St Vrain State Park RV Review and Guide

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Traveling mermaid and full-time RVer here – coming at you with another Colorado favorite for outdoor adventure: St Vrain State Park.

Nestled in beautiful Colorado, St Vrain offers a unique combination of natural beauty, excellent facilities, and diverse activities. 

Whether you are an RV camper or prefer pitching a tent, this comprehensive review will guide you through everything you need to know about camping and RVing at St Vrain State Park.

My Bucket List Review of St Vrain State Park

For adventurers who need quick information.

Category	Camping
Who Should Add This to Their Bucket List?	RVers Campers
Best Time to Go	Spring/Fall
Traveling Difficulty	Easy
Physical Difficulty	Easy
Popularity Rating	7/10
Reservations Required	Yes, up to 6 months in advance
Budget	$36 -41/night (Subject to Change)
Wheelchair Accessible	Yes, but you might have to go over gravel/rocks.

If you need more information about the categories of this table, please check out the Bucket List Reviews guide.

Watch The Full Tour

Things that Make St Vrain State Park Unique

Location

St Vrain State Park is ideally located for RVers, offering easy access from major highways and proximity to several urban amenities while still providing a sense of serene seclusion. 

Situated conveniently near Interstate 25 (I-25), the park is a short drive from both Denver and Fort Collins, making it an accessible retreat for weekend warriors and longer-term travelers alike. 

This prime location allows campers to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the park without feeling too remote or disconnected from essential services. 

Plus, nearby towns offer plenty of options for refueling, stocking up on supplies, or simply enjoying a night out, making St Vrain State Park a perfect base camp for RV enthusiasts.

Note that this is a state park, so there are fees for entering if you don’t have a state park pass on your vehicle registration.

Space

St Vrain State Park spans over 600 acres, making it significantly larger than a typical RV park. 

This expansive area allows for more spacious campsites, greater privacy, and a variety of activities without the feeling of congestion. 

The park’s larger size accommodates numerous ponds, trails, and diverse habitats, ensuring that every camper can find a secluded spot to appreciate the natural beauty. 

Compared to standard RV parks, which often focus on maximizing the number of sites, St Vrain offers a more generous space-per-visitor ratio, enhancing the overall camping experience.

Lakes

St Vrain State Park is home to a series of beautiful ponds that add to the park’s allure and recreational opportunities.

These bodies of water, including Blue Heron Reservoir, Bald Eagle Pond, and Dragonfly Pond, offer an array of activities such as fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching.

Anglers can enjoy catching a variety of fish species, while kayakers and canoeists can paddle through the calm waters, surrounded by stunning scenery.

The ponds and lakes also attract a rich diversity of wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for observation and photography.

With so many different water features to explore, visitors to St Vrain State Park can enjoy both active and peaceful water experiences within this picturesque setting.

Pull-Through Spaces

The majority of the RV spots at St Vrain State Park are designed as pull-through spaces, providing greater convenience and ease for campers.

These pull-through sites allow RVs to drive straight in and out without the need for complicated reversing or maneuvering, which is especially beneficial for larger rigs or those new to RVing.

This design layout significantly reduces the stress and effort associated with parking, enabling campers to quickly settle into their surroundings and begin enjoying the park’s amenities.

The ample space of these pull-through spots also accommodates slide-outs and additional camping gear, ensuring visitors have a comfortable and spacious setup during their stay.

All of these pull-through spots are generally to the right side as you enter the park.

Best Time to Go to St Vrain State Park

Timing your visit is crucial to making the most out of your St Vrain State Park camping experience.

Fall and Spring

The best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak.

The first time that I parked my massive rig here was late fall into early winter. We even saw our first snowstorm here in the rig. There was hardly anybody here and they were almost all full-timers. 

If you are here during this time, make sure to talk to the rangers if you need headed hoses. While we were here, there was a freak cold rush and everybody was gearing up for winter.

