Camping at TENT ONLY - NO HOOKUPS
Overview of Tent Only - No Hookups
Tent Only - No Hookups sites are a specific type of camping accommodation you can find at Estes Park Campground at Marys Lake, located near the town of Estes Park, Colorado. As the name suggests, these sites are designed exclusively for tents and do not provide any electrical, water, or sewage hookups.
Booking Information
Reservations: To secure a spot at one of these tent-only sites, campers usually need to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons. Reservations can be made online or over the phone.
Duration of Stay: There might be a limit on how long you can stay at a tent-only site. Check the campground's policies for the maximum number of consecutive nights allowed.
Campsite Rules and Regulations
Tent Restrictions: The number of tents and the max occupancy per site may be restricted. Verify the restrictions before you book.
Fire Safety: There may be fire rings available, but always adhere to local fire regulations. During high fire danger periods, open flames might be prohibited.
Wildlife Safety: In areas like Estes Park, there's potential for wildlife encounters. Store food safely and maintain a clean campsite to minimize the risk of wildlife interactions.
Quiet Hours: Campgrounds typically enforce quiet hours for the comfort and respect of all campers. Familiarize yourself with these hours and plan your activities accordingly.
Amenities and Facilities
Restrooms: Shared facilities, usually including toilets and showers, are available. Learn about their locations and accessibility.
Potable Water: There will be places to get drinking water, but make sure to locate them on arrival.
Waste Disposal: Sites like these will have designated areas for trash. Some may also provide recycling and composting options.
Pets: Pet policies vary by campground. If pets are allowed, they must be kept on a leash and attended to at all times.
Activities and Attractions
Hiking and Trails: Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, which offers many scenic trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fishing and Boating: Marys Lake is nearby, and it might offer fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. Check local regulations for permits and allowed activities.
Local Attractions: Apart from the natural beauty, you can explore the town's shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Environment and Weather Considerations
Altitude Awareness: Estes Park is at a high altitude, so prepare for possible altitude sickness by staying hydrated and acclimatizing properly.
Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack for all conditions, including cold temperatures at night even during the summer.
Accessibility
Access to Sites: Verify how close you can park to your tent-only site and if there are any paths or uneven terrain to consider.
ADA Compliance: If you require ADA-accessible facilities, ensure that the campground can accommodate your needs when making your reservation.
Planning and Packing Tips
Essential Gear: Bring a sturdy tent, sleeping bags rated for the temperature, a camp stove if open fires are not allowed, and bear canisters for food storage in bear country.
Food and Supplies: Plan meals ahead and pack accordingly. Remember, without hookups, you’ll be relying on coolers for food storage.
Leave No Trace: Adopt Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the natural surroundings by packing out all of your trash and camping with care for the environment.
