🏕 Campground
Moraine Park Campground (Rocky Mountain NP)
About This Permit
Moraine Park is Rocky Mountain National Park's largest campground, spread across a scenic mountain meadow along the Big Thompson River. Direct access to the Bear Lake Road shuttle corridor — the gateway to Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and the best fall elk rut viewing in the park. September campsite reservations are particularly competitive due to the elk rut.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the elk rut at Rocky Mountain NP?
The elk rut peaks mid-September through early October — massive bull elk bugle through Moraine Park meadow at dawn and dusk. September campsite reservations are competitive specifically for rut viewing, one of the premier wildlife spectacles in any national park.
Do I need a separate permit to enter Rocky Mountain NP?
Yes — a timed entry permit is required approximately May 22 through October 13–18 (dates vary by year). General park areas require entry between 9am–2pm; Bear Lake Road is restricted 5am–6pm. Campsite reservations include Bear Lake Road access starting at 1pm on your first day. Both the timed entry permit and campsite reservation are on recreation.gov.
What is the Bear Lake Road corridor?
A 9-mile dead-end road accessing the most popular trailheads including Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, Dream Lake, and Glacier Gorge. A park shuttle runs the road during peak season. Moraine Park is the best campground for shuttle access to Bear Lake Road.
Key Facts
- State
- CO
- Season
- Year-round (77 sites available first-come, first-served during winter through ~May 18; full reservation season opens ~May 19)
- Sites
- 244 sites (tent and RV)
- Access
- Bear Lake Road corridor, Estes Park, CO — 2 miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance
- Reservation Window
- Reservations on recreation.gov; timed park entry permit required ~May 22 – Oct 13–18 (9am–2pm general areas; 5am–6pm Bear Lake Road). Campsite reservations include Bear Lake Road access from 1pm on your first day.
- Difficulty to reserve
- 4/5(Very hard)
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