Read More – Fall Bucket List | October Bucket List

Summer

Summer can be quite hot…and I definitely did not have a mental breakdown about the heat when it was 104° F (40° C). Can you sense my sarcasm?

There is not much shade, other than the provided picnic table with cover. So, I would make sure that you can handle some heat if choosing to camp here in the heat of summer.

Luckily, there are a ton of water sources, and paddleboarding was relieving, to say the least!

Read More – Summer Bucket List | Aesthetic Summer Bucket List

Best Spots at St Vrain State Park

Choosing the right camping spot can elevate your experience. For RV campers, the park offers full hook-up sites with stunning views of the ponds. 

I will say that our RV has two bedrooms and in doing so we sacrificed that stunning rear living window. Luckily, with St. Vrain, they are mostly pull-through spots. This means that most of the view is actually to the side (happy days for this mermaid). 

The first time we stayed here, we stayed in the Red Tail Pond. Although this meant that we had a view of the pond…we also had a spectacular view of the gas station right across the street. 

Granted, gas prices were great at the time so it was a lovely view, but that’s beside the point. 

Therefore, we scouted the best spot to stay next year and decided on 56. Now that I am back a year later I can safely say that I am not disappointed.

Personally, I would prefer site 55 or 56.

In site 56, I have an unobstructed view of the Bald Eagle Pond and mountains in the back. This means that I can walk straight from my bed to go paddle boarding and I get a stunning sunset view over the mountains from my kitchen. 

Views You Will Get at St Vrain State Park

The park’s scenic views are nothing short of breathtaking…if you are facing the right way. 

What I mean by this is that St Vrain State Park is right off of I-25 in Longmont.

One direction is the highway, gas stations, and some industrial grossness. On the other hand, there are mountains, ponds, and natural goodness.

Just an FYI…the mountains you are seeing are the Rocky Mountains and the infamous Longs Peak (a Colorado 14er). 

It is a very interesting juxtaposition of scenery. On one hand, this means that it’s very accessible and doesn’t require driving through scary mountain backroads with an RV. On the other hand, there’s a highway right there. 

With that being said, I would try to catch a spot that faces the opposite way of the highway, or get something that generally faces:

• Coot Pond
• Blue Harron Reservoir
• Pintail Pond
• Bald Eagle Pond (on one side)
• Mallard Pond

Now let’s mention a view that you will get that is worth the entire pizza. The sunsets here are mesmerizing, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. 

Seriously, I’ve been paddleboarding during sunset every day and I’m convinced it’s close to Heaven. The picture you will see below looks heavily edited – it’s not. My jaw practically hit the floor. 

WHat it Is Like to Paddle board at Sunset At St. Vrain

Facilities at St Vrain State Park

St Vrain State Park is equipped with facilities that cater to both comfort and convenience. 

I especially appreciated the metal cover on most picnic tables for shade. If your own private picnic area isn’t enough, I noticed some very nice public picnic areas as well. 

There are also dump stations and potable water stations available.

Showers and Bathrooms at St Vrain State Park

It is good to note that there are various bathrooms scattered around the park. On the left side of St Vrain State Park, there is a bath house.

I noticed that the bathrooms were cleaner here and they have three showers. The showers each have a private seated area that I loved. 

They are push showers, but they did have temperature control! Although, I did notice that the bigger shower’s temperature was a little finicky. 

My mother raved about the water pressure in the middle shower, so I think that is the winner for the showers in the female restrooms!

Staff at St Vrain State Park

The staff at St Vrain State Park are known for their friendliness and helpfulness. 

They go above and beyond to ensure that visitors have a pleasant experience. From assisting with campsite selection to providing information about park activities, the staff are always ready to help. 

Their dedication to maintaining the park’s beauty and functionality is evident in every aspect of the park.

Please note that you will enter their gate area to show your reservation, pay the $10/day fee, or show your park pass. 

After a while, they would simply smile and wave us through. And, of course, they had to come to see and take pictures of our infamous cat tunnel. 

