Longs Peak Campground
05 reviewsLongs Peak Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / 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
The fee to camp at Longs Peak Campground is $30 per site, per night. There are no flushable toilets and campers need to bring their own drinkable water.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 9,500 feet in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, Longs Peak Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience for adventurous souls. This intimate, tents-only sanctuary serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to Colorado's most iconic fourteener. Nestled within a pristine evergreen forest, the campground provides a rustic escape where modern amenities take a backseat to raw mountain beauty. While vault toilets are available, the absence of potable water means campers must come prepared with their own supply—a small price to pay for front-row access to one of America's most legendary peaks.
Longs Peak Campground is a primitive, tents-only camping area without RV or group options.
Weather and SeasonsSummer mornings at Longs Peak Campground greet visitors with crisp mountain air and temperatures hovering between 37-42°F, perfect for early alpine starts. As the sun climbs higher, daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 69-74°F, ideal for exploring nearby trails or simply relaxing among the pines. September ushers in autumn's first whispers, with highs dipping to 66°F and nighttime lows approaching a frosty 34°F. Mountain weather here is famously mercurial—afternoon thunderstorms can roll in without warning, and even summer nights may bring unexpected icy conditions. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and prepare for nature's mood swings at this elevation.
ElevationAt 9,500 feet above sea level, Longs Peak Campground sits in the thin air of Colorado's high country. This lofty perch means visitors may feel the effects of altitude—shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and the need for extra hydration are all part of the mountain experience. The elevation also creates a unique microclimate where summer can feel like spring and autumn arrives early. For many, adjusting to the altitude is part of the adventure, a reminder that you've entered a realm where the peaks scrape the sky and every breath connects you more deeply to the alpine environment.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by towering evergreens that whisper ancient mountain secrets, Longs Peak Campground immerses visitors in a pristine alpine ecosystem. The dense forest canopy creates a natural cathedral where sunlight filters through pine and fir branches, casting dancing shadows on the forest floor. This high-altitude haven attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters—black bears lumber through in search of berries, majestic elk bugle during autumn evenings, and clever raccoons test campers' food storage skills. Mule deer browse peacefully in the early morning hours, while the occasional skunk reminds everyone to respect nature's personal space. The campground offers front-row seats to one of Colorado's most spectacular natural theaters.
Geological RegionLongs Peak Campground rests within the dramatic geological tapestry of Rocky Mountain National Park, where ancient forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. The surrounding alpine forest ecosystem thrives in thin mountain soils, creating a unique environment where hardy evergreens have adapted to harsh winters and short growing seasons. This high-elevation wonderland showcases the raw beauty of Colorado's Continental Divide region, where exposed granite peaks tell stories of glacial carving and tectonic uplift spanning millions of years. The campground serves as a gateway to exploring these alpine ecological features, from delicate wildflower meadows to rugged rock formations that challenge and inspire mountaineers from around the world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo ADA-compliant sites are available. The campground is not wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeAll sites are intended for tent camping with limited space for vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is forested, which may offer some natural privacy between sites.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to trailheads for ease of access; avoid sites prone to water pooling during rain.
Best CampsitesUser reviews do not specify preferred individual sites, but proximity to trailheads and quieter sections may be desirable.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- First-come, first-serve
- no official check-in times.
Check-out
- First-come, first-serve
- no official check-out times.
Stay Limit
This campground has a stay limit of 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each camping site is limited to one camping unit (a tent) plus one additional tent, with a maximum of 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 26 tent-only sites arranged in a forested loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from early July to early September.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations accepted; first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve; typically fills up quickly during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyFirst-come, first-serve basis only; no reservations accepted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Longs Peak Campground serves as a base for outdoor activities in the surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park, including hiking and wildlife viewing. The campground is particularly popular with hikers aiming to summit Longs Peak.
Hiking
The campground is adjacent to trails leading to Longs Peak and other hikes in the park. The trails vary in difficulty, making it a popular location for day hikers and serious climbers.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as bears, deer, elk, raccoons, and skunks are common. Proper food storage is emphasized to avoid wildlife encounters.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are allowed only in metal fire grates. Gathering firewood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned; assume standard quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wildlife including bears; extreme weather conditions at higher elevations.
Active alertsTrail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park may have icy conditions due to melting snow and freezing temperatures. Visitors are advised to call 970-586-1222 for updates.
Weather forecast
45
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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, 20 minutes away, may provide emergency services such as hospitals and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesEarly July through early September.
Trash and recyclingSeasonal trash and recycling collection is available. Food storage lockers are also provided to prevent wildlife encounters.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features near the campground.
Common complaintsSome visitors have noted restroom closures for renovations and the lack of potable water as drawbacks.
HostHosts are present seasonally and are described as extremely helpful and friendly, offering assistance with campsite maintenance and local advice.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estes Park, take CO Hwy 7 south for 20 miles. Longs Peak Road will be on your right with signs for Longs Peak Ranger Station and Longs Peak Campground.
Accessible via paved roads; no specific seasonal closures of access roads noted, but weather conditions (snow, ice) can affect travel at higher elevations.Nearby places
Estes Park (20 miles, approximately 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Estes Park, 20 minutes away, is the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Longs Peak Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the natural beauty, proximity to hiking trails, and helpfulness of staff. Limitations such as lack of water and basic amenities are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the helpfulness of the camp host, cleanliness, and proximity to Longs Peak trails.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most common complaints involve the lack of potable water, limited parking, and occasional closure of restrooms for maintenance.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and be prepared for high-altitude conditions. Arrive early to secure a first-come, first-served site.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open only during summer, with July and August being the most popular months. Visitors experience clear and manageable weather during this period, but rain can temporarily affect...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The camp host here is absolutely amazing and super friendly!" (Angie Hayden) "Super nice campground! The host was helpful and nice but the views were the best part." (Emily & Ryan) "Good location if...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features were noted.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025