location near Bear Lake Road puts you close to some of the park’s most popular hikes.
My favorite thing:
The location. Being so close to major trailheads and park highlights makes it incredibly convenient, especially if you plan on early morning hikes.
My least favorite thing:
The size and noise. Because it’s so large and popular, Glacier Basin can feel busy, crowded, and less immersive if you’re craving solitude.
Best suited for:
This campground is great for first-time visitors who want easy access to hiking, families with kids, and anyone who prefers convenience over quiet.
Aspenglen Campground
Small, quiet, and peaceful
Amenities:
Aspenglen is one of the smaller campgrounds in the park, which gives it a more intimate feel. It offers restrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water during the season. It’s located near the Fall River entrance, making it convenient without being overwhelming.
My favorite thing:
The peaceful atmosphere. Because Aspenglen is smaller and tucked into a wooded area, it feels calm and relaxing—perfect for slow mornings and quiet evenings.
My least favorite thing:
Its size. Because there are fewer sites, reservations can be competitive, and you don’t get as many options if you’re hoping for last-minute availability.
Best suited for:
Aspenglen is ideal for beginners, couples, solo campers, or anyone looking for a quieter camping experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Timber Creek Campground
Beautiful, but on the west side of the park
Amenities:
Timber Creek offers vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water. It’s smaller and more rustic compared to Glacier Basin, with wide-open views and fewer crowds.
My favorite thing:
The scenery. Timber Creek has a more open, wild feel with stunning mountain views and incredible sunsets. It feels less developed and more connected to nature.
My least favorite thing:
Its location. Being on the west side of the park means you’ll need to drive over Trail Ridge Road to reach the eastern side, which can be time-consuming and weather-dependent.
Best suited for:
This campground is perfect for campers who want quieter surroundings, don’t mind being a bit farther from popular attractions, and appreciate a more laid-back experience.
Moraine Park Campground
Prime wildlife viewing—especially during elk rut
Amenities:
Moraine Park offers flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, and a central location in the park. It’s one of the most scenic campgrounds, set in a wide valley with sweeping views.
My favorite thing:
The wildlife. During elk rut season, you’re right in the middle of the action. Seeing and hearing elk up close is unforgettable.
My least favorite thing:
The noise—specifically during rut season. Elk bugling can be loud and constant, especially at night, which may surprise light sleepers.
Best suited for:
Moraine Park is ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and campers who don’t mind nighttime noise in exchange for an incredible natural experience.
Longs Peak Campground
First-come, first-serve and outside the main park area
Amenities:
Longs Peak Campground is more rustic, offering vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, but no potable water. It operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
My favorite thing:
The quieter feel and flexibility. Being outside the busiest parts of the park makes it feel less hectic, and first-come sites can be great if you’re comfortable with a little uncertainty.
My least favorite thing:
The lack of amenities and distance from the main park areas. It requires more preparation and planning compared to other campgrounds.
Best suited for:
This campground works best for more adventurous beginners, hikers targeting Longs Peak, or campers who prefer a simpler, less crowded setting.
Final Tips for Beginner Campers at RMNP
- Reserve early whenever possible—campgrounds fill up quickly.
- Prepare for changing weather, even in summer.
- Know your campground vibe: quiet vs. convenient can make a big difference.
- Respect wildlife—especially during elk rut.
Rocky Mountain National Park offers something for every type of camper. Whether you want peaceful mornings, easy trail access, or unforgettable wildlife encounters, choosing the right campground will help ensure your first camping experience here is a great one.
Have questions about your upcoming visit or want to share your experience? Please comment below and we would love to hear from you! And as always, remember to have fun, be safe, and never give up on your adventure dreams!