Colorado Calling: Finding Your RV Parking Paradise

So, you’re ready to hit the road in your RV, and Colorado’s majestic mountains are calling your name. You’ve got your hiking boots packed, your camera charged, and a playlist of classic road trip tunes ready to go. But hold on! Before you can fully embrace the freedom of the open road, you gotta figure out where you’re gonna park that behemoth.

Colorado is a haven for RVers, offering a plethora of options for parking, from established campgrounds to wild, free-spirited spots. But navigating this vast landscape can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack – especially if you’re new to the game. Fear not, fellow adventurer! This guide’s got your back, breaking down the ins and outs of finding the perfect RV parking spot in the Centennial State.

Related Articles: Colorado Calling: Finding Your RV Parking Paradise

Campgrounds: Your Cozy Basecamp

Let’s face it, sometimes you just crave a little comfort. Campgrounds are your go-to for amenities like running water, electricity, and, most importantly, bathrooms that don’t involve a pit toilet. They’re also great for meeting fellow travelers and swapping stories about your adventures.

Types of Campgrounds:

Private Campgrounds: These are often more luxurious, offering amenities like pools, hot tubs, and even Wi-Fi. They’re usually more expensive, but the extra comfort might be worth it, especially for families with young kids.
National Park Campgrounds: These offer a more rustic experience, often with basic amenities like restrooms and picnic tables. But hey, you’re in a national park! The stunning scenery and wildlife sightings make up for any lack of frills.
State Park Campgrounds: These offer a happy medium between private and national park campgrounds, with moderate amenities and often beautiful locations. They’re usually a bit cheaper than private campgrounds, making them a good value for your buck.

Finding the Right Campground:

Reserve in Advance: Especially during peak season (summer and fall), campgrounds can book up fast. Don’t be caught scrambling at the last minute; make your reservations well in advance.
Check Campground Reviews: Read reviews from other RVers to get a sense of the campground’s atmosphere, amenities, and any potential drawbacks. Websites like RV Park Reviews and Campendium are great resources.
Consider Your Needs: Think about what amenities are important to you – electricity, water hookups, showers, laundry facilities? Choose a campground that meets your needs and budget.

Colorado Calling: Finding Your RV Parking Paradise

Boondocking: Embracing the Wild

For those who crave the freedom of the open road and the thrill of self-sufficiency, boondocking is the way to go. This is essentially free camping on public land, without any amenities. It’s a great way to get away from it all and experience the true wilderness.

Boondocking Tips:

Colorado Calling: Finding Your RV Parking Paradise

Know the Rules: Not all public land is open to boondocking. Check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the U.S. Forest Service to find out where you can legally park your RV.
Be Prepared: Boondocking requires self-reliance. Bring plenty of water, food, and fuel. You’ll also need to be prepared for potential problems like flat tires or breakdowns.
Leave No Trace: Be a responsible boondocker. Pack out everything you pack in, and leave the area as you found it.

Dispersed Camping: Finding Your Own Little Spot

Dispersed camping, also known as "primitive camping," is a variation of boondocking that allows you to camp in designated areas on public land. This gives you more freedom to choose your own spot, but it also requires more careful planning and preparation.

Dispersed Camping Tips:

Research Your Area: Use resources like the BLM’s website or the U.S. Forest Service’s recreation.gov website to find dispersed camping areas.
Follow the Rules: Dispersed camping areas often have specific rules about campfires, generators, and the number of days you can stay. Be sure to follow these rules.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Dispersed camping areas can be remote, so be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against wildlife encounters.

RV Parks: Amenities Galore

RV parks offer a more structured camping experience, with amenities like full hookups (electricity, water, and sewer), laundry facilities, and sometimes even pools and hot tubs. They’re a great option if you want to be close to amenities and other RVers.

RV Park Tips:

Check the Amenities: Not all RV parks are created equal. Some offer basic amenities, while others have full hookups and a wide range of recreational activities.
Consider the Location: Think about what’s important to you – proximity to attractions, quiet surroundings, or a lively social scene. Choose an RV park that fits your needs.
Read Reviews: Just like with campgrounds, reading reviews from other RVers can help you get a sense of the RV park’s atmosphere, amenities, and any potential drawbacks.

Beyond the Basics: Parking Considerations

Elevation: Colorado is known for its high altitude. Be aware that your RV’s performance may be affected at higher elevations, especially if you’re towing a trailer. Plan your routes accordingly and consider taking breaks to acclimate to the altitude.

Weather: Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything. Pack layers of clothing, and check the forecast before heading out. Be aware of potential hazards like snowstorms, high winds, and lightning.

