How much does camping cost at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Camping fees at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground range from $35-$70/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground before I book?

Yes! Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground has 54 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground is open May 21 to September 06. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground have?

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground has 150 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Popular activities at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Fire policies at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground: Firewood . Firewood is not available for purchase at Glacier Basin Campground. Firewood is available for purchase at stores in Estes Park. Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.55

504 reviews

1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Rocky Mountain National Park#1 Best Campgrounds Colorado

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$35 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

150 campsites

Season

In 2025, Glacier Bas...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

8,500 ft

Price

$35 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

150 campsites

Season

In 2025, Glacier Bas...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground

$35.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Tent Only Area - LARGE: $70.00; Group Tent Only Area - MEDIUM: $60.00; Group Tent Only Area - SMALL: $50.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $35.00; TENT...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Group Site Fee$70.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

970-586-1206

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground

1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA

Nearby places

Estes Park (9 miles, 15-20 minutes)

Driving directionsFrom Estes Park, drive west on U.S. Highway 36. Turn onto Bear Lake Road approximately 0.2 miles after the Beaver Meadows Entrance. Drive up Bear Lake Road 5.2 miles. The campground is on the left across from the Park & Ride. From Grand Lake, drive east on U.S. Highway 34 through Trail Ridge Road. At Deer Ridge Junction, follow signs for U.S. Highway 36/Beaver Meadows Entrance, and turn onto Bear Lake Road.

Weather at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground

Current alerts(12)

ATTENTION: If you plan on renting an RV or camping equipment and having it delivered to Rocky Mountain National Park, it is your responsibility to make sure that the individual or business that you are renting the equipment from has a valid permit to do business in the park.
Be Advised: Trailer length is the total maximum vehicle length allowable. (Trailer Length = Trailer + Hitch + Vehicle)
Be Advised: Trailer length is the total maxium vehicle length allowable. (Trailer Length = Trailer + Hitch + Vehicle)
Check-in Time . Check-in begins at 1 p.m.

Best Time to Camp at Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the warmest daytime temperatures (typically 60–75°F) with crisp nights (often 30–45°F), making it ideal for high-elevation hiking, alpine fishing, and long daylight exploration of the Continental Divide. Trails to Dream Lake, Emerald Lake and higher alpine routes are fully accessible (though expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and be prepared to turn back for lightning). Crowd levels are highest in July–August, but the full range of park services, r Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Best conditions and peak season; warm days, cool nights, frequent afternoon thunderstorms and full occupancy.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 21 to September 06. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: In 2025, Glacier Basin Campground will open at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 22 and it will close for the season on Monday, September 8.

About Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground

Glacier Basin Campground sits at high elevation in Rocky Mountain National Park, operated by the National Park Service and offering direct access to Bear Lake shuttle routes and alpine trailheads. This large campground serves as a base for hiking to Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and Continental Divide routes, with flush toilets, a dump station, and ranger support. Sites accommodate tents, RVs, and groups, with fire rings and picnic tables throughout.

The campground offers tent sites, RV sites (without hookups), and group camping areas. It is designed for a mix of family, individual, and group campers.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the warmest daytime temperatures (typically 60–75°F) with crisp nights (often 30–45°F), making it ideal for high-elevation hiking, alpine fishing, and long daylight exploration of the Continental Divide. Trails to Dream Lake, Emerald Lake and higher alpine routes are fully accessible (though expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and be prepared to turn back for lightning). Crowd levels are highest in July–August, but the full range of park services, r Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation8500 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transition zone where three Rocky Mountain ecosystems converge. Douglas fir and recovering Lodgepole pine forests provide shade, while large Ponderosa pines mark the edges with their vanilla-scented bark. Alpine tundra rises above treeline to the west. Meadows between the trees fill with lupine, arnica, and Indian paintbrush through summer. Elk graze mornings and evenings. Mule deer wander through sites at dusk. Black bears are active, which is why every site has a bear locker.

