Road Trip with RVshare Denver to Navajo Lake State Park

A Denver to Navajo Lake State Park road trip allows you to experience a variety of beautiful Western landscapes. You'll start off in the heights of the Rocky Mountains and finish your trip in the desert areas closest to the Navajo Nation. While you're traveling along the way, you'll see sights that range from museums to shopping areas to sites important to Native American mythology. A Denver to Navajo Lake State Park RV road trip is one of the best ways to see a variety of landscapes and to try new outdoor activities. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

A Denver to Navajo Lake State Park road trip will introduce you to locations with fascinating histories and many ways to experience the local cultural life. Going through Lakewood, Fairplay, Buena Vista, and Salida allows you to fully experience the beauty that this area offers. Dump stations in Colorado and New Mexico make it easier for you to enjoy your trip without any difficulties.

Lakewood

Lakewood is a Denver suburb that has a lot to do in its own right, from the city's many parks to the Lakewood Heritage Center that provides information about the area. There are many campgrounds to enjoy like Clear Creek, which is host to a creek popular as a tubing location.

Fairplay

Fairplay has the distinction of being host to the July Burro Days and is also famous for the trout fishing opportunities, including annual tournaments. Among local campgrounds, Mountaindale Cabins & RV Resort stands out for its terraced grounds that will provide an even more inviting trip.

Buena Vista

Buena Vista is on the Arkansas River and also sits next to the Continental Divide, offering some of the region's most stunning scenery that makes Colorado such a popular destination. Deciding to stay at one of the campgrounds is always a good idea, especially when you choose a location like Grape Creek RV Park that is on a ranch famous for its gorgeous scenery.

Salida

Salida offers access to some of the best outdoor activities in the area while having an enjoyable selection of stores and restaurants that will appeal to all visitors. The campgrounds nearby are worthy of your time, especially The Great Sand Dunes Oasis, which offers outdoor fun like sand surfing and restaurant dining.

National Parks

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one hour and 28 minutes from Denver, making the park an excellent stop on a Denver to Navajo Lake State Park road trip. Grand Lake is one of the key attractions just outside the park, an ideal site for water sports of all varieties. You'll enjoy hiking trails in the park that allow you to see wildflowers and local wildlife like black bears and moose, making this park an ideal place to take pictures that will be valuable keepsakes. A length of the Continental Divide also runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, and it's a popular destination for rock climbers worldwide. 

Great Sand Dunes National Park

When you take a Denver to Navajo Lake State Park RV road trip, you won't want to miss Great Sand Dunes National Park, three hours and 58 minutes from Denver. North America's tallest sand dunes are in his park, reaching heights of 750 feet. In addition to the desert landscapes, you can also enjoy a seasonal creek, grasslands, and wetlands, in addition to conifer forests, tundra, and alpine lakes at the higher elevations. The variety of landscapes within the confines of this park allow for more animal and plant species, making the populations some of the most diverse in the state. 

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is six hours and 41 minutes from Denver in southwest Colorado, and the impressive scenery is worth every minute of the time you'll take getting there. The park is host to over 600 cliff dwellings that demonstrate how Native American tribes in the area once lived. There are over 4,000 active archaeological sites that have yielded fascinating discoveries. Guided tours are available for those who want to see the archaeological sites, and guests are welcome to take self-guided tours along the hiking trails.

Petrified Forest National Park

Three hours and 58 minutes from Navajo Lake State Park, Petrified Forest National Park has impressive fossilized wood that is worth a look. Petroglyphs that date back thousands of years are abundant here. The park also has over 600 archaeological sites with interesting things to see about local history and cultures. Wildlife that you might encounter here include pronghorns, bobcats, coyotes, and over 200 bird species that span varieties as diverse as songbirds and hawks.

Nearby State Parks

Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek State Park is 19 minutes from Denver and is a popular swimming and fishing destination. Hiking is a favorite activity, allowing you to savor the beautiful mountain scenery. There are also several biking trails that you are certain to enjoy with varying degrees of difficulty depending on your skill level.

Spinney Mountain

Spinney Mountain is a day-use park that you will want to visit on your Denver to Navajo Lake State Park road trip and is two hours and 17 minutes from Denver. Trout fishing in this park is among some of the best that anglers will find in Colorado. Birders will also find a lot to enjoy during a visit to this park with abundant photo opportunities and a broad range of different species.

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is an excellent state park to visit on a road trip from Denver to Navajo Lake State Park at two hours and 26 minutes from Denver. Boating is always an exciting activity choice here, and opportunities for fishing are excellent. The hiking terrain varies, ranging from sand dunes to valleys to forests, and also offers challenges for hikers of different skill levels.

Navajo State Park

Navajo State Park is 48 minutes from Navajo Lake State Park. A highlight is Navajo Lake, one of the region's most popular boating destinations. The park's hiking trails include trails through forested areas that see impressive fall colors and provide perfect photo opportunities, and that also give you the chance to spot wildlife. 

Heron Lake State Park

Heron Lake State Park is one hour and 51 minutes from Navajo Lake State Park. The lake is ideal for kayaking because of its usually calm conditions. Fishing is another popular activity with anglers of all skill levels assured of having a fun time. There are also beautiful scenic trails for hikers of all levels that also attract cross-country skiers during the winter months.

Along the Way

Salida Museum

The Salida Museum, located two hours and 35 minutes from Denver, is dedicated to artifacts that help tell the history of Salida and Central Colorado. These exhibits include items related to mining, farming and ranching, and the railroad. Additional displays include minerals, Native American artifacts, and art, all of which offer excellent insights into how the area has evolved over the years.

Pagosa Street

Pagosa Street is 43 minutes from Navajo Lake State Park on your Denver to Navajo Lake State Park road trip. This street is in Pagosa Springs' historic district, home to unique gift stores with an emphasis on local artisan products, including jewelry made with local gemstones. There are also plenty of dining options and breweries to try that offer a variety of cuisine choices and local craft brews. 

Beautiful Mountain

Beautiful Mountain, as part of your Denver to Navajo Lake State Park road trip itinerary, is two hours and 33 minutes from Navajo Lake State Park. The mountain has a unique place in traditional Navajo tribal mythology, and also stands out as one of the most popular sights in the area. This mountain is the highest point in San Juan County and is famous for its scenic views.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Denver to Navajo Lake State Park, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Denver or Navajo Lake State Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Denver to Navajo Lake State Park?

To plan an RV road trip from Denver to Navajo Lake State Park, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Denver to Navajo Lake State Park without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Denver to Navajo Lake State Park. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!