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Summer has always been the season of road trips, but this year, being able to escape the four walls you’ve been quarantining in likely holds even more appeal.
Though the prospect of travel can still feel disconcerting, vacations and time away from work are still on many folks’ radars: A recent survey by the Out of Home Advertising Association of America found that more than 50 percent of consumers are planning a summer excursion; of those, 62 percent are planning to travel by car. RV rentals are among the most popular transportation options—they’ve been heralded as the safest way to travel this season—with companies reporting massive jumps in bookings.
Though Governor Jared Polis has eased travel restrictions (yes, we can now travel farther than 10 miles from home to recreate) COVID-19 hasn’t gone anywhere, and it’s vital that we follow the local guidances wherever we are (i.e., wearing masks while in public spaces and maintaining physical distance).
As you plan your summer getaway, consider directing your RV toward one of these destinations.
River Run RV Resort, Granby
When River Run opened last summer, it added a lot to this small community about 20 miles north of Winter Park. Namely, an exciting variety of lodging styles, from cabins and Conestoga wagons to tent and RV sites—all privy to the upscale resort’s long list of amenities (a pool, arcade, off-leash dog park, and two restaurants, among them). While campsites are currently limited to members of a single household and some facilities, like the fitness center and hot tubs, remain closed, the 100-plus RV facilities are open and serve as ideal home bases for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park or Lake Granby. Drive-through check-in lanes also make physical distancing a cinch. Sites start at $86/night
Garden of the Gods RV Resort, Colorado Springs
If waking up with views of one of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes sounds like your cup of tea, then pull into a spot here. Pikes Peak reigns over the landscape and Garden of the Gods sits just 2.5 miles away from this pet-friendly property, which is outfitted with two heated swimming pools, a playground, an arcade, and WiFi. (Cottages, bunkhouses, and tent sites are also available.) Sites start at $79/night
Palisade Basecamp RV Resort, Palisade
Forget grocery stores. Find fresh-from-the-farm, locally grown produce—Palisade peaches!—just down the road from this riverfront RV site (with more than 70 spots) that’s surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Mountain bike trails and Palisade’s historic downtown are each less than a mile away, and tastings Grand Valley’s wine offerings abound (the Colterris tasting room is only a five-minute walk away). Visitors can also opt for primitive, Colorado River–adjacent campsites or cottages. Sites start at $44/night
Jellystone Park at Larkspur, Larkspur
Families will love the kid-focused offerings and the short drive—it’s just 40 miles south of Denver—required to reach this newly renovated, 100-acre resort. The property boasts more than 200 RV sites and four cabin styles, named after Yogi Bear and friends. A 40,000-square-foot waterpark expected to open in early July rounds out a property filled with volleyball and pickleball courts, mini golf, a pool, and more. Sites start at $88/night
Grand Canyon Railway RV Park, Williams, Arizona
For those setting their sights a bit farther from home, this fully paved, year-round RV venue requires an 11.5-hour drive through western, southern, or southwestern Colorado (hello, pit stops). It’s located two blocks from the Route 66 historic district, plus Williams is known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.” If you want to keep the vehicle theme going, the Grand Canyon Railway is running and departs for Grand Canyon National Park daily from Williams. Sites start at $37/night; the pool, fire pit, and playground remain closed at this time
