Discover the Best RV & Van Camping Experiences in Colorado
Are you ready to embark on a #vanlife adventure in Denver? Look no further! We've compiled this Insider Guide to Van Camping to help you make the most of your campervan rental experience in the Mile High City and beyond.
Starting Your Journey in RiNo, Denver
Our basecamp headquarters is in the vibrant RiNo (River North Arts District) neighborhood. Easily accessible via RTD Lightrail from Denver International Airport, you'll be in the heart of Denver's coolest district in no time.
Must-Visit Spots in RiNo:
Grab a coffee at Blue Sparrow or Crema Coffee
Explore art galleries like Dart Gallery
Shop at unique stores across the street in the Backyard complex
Check out Denver Walls, the latest epic murals graffiti art in the alley behind Larimer Street
Stock up on snacks at the Bodega in Green Spaces
Provisioning for Your Adventure
Before hitting the road, we recommend stocking up at Trader Joe's. They offer a great selection of easy-to-prepare meals, snacks, drinks, and discounted local brews perfect for van life.
Top Camping Spots Near Denver
Colorado offers a playground of outdoor adventures, craft breweries, historical sites, and shopping destinations. Here are some of the best nearby camping options to kickstart your journey:
1. Chatfield State Park
Located close to Denver, Chatfield State Park offers a range of outdoor activities and amenities.
Activities: Boating, waterskiing, paddleboarding, kayaking
Amenities: Full RV hookups, flush toilets, showers, laundry, potable water
Reservations: Book online or call 1-800-244-5613
Cost: Included with the State Park Pass provided with our vans
2. Cherry Creek State Park
This park is the closest state park to Denver, offering year-round camping and various activities.
Activities: Swimming, fishing, boating, cross-country skiing (winter)
Amenities: Varies by season
Reservations: Book online or call 1-800-244-5613
Cost: Included with the State Park Pass
3. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
For a forest camping experience close to Denver, try Reverend's Ridge Campground in this park.
Features: Clean facilities, wildlife sightings, mountain views
Reservations: Call 1-800-244-5613 or visit www.cpwshop.com
Explore Nearby Attractions
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Experience a "14er" without hiking! This 14-mile drive takes you to 14,264 feet above sea level.
Highlights: Mount Goliath Nature Center, Summit Lake Park, wildlife viewing
Season: Spring and summer only
Reservations: Required, book online
Rocky Mountain National Park
No Colorado trip is complete without visiting this iconic national park. Reservations are now required to enter the park, so make sure you take care of that here.
Top Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park:
Lake Haiyaha Trail (4 miles, moderate)
Nymph Lake Trail
Emerald Lake Trail
Dream Lake Trail
Alberta Falls Trail
Chasm Lake Trail (challenging but rewarding)
Our Van Fleet
Choose from our three fully-equipped Ram Promaster 1500 Cargo High Roof vans:
Each van comes with essential amenities, including:
MaxxFan for ventilation
Bedding and linens
Cooking equipment
Water system
Cleaning supplies
Navigation and entertainment systems
Colorado State Park Pass
Ready to Start Your #VanLife Adventure? Hope this Insider Guide to Van Camping was helpful!
Book directly through our website to save on your Denver campervan rental!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to make reservations for camping in Colorado State Parks?
Yes, we strongly recommend making reservations, especially during peak seasons. Most state parks allow reservations up to six months in advance. You can book online or call 1-800-244-5613.
2. Is the Colorado State Park Pass Really included with my van rental?
Yes! All our vans come with a Colorado State Park Pass connected to the license plate. This allows you free entry into any Colorado State Park during your rental period.
3. What's included in the van rental?
Our vans come fully equipped with bedding, cooking equipment, a water system, MaxxFan for ventilation, navigation system, and more. Check our detailed list in the blog post for a full inventory. All you need are your hiking boots, ok, and maybe a few other things like a toothbrush.
4. Do I need any special license to drive your vans?
No, a standard driver's license is all you need. Our Ram Promaster vans are easy to drive and fit in normal parking spaces.
5. How far in advance should I book my van rental?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for the summer months and holidays. However, feel free to check our availability for last-minute trips too!
6. Are pets allowed in the vans?
Absolutely, we want you to bring your furry friends along. Just make sure to add the pet fee, which covers the deep cleaning we do after your trip.
WOW—Elissa Jane, I love alllll the KILLER INSIGHTS on how to GLAMP with panache. My romp through CO, from Buena Vista to Leadville, was INCREDIBLE—plus I was very dialed in thanks to all your intel. Van Da Lady is KILLIN it. THANK U AGAIN for providing us with an outstanding experience in a wonderfully outfitted rig. 🤩