Five Incredible Weekend Getaways from Denver in a Camper Van
Denver is a hub for outdoor adventurers. It’s got all the perks of a big city (international airport, nightlife, jobs, etc.) with access to big mountains, stunning scenery, and outdoor recreation opportunities galore.
But this mecca isn’t entirely about what’s within the city limits—it’s about the places you can reach within a half-day of driving. There are so many adventures you can embark on from Denver, but these are some of our favorites for a dreamy camper van weekend getaway. I’ve listed them out from closest to furthest, but keep in mind that these are only a few suggestions. Don’t be afraid to make a pit stop somewhere else along the way or extend your weekend to a more elaborate excursion.
5 Weekend Trips from Denver Perfect for a Camper Van Adventure
Rocky Mountain National Park – Classic Colorado Peaks
Miles from Denver: Approximately 70 miles
If you’ve never been to Colorado, this is the trip you should take. Don’t argue, you’ll thank me later. Rocky Mountain National Park is the quintessential mountain landscape that represents Colorado. Expect alpine lakes, spectacular trails, high elevation, and exciting wildlife (if you’re lucky). For adrenaline junkies, test your fitness on the challenging scramble up to Longs Peak, the only 14er in the park. For those who want a more relaxing time, drive along the scenic Trail Ridge Road or take a dip in one of the many lakes.
2. Buena Vista and Salida – Hot Springs and Mountain Charm
Miles from Denver: Approximately 142 miles
Salida and Buena Vista are favorites for vanlifers wanting to enjoy Colorado mountain town life. Spend a day (or overnight) at one of the several hot spring resorts nearby—Orient Land Trust is affordable and clothing-optional, if you’re looking for extra freedom. Peruse the eclectic mountain town stores in downtown Salida and Buena Vista. When it’s warm, you can also head into the Arkansas River to try rafting or kayaking.
3. Great Sand Dunes National Park – Epic Landscapes and Starry Skies
Miles from Denver: Approximately 236 miles
Head a little less than four hours south of Denver to experience the tallest dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park. This diverse national park isn’t all about the dunes though—it also has stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, seasonal rivers, grasslands, and dark skies for star gazing. Try your hand at sandboarding, hike up the tallest sand dune in North America (Hidden Dune), and spend the night under a dazzling starry sky.
4. Fruita and Grand Junction – Mountain Biking and Outdoor Adventure
Miles from Denver: Approximately 254 miles
Fruita, Colorado is best known for world-class mountain biking trails and has incredible routes for all levels. From Denver, you’ll travel over the mountains along the I-70 (a beautiful drive in itself) to the westernmost area of Colorado. Aside from mountain biking, Grand Junction and Fruita are great places to explore in a van with lots of nearby BLM land to camp on and tons of beautiful hikes to explore. This is also an ideal stop if you’re planning a longer road trip from Denver and want to make your way down to Moab.
5. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park – Rock Climbing and Dramatic Views
Miles from Denver: Approximately 255 miles
For those dirtbag climbers who want to test their skill on especially challenging rock, this weekend getaway is for you. However, you don’t have to rock climb to enjoy this impressive national park. The Black Canyon is sometimes fondly called “Colorado’s Grand Canyon” because of how deep the canyon is—at some places up to 2,000 feet! You can also try your hand at trout fishing, kayaking, or rafting in the Gunnison River.
Why a Camper Van is Ideal for a Denver Road Trip
Vans are super common in Denver and Colorado overall, and there’s a good reason for it! If you’re flying into Denver, you can combine your rental car and hotel costs in one, van-sized package. A van gives you the flexibility to stop for the night wherever the wind takes you and make last-minute trip changes, rather than having to book a hotel ahead of time.
Plus, for those who love the outdoors…but don’t love sleeping on the ground, a luxury camper van takes glamping to a whole new level. Enjoy a fantastic night’s sleep on a memory foam mattress, then wake up to snow-capped mountains and brisk forest air.
Tips for Your Camper Van Weekend
I’m all for a spontaneous trip in the van and the misadventures that come with it, but you may want a little extra guidance to get the most out of your van experience. This is my unsolicited advice.
When To Go
It’s hard to get a really bad time for Denver getaways, but it does depend on your goals. For Insta-worthy van and nature pictures with mild weather, I’d roughly recommend late spring to early summer or fall. Summer can get hot, while winter, you’ll likely be dealing with snow. Both times can be phenomenal as well, just be sure to prepare accordingly!
Pro tip: if you’re planning to go in the winter, be sure your van has a heater and bring lots of layers!
Best Places to Park Overnight
While overnight parking within the city of Denver can be a little challenging, and I wouldn’t wholeheartedly recommend it, there are tons of amazing overnight opportunities for these weekend getaways. In the mountains, you’ll find lots of national forest and BLM land that allow dispersed camping. And if you don’t mind the extra cost, there are some fantastic paid campsites out there as well. Check out iOverlander for some ideas of places to park.
Related article: Can I Sleep Anywhere in a Camper Van?
Ready to Hit the Road?
Stoked to explore these trips? (I know I am.) Once you’ve chosen your perfect weekend and maybe invited a friend or partner to come along for the ride, it’s time to gear up, find the right rig, and go have fun.
