Meeker Park Overflow Campground
4.5023 reviewsWest side of Colorado Highway 7 at mile-marker 11
Meeker Park Overflow Campground
$12.00 - $13.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground has a first-come, first-served policy with fees ranging from $12-$13 per night based on user reviews. Firewood is sold for $6/bundle or 3 bundles for $15. Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior and Access passes.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, Meeker Park Overflow Campground offers 29 pristine first-come, first-served sites where adventure begins at your tent flap. This rustic mountain retreat welcomes tents, campers, trailers, and RVs, though its unpaved roads and intimate pull-ins make it especially beloved by tent campers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Each site comes equipped with the essentials for memorable nights under the stars: sturdy picnic tables for mountain meals, fire rings for evening storytelling, and secure bear lockers to protect both wildlife and provisions. While you won't find modern hookups or running water here, portable facilities are well-maintained, and the campground's coveted location just minutes from Estes Park and the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park makes it a prized basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts.
Meeker Park Overflow Campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. The campground is best suited for tent camping due to its terrain.
Historical SignificanceMeeker Park Overflow stands as a gateway to some of Colorado's most treasured landmarks. The legendary Longs Peak Trailhead, launching point for countless summit attempts on Colorado's most iconic fourteener, lies just moments away. The campground serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Rocky Mountain National Park, drawing generations of adventurers who seek to walk in the footsteps of early mountaineers and connect with the raw beauty that has captivated visitors for over a century.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Meeker Park into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm days perfect for hiking and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. The dry mountain air and gentle breezes create the quintessential Colorado camping experience. As autumn approaches, golden aspens paint the landscape, while winter brings a blanket of snow that transforms the area into a serene wonderland for those brave enough to embrace the cold.
ElevationPerched in the crisp air of Colorado's high alpine zone, the campground's lofty elevation creates a unique ecosystem where mountain wildlife thrives and temperatures remain refreshingly cool even during summer's peak. This elevated sanctuary offers campers the rare opportunity to sleep among the clouds, waking to misty mornings and breathing the pure mountain air that defines the Colorado high country experience.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering evergreens create a natural cathedral around each campsite, their branches whispering ancient mountain secrets in the breeze. The surrounding alpine forest opens to reveal breathtaking vistas of the Continental Divide, while nearby trails beckon toward the soaring summit of Longs Peak and the hidden waterfalls of Wild Basin. Lucky campers might spot majestic moose browsing through morning meadows, while playful chipmunks and melodious mountain birds provide constant entertainment. The landscape shifts from dense forest to open meadows, creating a diverse tapestry of mountain ecosystems.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic Rocky Mountain landscape, Meeker Park Overflow occupies a stunning geological crossroads where ancient granite peaks meet verdant alpine valleys. The terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, with steep hillsides carved by glaciers and lush vegetation sustained by mountain streams. The nearby Longs Peak and Wild Basin trailheads offer gateways into this geological wonderland, where exposed rock faces reveal the powerful forces that shaped these mountains. Rolling hills clothed in evergreen forests create a natural amphitheater that showcases the raw beauty of Colorado's most celebrated mountain range.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSite sizes are considered generous. "The sites are generously sized and you don't feel like you are packed in with the neighbors," noted one reviewer.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site, with some sites being close together while others offer more seclusion. "Lots of shade and well-kept," and "Some sites are kinda close together, but I don't mind," highlight the mixed experiences.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early on weekends to secure a spot. Sites closer to the entrance provide easier access for larger vehicles.
Best CampsitesSite 15 and 16 are noted as particularly spacious and well-located, according to user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is typically flexible due to first-come, first-served policy.
Check-out
Checkout times are noted as accommodating but not explicitly defined.
Stay Limit
14-day stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of eight people are allowed per site.
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are distributed across steep and unpaved terrain. Sites are spacious and shaded.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally. Availability varies based on weather and visitor demand.
Reservation PlatformsNot available for reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 29 campsites are first-come, first-served. Users note arriving early on weekends for availability.
Cancellation PolicyThis campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or associated cancellation fees.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can enjoy a range of activities around Meeker Park Overflow Campground including hiking, wildlife viewing, and star gazing. The proximity to Longs Peak Trailhead and Wild Basin Trailhead adds to the appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground is located near Longs Peak Trailhead (two miles north) and Wild Basin Trailhead (two miles south). Campers can also explore nearby paths directly connected to the campground. "A nice little trail to the west goes a few different ways with some great views," noted a visitor.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, birds, and chipmunks are frequently seen. "We saw 3 moose while we were there and plenty of beautiful birds and one chipmunk," shared a camper.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits. Firewood is available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly defined in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsUsers mention wildlife including bears and moose. Steep and unpaved roads pose potential hazards for larger vehicles.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned. Seasonal availability may vary.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Dense drizzle
Precipitation: 1.2%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Very Light Rain - (1.20% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Dense drizzle
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Estes Park, approximately 13 miles south.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months with high occupancy on weekends due to proximity to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are provided at the campground, and garbage disposal facilities are available for campers.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features within the campground, but Rocky Mountain National Park trails with waterfalls are nearby.
Common complaintsComplaints include limited site availability and negative experiences with certain campground hosts.
HostHosts are mentioned frequently in user reviews, with names like Julie, Barb, Rebecca, and Tom. Mixed feedback with some positive experiences and complaints of hostility.
Campground Map
West side of Colorado Highway 7 at mile-marker 11
Driving directionsThe campground is located on the west side of Colorado Highway 7 at mile-marker 11. It is approximately 10 miles north of the intersection of Colorado Highways 7 and 72 (which is 21 miles west-north-west of Lyons), 13 miles south of Estes Park, and 31 miles north of Nederland.
Access roads are unpaved, steep, and include short pull-ins that are better suited for tent camping. The campground is located directly off Colorado Highway 7, but larger RVs and trailers may face challenges due to road conditions.Nearby places
Lyons (21 miles northwest), Estes Park (13 miles south), Nederland (31 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Meeker Park Lodge (down the road) offers a small convenience store, showers ($5), laundry, and supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.5
23 reviews
Meeker Park Overflow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely appreciated for its cleanliness, affordability, and proximity to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Clean facilities, friendly hosts, and the peaceful atmosphere are recurring themes in user reviews, though individual experiences with staff vary.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean portable toilets, spacious and well-shaded sites, affordable pricing, and friendly hosts. Wildlife sightings and the option to stargaze are also frequently praised.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some campers expressed negative experiences with certain camp hosts, describing unwelcoming behavior. A few reviews also noted that parking spaces and site access can be tight for larger RVs.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the campground fills up quickly. Bring your own drinking water as none is provided. Firewood is sold on-site, but supplies can be limited.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to proximity to hiking trails and the Rocky Mountain National Park. Campground fills quickly during weekends and holidays. Winter conditions are not described,...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This was exactly the kind of campground we were looking for!" - Hannah Beam. "The sites are generously sized and you don't feel like you are packed in with the neighbors." - Sherry Roberson. "We saw...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is noted as spacious with room for tents, hammocks, and vehicles. Site 16 is described as "perfect" by one reviewer but was taken when they arrived.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features or experiences were provided.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not address pet policies or features specifically for pet owners.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025