Wildlife: Colorado is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, and mountain lions. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid encounters. Store your food properly and never leave food or trash unattended.

Safety: Always prioritize safety when parking your RV. Choose a level and stable parking spot, and use wheel chocks to prevent your RV from rolling. Never leave your RV unattended without securing the doors and windows.

Finding the Perfect Parking Spot:

Online Resources:

RV Park Reviews: This website offers comprehensive reviews of RV parks across the United States, including those in Colorado.
Campendium: This website offers reviews of campgrounds, RV parks, and boondocking spots, as well as information about amenities and nearby attractions.
Recreation.gov: This website allows you to reserve campgrounds in national parks and forests, including those in Colorado.

Mobile Apps:

AllStays: This app helps you find campgrounds, RV parks, boondocking spots, and other RV-related services.
RV Trip Wizard: This app helps you plan your RV trips, including finding campgrounds, calculating mileage, and creating itineraries.

Local Sources:

Visitor Centers: Local visitor centers can provide information about campgrounds, RV parks, and other RV-related resources in the area.
Local Chambers of Commerce: Chambers of commerce can also provide information about RV-friendly businesses and attractions in the area.

Embrace the Adventure

Finding the perfect RV parking spot in Colorado is all about planning, preparation, and a little bit of adventure. Whether you’re looking for a cozy campground, a wild boondocking spot, or a luxurious RV park, there’s a place for you to park your RV and enjoy all that Colorado has to offer. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the beauty of the Centennial State from the comfort of your own home on wheels!

FAQ about Planning Your RV Trip: Parking Areas in Colorado

Q: What are the best times of year to visit Colorado in an RV?

A: The best time to visit Colorado in an RV depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather and plenty of sunshine, but it’s also peak season, so campgrounds and RV parks can be crowded. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, but you may encounter some rain or snow. Winter (November-March) can be challenging for RVers due to snow and cold temperatures, but it’s a great time to experience the beauty of Colorado’s mountains.

Q: What are some of the best RV parks in Colorado?

A: Colorado has a wide variety of RV parks to choose from, each with its own unique charm and amenities. Some popular options include:

Cherry Creek State Park RV Park: Located near Denver, this park offers full hookups, a swimming pool, and a playground.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park RV Park: Located near Golden, this park offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and access to hiking trails.
Mesa Verde National Park Campground: Located near Cortez, this campground offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans.

Q: What are some of the best boondocking spots in Colorado?

A: Colorado offers a wealth of boondocking opportunities, especially on BLM land and in national forests. Some popular spots include:

San Juan National Forest: This forest offers a variety of boondocking spots, including those along the Uncompahgre River.
Gunnison National Forest: This forest offers stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks and plenty of opportunities for hiking and fishing.
BLM Land near Grand Junction: This area offers a variety of boondocking spots, including those along the Colorado River.

Q: What are some tips for staying safe while boondocking in Colorado?

A: Boondocking can be a great way to experience the wilderness, but it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Here are a few tips:

Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Carry a cell phone and a satellite phone or GPS device.
Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against wildlife encounters.
Store your food properly and never leave food or trash unattended.
Carry a first-aid kit and other emergency supplies.

Q: What are some tips for finding RV-friendly businesses in Colorado?

A: Colorado has a number of RV-friendly businesses, including restaurants, shops, and attractions. Here are a few tips for finding them:

Look for RV parking signs.
Check online resources like RV Park Reviews and Campendium.
Ask locals for recommendations.

Q: What are some of the best RV-friendly attractions in Colorado?

A: Colorado has a wealth of RV-friendly attractions, including national parks, state parks, and historic sites. Here are a few popular options:

Rocky Mountain National Park: This park offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, as well as hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and scenic drives.
Mesa Verde National Park: This park is home to the ruins of ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: This park features a deep, narrow canyon carved by the Gunnison River.

Q: What are some of the best RV-friendly events in Colorado?

A: Colorado hosts a number of RV-friendly events throughout the year, including rallies, festivals, and concerts. Here are a few popular options:

Colorado RV Show: This annual show features a wide variety of RVs, camping gear, and RV-related services.
Telluride Bluegrass Festival: This annual festival features a lineup of bluegrass musicians.
Aspen Food & Wine Classic: This annual festival features a variety of food and wine events.

Remember, planning your RV trip to Colorado is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure! With careful planning and a little bit of flexibility, you can find the perfect parking spot and experience all that the Centennial State has to offer.

Closure

Thus, we hope this article has provided valuable insights into Colorado Calling: Finding Your RV Parking Paradise. We thank you for taking the time to read this article. See you in our next article!