Is There Shade at St Vrain State Park?

This is the only caveat for St Vrain State Park, at least in the south section. Don’t get me wrong – there are plenty of trees scattered about the trails and lakes, but not many in the spots themselves (flashback to my heat mental breakdown). 

Although it makes for an incredible view…you might get a wee bit toasty. I was also here during a heat wave in July and I am an absolute baby when it comes to the heat. 

However, it hit 97° F (35.5° C) in our RV and our AC units gave us a specific fingered gesture. 

For more shaded sites, the north campgrounds would be a better bet, but you may sacrifice the full hookups. 

Is St Vrain State Park Pet Friendly?

For those who love traveling with their furry friends, St Vrain State Park is a pet-friendly destination.

Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash and cleaned up after. There are plenty of trails and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a good run. 

Just be mindful of the wildlife and ensure your pets do not disturb the natural habitat. I did see a couple of raccoons just wandering about. 

In our case, we have 2 cats and a doggo and they loved every second of it! 

Is St Vrain State Park Big Rig Friendly?

RV campers with big rigs will find St Vrain State Park accommodating. The park’s spacious sites and wide roads make it easy for larger RVs to maneuver and park. 

In the South campground section, the deluxe sites offer full hookups and have pull-through sites that are 50 feet or longer!

They also have level-paved sections on some sites to make leveling a breeze! 

For reference, our rig is 43 feet and we fit with ample room for our truck (named “Tinky Winky” and our RAV 4 (named “The Ravioli”). 

The only downfall to this south section is the lack of shade…

Funny Story: I was traveling back from a wedding in Europe and we picked up the RV because it was having some checks done. We then drove to St Vrain State Park. It was getting dark and we were absolutely fried. 

After realizing that all the spots in the south campgrounds were pull-through, we actually had a mini celebration because we didn’t have to back the RV. 

Type of Hookup at St Vrain State Park

St Vrain State Park offers a variety of hook-up options to suit different camping needs. 

South Campgrounds

RV sites come with full hookups, including water, electricity (110, 30, and 50 amp), and sewer connections. 

North Campgrounds

Sites in the northern section of Saint Vrain State Park are electric with 110, 30, and 50 capacity. There is no water or sewer at these sites.

Centralized water hydrants are near all sites and there is a dump station near the entrance to the park. 

Things to do in St Vrain State Park

Before we venture outside of St Vrain State Park, let’s talk about all that you can do within the park itself! 

Fishing

This place is a fisher’s paradise! In St. Vrain State Park there are 11 ponds total. These are stocked with bluegill, sunfish, perch, channel catfish, black crappie, rainbow trout, and walleye. And you might spot the occasional mermaid (aka me). 

There are different regulations (no bait, catch and release, etc) depending on what pond you choose. So, please read all of the signs and know what is allowed.

Boating

Boating is allowed in the Blue Heron Reservoir. It is a wakeless reservoir and there is a boating ramp available. 

You can also hand launch boats in all ponds. I am not gonna lie, these are some of the best paddleboarding conditions that I have ever seen!

I would highly recommend it, especially at sunset! 

Wildlife

In addition to all of the nature activities, some wildlife can be observed here. 

The most prevalent one that I witnessed was the birds. I saw a massive pelican-like bird constantly perched on a log that I could see from my kitchen (site 55/56 rules). 

Other than those, they have a wide variety of birds and raptors that can be seen year-round. 

And, of course, you got the typical deer, coyotes, reptiles, and rabbits that you would see in Colorado. 

Things to do Near St Vrain State Park

I am not going to lie to you. And since I am a Colorado native I am allowed to say this – Longmont is kinda boring.

Luckily, its saving grace is that it provides reasonable access to some very cool parts of Colorado and is very centrally located. Here are some examples:

Denver

Visiting Denver from St Vrain State Park is a convenient and delightful excursion. Located just about 30 miles away, Denver offers a bustling urban experience that contrasts beautifully with the natural setting of the park. 

