Estes Park Campground At Marys Lake
00 review2120 Mary's Lake Road, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, United States
Estes Park Campground At Marys Lake
$38.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$38.00
Hookup Site Fee$55.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $38 for tent sites to $55 for sites with electricity. Additional fees include a $7 daily vehicle fee. Showers are $2 for 6 minutes and $0.25 for each additional 30 seconds. Firewood costs $15 for 3 bundles. An $8.75 non-refundable processing fee is charged for each reservation.
About this campground
Nestled in a peaceful mountain valley where the majestic Rocky Mountains embrace the shores of Mary's Lake, Estes Park Campground offers an authentic Colorado escape for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're pitching a tent under star-filled skies, settling in with your RV, or creating lasting memories with your family, this scenic haven provides the perfect basecamp for your mountain adventures.
The campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground's modern amenities welcome today's adventurers, the surrounding landscape tells ancient stories etched in stone and whispered through the pines. This valley has long been a gathering place where nature's grandeur inspires quiet reflection and outdoor exploration.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances between dramatic and delightful, with brilliant sunshine warming your days and crisp mountain air cooling your evenings. Summer brings those legendary Colorado blue skies, though seasoned campers know to pack layers—temperatures can plummet once the sun dips behind the peaks. The valley's signature winds carry the scent of pine and wildflowers, reminding you that you're truly in the heart of the Rockies.
ElevationPerched in the high country where the air is pure and the views are endless, this mountain campground offers that quintessential Colorado experience where every breath reminds you of your elevated adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic granite outcroppings rise like ancient sentinels throughout the campground, creating a landscape that feels both wild and welcoming. The shimmering waters of Mary's Lake reflect the surrounding peaks, while meadows and forests provide a natural stage for the area's most enchanting residents—graceful deer grazing at dawn and majestic elk bugling at dusk. Each campsite offers its own window into this living postcard of Rocky Mountain splendor.
Geological RegionThis remarkable valley showcases the raw beauty of Rocky Mountain geology, where millennia of natural forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. Ancient rock formations frame intimate camping spaces, while Mary's Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks in its pristine waters. The diverse terrain supports a thriving ecosystem where campers regularly encounter deer browsing through meadows and elk moving majestically through the forest shadows—a true Colorado wilderness experience just moments from modern conveniences.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes handicap-accessible restrooms and features. Specific campsite configurations for easier accessibility are available.
Sites SizeTent pads are generally 12' x 16'. RV sites vary, with some described as spacious while others are tightly packed.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy; tent sites often have better spacing and some tree cover, while RV sites are described as being closely packed with limited privacy.
Total Campsites128 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with natural shade and privacy or ones backing up to open areas for wildlife viewing.
Best CampsitesTent site M071 and RV site M117 are highlighted in reviews for their spaciousness and quiet locations.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in: 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out: 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days within a 28-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site, including children. Groups of 7-10 people must rent double or adjacent sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in loops with RV sites generally closer together than tent areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 24 to September 14, 2024.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Reserve America Call Center (8009647806) or website.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly detailed, but some reviews mention challenges accessing sites last-minute.
Cancellation PolicyA non-refundable processing fee of $6.35 applies to all cancellation or reservation change requests. Refunds depend on the timing: cancellations within 7 days of arrival lose one night's fees; cancellations 8 or more days prior refund all site/vehicle fees minus processing fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at the campground and the surrounding area cater to diverse interests, including fishing, hiking in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, and wildlife viewing. A heated swimming pool and a playground are available for on-site recreation.
Hiking
The campground is close to Rocky Mountain National Park, offering trails for both novice hikers and seasoned trekkers. Trail options include easy strolls and challenging backcountry routes.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Mary's Lake, located across the road, offers fishing opportunities. Reviews indicate good-sized trout but also mention difficulties due to wind.Swimming
A heated swimming pool is available on-site, with some reviews expressing appreciation for its warmth and cleanliness.Biking
Biking opportunities exist within 10 miles of the campground, including scenic routes near Estes Park.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently spot deer, elk, and various bird species. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with some guests reporting elk wandering through the campground.Winter Activities
Potential winter activities include snowshoeing, as the campground is close to Rocky Mountain National Park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available, though fire bans may be enacted seasonally.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are present; responsible food storage is enforced. Windy conditions may require tents to be staked securely.
Active alertsNo active alerts provided.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Ranger Station contact available at 8009647806. The nearest hospital is Estes Park Health, located approximately 4 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 24 to September 14, 2024.
Trash and recyclingCentralized trash and recycling facilities are located near the entrance. Visitors must transport their waste as there are no individual site pickups.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Mary's Lake; fishing is permitted but swimming is not allowed.
Common complaintsComplaints include restrictive rules, small campsite sizes, proximity to neighbors, and strict enforcement by staff.
HostHost information not explicitly detailed, but reviews frequently mention friendly and helpful staff.
Campground Map
2120 Mary's Lake Road, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, United States
Driving directionsFrom downtown Estes Park take U.S. Highway 36 west approximate 1.5 miles to Mary's Lake Road. Turn left on Mary's Lake Road. Travel approximately 1.5 miles to the campground which is located at the intersection of Peakview Drive and Marys Lake Road.
Campground roads are graded roadbase and are wide enough to accommodate most truck and trailer combinations as well as big rigs.Nearby places
Estes Park (approximately 3 miles, 10 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Fully-stocked camp store at the campground. Larger grocery stores and supplies available in Estes Park within a 10-minute drive.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Estes Park Campground At Marys Lake has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of the campground are polarized. Positive feedback highlights the cleanliness, amenities, and proximity to attractions. However, negative reviews criticize strict management policies, lack of privacy, and how rules are enforced.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviews frequently commend the cleanliness of facilities, friendly staff, and the stunning natural surroundings. The campground's proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park's town...
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Common Concerns
Many users express dissatisfaction with the campground's management, describing staff as overly strict and unaccommodating. Issues include the cramped spacing of RV sites, additional charges for...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers and leveling equipment for RVs. Consider off-peak seasons for better site selection. Groups should closely review policies to avoid conflicts.
Seasonal Insights
Summer tends to be very busy, with crowded sites and increased management patrols. Winter reviews emphasize the campground's proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park's winter activities but note...
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Camper Quotes
"This was by far the cleanest campground we’ve ever seen." - Anonymous
"The site itself was perfect, but the staff ruined our experience." - Jessica Williams
"Gorgeous views and convenient location,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 85 by the showers is noted for its quiet and secluded location. Tent sites are described as spacious, while RV sites are often criticized for being too close together.
Accessibility Features
Reviews indicate that the campground is wheelchair accessible in some areas, and facilities for visitors with disabilities are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Some reviewers appreciated the available waste disposal bags throughout the campground.
Last updated August 10, 2025