Do You Need Reservations to Camp in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular destination for outdoors enthusiasts, offering some of the most spectacular views in the United States. The park is home to hundreds of miles of trails, crystal-clear lakes, and towering mountains. If you’re considering a camping trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, you may be wondering if you need reservations to camp there.

The answer is yes—you do need reservations to camp in Rocky Mountain National Park. Camping spots fill up quickly in this popular park, so it’s important to book your spot as early as possible. There are two types of campsites available: backcountry sites, which require a permit; and front-country sites, which can be reserved online or by phone.

Backcountry camping requires a permit from the park office. Permits can be obtained either online or by visiting the park office in person.

These permits are required for all overnight camping trips and must be obtained at least 24 hours before your trip begins. To get a permit, you’ll need to provide information about your trip, including the number of people in your party and the length of your stay.

Front-country camping is also available in Rocky Mountain National Park and can be reserved online or by phone up to six months in advance. These sites offer amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, so they’re great for families who want an easier camping experience than what backcountry sites provide. Front-country sites can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so it’s important to book early if you want a spot near one of the main attractions like Bear Lake or Trail Ridge Road.

No matter which type of campsite you choose at Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s important to remember that reservations are required for all overnight stays—and even day hikes require permits if they enter designated wilderness areas within the park boundaries. It’s also important to note that there are no RV hookups available in any part of the park—so RVs must use one of the nearby campgrounds outside the park boundaries.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, reservations are required for all overnight stays at Rocky Mountain National Park whether they’re backcountry or front country sites. A permit is necessary for backcountry trips and should be obtained at least 24 hours before your trip begins while front country sites can be booked online or by phone up to six months in advance.

Photo of author

Alex Wright