Colorado RV Trips

The Top 5 Destinations in Colorado for Scenic Views and Adventure

Colorado, with its vast wilderness, rugged mountains, and open skies, is a paradise for RV travelers. Whether you’re looking for the tranquility of nature, thrilling outdoor activities, or just a picturesque place to relax, Colorado’s diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top five RV destinations in the state, complete with activities, camping options, tips, and things to watch out for to help you make the most of your adventure.

Rocky Mountain National Park

An RV trip to Rocky Mountain National Park offers an exceptional vacation experience that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and the comforts of home-on-wheels. Nestled in the heart of Colorado, this park provides a spectacular backdrop for an array of activities suited for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and families alike.

From the moment you enter the park, you’re greeted by awe-inspiring vistas of towering mountains and verdant forests. The park’s expansive network of roads, including the famous Trail Ridge Road—America’s highest continuously paved highway—offers easy access to its breathtaking landscapes, making it perfect for those traveling by RV. As you wind your way through the park, each turn presents a new picture-perfect view, ideal for those unforgettable vacation photos.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Rocky Mountain National Park is a playground. Hiking trails range from easy, family-friendly walks around placid lakes to more strenuous hikes like the ascent to Hallett Peak. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to see elk, mule deer, and if you’re lucky, the elusive moose. Fishing, bird watching, and star gazing are just a few other activities that can enrich your experience.

RV camping in the park is readily accommodated at campgrounds like Moraine Park, which offers sites with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. These campgrounds provide basic amenities and a comfortable base from which to explore the area. Waking up to the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery just outside your door is truly invigorating.

Rocky Mountain National Park not only offers a retreat into nature but also a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with both nature and family. An RV trip here means you can enjoy all these experiences with the convenience of your accommodations always nearby, turning every aspect of the park into an easy-to-reach destination. This combination of adventure, natural beauty, and comfort makes an RV trip to Rocky Mountain National Park an excellent choice for a memorable vacation.

Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park:

Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Here, you can drive along the scenic Trail Ridge Road, which offers breathtaking views from one of the highest roads in North America. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy more than 300 miles of trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes like the trek to Longs Peak.

Places to Camp in Rocky Mountain National Park:

Moraine Park Campground is a popular choice for RV campers, providing spacious sites and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Advanced reservations are recommended, especially in the summer months.

Tips for an enjoyable stay in Rocky Mountain National Park:

Visit during the fall to enjoy the stunning autumn colors, and consider getting up early to watch the wildlife, particularly the elk during their rutting season.

What to watch out for in Rocky Mountain National Park:

The weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so come prepared with appropriate clothing and check road conditions regularly.

Mesa Verde National Park

An RV trip to Mesa Verde National Park offers a unique and enriching vacation experience, combining the comfort of modern RV travel with the allure of ancient civilizations. Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde is famous for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, especially the iconic Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House.

When you embark on an RV journey to Mesa Verde, you not only get a chance to explore these archaeological treasures but also enjoy the stunning natural surroundings that the park offers. The park’s roads are RV-friendly, providing easy access to its main attractions and several overlooks that offer expansive views of the entire canyon and its structures.

For history enthusiasts and those intrigued by Native American cultures, Mesa Verde serves as a living museum. Guided tours offer insights into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who inhabited these dwellings over 700 years ago. These tours allow visitors to climb ladders and navigate through narrow rock passages, making it an active and engaging way to learn about historical lifestyles.

Camping with an RV in Mesa Verde is facilitated by the Morefield Campground, nestled within a few miles of the park entrance. This campground offers full-hookup sites, making it a convenient and comfortable base from which to explore the area. Waking up amidst the quiet, expansive scenery of the high desert, often dotted with wildflowers and wildlife like deer and coyotes, is a peaceful experience.

Moreover, an RV trip to Mesa Verde is not just about historical exploration but also connecting with nature. The park offers various hiking trails that range from easy walks to more strenuous hikes, each providing different perspectives of the park’s rugged landscape and its ancient dwellings.

Overall, an RV trip to Mesa Verde National Park is an excellent vacation choice for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with a deep dive into one of America’s richest cultural landscapes. It’s an educational and enjoyable experience, perfect for families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike.

