Meeker Park Overflow Campground

Meeker Park Overflow Campground is a relatively spartan option for visitors looking for camping accommodations near Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park. As the title suggests, this campground is born from necessity because nearby campgrounds such as Olive Ridge Campground frequently fill as visitors come to see this stunning section of the Rockies during the short summer season. With a prime location that is halfway between the trailhead for Longs Peak and the Wild Basin Trailhead, it's no wonder the area sees plenty of activity. Estes Park is also nearby for any last minute supplies, making this a great spot for easy camping just outside the park.

As an overflow campground, Meeker doesn't promise much in terms of amenities. The Forest Service has placed picnic tables and fire rings in each site, but portable toilets stand in place of more traditional vault toilet structures, and you won't find water. All 29 sites are first-come, first-served, and those with RVs may want to consider other options as some of the internal roads are a little rough and steep. That said, the sites themselves are large enough to accommodate moderately-sized RVs.

Meeker Park is still a beautiful place to camp in spite of its no-nonsense attitude, however. Several sites are fairly large and separated from one another, and most sites enjoy the protection of pondorosa pines and aspen. Short walks near the campground lead to lush green meadows where wildflowers spark in the summer under splendid views of Mount Meeker and Twin Sisters Peak. And you can still buy firewood from the camp host and enjoy a summer night around a campfire under Rocky Mountain stars.

Remember that this is bear country, so be sure to store food and hygiene items in your car. As with most campgrounds in the area, the open season is weather dependent. Typically Meeker Park Overflow Campground is open from mid-June through Labor Day.