Rocky Mountain National Park is near Erie, sitting just over 44 miles to the northwest of here. The dominating feature here is Longs Peak, one of the state's fourteeners that reaches 14,259 feet at its summit. The weather here can change quickly, so dress in layers, as it is not unheard of to see snow showers in June. Rocky Mountain National Park covers 265,461 acres of terrain, providing 300 miles of hiking trails of various ratings that will challenge any skill level. You can also explore the park in an RV by driving Trail Ridge Road as you enjoy the scenery and stop for photos at one of the overlooks. Driving south to central Colorado places you at the Great Sand Dunes National Park, providing access to over 100,000 acres of terrain that includes alpine lakes, forests of conifers, grasslands, tundra, and the tallest dunes in North America. The tallest dunes here reach 750 feet, and you can make your way down many of them using a sandboard or a sled. The park is wide open for exploration on foot, and you can find trails to walk in the surrounding preserve area. Nearby towns with amenities include Blanca, Gardner, Silver Cliff, and Westcliffe. You can take I-70 in Denver and travel west to reach the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, about 273 miles by road. Here you will see some of North America's oldest exposed rock, highlighted by the deep Black Canyon created by millennia of erosion by the Gunnison River. The 12-mile stretch of the canyon here offers climbing and hiking opportunities above the water and angling and kayaking adventures on the river. Drive your motorhome along Rim Drive to see the park from various overlooks before parking at one of two developed sites within the park. North Rim Campground can accommodate RVs up to 22 feet but lacks hookups. The South Rim Campground has electricity.
Boyd Lake State Park is the nearest facility, located 34 miles north of town, outside Loveland, Colorado. With 2,000 acres to explore, visitors can camp, bird watch, and hike. The top draw here is Boyd Reservoir, providing access to water activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and waterskiing. There are 140 RV sites with paved pads at this location. They have varied amenities, including electrical hookups. When you are not on the water trying for the trout or elusive tiger muskie, see if you can spot the bobcats, black bears, coyotes, deer, elk, mountain lions, or other small mammals that visit the area. Another location that is almost as close as Boyd Lake is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, 35 miles southwest of town by road. You can orient yourself and learn about the park at the visitor center before exploring the 12,000 acres the park offers. There are over 100 campsites and picnic areas to use, and the park boasts 36 miles of hiking trails, 22 of those are multi-use and shared with bikes and horses. If you are adventurous, you can get some breathtaking rock climbing in, but you need to backcountry hike to the best locations. Wildlife is abundant here, providing chances to see Albert's squirrels, black bears, deer, elk, moose, and mountain lions. Anglers will explore the park's streams, and fishing is allowed at Dude's Fishing Hole, Forgotten Valley, Kriley, and the Ranch Ponds. Nearby Cherry Creek State Park is south of Erie, on the southern edge of the Denver Metro area. It is home to the 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir, a body of water used for angling, boating, and other water activities. Your four-legged travel companions will enjoy the 107-acre off-leash dog area, and everyone can enjoy the 35 miles of trails. The park has RV-friendly campsites with 20, 30, and 50-amp power hookups, with a dump station that only closes during the winter.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a nearby attraction south of Erie, offering you a chance to experience the pre-history of the state. There are impression fossils of 1,700 animals and plants on display, including 14-foot-wide sequoia trees. You can also meander the 1.1-mile Petrified Loop Trail and visit the ancient Lake Florissant. Head north into Nebraska, and you can check out Scotts Bluff National Monument, a 3,000-acre location showcasing 800-foot bluffs overlooking the North Platte River. A visitor center lets you explore the area's importance as a navigation landmark, and you can visit the top of the bluffs in your Erie, CO RV rental using Summit Road. Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site sits south and east of town, near La Junta, CO. This recreation of the original Pueblo-style fort offers a short documentary and a self-guided tour of this trading outpost used by Native Americans, buffalo hunters, and soldiers until 1849. A 1.7-mile trail rated as easy explores the banks of the nearby Arkansas River.