Things to Do in Mesa Verde National Park:

Explore ancient history at Mesa Verde National Park, home to over 600 cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Take a guided tour of Cliff Palace or Balcony House and learn about the rich history of the area.

Places to Camp in Mesa Verde National Park:

Morefield Campground offers full-hookup RV sites and is just four miles from the park entrance. It provides a great base to explore the park and the surrounding area.

Tips for an enjoyable stay in in Mesa Verde National Park:

Make reservations for guided tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What to watch out for in Mesa Verde National Park:

The trails and steps around the cliff dwellings can be steep and narrow, so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

An RV trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is an excellent vacation choice for those who appreciate the grandeur of nature and the thrill of exploring unique landscapes. Located in the heart of Colorado, this national park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, offering a striking contrast against the backdrop of rugged mountains and vast skies.

One of the main attractions for RV travelers is the accessibility and RV-friendly facilities near the park. The Piñon Flats Campground, located within the park, offers campsites that can accommodate RVs, providing a comfortable and convenient base for your adventures. From here, you can easily access the main dune field, which is just a short walk away. Waking up to the sight of golden sands against a canvas of mountainous terrain is truly spectacular and makes for an unforgettable start to the day.

The activities available at Great Sand Dunes are perfect for adventurous travelers. Sandboarding and sand sledding are popular activities that draw visitors from all over. The park allows you to rent or bring your own boards and sleds, turning the dunes into a natural playground. For those seeking a more serene experience, the Medano Creek offers a refreshing respite during the spring and early summer months when the water flow is highest. Additionally, the park’s diverse ecosystems provide ample opportunities for wildlife watching and photography.

Hiking in Great Sand Dunes can be as challenging or as leisurely as you like. The High Dune on the first ridge offers panoramic views of the entire dune field and the San Luis Valley, providing a rewarding hike that is accessible yet moderately challenging. For the more adventurous, the Star Dune, the tallest in North America, promises a more strenuous trek with equally impressive views.

Nighttime at the park opens up a whole new world of experiences. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. The absence of light pollution allows for clear, spectacular views of the Milky Way and countless stars, a dream for any astronomy enthusiast.

Overall, an RV trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve combines the comfort of RV travel with the excitement of exploring one of America’s most unique natural landscapes. Whether you’re sliding down dunes, hiking to breathtaking views, or simply relaxing by the creek, this park offers a diverse range of activities set against an extraordinary backdrop, ensuring a memorable vacation.

Things to Do in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve:

Experience the surreal landscape of Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Try sandboarding or sledding down the dunes, or explore the diverse ecosystems along the Medano Pass Primitive Road.

Places to Camp in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve:

Piñon Flats Campground is a national park campground located just a short distance from the main dune field. It offers basic facilities and is a great spot for stargazing.

Tips for an enjoyable stay in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve:

Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the dunes can get hot and there is very little shade. Visit in the early morning or late evening to enjoy the dunes when they are less crowded and not as hot.

What to watch out for in Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve:

The sand can reach high temperatures during the day, so it’s advisable to wear closed shoes.

Durango

An RV trip to Durango, Colorado, offers an outstanding vacation experience with a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and outdoor activities. Nestled in the southwestern part of the state, Durango is an ideal destination for those traveling by RV, offering a unique combination of scenic landscapes and a vibrant town atmosphere that caters to a wide range of interests and tastes.

Durango’s charm is particularly evident in its historic downtown, where old-world architecture meets contemporary culture. Here, you can stroll along Main Avenue to explore an array of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants that showcase the local flavor and artisan craftsmanship. The town also serves as a hub for various cultural and music festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with a taste of local traditions and lively entertainment.

One of the major attractions near Durango is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic train runs on steam-powered locomotives and offers passengers a journey through breathtaking canyons along the Animas River, with stunning views that are particularly dramatic in the fall when the foliage creates a vibrant tapestry of colors. Taking a ride on this train is not just a travel experience; it’s a step back in time that complements the modern comforts of RV travel.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find Durango to be a treasure trove of activities. The surrounding San Juan Mountains offer numerous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Animas River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting, making it a favorite among adventure seekers. For those looking to explore further, the nearby San Juan National Forest and Mesa Verde National Park provide even more avenues for adventure and exploration.

