Longs Peak Campground

Overview

A small, forested, tent-only campground at 9,500 feet, Longs Peak Campground is the obvious basecamp for hikers and climbers eyeing the Longs Peak and Chasm Lake trails. It’s about 20 minutes south of Estes Park on Highway 7 and feels quiet and tucked away—until the pre-dawn alpine-start crowd rustles up for summit bids.

What You’ll Find

There are 26 tent-only sites, each with a fire ring and picnic table. Expect four vault toilets, food-storage lockers, trash and recycling, and one vehicle per site (up to eight people). The ground is natural and uneven, and some tent pads are reached by a few steps. There are no hookups, showers, or dump station, and portable showers are not allowed. Cell service is limited to none—plan accordingly.

Water, Fires, and Firewood

There is no potable water here—bring all your drinking and fire-dousing water. Firewood isn’t sold on-site; pick it up in Estes Park and avoid hauling it long distances to prevent spreading pests.

Reservations, Season, and Fees

For 2025, the campground opens at 1 p.m. on July 3 and closes at noon on September 8. Sites are reservation-only, $30 per night for standard tent sites, with 50% off for Senior and Access Pass holders. Check in after 1 p.m., and note the park-wide summer limit of seven total nights across RMNP campgrounds.

Timed-Entry Fine Print

A reservation here does not include a timed-entry permit for other areas of the park. You’ll still need the park entrance fee or pass, and a separate timed-entry permit if it’s in effect for the areas you plan to visit.

Wildlife

Bears, deer, elk, raccoons, and skunks frequent the area. Use the provided food lockers and store all food, pet food, cooking gear, and scented items properly. Dawn and dusk are your best bet for spotting elk and deer moving through the forested edges.

Trail Access

From camp, it’s a short hop to the Longs Peak trail system. If you’re chasing sunrise views or a summit, expect neighbors to stir between midnight and 3 a.m.—or join them and beat the afternoon weather.

Construction Note

Expect intermittent construction beginning in early July; follow posted notices in the campground.

Best Time to Visit

• Midweek dates in July–early September are your best bet for thinner crowds.
• For photography and hiking, early mornings offer calm winds and soft light; evenings are pleasant but bring layers for cold nights at 9,500 feet.
• If you’re not alpine-starting, choose a site set a bit away from the trailhead traffic to minimize pre-dawn noise.