Prospect RV Park is one of RVshare's Top Picks for campgrounds in nearby Wheat Ridge. It offers 70 back-in or pull-through sites providing full RV hookups, 30-amp power, laundry facilities, and showers for anything from a camper van to a Class A rig. One of the best locations for RV camping is Clear Creek RV Park in nearby Golden. It sits along Clear Creek, offering 30 sites with 30 or 50-amp power, cell reception, and shower facilities, all near Golden's historic downtown area. A popular facility within nearby Rocky Mountain National Park is Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. The pet-friendly facility has several activities for kids, with jaw-dropping panoramic views at sites with full hookups and access to showers and hot tubs.
Are there any additional fees or charges associated with renting a pet-friendly RV in Erie, CO, and what kind of pet policies do I need to be aware of it?
The fees and charges associated with renting a pet-friendly RV vary by individual listings and are determined by the RV owner. Be sure to check the specific listing for details on any additional fees or deposits required for pets. Additionally, the pet policies for each rental will also vary and are at the discretion of the RV owner. Be sure to review the listing description or ask the owner for more information on their pet policies before booking.
How do I properly prepare my pet for traveling in an RV rental, and what kind of equipment or supplies do I need to bring for them?
To properly prepare your pet for RV travel, bring along their favorite bed, food and water bowls, food, and any medications they may need. Additionally, bring your pet's leash, waste bags, and any toys or treats they may enjoy. It's also a good idea to acclimate your pet to the RV before your trip by introducing them to the space gradually if possible.
Can I bring multiple pets in a pet-friendly RV rental, and are there any size or weight restrictions for my pets?
The number and type of pets allowed will vary depending on the RV owner's policies. Be sure to check the listing details for any restrictions on pet size or weight, as well as the number of pets allowed per rental.
Are any specific RV parks or campgrounds in Erie, CO particularly well-suited for pets, and what amenities do they offer?
Some RV parks and campgrounds are more pet-friendly than others, so be sure to research your destination beforehand. Look for parks that offer amenities such as pet-friendly trails or dog parks. Additionally, some parks may have specific pet policies or restrictions, so be sure to check before making a reservation.
How do I properly clean and sanitize a pet-friendly RV rental before and after my rental period, particularly regarding pet hair and odors?
Renters should vacuum and sweep thoroughly and wipe down all surfaces with pet-safe cleaning products. Additionally, be sure to dispose of any pet waste in designated trash areas.
What safety considerations must I be aware of when traveling with pets in an RV rental, particularly regarding hot or cold weather conditions?
Pet owners should be aware of hot and cold weather conditions when traveling in an RV with pets. Keep pets hydrated and ensure the RV is properly ventilated and climate-controlled. Additionally, never leave pets alone in a hot or cold RV and be sure to monitor their behavior for signs of distress.
Can I bring my pet supplies and equipment to use with a pet-friendly RV rental, such as a portable pet fence or outdoor playpen?
Yes, renters can bring their own pet supplies and equipment to use with a pet-friendly RV rental, such as a portable pet fence or outdoor playpen. However, be sure to check with the RV owner before bringing any large or bulky items to ensure they can be accommodated.
How do I properly secure and restrain my pet during travel in a pet-friendly RV rental, and what kind of safety equipment or devices do I need to use?
Pets should always be properly secured and restrained during travel in an RV rental. This can include using a pet carrier, seat belt harness, or pet barrier. Ensure that all safety equipment or devices are properly installed and used according to manufacturer instructions.
Can I leave my pet unattended in a pet-friendly RV rental, and if so, are there any specific guidelines or restrictions I need to follow?
Pets should not be left unattended in an RV rental, as it can be dangerous for them and may result in damage to the rental. If it is necessary to leave your pet briefly, ensure that they are properly secured and that the RV is climate-controlled and ventilated.
Can I bring my pet to any activities or attractions in Erie, CO during my RV rental trip, and what kind of pet policies or restrictions may be in place for these locations?
Pet policies and restrictions for activities and attractions in Erie, CO will vary by location, so be sure to research beforehand. Some locations may not allow pets at all, while others may have specific areas or guidelines for pet access. Always check with the location beforehand to ensure pets are allowed and to understand any restrictions or guidelines in place.