RV campers have a variety of options for setting up camp in and around Durango. Alpen Rose RV Park, just a few minutes from downtown Durango, offers full hookups and amenities such as Wi-Fi and cable TV, making it a comfortable and convenient home base. Another popular choice is the Lightner Creek Campground, a picturesque site nestled in a wooded area that provides a more secluded and natural setting.

In conclusion, an RV trip to Durango, Colorado, is an excellent vacation choice for its rich combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the historic downtown, riding the scenic railroad, or adventuring in the great outdoors, Durango provides a diverse and memorable travel experience that makes it a standout destination for RV enthusiasts.

Things to Do in Durango:

This charming town is known for the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Take a ride on this historic train through the stunning San Juan Mountains. Durango is also a gateway for exploring the Animas River via rafting or fishing.

Places to Camp in Durango:

Alpen Rose RV Park offers full amenities and easy access to both the town of Durango and the surrounding attractions.

Tips for an enjoyable stay in Durango:

Spend a day exploring the local shops and restaurants in Durango’s vibrant downtown. The town frequently hosts festivals and events, so check the local calendar before you visit.

What to watch our for in Durango:

Be mindful of wildlife on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk.

Aspen

An RV trip to Aspen, Colorado, is a fantastic vacation choice for those seeking both natural beauty and upscale charm. Famous for its stunning mountain landscapes and luxurious amenities, Aspen provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and refined culture, making it an ideal destination for RV travelers who enjoy both wilderness exploration and high-end leisure.

Aspen’s reputation as a winter sports haven is well-known, with its world-class ski resorts drawing snow enthusiasts from around the globe. However, Aspen is equally vibrant in the summer and fall when the mountains become a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers. The Maroon Bells, a pair of iconic bell-shaped peaks, are among the most photographed mountains in North America and are accessible via a scenic drive or shuttle from Aspen. Hiking trails around the Maroon Bells offer stunning views and vary in difficulty, making them suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

For RV campers, the Difficult Campground, located just a few miles southeast of Aspen, offers a wonderful place to stay amidst the natural splendor. The campground is well-equipped to accommodate RVs, providing a comfortable base from which to explore the area. From here, you can easily access the Roaring Fork River for fishing and the extensive network of trails for biking and hiking.

Aspen also offers a wealth of cultural experiences, from high-end shopping and dining to arts and music festivals. The Aspen Music Festival and School is a highlight of the summer, featuring performances by world-renowned musicians. The town’s galleries and museums, like the Aspen Art Museum, provide insight into the vibrant local and international art scene.

Moreover, Aspen’s pedestrian-friendly downtown is filled with boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cozy cafes, perfect for an afternoon stroll. The welcoming atmosphere and array of amenities make it easy to relax after a day filled with outdoor activities.

Overall, an RV trip to Aspen offers a unique combination of adventure, natural beauty, and luxury. Whether you’re skiing the slopes, hiking the trails, or enjoying a concert under the stars, Aspen provides a rich and varied vacation experience that caters to lovers of nature and culture alike. With its stunning landscapes and sophisticated flair, Aspen stands out as a top RV destination in Colorado.

Things to Do in Aspen:

Famous for its world-class skiing, Aspen is also a delightful summer destination, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and gondola rides to the top of Aspen Mountain for panoramic views.

Places to Camp in Aspen:

Difficult Campground, located just outside Aspen, offers a more rustic camping experience amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Tips for an enjoyable stay in Aspen:

Visit during the off-peak seasons in fall or late spring for fewer crowds and beautiful weather. Don’t miss the Maroon Bells, some of the most photographed mountains in North America, located just a short drive from Aspen.

What to watch out for when staying in Aspen:

Parking can be limited in Aspen itself, so consider using public transportation or cycling around town.

Making the Most of Your Colorado RV Trip

Traveling through Colorado in an RV allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diverse cultures of the region at your own pace. Each destination offers unique landscapes and experiences, making for unforgettable memories. Always plan ahead, respect nature, and embrace the adventure that awaits around every curve and corner of this stunning state.