Glacier Basin Campground

The best base camp for exploring the Bear Lake corridor in Rocky Mountain National Park

The Recon Report

If you are searching for the best campground in Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground is the definitive choice for both RV camping and tent camping. Located at 8,600 feet just a short drive from Estes Park, Colorado, Glacier Basin serves as the ultimate "logistical basecamp" for exploring the iconic Bear Lake corridor.

Navigating the Bear Lake road in a vehicle can be a headache due to full parking lots, but Glacier Basin campers have a dedicated shuttle stop right on-site. This allows you to skip the trailhead chaos and head straight to world-class hikes like Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and Alberta Falls.

During our on-the-ground recon, we found that the vibe here is quiet and family-friendly, though it’s important to note the landscape. While some loops offer shade, other areas are more open due to past pine beetle mitigation. The trade-off? Incredible, unobstructed views of the Continental Divide and frequent elk sightings right from your campsite.

Whether you are an overlander looking for a scenic site or a planning family wanting the most convenient RMNP experience, Glacier Basin is my #1 recommendation.

Campground Recon Stats

🏔️ Elevation: 8,600 ft

📍 Location: Rocky Mountain National Park (GPS: 40.32986, -105.59544)

🏕️ Total Sites: 150 + 13 Group Sites | 💵 Fee: $35 + Tax & Fees

📅 Season: Mid-May to Early September

⛺ Reservations: Yes. Highly Recommended. Up to a 180-day rolling window.

🔗 Book Your Site: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232462

💧 Water: Yes (Potable spigots, Restrooms, & Dishwashing Stations)

🚿 Showers: Outdoor solar shower station in D Loop

🗑️ Trash: Yes, Dumpsters on site

♻️ Recycle: Yes

💡 Electric: No

📶 Cell Service: AT&T: Good. Verizon: Weak but usable

🚗 Access: Paved to the entrance

💩 Dump Station: On-site (Included for campers)

🥾 Nearby Hikes: Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, Alberta Falls

⭐ Attractions: RMNP Shuttle System, Wildlife viewing, Trail Ridge Road

Glacier Basin Campground (RMNP) Video Tour

Know Before You Go

  • Reservations are Crucial: Glacier Basin is extremely popular

  • Booking Link: Reserve your site on Recreation.gov

  • Team Recon’s Best Sites:

    • Shade: Loop B. Site 38 was the perfect fit
      for our campervan rental, and was close to
      the restrooms.

    • Views: Parts of Loops C & D have the most dramatic views of the Continental Divide.
      Sites 64, 66, 69, 122, 124, & 126 were some of
      the more memorable campsites at Glacier
      Basin Campground

  • Wildlife Warnings: This is active bear and elk country. Bear-proof food lockers are provided and must be used for all food and scented items. Do not approach elk, especially during the fall rut, as they can be aggressive.

Nearby Adventures

  • 🥾Hiking the Bear Lake Corridor: Use the on-site shuttle stop to access world-class trails like Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and Alberta Falls without worrying about parking.

  • Sprague Lake: A short drive or shuttle ride away, this flat, accessible loop offers some of the best sunrise views in the park.

  • 🎣Fishing: Catch-and-keep fishing is available in several lakes, including nearby Sprague Lake.
    Bear Lake: No Fishing
    Other lakes and streams are catch-and-release only. Be sure to check the current RMNP fishing regulations and permit requirements.

  • Wildlife Viewing: The meadows surrounding the campground are prime spots for spotting elk, mule deer, and the occasional coyote.

FAQ

Is there cell service at Glacier Basin Campground? Yes, but it varies by carrier. AT&T generally has a good signal, while Verizon is weaker and may only work for calls and basic text messaging.

Can I fit a large RV in Glacier Basin? The campground accommodates RVs and trailers, but many sites have tight curves. Watch our Glacier Basin Campground tour or check the specific site dimensions on Recreation.gov before booking.

Are there showers at Glacier Basin? There are no traditional indoor shower facilities. However, Loop D features an outdoor solar shower station where you can hang your own solar bag.

How do I get to the Bear Lake trailhead from the campground? The campground has its own dedicated stop on the RMNP Shuttle system. We highly recommend using this to avoid the frequently full parking lots at the trailheads.

Is Glacier Basin open year-round? No, it is a seasonal campground typically open from mid-May through early September.

Find other nearby campgrounds on our Interactive Map

Map of Campgrounds in Colorado