A Guide to Camping Before or After Your Elopement in Rocky Mountain National Park
Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is an unforgettable experience, and it’s the perfect way to make your elopement even more memorable. Whether you’re looking to camp before or after your ceremony, immersing yourself in nature and enjoying the tranquility of the park can add a sense of adventure and romance to your special day.
This guide will help you plan the perfect camping experience, from choosing the best campgrounds to making your stay as comfortable and romantic as possible in the rugged mountain environment.
Why Camp Before or After Your Elopement?
Camping in RMNP is a great way to extend the magic of your elopement. Here are some reasons why you should consider it:
- Seclusion and Privacy: Enjoy the beauty of the park in a more intimate, private way. Camping allows you to connect with nature and each other, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Adventure and Relaxation: Spend your time hiking, stargazing, or simply relaxing by the campfire. The park offers a perfect balance of outdoor adventure and peaceful downtime.
- Cost-Effective: Camping is an affordable option compared to traditional lodging, allowing you to spend your budget on experiences rather than accommodations.
- Stunning Sunrises and Sunsets: Wake up to the breathtaking views of the Rockies and enjoy quiet, peaceful evenings with stunning mountain vistas, making your elopement trip feel even more special.
Best Campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park
RMNP has several campgrounds that vary in location, accessibility, and amenities. Here are some of the best options for couples who want to camp before or after their elopement:
1. Morraine Park Campground
Best for: Couples who want a central location with access to hiking trails
Morraine Park is one of the largest and most popular campgrounds in RMNP. It’s located near the Beaver Meadows Entrance and is close to several popular hiking trails, including those to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. The campground sits at an elevation of 8,160 feet, and it’s surrounded by stunning mountain views. It offers both tent and RV sites, with basic amenities like flush toilets, water, and picnic tables.
Romantic Tip: Book a site by the creek for a more intimate experience. Spend evenings relaxing by the campfire with the sounds of nature in the background.
2. Glacier Basin Campground
Best for: Seclusion and mountain views
Glacier Basin is a more secluded option, located further into the park, and provides beautiful views of Longs Peak and the surrounding wilderness. This campground offers both tent and RV sites and is close to hiking trails such as the one leading to Chasm Lake. At an elevation of 8,500 feet, it provides a true mountain experience.
Romantic Tip: Opt for an early morning hike to watch the sunrise over the peaks. It’s a short drive or hike to many breathtaking viewpoints that are perfect for quiet moments together.
3. Timber Creek Campground
Best for: Couples looking for solitude and less crowded areas
Timber Creek is the only campground located on the park’s west side and is less crowded than Morraine Park and Glacier Basin. It’s a great spot for those who want a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. Timber Creek offers tent sites, RV spots, and access to the nearby Kawuneeche Valley.
Romantic Tip: Enjoy stargazing after dark—this campground is far enough from city lights to offer exceptional views of the night sky.
4. Lily Lake Campground
Best for: A more peaceful, lakeside setting
While not technically inside RMNP, Lily Lake Campground is located just outside the park’s eastern entrance and offers lovely, more accessible lakeside views. It’s a small campground with fewer crowds, making it ideal for a quieter, romantic stay. It’s a great spot if you plan to explore the park during the day but want a more relaxed camp experience in the evening.
Romantic Tip: Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle out on Lily Lake at sunset. The reflections of the mountains in the water are absolutely stunning.
How to Make Your Camping Experience More Romantic
Camping in the mountains is a fantastic way to deepen your connection with your partner and enjoy the serenity of nature. Here are a few ideas to make your camping experience extra special and romantic:
1. Create a Cozy Campfire Setting
The campfire is the heart of any camping experience. Pack some comfortable blankets, pillows, and a cozy rug to create a more intimate atmosphere around the fire. Set up a “living room” around the campfire where you can enjoy the warmth together, roasting marshmallows, sipping hot cocoa, or sharing your favorite stories.
2. Bring Special Touches
Personalize your campsite with small touches that make it feel like a romantic getaway. Bring along lanterns, fairy lights, or a small tent rug. Add a bouquet of wildflowers or some greenery to your picnic table, and maybe a bottle of wine or champagne to toast to your elopement.
3. Plan a Sunset or Sunrise Hike
RMNP is home to some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets. Plan a short hike to a scenic viewpoint to take in the colors of the sky and the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Some of the best spots for this include Bear Lake or the summit of a nearby peak like Deer Mountain for a less challenging hike.
4. Picnic with a View
Pack a picnic basket with some of your favorite treats, and enjoy a romantic meal with a view. Some scenic picnic spots include Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, or Sprague Lake. Bring along a blanket and some simple dishes like sandwiches, cheese, crackers, fresh fruit, and chocolate for dessert.
5. Plan a Hot Springs Soak
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to unwind after your wedding or a hike, consider a trip to one of Colorado’s nearby hot springs, such as Strawberry Park Hot Springs near Steamboat Springs or Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs. Soaking in the warm waters is a perfect way to relax and enjoy each other’s company while taking in the surrounding mountain scenery.
How to Stay Comfortable in the Mountain Environment
The mountain environment can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared to stay comfortable, no matter the conditions. Here’s how to do just that:
1. Dress in Layers
Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so layering is key. Bring moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer to protect against rain and wind. Don’t forget warm hats, gloves, and socks, especially at higher elevations where temperatures can dip unexpectedly, even in summer.
2. Stay Warm and Dry
Nights in the mountains can be chilly, even in summer. Invest in a high-quality sleeping bag rated for the season and a sleeping pad for insulation. Make sure your tent is water-resistant, and consider using a tent footprint to protect the base.
3. Plan for Altitude
RMNP sits at high altitudes, with many campgrounds at 8,000 feet or more. If you’re not accustomed to high-altitude environments, take it easy when you first arrive, and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness. The thinner air at higher elevations can cause shortness of breath, dizziness, or headaches for some people, so it’s important to listen to your body and rest if needed.
4. Pack Smart
Make sure you have all the essentials for camping, such as a sturdy tent, a good sleeping bag, cooking equipment, and plenty of food and water. Keep your camp kitchen efficient by packing compact and easy-to-use gear, like a small stove or portable grill, a lightweight pot, and freeze-dried meals.
5. Bring Bug Repellent and Sunscreen
Although RMNP is known for its pristine wilderness, the park’s natural environment means that mosquitoes and other bugs can be an issue, particularly in warmer months. Bring bug spray and consider wearing long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk. Additionally, high-altitude sun exposure can be intense, so sunscreen is essential, even on cloudy days.
Final Thoughts
Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park before or after your elopement is a truly magical way to connect with your partner and the wilderness. Whether you’re stargazing by the campfire, enjoying a quiet sunrise hike, or cozying up in your tent after a full day of adventure, camping adds an extra layer of romance and intimacy to your elopement experience. With the right preparation and a little creativity, you can make your mountain camping adventure one you’ll never forget.
