Estes Park Campground at East Portal
The Ultimate Basecamp for Rocky Mountain National Park (Small Rigs Only!)
The Recon Report
Located at 8,300 feet directly on the border of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Estes Park Campground at East Portal is a hidden gem for tent campers and small RV owners.
Unlike many campgrounds where you have to drive to the trailhead, East Portal offers a unique perk: Hike-in access to RMNP. You can hop on the Wind River or Glacier Creek trails directly from the campground and hike to Sprague Lake (approx. 4.5 miles round-trip). This often allows you to bypass the need for a timed-entry permit for that specific section of the park.
⚠️ Warning: This campground has a strict 22-foot maximum length limit for all RVs and trailers. The interior roads feature tight turns and narrow loops. If you have a rig longer than 22 feet, do not attempt to book here—you will likely not fit.
For those who do fit, the campground offers excellent amenities, including electric hookups, flush toilets, and coin-operated showers, making it a comfortable basecamp for exploring RMNP.
Campground Recon Stats
📍 Location City of Estes Park (GPS: 40.3277, -105.5769)
🏔️ Elevation 8,300 ft
📅 Season Late May – Late September
🏕️ Total Sites 63 Reservable Sites
💵 Fee Ranges from $45 (Tent) – $70 (Electric)
⛺ Restrictions STRICT 22' Max RV Length
💧 Water Potable Spigots & Water/Electric Sites
⚡ Electric Yes (30 Amp at select sites)
🚿 Showers Yes ($2 for 6 mins + $0.25/30 secs)
💩 Dump Station Yes (On-site)
📶 Cell Service Fair (AT&T / Verizon: 1-2 Bars)
East Portal Campground - Video Tour
Know Before You Go
Reservations are required: This is a popular spot. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance on a rolling window.
Booking Link: https://www.reserveamerica.com/explore/estes-park-campground-at-east-portal/ESTS/300101/overview
Best Sites: Generally, the outer loops offer better privacy and views of the mountains.
Bear Country: Proper food storage is mandatory. Bear lockers are available at tent sites.
Nearby Adventures
🥾 Hiking from Camp:
Sprague Lake (via Glacier Creek Trail): A scenic hike taking you directly into Rocky Mountain National Park. 4.5 miles round-trip with 636 ft of elevation gain.
Wind River Loop: A moderate loop offering solitude and forest views. Includes Glacier Creek Trail & Sprague Lake. 6.5 miles round-trip with 961 ft of elevation gain.
East Portal Trail: Great for a quick morning walk.
🎣 Fishing:
East Portal Reservoir: Located just adjacent to the campground, this is a great spot for fishing or a picnic.
FAQ
Can I bring a 25-foot RV to East Portal Campground? No. The campground enforces a strict 22-foot maximum length for all vehicles due to tight turns and small campsites.
Are there showers at East Portal Campground? Yes, there is a shower house with coin-operated showers ($2 for 6 minutes).
Do I need a timed-entry permit for RMNP if I stay here? Technically, yes, if you drive into the park. However, if you hike into the park via the connecting trails (like Glacier Creek), you do not need a vehicle timed-entry permit for that hike.
Find other nearby campgrounds on our Interactive Map
