Ready for an unforgettable mountain adventure? Denver is your perfect launching pad for an epic Colorado camper van rental adventure with Escape Camper Vans! Surrounded by the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains, Denver offers innovative craft breweries, world-class museums, and, of course, stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a ski aficionado, or simply a lover of open roads and stunning vistas, Denver offers unparalleled access to a range of landscapes, from sky-scraping mountain peaks to sprawling desert plains. So why wait? Your dream road trip starts right here, right now, in the Mile-High City.
Our Denver Rental Location
Our location is easily accessible from Denver International Airport and other local transportation hubs. Plus, our location places you within a short drive of other major cities like Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins.
Best Colorado Camper Van Rental Road Trip Ideas From Denver, CO
Colorado National Parks Tour
If you’re trying to check all the National Parks off your list, then this is the road trip for you. Experience all the National Parks that Colorado has to offer in your Denver camper van rental. This itinerary will take you from Denver to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and then finally to the famed Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Rocky Mountain Loop
When you think of Colorado, the Rocky Mountains are often the first image that comes to mind. Embark on a journey that encapsulates the essence of the Rockies. Picture jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and perhaps even some wildlife sightings. This loop takes you through Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, and back, offering a variety of camping and hiking options.
Moab, Utah
For a change of scenery, consider driving your camper van to Moab, Utah, a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Famed for its red rocks, the area offers unique landscapes and activities, from mountain biking to exploring Arches National Park. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, making it a perfect long weekend getaway.
Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Colorado’s stunning natural beauty, drive down to Colorado Springs to visit Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods. The contrast of Pikes Peak’s high-altitude vistas and Garden of the Gods’ unique rock formations offers a multifaceted experience, all within a 2-hour drive from Denver.
Black Hills, South Dakota
Venture a little farther away from Denver, and you could find yourself amidst the enchanting landscapes of South Dakota’s Black Hills. The area offers everything from hiking and rock climbing to exploring the iconic Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorials. The journey takes about 6-7 hours but promises a road trip filled with diverse attractions.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
For a surreal experience, head south to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Imagine vast dunes surrounded by snow-capped peaks—a paradise for sandboarding and dune bashing. It’s a 4-hour drive from Denver but offers an experience that’s worlds apart.
Durango, CO
Starting in Denver, a trip to Durango will first take you through Breckenridge and Vail. Consider breaking your drive into two parts and stopping at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park to see the jaw-dropping vistas that inspired the park’s name. You’ll pass through the San Juan Mountains and the charming mining town of Silverton before reaching Durango. Upon arrival, you will discover for yourself all that Durango offers visitors, from a vibrant arts scene to hiking, white-water rafting, and natural hot springs. This trip is the definition of “it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey” as it takes you on an incredible trip through Colorado’s diverse landscapes and outdoor activities.
Major Camper Van Destinations Near Denver, CO
After exploring downtown Denver, check out these nearby destinations.
Boulder, CO
Just a 30-minute drive from Denver, Boulder offers a mix of outdoor activities and urban comforts. Take a stroll down Pearl Street for some shopping and dining, or hike the famous Flatirons for breathtaking views.
Aspen, CO
For those looking to indulge in luxury alongside their adventure, Aspen is the place to be. About a 3-hour drive from Denver, it’s a hotspot for winter sports and summer hikes, dotted with high-end boutiques and fine-dining establishments.
Steamboat Springs, CO
Popularly known as “Ski Town, U.S.A,” Steamboat Springs is about a 3-hour drive from Denver and offers a range of outdoor activities across all seasons—from skiing and snowboarding in winter to kayaking and fishing in summer.
Fort Collins, CO
Located about an hour north of Denver, Fort Collins is another gem that combines urban and natural attractions. Known for its craft breweries and vibrant arts scene, the town is also close to the Cache La Poudre River, which offers excellent white-water rafting opportunities.
