A Beginner’s Guide to RVing in Colorado Part 2: Western Highlights

There’s a lot of hype about RVing in Colorado…for good reason! There are so many great towns, attractions, and amazing campgrounds that we couldn’t even fit it all in to one episode, so we are bringing you a two-part series packed full of recommendations. Last week, we told you all about the RVing highlights in Eastern Colorado, and this week we are continuing on to Western Colorado with information from our friend Kerri Cox from Travels with Birdy.
Last week, we talked about Denver, Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, but we aren’t quite done! This week, we will head west in the mountains of central Colorado west of the national park, learn about several more NPS sights, and hear about how the landscape changes near the Utah border.
Here is a guest post from Kerri complete with all the information and links you’ll need as you begin thinking about RVing in Colorado:
Last week, we talked about how the Colorado Tourism Office has divided the state into 8 regions, which we are using as our road map to journey through the state from east to west, starting in central Colorado.
6) Rockies Playground (NW Central CO)
While towns like Aspen, Breckenridge, Vail, and Winter Park are usually associated with winter fun in Colorado, this region should not be overlooked in the summer. The cute mountain towns have pleasant summer weather and are super stroll-able, with lots of local shops, galleries, breweries, and restaurants. Plus, the views never end when you’re surrounded by this many peaks!
Travel Highlights
Great Towns
Leadville – notable as the highest incorporated city in North America (at over 10,000 feet in elevation)
Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, Frisco, Winter Park – take your pick from any of the state’s most famous ski towns to enjoy walkable downtowns and outdoor recreation any time of year; the ski lifts operate and offer great views, and the mountainsides are covered in hiking trails
Glenwood Springs – the drive on I-70 to this town on the western side is famous for the awe-inspiring cantilevered sections through the river canyon, and once you reach Glenwood Springs itself, you’ll find a lot to do centered around the town
Attractions & Adventures
Maroon Bells – these wine-colored peaks rise 14,000 feet in elevation, creating one of the state’s most iconic views
Glenwood Springs hot springs – take in the waters in your choice of spots, with several resorts offering access to a variety of pool types and temperatures
Great Campgrounds
Tiger Run Resort – Expect to pay premium prices, but it’s hard to find full hookups and modern campgrounds in this region. Tiger Run is exceptionally well-maintained with lots of manicured landscaping. (hear my full review here)
Prospector Campground White River National Forest – no hookups but has beautiful waterfront sites on Lake Dillon and easy access to I-70 and ski towns
Carbondale-Crystal River KOA – located on the banks of the Crystal River and earns great reviews for natural beauty and services
Rifle Gap State Park – offers some full hookup, waterfront campsites on a large reservoir
Lots of other national forest campgrounds and dispersed camping with great reviews
Press play on the media player above to hear a lot more details about RVing in Colorado.
6) Mystic San Luis Valley (SW Central CO)
Photo by Shellie Bailey-Shah
Surrounded by the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountains, this region is home to the world’s largest high-altitude desert valley, with the Great Sand Dunes being the top draw. You can find quirky spots around every bend.
Travel Highlights
Great Towns
Crestone – teeny tiny town considered a spiritual hub
Alamosa – the largest town in the region, close to GSDNP
San Luis – the state’s oldest town; known for Hispanic culture
Attractions & Adventures
Great Sand Dunes National Park – home to the tallest dunes in North America, this park’s sand mounds are spellbinding. You can go sand sledding, float in a seasonal creek, or just take in the views. Certified Dark Sky ...