Lodging & AccommodationsThis campground does not offer hotel-style lodging or cabins.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger-led educational programs and activities are offered seasonally, including evening talks at the outdoor amphitheater.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

7-night maximum during the summer season.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 guests per site allowed.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate up to 40 people. They are tent-only and vehicles larger than 21 feet are not permitted.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, the Recreation.gov Mobile App, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available. The campground roads and spurs are paved, facilitating movement for individuals with mobility aids.

Site SizeCampground accommodates both small and large groups with tent pads of various sizes. RV sites are available but do not have hookups.

PrivacyMixed reviews. Some loops are described as crowded with minimal privacy, while areas in loops A and B offer more seclusion and shade.

Total Campsites150 campsites

Recommended SitesSeek shaded sites in loops A and B for more privacy. Loop C offers better views but less shade due to pine beetle impact.

Best CampsitesInterior sites in loops A and B offer more shade and privacy than outer loops. Loop C provides good mountain views and sits closer to trailheads. Reviewers recommend avoiding edge sites if you want separation from neighbors.

Need help booking Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

RV sewage and wastewater tanks must be emptied at the dump station.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Glacier Basin Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can engage in hiking, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, and more. The Bear Lake Road Corridor is a highlight, offering access to a wide range of trails and attractions.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredFood lockers are available at multiple sites to protect against wildlife. Some are shared between campsites.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFirewood . Firewood is not available for purchase at Glacier Basin Campground. Firewood is available for purchase at stores in Estes Park. Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Trash & RecyclingRecycling facilities are available, and food storage lockers are provided to protect against wildlife.

Cell CoverageSome campers noted improved cell service in recent years, particularly for AT&T users.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

504 reviews

Top-Rated

Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Glacier Basin Campground has an average rating of 4.4 stars. Visitors appreciate the spectacular views, clean facilities, and convenient access to trails and the shuttle service. However, some criticize the crowded layout and lack of privacy.

Review Summaries

Based on 504 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 504 reviews.

Site A025Loved
Site A025 was deemed spacious and close to amenities.
Site B041Loved
Site B041 offered partial shade and great stargazing opportunities.
Site D136Issues noted
Site D136 was criticized for rain and poor drainage.

What Campers Love

Stunning mountain views, clean and well-maintained bathrooms, friendly and helpful rangers, and convenient access to the Bear Lake shuttle. The campground is described as peaceful and well-situated...

Based on 504 reviews

Common Concerns

Crowded campsites with minimal privacy, noisy neighbors, and complaints about the rude attitude of the firewood vendor. Some users also noted confusion with the timed-entry system and small tent pads.

Based on 504 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve sites well in advance, especially for peak season. Bring your own firewood and exact change for purchases. Choose interior sites in loops A and B for more shade and privacy. Pack warm...

Based on 504 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the peak season with high occupancy and vibrant wildlife. The campground is closed during winter. Spring and fall offer slightly less crowded conditions but can be cooler. Weather in summer...

Based on 504 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Wonderful campground with easy access to Bear Lake corridor trails.' (Anonymous) 2. 'Bathrooms are very clean and running water was a nice surprise.' (Anonymous) 3. 'Crowded and noisy, but the...

Based on 504 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites are available, and paved roads facilitate movement for individuals with mobility aids.

Based on 504 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but must be controlled to prevent wildlife disturbance. No specific reviews related to pets were highlighted.

Based on 504 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want National Park Service campground access to alpine hiking and wildlife viewing with flush toilets and shuttle convenience.

Skip if

You need privacy between sites or want to avoid generator noise and close-quarters camping.

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Estes Park Campground at East Portal sits at 8,300 feet on a forested hillside crowned by granite outcroppings. The campground has 64 sites for tents and small RVs (under 22 feet), with fees ranging $7-45 per night. Amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, electric and water hookups, and a camp store that delivers firewood to your site. There's no cell service.