Top 9 Mountain National Park Campgrounds – Scenic Camping Experiences

*Discover the Beauty of Mountain National Park*

Immerse yourself in nature’s breathtaking beauty by camping at one of the mountain national park campgrounds. These scenic destinations provide the ideal mix of outdoor adventure and tranquility – providing an ideal escape from everyday stressors. Ranging from majestic peaks to lush forests, these campgrounds promise unforgettable experiences for both nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

1. Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Nestled in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Moraine Park Campground is a true gem for campers seeking a serene mountain retreat. With 244 campsites surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, this campground offers a perfect base for exploring the park’s numerous hiking trails and scenic vistas.

Amenities:

Accessible campsites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Firewood and ice sales
Dump station

Highlights:

Stunning views of the Continental Divide
Proximity to popular hiking trails like Bear Lake and Fern Lake
Ranger-led evening programs during peak season

2. Aspenglen Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Aspenglen Campground is a picturesque camping destination located near the Fall River Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. With 53 campsites nestled among towering pines and the soothing sounds of Fall River, this campground offers a serene escape for tent campers and RVers alike.

Amenities:

RV sites (up to 30 feet)
Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Firewood and ice sales

Highlights:

Proximity to the Fall River Visitor Center
Ranger-led evening programs during peak season
Stunning views of the surrounding mountains

3. Glacier Basin Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Situated at an elevation of 8,500 feet, Glacier Basin Campground offers a unique camping experience amidst the rugged beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. With 148 campsites, this campground is a popular choice for both tent campers and RVers seeking adventure and solitude.

Amenities:

RV sites (up to 35 feet)
Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Firewood and ice sales

Highlights:

Stunning views of the park’s glaciers and peaks
Proximity to the Glacier Gorge Trailhead
Opportunities for wildlife viewing

4. Timber Creek Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Nestled in the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park, Timber Creek Campground offers a serene escape for campers seeking a more secluded experience. With 98 campsites surrounded by towering pines and the soothing sounds of Timber Creek, this campground is a true oasis for nature lovers.

Amenities:

RV sites (up to 30 feet)
Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Firewood sales

Highlights:

Proximity to the Grand Lake Entrance
Access to numerous hiking trails, including the Tonahutu Creek Trail
Opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing

5. Longs Peak Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Longs Peak Campground is a unique camping destination designed specifically for tent campers seeking a true wilderness experience. With 26 campsites nestled in a pine forest at an elevation of 9,500 feet, this campground offers unparalleled access to the park’s iconic Longs Peak.

Amenities:

Tent sites only
Vault toilets
No potable water

Highlights:

Basecamp for climbers attempting to summit Longs Peak
Stunning views of the surrounding peaks
Opportunities for stargazing and wildlife viewing

6. Jenny Lake Campground, Grand Teton National Park

Situated in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, Jenny Lake Campground offers a breathtaking camping experience surrounded by the majestic Teton Range. With 51 campsites and stunning views of Jenny Lake, this campground is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts.

Amenities:

Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Firewood sales

Highlights:

Proximity to the iconic Jenny Lake and its hiking trails
Access to world-class rock climbing routes
Opportunities for wildlife viewing, including bears and moose

7. Curry Village Campground, Yosemite National Park

Nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, Curry Village Campground offers a unique camping experience surrounded by towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls. With 319 campsites and a variety of amenities, this campground is a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Amenities:

Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Firewood sales
Showers and laundry facilities

Highlights:

Proximity to iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Yosemite Falls
Access to numerous hiking trails, including the Mist Trail
Opportunities for rock climbing, fishing, and wildlife viewing

8. Watchman Campground, Zion National Park

Situated in the heart of Zion National Park, Watchman Campground offers a unique camping experience surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and breathtaking desert landscapes. With 176 campsites and a variety of amenities, this campground is a popular choice for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts.

Amenities:

RV sites (up to 40 feet)
Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Dump station

Highlights:

Proximity to iconic landmarks like Angels Landing and The Narrows
Access to numerous hiking trails, including the Watchman Trail
Opportunities for rock climbing, canyoneering, and wildlife viewing

9. Blackwoods Campground, Acadia National Park

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Acadia National Park, Blackwoods Campground offers a unique camping experience surrounded by the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the park’s iconic granite peaks. With 306 campsites and a variety of amenities, this campground is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Amenities:

RV sites (up to 35 feet)
Tent sites
Flush toilets
Potable water
Campground hosts
Dump station

Highlights:

Proximity to the park’s iconic coastal trails, including the Ocean Path
Access to numerous hiking trails, including the Beehive Trail
Opportunities for wildlife viewing, including whales and seabirds

These top mountain national park campgrounds offer a diverse range of scenic camping experiences, catering to the needs of tent campers, RVers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rugged coastlines of Acadia, these destinations provide the perfect escape for those seeking adventure, solitude, and a deep connection with nature.

Camping Tips and Information

Reservations and Fees

Reservations: Most campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park require reservations, which can be made up to six months in advance on Recreation.gov.
Fees: Camping fees vary by campground and season. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders receive a 50% discount on camping fees.

Amenities

Water: Drinking water is available at entrance stations and open visitor centers. Water is turned off in the winter at all year-round campgrounds.
Firewood: Firewood is sold at all campgrounds during the summer months. Transporting firewood from out-of-state is discouraged to prevent the spread of harmful insects.
Ice: Ice is sold at all campgrounds except Timber Creek and Longs Peak.

Regulations

Stay Limits: Campground stay limits are seven nights from May 1 through October 15, and an additional 14 nights at year-round campgrounds the rest of the year.
Group Size: No more than eight people, and two tents OR one vehicle and one camping unit (i.e., tent, RV, or trailer/tow vehicle) may occupy each site. Additional vehicles must park in overflow parking areas.
Wildlife: All food, pet food, cooking utensils, and any other scented items must be stored in food storage lockers to prevent attracting wildlife.

Safety

Altitude: Campers should be aware of the high altitude and bring appropriate clothing for the chilly nights and mornings.
Falling Trees: Park staff are removing dead trees killed by pine beetles. Be aware of your surroundings, especially during high winds.

Conclusion

Rocky Mountain National Park provides an assortment of campgrounds that cater to every camper’s needs, ranging from Moraine Park Campground and Longs Peak Campground to more remote camping spots like Coal Basin Campground. Each offers distinctive amenities suited for families as well as adventure seekers; these top 9 campgrounds provide a memorable camping experience!

For more information and reservations, visit Recreation.gov or Hipcamp.

Campground National Park Sites, Price, Amenities:

Campground	National Park	Sites	Price	Amenities
Moraine Park	Rocky Mountain	244	$35	Picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, water
Glacier Basin	Rocky Mountain	150	$35	Picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, water
Jenny Lake	Grand Teton	49	$33	Flush toilets, food storage, water
White River	Mount Rainier	112	$20	Flush toilets, water, fire rings
Tuolumne Meadows	Yosemite	304	$26	Flush toilets, food storage, water, fire rings
Chisos Basin	Big Bend	60	$16	Flush toilets, water, grills
Watchman	Zion	176	$30	Flush toilets, water, picnic tables, fire rings
Elkmont	Great Smoky Mountains	200	$25	Flush toilets, water, picnic tables, fire rings
Aspenglen	Rocky Mountain	53	$30	Flush toilets, water, picnic tables, fire rings

These scenic mountain campgrounds fill up fast! Make reservations early on recreation.gov. Check the national park websites for more camping information and rules. Get ready for an unforgettable camping trip with stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures.

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