Rocky Mountain National Park Moraine Park Campground
4.50713 reviews1000 Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA
Rocky Mountain National Park Moraine Park Campground
$30.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
$30 daily rate during winter season. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations or no-shows.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 8,160 feet in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Moraine Park Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience where modern conveniences meet untamed beauty. Wake up to crisp mountain air in your tent or RV (without hookups) and enjoy thoughtfully designed amenities including flush toilets, innovative solar shower facilities, smooth paved roads for easy navigation, and essential bear-proof food lockers that keep both you and the local wildlife safe.
Moraine Park Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent, walk-in, and RV camping. However, there are no group camping sites, cabins, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living museum where ancient glaciers carved the spectacular valleys you'll explore today. Rocky Mountain National Park's remarkable ecological tapestry and geological wonders come alive in Moraine Park, where every vista tells a story millions of years in the making. From the indigenous peoples who first called these mountains home to the pioneers who preserved this wilderness for future generations, you're camping in a place where natural and human history intertwine.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps things interesting at Moraine Park, where summer nights surprise visitors with their crisp, refreshing coolness—perfect for stargazing but pack that extra layer! As winter approaches, temperatures plummet dramatically, transforming the landscape into a frozen wonderland while limiting some campground facilities. Mountain weather changes on a whim here, with afternoon thunderstorms rolling through like clockwork, adding drama to your outdoor adventure.
ElevationAt 8,160 feet above sea level, Moraine Park Campground puts you in true high-country territory. This elevated paradise requires a gentle adjustment period—take it slow your first day, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body as it acclimates to the thinner air. The altitude adds an extra dimension to your camping experience, making every breath feel like an accomplishment and every view even more spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a cathedral of towering Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, and majestic Engelmann spruce, their branches creating a natural canopy above your campsite. Step into sprawling meadows where native grasses dance in the mountain breeze and wildflowers paint the landscape in seasonal bursts of color. This is prime wildlife territory—majestic elk graze in the early morning mist, mule deer bound through the underbrush, black bears forage for berries, and coyotes sing their haunting songs under star-filled skies.
Geological RegionMoraine Park sits in the crown jewel of Colorado's wilderness—Rocky Mountain National Park—where nature showcases its most dramatic work. From verdant valleys carved by ancient glaciers to jagged peaks scratching the sky at over 14,000 feet, this geological wonderland transitions from montane ecosystems through subalpine forests to the stark, windswept beauty of alpine tundra. Every elevation tells a different story, creating a vertical journey through some of North America's most spectacular mountain terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and trails are available. Specific ADA-compliant sites include features like concrete picnic tables, though some users have noted challenges such as uneven terrain.
Sites SizeThe campground has a mix of site sizes, accommodating small tents to larger setups. Specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Some sites are described as secluded and quiet, while others are more exposed or closely spaced. Loops A and D offer sites with better privacy.
Total Campsites238 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and views, reviewers recommend sites like D152 and A043. Avoid sites near vault toilets for better hygiene.
Best CampsitesC Loop offers spectacular views, while D Loop is quieter and tent-only.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum of 7 nights per visit
- up to 7 nights total annually.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site are unspecified, but reviews suggest sites accommodate small groups.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes loops A, B, C, and D. Loops A and C have bathrooms with running water, while B Loop has vault toilets. D Loop is tent-only.
Open and Closed SeasonSummer (May to October) sees full operations including ranger-led programs and shuttle services; winter season (October to May) is limited to one water source near the Ranger Station.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available during off-season periods (winter). Reviews note limited availability and high demand during regular season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations may also forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Moraine Park Campground offers various recreational activities, taking advantage of its location within Rocky Mountain National Park. Activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and ranger-led educational programs during the summer. Scenic drives and access to nearby trailheads make it a popular base for outdoor adventures.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to popular trails such as Cub Lake and Fern Lake. Rocky Mountain National Park boasts 355 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain climbs. Nearby trails like Bear Lake, Mills Lake, and Alberta Falls are visitor favorites.Fishing
Fishing is allowed in nearby lakes and streams, with species like brook trout being commonly caught. Reviews highlight fly-fishing opportunities in the Moraine Valley and Big Thompson River.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe elk, mule deer, and moose in the area. Elk herds are particularly active during the fall rut season, and wildlife such as black bears and coyotes may also be spotted.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs are offered at the amphitheater in the C-loop during the summer, covering topics like astronomy and local wildlife.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are possible in nearby areas of the park.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not specifically supported within the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings but may be restricted during fire bans.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears and elk pose potential risks and require adherence to food storage policies. Fast-changing mountain weather and steep trails can also be hazardous.
Active alertsCurrently closed for construction until Summer 2024. Updates on re-opening are pending.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.7 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
Estes Park Health Hospital is approximately 5 miles away. Police services are also located in Estes Park.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer dates between May and October typically mark peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are located at multiple points within the campground. Campers have mentioned that bear-proof dumpsters are available, but complaints about the absence of garbage cans in immediate site areas have been noted.
Proximity to water featuresThe Big Thompson River flows nearby, and several Alpine lakes in the park are accessible via trails.
Common complaintsIssues such as loud generators, overcrowding, and rude firewood vendors were noted. Vault toilets occasionally have cleanliness problems.
HostRangers are available at the Information Kiosk during summer for inquiries and ranger-led programs.
Campground Map
1000 Hwy 36, Estes Park, CO 80517, USA
Driving directionsTake Highway 36 west from Estes Park, CO. From Highway 36, turn left onto Bear Lake Road near the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station and follow the signs to the campground. Alternatively, take Highway 34 west from Estes Park to Highway 36 via Deer Ridge Junction and turn right onto Bear Lake Road, near the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station to find the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads throughout. Seasonal closures due to weather and construction may affect accessibility. The roads are maintained but can become busy during peak times.Nearby places
Estes Park (approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, food, fuel, and camping essentials can be obtained in the nearby town of Estes Park, which is a short drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
713 reviews
Rocky Mountain National Park Moraine Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Moraine Park Campground are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the stunning views, wildlife encounters, and easy access to trails. Complaints mostly focus on the cleanliness of vault toilets, the attitude of the firewood vendor, and some overcrowding in certain loops.
Review Summaries
Based on 713 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently praise the breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife like elk and deer, proximity to hiking trails, and the peaceful ambiance. "Amazing views and the sound of elk bugling at night...
Based on 713 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised by users include poorly maintained vault toilets, the rude behavior of the firewood vendor, and closely spaced campsites in some loops. Generator noise in RV loops and limited shower...
Based on 713 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking well in advance, bringing small cash denominations for firewood purchases, and opting for sites in loops A and D for more privacy. Use of the park shuttle system is highly...
Based on 713 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular for hiking and wildlife viewing, while fall attracts visitors for the elk rut season. Winter sees fewer visitors, but the park's snow-covered landscapes are a draw for...
Based on 713 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The elk herds walking right through the campground were a highlight. Bring a good camera!" - User. "Flush toilets were clean and a lifesaver, but vault toilets were unbearable." - User. "Rangers...
Based on 713 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites like A065 are described as offering amazing views but lack shelter from the wind. B204 is noted for its proximity to a ridge protecting tents from wind but is near smelly vault...
Based on 713 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are appreciated, but some campers noted challenges with uneven paths and limited ADA-compliant amenities.
Based on 713 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground but not on trails. Some users found this limiting but appreciated the pet-friendly policy within the camping area.
Based on 713 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025