Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground
4.55125 reviews1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA
Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground
$35.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$70.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $35 for standard nonelectric and tent-only sites, $50 for small group sites, $60 for medium group sites, and $70 for large group sites. Reservation fees are additional and vary depending on the method of booking.
About this campground
Nestled at 8,500 feet in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground beckons adventurers to its 150 pristine campsites. Wake up to panoramic mountain vistas that stretch across the Continental Divide, where jagged peaks pierce the Colorado sky. This basecamp for exploration puts you at the doorstep of legendary trails, crystal-clear alpine streams teeming with trout, and wildlife corridors where elk bugle at dawn. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience—flush toilets, fresh mountain water, and smooth paved roads make your stay comfortable, while the complimentary park shuttle whisks you away to trailheads and scenic overlooks without the hassle of parking.
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.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of America's conservation legacy at Glacier Basin, where the very roads you travel tell the story of our nation's commitment to preserving wild places. The nearby Old Fall River Road, carved into the mountainside in the early 1900s, stands as a testament to the visionaries who believed these peaks deserved protection for future generations. Today, this cherished landscape continues to inspire millions who come to experience Colorado's crown jewel of natural heritage, following in the footsteps of homesteaders, naturalists, and adventurers who helped shape the American conservation movement.
Weather and SeasonsSummer in Glacier Basin brings a delightful mountain climate where warm sunshine gives way to dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the peaks like clockwork. Days invite t-shirt hiking, but when the sun dips behind the mountains, temperatures plummet—a reminder that you're camping in the high country. Pack layers and rain gear, as mountain weather can shift from brilliant blue skies to crackling storms in minutes. Even in July, frost can kiss your tent fly by morning, making that hot cup of coffee taste even better as you watch the sunrise paint the peaks gold.
ElevationPerched at 8,500 feet above sea level, Glacier Basin offers a true high-altitude camping experience that will literally take your breath away. The thin mountain air means you'll feel your heart working a bit harder on that morning hike, and staying hydrated becomes your new best friend. But with elevation comes rewards—crisp, pine-scented air, temperatures that rarely climb above comfortable even in mid-summer, and star-filled nights so clear you can trace the Milky Way with your finger. Give yourself a day to acclimate, and soon you'll be scrambling up trails like a mountain goat.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of towering Douglas firs, slender Lodgepole pines, and stately Ponderosas that create a natural cathedral around your campsite. Wander into sun-dappled meadows where native grasses sway in the mountain breeze and wildflowers paint splashes of purple lupine, golden arnica, and fiery Indian paintbrush across the landscape. This is prime wildlife territory—wake early to spot herds of elk grazing in the meadows, watch for mule deer picking their way through your campsite at dusk, and always secure your food from the clever black bears who call these forests home.
Geological RegionGlacier Basin sits at the intersection of three distinct Rocky Mountain ecosystems, offering campers a front-row seat to nature's diversity. From your tent, you're perfectly positioned between the windswept alpine tundra above treeline, the protective embrace of montane forests, and the wildflower-strewn meadows that ripple like green seas between the trees. This unique location showcases the full spectrum of Rocky Mountain habitats, where ancient Douglas firs stand sentinel over younger Lodgepole pine forests recovering from past fires, while massive Ponderosa pines mark the transition zones, their vanilla-scented bark a sweet reminder of the complex ecology that makes this park a natural treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available. The campground roads and spurs are paved, facilitating movement for individuals with mobility aids.
Sites SizeCampground accommodates both small and large groups with tent pads of various sizes. RV sites are available but do not have hookups.
Sites 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 CampsitesSeek shaded sites in loops A and B for more privacy. Loop C offers better views but less shade due to pine beetle impact.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated sites include loop C for mountain views and proximity to trails, as well as group sites for larger gatherings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops labeled A through D and a separate group camping area. Sites are close together but well-marked.
Open and Closed SeasonGlacier Basin is open from May 22 to September 7 during the summer season. Closed during the winter.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, the Recreation.gov Mobile App, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are by reservation only during the summer season. No first-come, first-serve sites listed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled anytime before the date of arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. For late cancellations, additional penalties apply (e.g., forfeiting the first night's fee).
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
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
The park has over 350 miles of trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to challenging summit climbs. Notable trails accessible from the shuttle include Bear Lake, Mills Lake, and Alberta Falls.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in nearby lakes and streams. Common species include trout.Biking
Limited to designated roads and developed areas; bikes are not allowed on trails.Wildlife viewing
Commonly seen wildlife includes elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and hawks. Black bears and coyotes are also present in the region.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led educational programs and activities are offered seasonally, including evening talks at the outdoor amphitheater.Winter Activities
Limited due to seasonal closure; nearby areas in the park offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
No water sports available directly at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM, strictly enforced.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears and raccoons are frequent visitors; proper food storage is mandatory. Afternoon thunderstorms and high winds can pose risks. Elevation may cause altitude sickness in some visitors.
Active alertsSeasonal road construction may delay access. Review park entry policies and road closures prior to arrival.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Estes Park Health (hospital) located approximately 9 miles away in Estes Park. Additional emergency services include park ranger stations and local police in Estes Park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 7, 2025
Trash and recyclingRecycling facilities are available, and food storage lockers are provided to protect against wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near lakes like Bear Lake and Mills Lake, as well as Sprague Lake for fishing, hiking, and kayaking.
Common complaintsSome campers find sites too close together, reducing privacy. Noise issues, especially from generators and nearby campers, are mentioned in reviews.
HostCampground hosts are available and praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
Campground Map
1000 Highway 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA
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.
The roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible for most vehicle types. Vehicles larger than 35 feet are not allowed. Seasonal closures and time-specific entry restrictions apply during high season.Nearby places
Estes Park (9 miles, 15-20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Estes Park, approximately 9 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
125 reviews
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 125 reviews
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 125 reviewsShow more
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 125 reviewsPro 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 125 reviewsShow more
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 125 reviewsShow more
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 125 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site D136 was criticized for rain and poor drainage. Site A025 was deemed spacious and close to amenities. Site B041 offered partial shade and great stargazing opportunities.
Based on 125 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites are available, and paved roads facilitate movement for individuals with mobility aids.
Based on 125 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be controlled to prevent wildlife disturbance. No specific reviews related to pets were highlighted.
Based on 125 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025