Wilderness Camping

Longs Peak from the Boulderfield in late summer (left) and early summer (right).

NPS Photos

 

There are a wide range of wilderness camping experiences available in Rocky. Those new to wilderness travel have ample opportunity to break their boots in slowly, while those with many miles under their belt can find new areas that test their mettle.

You may make Wilderness Campsite Reservation Requests online or in person beginning March 1st, 2019, at 8 a.m. Mountain Standard Time for a permit for the current calendar year. Phone, mail, email and fax reservations are not accepted.

Use these links to plan and request your trip:

Wilderness Camping Guide

Wilderness Campsite Map

Wilderness Campsite Designated Site Details

Most Recent Wilderness Campsite Availability List

Wilderness Campsite Reservation Request Application

 

East side Wilderness Office

NPS

Wilderness Offices

Overnight travel in the wilderness requires a permit. Permits and information are available at two Wilderness Offices within Rocky Mountain National Park. Please contact the Wilderness Office for updated information on the status of Wilderness campsites.

On the east side of the park, the Wilderness Office is adjacent to the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center.

On the west side of the park, the Wilderness Office is located inside the Kawuneeche Visitor Center.

Wilderness Offices are open seven days a week, seasonal hours vary. Phone: [phone]

 

Check with the Wilderness Office for current wilderness conditions.

NPS

Current Notices

• There will be temporary closures in some wilderness campsites. Please contact the Wilderness Office for updated information on the status of wilderness sites.
• Park staff are removing some dead trees that have been killed by an outbreak of native pine beetles. The removal reduces risk associated with falling trees. Always be aware of your surroundings, particularly during times of high winds.
• Please call 970-586-1206 for general information about the park.
• We recommend that you visit the following topics:

High Country Hazards

Weather and Climate

Leave No Trace

Fishing

 

Alpine sunrise

NPS

 

Wilderness Designated Site Details Find a listing of all designated wilderness sites in Rocky here.	Technical Orienteering Cross-country Zones Cross-country Zones allow you to connect to far off places in the park.	Technical Climbing Bivouac Zones Technical climbers can obtain permits to set up temporary camps near climbing routes.
Wilderness Stock Sites Horses are welcome at a selection of wilderness sites around the park.	Wilderness Camping Planning Checklist A helpful list to make sure your backpack has everything you need.	Wilderness Winter Camping The wilderness can be just as adventurous in winter, just a little bit colder.

 

A bear canister

NPS

Wilderness Food Storage

Between April 1 and October 31, all food items and garbage must be secured inside a commercially-made carry in/carry out bear-resistant food storage container.

This is required for park wilderness areas below tree line and in the Boulder Field of Longs Peak, due to recurring wildlife incidents. Other methods of food storage are not permitted in the wilderness during this period.