Vail, CO
If skiing or snowboarding is on your agenda, you can’t miss a trip to Vail. Known for its massive ski resort, Vail is just a 2-hour drive from Denver and offers a range of other activities, including hiking and zip-lining, in the summer.
Camper Van Friendly Campgrounds Near Denver
Cherry Creek State Park
4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014
Just a 30-minute drive from Denver, Cherry Creek State Park offers an easy escape from the city. With campervan-friendly sites equipped with electrical hookups, it’s the perfect base for exploring the park’s 880 acres of rolling prairie and a massive reservoir—ideal for fishing, hiking, and bird-watching.
Estes Park Campground at East Portal
3420 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517
If you’re planning to explore Rocky Mountain National Park in a Class B RV, this campground provides an excellent gateway. Only an hour and a half from Denver, this site offers full hookups and is close to several hiking trails and scenic spots within the national park.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
92 Crawford Gulch Rd, Golden, CO 80403
Located about an hour away from Denver, this park offers 12,000 acres of dense forest, aspen meadows, and high mountain peaks. The campground has multiple sites for camper vans, complete with electrical and water hookups, so you can immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Grocery and Liquor Stores Near Denver To Stock Up Your Colorado Camper Van Rental
King Soopers
4850 E 62nd Ave, Commerce City, CO 80022
One of the leading grocery chains in Colorado, King Soopers offers a wide variety of fresh produce, packaged foods, and camping essentials. Their Commerce City location is easily accessible from our hub.
Total Beverage
900 E 104th Ave, Denver, CO 80233
If you’re gearing up for your camping journey and need to stock up on drinks, look no further than Total Beverage located in Washington Plaza. Offering a diverse range of beverages, from locally brewed beers to a wide variety of wines and spirits, you’re sure to find the perfect drink to sip by the campfire.
Outdoor Stores in Denver For Your Camper Van Adventure
REI Denver Flagship
1416 Platte St, Denver, CO 80202
This isn’t just any REI; it’s the flagship store located in downtown Denver. With an extensive collection of camping, hiking, and outdoor gear, you’ll find everything you might need or have forgotten. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and can guide you in making the best choices for your specific adventure.
Cabela’s
14050 Lincoln St, Thornton, CO 80023
For those more interested in hunting, fishing, or boating, Cabela’s offers a vast array of specialty gear. Located in the northern suburb of Thornton, it’s worth the short trip to stock up on some high-quality outdoor equipment.
JAX Outdoor Gear
5005 W 120th Ave, Broomfield, CO 80020
With a focus on sustainability, JAX’s Broomfield location offers eco-friendly options for outdoor gear, from camping to fishing to clothing. Their selection is wide-ranging, and the staff is always willing to help you make informed decisions for your upcoming journey.
Book Your Colorado Camper Van Rental With Escape Camper Vans Denver Today
Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? At Escape Camper Vans Denver, we’ve got you covered with a fully equipped campervan for an epic adventure. Your dream road trip through the stunning landscapes surrounding Denver awaits. Book your Colorado camper van rental today and hit the road with confidence!
Colorado Camper Van FAQs
How much does it cost to rent a camper van in Colorado?
Like other travel expenses, prices for campers in Colorado can vary depending on availability and the time of year. For example, you may see higher prices during big tourist times in Colorado, like ski season or spring and summer, when a lot of people want to go camping at popular national parks.
How old do you have to be to rent a camper van in Colorado?
In Colorado, you must be at least 21 to rent a camper. The age minimum can be even higher depending on each rental company’s policies. Some companies require drivers to be 25 or older. The main reason for these age minimums is insurance expenses. Drivers under the age of 21 are usually seen as being too inexperienced or may take more risks when driving. Combining that with the high liability that rental companies face, it wouldn’t be profitable to rent to younger drivers. It should also be noted that some companies that allow drivers under 25 may charge more for security and insurance for younger drivers or void the insurance coverage. So, make sure you review the camper rental terms and conditions beforehand.
