Moraine Park Campground

Overview

Set on the park’s east side at 8,160 feet, Moraine Park Campground pairs sweeping valley views with easy access to the Bear Lake Road corridor. It’s open for the 2025 summer season through September 9 (last night to camp), and every site is reservation-only. Expect wildlife to wander the meadows—elk and mule deer are common, with the occasional moose nearby.

Campsites & Amenities

There are 244 sites, ranging from tent and walk‑in spots to sites that can fit RVs/trailers (check your individual site—many are tent/van‑only). Maximum combined RV/tow length is 40 feet. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and a food storage box; tent sites include a defined tent pad.

You’ll find flush toilets and potable water at comfort stations. Two solar shower buildings exist, but there’s no running water in the stalls—bring your own solar shower bag. There are no water or sewer hookups at any site. Forty‑nine sites (mostly in loops B and C) have 20/30/50A electric. An RV dump station and potable water fill are near the campground entrance. Firewood is sold on site.

Getting Around & Programs

A free park shuttle stop sits within the campground, linking you to Bear Lake Road trailheads so you can skip the parking hunt. Near Loop C, the outdoor amphitheater hosts free evening programs—check schedules at the nearby ranger station.

Reservations, Entry & Rules

Check‑in is 1 p.m.; check‑out is noon. Summer stays are capped at 7 nights total across all park campgrounds. Your camping reservation includes Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road access beginning at 1 p.m. on arrival day—have a copy of your reservation for the entrance station.

Generators are allowed 7:30–10 a.m. and 4–8:30 p.m. in all loops except Loop D (no generators there). Follow bear‑aware storage: keep all food and scented items in the provided boxes. Some areas have been hydroseeded after construction—stay on paths and keep off re‑seeded ground.

Wildlife & What It Feels Like

Elk bugling can echo across the meadows in the fall shoulder, and deer often graze through camp. It’s a beautiful, lively setting—more “social campground with scenery” than a quiet backwoods retreat. Wind can pick up, and cell service varies by carrier and spot.

Best Time to Visit

• For quieter vibes, aim for weekdays and avoid peak afternoon arrivals when gates and campground roads feel busiest.
• Dawn and dusk offer your best elk viewing—and the valley looks its best then.
• If you’re targeting Bear Lake area hikes, go early or use the shuttle; lots fill fast even with timed entry.

Costs

Standard non‑electric sites run about $35/night; electric sites about $55/night. Park entrance fees apply separately. Pass holders (Access/Senior) get 50% off standard sites.