Camping at Rocky Mountain National Park Timber Creek Campground

Overview of Timber Creek Campground

Timber Creek Campground is one of the campgrounds located within Rocky Mountain National Park, on the park's west side near Grand Lake, Colorado. It offers a scenic camping experience with access to many of the park's natural attractions, including alpine meadows, pristine rivers, and rugged mountain landscapes.

Camping Facilities and Amenities

• Campsites: Timber Creek Campground has more than 98 sites suitable for tents and RVs (up to 30 feet).
• Facilities: Each campsite typically offers a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and nearby restrooms with flush toilets. However, there are no shower facilities.
• Water Access: Running water is available in the summer months. Campers should bring their own water or be prepared to treat water during the offseason.
• Accessibility: Some sites are ADA-accessible.
• Food Storage: Food storage lockers are available to protect food from wildlife, particularly bears.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservations: Campsites at Timber Creek are usually first-come, first-served, but it's always best to check the latest information as reservation policies can change.
• Fees: Fees for camping vary by season but expect to pay a nightly fee. Check the park's official website for the most up-to-date fee structure.

Activities and Points of Interest

• Hiking: There is a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to elk, mule deer, moose, and various other forest creatures.
• Fishing: The Colorado River flows near Timber Creek Campground and offers great fishing opportunities.
• Scenic Drives: Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, provides spectacular views.

Safety and Regulations

• Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and store food properly.
• Fires: Fire restrictions may be in place due to seasonal conditions. Always follow fire guidelines provided by the campground.
• Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and should not be left unattended.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

• Summer: Best time for camping with mild and pleasant weather. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures and a chance to see the aspen leaves change color.
• Winter: The campground typically closes due to snow and cold temperatures.
• Spring: Late spring may still have snow on the ground; many park roads and trails are also still closed.

Directions and Contact Information

• Directions: Timber Creek Campground is located along Trail Ridge Road, approximately 10 miles north of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.
• GPS Coordinates: Longitude -105.84802 / Latitude 40.35048
• Contact: Before traveling, it’s a good idea to check the campground’s status and any alerts by contacting Rocky Mountain National Park at 970-586-1206 or visiting the National Park Service website for Rocky Mountain National Park.

Additional Tips: Always check the National Park Service's official website for Rocky Mountain National Park for the most current information regarding campground status, reservations, and fees, as these details can change frequently. Additionally, remember that high-altitude locations can affect health; take precautions to avoid altitude sickness by staying hydrated and adjusting to elevation gradually.