Hermit Park
00 review17 Hermit Park Road Estes Park, CO 80517
Hermit Park
$15.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Camping fees range from $15 to $50 depending on site type (tent, RV, premium). Entrance permits are additionally required. Group and equestrian site fees are higher.
About this campground
Escape to Hermit Park Open Space, where the serenity of the backcountry meets the comfort of thoughtfully maintained campsites and cozy cabins. This hidden gem invites adventurers to explore winding hiking trails, traverse mountain bike paths, and discover pristine wetlands teeming with life. Whether you arrive on foot or horseback, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape that values privacy and celebrates the raw beauty of Colorado's high country. Each campsite offers a personal retreat into nature, where the only sounds breaking the silence are birdsong and rustling aspen leaves.
Hermit Park Open Space offers various camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, equestrian campsites, and cabins.
Historical SignificanceHermit Park stands as a testament to the power of community conservation. Born from the shared vision of multiple organizations working hand-in-hand, this protected space represents more than just recreational land—it's a living legacy of environmental stewardship. The collaborative preservation efforts have ensured that future generations can experience the same untouched wilderness that has captivated visitors for decades, making every visit a contribution to this ongoing conservation story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of Colorado's mountain seasons at Hermit Park. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures dipping to a brisk 11°F at night and hovering around 31°F during the day—perfect for those who embrace the magic of snow-dusted mornings. As spring melts into summer, the park awakens with wildflowers and sunshine, offering blissful days reaching 76°F. Pack layers and rain gear for afternoon mountain showers that keep the wetlands lush and the air fresh with the scent of pine.
ElevationPerched between 7,880 and 8,964 feet above sea level, Hermit Park offers a true high-altitude escape. Here, the air is crisp and thin, carrying the promise of adventure and spectacular panoramic vistas that stretch across the Continental Divide. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, providing cool relief from summer heat while painting sunrises and sunsets in colors you won't find at lower altitudes. Each breath of mountain air reminds you why Colorado's high country is legendary.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where rugged mountain peaks frame dense forests of pine, spruce, and aspen. The park's diverse ecosystem encompasses everything from sun-dappled meadows to mysterious wetlands where great blue herons wade through mirror-like waters. Wildlife enthusiasts will thrill at frequent encounters with graceful mule deer browsing in the twilight, majestic elk bugling across valleys, and if you're lucky, the rare sight of a moose emerging from the morning mist. Every trail promises new discoveries, from hidden waterfalls to ancient rock formations.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Larimer County's dramatic mountain landscape, Hermit Park showcases Colorado geology at its finest. The terrain tells an ancient story written in stone, from weathered granite outcroppings to verdant wetlands carved by centuries of snowmelt. Rising from 7,880 to 8,964 feet, the park's varied elevations create distinct microclimates where alpine meadows give way to dense coniferous forests, and rocky ridgelines offer windows into millions of years of geological history. This diverse topography provides endless exploration opportunities for geology enthusiasts and casual nature lovers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are detailed in reviews or authoritative sources.
Sites SizeSites vary by type, with maximum trailer lengths ranging from 20 to 60 feet. Some sites are described as large and secluded.
Sites PrivacyMany sites are spacious and offer privacy due to natural rock formations and trees. Specific sites, such as those in the Bobcat Campground, are noted for their seclusion.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite B01 in Bobcat Campground is recommended for privacy and proximity to clean vault toilets. Sites closer to trailheads may experience interruptions from hikers seeking directions.
Best CampsitesRock Cliff Cabin is highly praised for its beauty and facilities. Bobcat Campground site B01 is noted for its spaciousness and seclusion.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
,
Check-out
Morning check-out required by 11:00 AM for dump station access.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per site.
Groups
Group camping details such as capacity or facilities are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground layout includes loops such as Bobcat, Hermits Hollow, and Kruger Equestrian, providing varied experiences.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 1 to December 20. Some areas close seasonally.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed by Larimer County Department of Natural Resources; specific platforms not listed.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly mentioned; some reviews indicate issues with equestrian sites being assigned to non-equestrians.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules not explicitly detailed; some reviews mention lack of advance communication for closures.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hermit Park Open Space provides a range of recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with visitors frequently encountering deer and elk.
Hiking
The park features trails such as Krueger Rock Trail and Limber Pine Trail, with around 7 miles of total hiking paths. Some trails lead to scenic viewpoints, including a 360-degree vista.Biking
Biking is available, with trails that traverse the natural wilderness. A user review mentioned outstanding biking trails.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings, including deer, elk, moose, and occasional bear activity, are common. Moose are specifically noted as occasional visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the park closes seasonally (December 21 to February 28/29).Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned in provided materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be attended and extinguished properly. One user review mentions enforcement of unattended fire rules.
- Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife (bears, moose), steep terrain, and road accessibility challenges. Bear-proof lockers are present.
Active alertsOne user review mentions unannounced park closures due to road work.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.9 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
Nearest hospital is in Estes Park (approx. 2 miles), nearest ranger station available via direct line at 9705772090.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly detailed, but bear-proof storage containers are provided at all campsites for food safety.
Proximity to water featuresWetlands are within the park; no prominent lakes or rivers mentioned.
Common complaintsComplaints include high fees, strict ranger enforcement, accessibility challenges, and equestrian site management.
HostRangers are described as helpful by some but overly strict by others. Contact number for ranger station is 9705772090.
Campground Map
17 Hermit Park Road Estes Park, CO 80517
Driving directionsFrom I-25 and U.S. Hwy. 34 (Loveland): Drive west on Hwy. 34 for 31.5 miles toward Estes Park. Turn left (south) onto Mall Road (CR63) for .6 miles. Turn left (east) onto U.S. Highway 36 for 2.1 miles. The entrance to Hermit Park is on your right. From I-25 and U.S. Hwy. 66 (Longmont): Drive west on Hwy. 66 for 15.8 miles to Lyons, Colorado. Turn right onto West Main Street onto U.S. Hwy. 36 W. Continue on Hwy. 36 W for 16.7 miles. The entrance to Hermit Park is on your left.
The campground is accessible via winding dirt roads, which may pose a challenge for larger vehicles. Seasonal closures are likely as the park is only open March 1 to December 20.Nearby places
Estes Park (approx. 2 miles, 10 minutes drive), Loveland (approx. 31.5 miles, 45 minutes), Longmont (approx. 32 miles, 50 minutes), Lyons (approx. 16 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping equipment, and fuel are available in Estes Park, approximately 2 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hermit Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hermit Park Open Space range from highly positive to critical, though most agree the natural beauty and cleanliness of the campground are standout features.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the natural beauty, spacious and secluded sites, clean vault toilets, and proximity to hiking trails. Wildlife sightings are a highlight.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include issues with park management, lack of communication about closures, high pricing for RV sites with limited amenities, and restricted dump station hours.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood, as availability is unclear. Be prepared for no cell service. Hike Krueger Rock Trail for a scenic view. For showers, visit Village Laundry in Estes Park.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest summer and early fall are the best times to visit, with wildlife and wildflowers in abundance. Winter closures limit access.
Camper Quotes
"The vault toilets were the cleanest I have EVER experienced." "The rangers were very welcoming and kept a close eye on things." "Every campsite had a picnic table, parking spot, tent area, fire pit,...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site B01 in Bobcat Campground is described as large, secluded, and surrounded by natural rock and trees. Hermit’s Hollow is noted for its quiet atmosphere.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned explicitly in reviews.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some users appreciated the open space for dogs to explore. However, no pet-specific amenities are mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025