Known as the Mile-High City, Denver boasts a lively arts scene, diverse dining options, and numerous cultural landmarks.

Spend the day exploring the Denver Art Museum, strolling through the lush Denver Botanic Gardens, getting weird at Meow Wolf, or catching a game at Coors Field. 

The city’s dynamic blend of history and modernity provides a rich tapestry of activities and experiences, making it a perfect day trip destination for those looking to complement their outdoor adventure with a taste of city life.

As a CO native, I would highly recommend going and checking out some of their niche bars and restaurants.

Find Things to do IN Denver

Boulder

Boulder is a CO favorite, even amongst us locals. Located roughly 20 miles southwest of the park, Boulder is renowned for its picturesque setting at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. 

The city offers numerous attractions, including the historic Pearl Street Mall, which is lined with unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. 

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the extensive trail system at Chautauqua Park or take in the stunning views from atop Flagstaff Mountain. This place is a mountain bike capital, so I would highly recommend checking it out if you are into mountain biking. 

Additionally, Boulder is known for its robust arts and music scene, with various venues hosting live performances and cultural events year-round.

Find Things to Do in Boulder

Fort Collins

Visiting Fort Collins from St Vrain State Park is an excellent choice for those seeking to experience a blend of natural beauty and urban excitement. 

Located approximately 40 miles to the north, Fort Collins is renowned for its laid-back charm and vibrant community spirit. 

The city is home to Colorado State University, which infuses the area with youthful energy and a plethora of activities.

Fort Collins boasts a lively downtown area with an array of eateries, breweries, and boutiques that cater to diverse tastes. 

Highlights include the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, offering interactive exhibits, and the scenic Horsetooth Reservoir, which is ideal for boating, hiking, and fishing. 

Find Things to in Fort collins

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

It is a bit of a drive…however, a fun day trip idea would be Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Located about 30 miles to the northwest, Estes Park serves as the gateway to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, offering unparalleled access to stunning alpine scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities. 

The charming town of Estes Park features quaint shops, local eateries, and a rich history, making it a delightful stop before venturing into the wilderness.

I once enjoyed (responsibly) peanut butter whiskey at a local distillery there!

Once inside Rocky Mountain National Park, visitors can explore over 400 square miles of protected land that includes iconic peaks, serene alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. 

This is one of the most iconic parks in the West and provides extraordinary vistas and numerous hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

I have been several times and have been treated to elk and moose sitings as well as stunning mountain views. 

Find Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

Room for Improvement

No place is perfect, and St Vrain State Park is no exception. One area that could use improvement is the reservation system. Some visitors have reported difficulties in securing their preferred spots due to the high demand. 

In order to get our preferred spot, we waited with alarms right at the 6-month mark. 

Additionally, increasing the number of shaded spots would be beneficial for the south campground, especially for summer campers.

Not gonna lie…slap some trees in there and that spot at 56 might just be perfect. 

Another point that I’ve made before is that although it is centrally located, it is right off of the highway. This might give ease in getting here…but if you are looking for an isolated off-the-grid feeling, this isn’t going to be it. 

As I said before, one time I stayed here and had a view of the gas station. Luckily, not all spots are like that, but it is something to keep in mind when you are booking the spot that you want. 

Would I Recommend St Vrain State Park?

Absolutely! St Vrain State Park is a gem for campers of all types. Its unique combination of natural beauty, excellent facilities, and diverse activities make it a must-visit destination. 

Whether you’re an RV camper or prefer pitching a tent, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure. The park’s commitment to preserving its natural habitat while providing top-notch amenities is commendable.

In conclusion, if you’re planning your next camping trip, St Vrain State Park should be at the top of your list.

If you are an avid camper or RVer, make sure to check out more Colorado campground reviews from a full-time RVer to discover other amazing destinations and tips for your outdoor adventures. Happy camping!

Travel Resources to Get You to St Vrain State Park