Moore Park

For Coloradans seeking a genuine wilderness experience, far from the crowds of developed campgrounds, Moore Park offers an exceptional backcountry camping opportunity in the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. Located near the legendary Longs Peak Trailhead in Estes Park, CO 80517, Moore Park isn't your typical drive-up campground. Instead, it’s a designated backcountry site, meaning it requires a hike to access, immersing you deeply into the serene and rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains. This is a place where you'll trade electric hookups for starlit skies, and paved roads for pristine trails. Ideal for experienced hikers and those eager to embrace the true essence of Colorado's wilderness, Moore Park provides a tranquil base for exploring high-alpine meadows, conquering nearby peaks, and connecting with nature on a profound level.

Moore Park is situated within Rocky Mountain National Park, accessible from the renowned Longs Peak Trailhead, just south of Estes Park, CO 80517. To reach the Longs Peak Trailhead from Estes Park, you'll drive approximately 8.9 miles south on Colorado Highway 7, then turn onto the road leading to the Longs Peak Ranger Station. Parking at the trailhead can be limited, especially during peak seasons and weekends, so arriving early is highly recommended. From the Longs Peak Trailhead, Moore Park is not a drive-in site; it requires an enjoyable and relatively short hike of approximately 1.7 to 1.9 miles. The trail to Moore Park traverses through diverse terrain, offering hikers a taste of the park's varied ecosystems. The journey is part of the adventure, winding through forests and providing glimpses of the surrounding peaks. This walk-in access ensures a more secluded and pristine camping experience, reducing noise and light pollution. While the area falls under the Estes Park zip code, its true character is defined by its deep integration within Rocky Mountain National Park's wilderness. Given its backcountry nature, reliable cell service can be spotty or non-existent, encouraging a full disconnection from the digital world and a deeper connection with the natural surroundings.

As a backcountry wilderness site within Rocky Mountain National Park, Moore Park offers a more primitive set of services compared to developed campgrounds, emphasizing self-sufficiency and minimal impact.

• Designated Backcountry Campsites: Moore Park features specific, established tent sites to minimize environmental impact. Reviews indicate there are sites on both the east and west sides of the main trail, offering varying levels of seclusion.
• Pit Toilets: Basic pit toilets (outhouses) are available at the campground. As noted by past visitors, the location of these facilities relative to the main trail might vary, so early use can offer more privacy.
• Seasonal Water Source: A key amenity, especially for backpackers, is the presence of a small seasonal stream near the south site. This can be a reliable source for filtering drinking water, though its flow can vary with the season and snowmelt. Campers should always be prepared to filter or treat all water.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: While not explicitly mentioned for Moore Park, all backcountry sites in Rocky Mountain National Park require proper food storage. This typically means using an approved bear-resistant food canister, which can often be rented from the park's Wilderness Office. Hanging food is generally not allowed due to active bear populations.
• Fire Rings: Campfires are generally NOT allowed at backcountry sites in Rocky Mountain National Park. Campers should plan to use a portable camp stove for cooking. This is a critical regulation to prevent wildfires in sensitive wilderness areas.
• No Electrical Hookups or Showers: Consistent with backcountry camping, Moore Park does not provide electrical hookups, showers, or other modern conveniences. Campers should come prepared for a rustic experience.
• Permit System: Access to Moore Park requires a wilderness permit from Rocky Mountain National Park. Reservations for these permits are essential, especially during peak seasons, and should be secured well in advance.

Moore Park's highlights are deeply intertwined with its stunning natural environment and the adventurous opportunities it presents within Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Proximity to Estes Cone: Moore Park serves as an excellent basecamp for a day hike to Estes Cone. This challenging but rewarding hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Past campers have enjoyed exploring the nearby meadows and the climb itself.
• Access to Longs Peak Area Trails: Being a mere 1.7 miles from the Longs Peak Trailhead, Moore Park offers convenient access to a vast network of trails leading to other iconic destinations within the Longs Peak area and beyond, including Storm Pass and connections to the Bear Lake Road corridor.
• Secluded Camping Experience: Unlike crowded front-country campgrounds, Moore Park's walk-in nature ensures a more tranquil and isolated setting. This seclusion is highly valued by those seeking a peaceful escape into the wilderness.
• Natural Water Source: The seasonal stream provides a natural, albeit sometimes tiny, water source for filtering, which is a significant advantage for backpackers carrying less water weight. It's also been humorously noted for keeping beverages cold!
• Stunning Alpine Scenery: Campers are surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, with views of towering peaks, lush forests, and serene meadows.
• Wildlife Viewing: The backcountry setting increases the chances of encountering native Colorado wildlife, such as mule deer, elk, marmots, and various bird species, in their natural habitat. Proper bear awareness and food storage are crucial.
• True Disconnection: With limited to no cell service, Moore Park offers a rare opportunity to truly disconnect from digital distractions and immerse oneself fully in the natural world.
• Gateway to Exploration: It's an ideal spot for those looking to explore less-traveled routes and gain a deeper appreciation for the rugged beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park.

For information, wilderness permits, and regulations concerning Moore Park and other backcountry sites within Rocky Mountain National Park, please use the following contact details. Remember that Moore Park is managed by the National Park Service as a wilderness campsite, not a typical campground with a direct reception desk.

Address: Estes Park, CO 80517, USA (General park address, as Moore Park is a backcountry site within RMNP.)

Phone: (970) 586-1242 (Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Office – this is the crucial contact for backcountry permits, conditions, and regulations.)

For reservations, wilderness permits are typically secured through Recreation.gov or by calling their reservation line: 1-877-444-6777.

Moore Park is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Colorado who cherish true wilderness experiences and are equipped for self-sufficient backcountry travel. For those of us living amidst the urban sprawl, it offers a vital escape into the untouched beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, providing a level of solitude and immersion rarely found in more accessible areas. Its location near the Longs Peak Trailhead makes it a prime starting point for challenging day hikes to iconic features like Estes Cone, allowing Coloradans to explore some of the state's most revered landscapes. The walk-in access ensures a quieter, more pristine environment, where the sounds of nature prevail. Crucially, the requirement for a wilderness permit and the primitive nature of the site encourage responsible outdoor recreation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, aligning with Colorado's strong ethos of environmental stewardship. For adventurous locals seeking to push their boundaries, connect deeply with the land, and experience the raw, untamed heart of the Rockies, Moore Park offers an unparalleled opportunity. It's not just a campsite; it's a doorway to genuine high-country adventure, a place where memories are forged through challenging hikes, starlit nights, and the profound peace of the Colorado wilderness.

Moore Park

Estes Park, CO 80517, USA