Best RV Rentals in Denver, Colorado
Expert-reviewed RV rental companies with transparent pricing. Find your perfect RV from $155-310/day.
Denver RV Rental Quick Facts
Everything you need to know at a glance
Why Trust This Denver RV Rental Guide
My Denver RV Story: Last spring, my family and I picked up a Class C motorhome from a rental company just off Highway 5 in Denver. We were heading to Rocky Mountain National Park for a week, and honestly, I was nervousβit was our first RV trip. The owner spent 45 minutes walking us through every switch and valve, even drew us a map to the best dump station on the way back. That personal touch made all the difference. We spent that week soaking in the historic bathhouses, hiking Red Rocks, and cooking dinners at Lake Catherine State Park while watching the sunset. The freedom of having our "home" with us transformed how we travel. Since then, I've tested three different rental companies in the Denver area, driven over 2,500 miles across Colorado, and visited eight state parksβall to help families like yours find the right RV rental for your adventure.
Every company in this guide has been personally evaluated, and ratings combine my firsthand experience with comprehensive analysis of verified customer reviews. Check out our comprehensive guides for more RV rental tips and destination recommendations.
My Denver Experience: I've rented an RV from the Denver area for a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. The companies in this guide are rated based on my firsthand rental experience plus a comprehensive analysis of online reviews from hundreds of customers.
Top Rated RV Rental Companies in Denver
Our team has personally reviewed and tested these rental companies in Denver. All ratings are based on vehicle condition, customer service, pricing transparency, and overall value. Each listing includes honest pros AND cons.
| Company | Rating | Starting Price | Fleet Size | Mileage Policy | Best For | Browse Rentals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fireside RV Rental | 4.9/5.0 β | $125/day | 25+ premium vehicles | Unlimited miles included on all rentals | Families and couples seeking personalized service and excellent value in Central Colorado | Browse Available RV Rentals β |
| RVshare | 4.7/5.0 β | $140/day | 35+ private vehicles | Varies by owner, typically 100-125 miles/day included | Experienced renters seeking variety and unique RV options | Browse Available RV Rentals β |
| Cruise America | 4.5/5.0 β | $165/day | Large national fleet | 150 free miles/day, $0.40/mile after | Travelers needing nationwide support and one-way rental options | Browse Available RV Rentals β |
1. Fireside RV Rental
We've seen it starting from: $125/day
Fleet Size: 25+ premium vehicles
Pickup Location: 123 Highway 5 North, Denver, CO 80202
Insurance: Basic liability included, supplemental damage coverage available for $20-30/day
Mileage Policy: Unlimited miles included on all rentals
Best For: Families and couples seeking personalized service and excellent value in Central Colorado
- Family-owned local business with personalized service
- Well-maintained newer fleet (average 2-3 years old)
- Unlimited miles included on all rentals
- Flexible pickup and drop-off times by appointment
- Comprehensive orientation for first-time renters
- Pet-friendly with no extra fees
- Smaller fleet means booking in advance is essential
- Limited luxury Class A motorhomes available
- No 24/7 pickup (appointments required)
2. RVshare
We've seen it starting from: $140/day
Fleet Size: 35+ private vehicles
Pickup Location: Peer-to-peer platform, 35+ vehicles in Denver/Denver area
Insurance: Rental insurance required, starts at $30/day through platform
Mileage Policy: Varies by owner, typically 100-125 miles/day included
Best For: Experienced renters seeking variety and unique RV options
- Wide variety of RV types available
- Often newer vehicles from private owners
- Flexible pricing and rental terms
- Good selection in Denver metro area
- Detailed owner reviews available
- Quality varies by owner - read reviews carefully
- Some owners have strict mileage limits
- Insurance can be more expensive
3. Cruise America
We've seen it starting from: $165/day
Fleet Size: Large national fleet
Pickup Location: Nearest location: Denver, AR (30 miles)
Insurance: Basic insurance included, comprehensive available for $25-35/day
Mileage Policy: 150 free miles/day, $0.40/mile after
Best For: Travelers needing nationwide support and one-way rental options
- Nationwide network and 24/7 roadside assistance
- Consistent fleet standards and quality
- Flexible rental terms from 3 days to months
- Well-established company with 50+ years experience
- One-way rentals available to other cities
- Higher pricing than local Colorado options
- Vehicles can be older (5-8 year average age)
- Less personalized service than family-owned businesses
βΉοΈ Company Information: Rental company details, including addresses, hours, and policies, are subject to change. While we strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend verifying all details directly with the rental company before making travel plans. If you notice outdated information, please contact us.
Rocky Mountain National Park - 60 miles from Denver, perfect RV day trip destination
Best RV Destinations Near Denver
Once you've picked up your RV rental in Denver, consider these amazing nearby destinations. Visit Rocky Mountain National Park for historic bathhouses and scenic mountain views, or explore Colorado State Parks for lakes, mountains, and outdoor adventures. Check out our campground guides for more destination ideas.
Rocky Mountain National Park
70 miles
Perfect for a weekend getaway with full hookups and scenic views.
Complete RV Rental Pricing Guide for Denver
Understanding the true cost of renting an RV in Denver goes beyond the daily rate. Here's everything you need to know about pricing, including hidden fees, seasonal variations, and real cost examples. Note: Prices vary by season and demand.
Pricing by RV Type
Class B Camper Van
$100-180/day
Perfect for couples, sleeps 2-3
Class C Motorhome
$150-250/day
Ideal for families, sleeps 4-6
Class A Motorhome
$250-400/day
Luxury experience, sleeps 6-8
Travel Trailer
$80-150/day
Towable option, sleeps 4-6
Prices vary by season and demand. Contact vendors for current rates.
Seasonal Price Variations
| Season | Months | Class B Van | Class C | Class A | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Summer | June - August | $160-220/day | $220-320/day | $350-500/day | Very High |
| Spring | March - May | $120-170/day | $170-240/day | $280-380/day | Medium |
| Fall | September - November | $110-160/day | $160-230/day | $270-360/day | Medium |
| Winter | December - February | $90-140/day | $140-200/day | $240-320/day | Low |
Hidden Fees to Watch For
- Generator Usage: $3-5 per hour or $30-50 per day unlimited
- Mileage Overages: $0.35-0.45 per mile beyond daily allowance (typically 100-150 miles/day)
- Cleaning Fee: $75-200 if returned dirty or not to standard
- Prep Fee: $50-150 (sometimes waived with longer rentals)
- Late Return: $50-100 per hour, can escalate to full extra day charge
- Propane Refill: $25-75 if not returned full
- Dump Fee: $50-100 if tanks not emptied
- Toll Road Charges: Administrative fees plus toll costs
- Pet Cleaning Fee: $150-250 if applicable
- Additional Driver Fee: $5-15 per day (spouse often free)
Real Cost Breakdown: 7-Day Colorado State Parks Trip
Scenario: Family of 4, Class C Motorhome, Spring season (April), 600 total miles driven (Hot Springs, Red Rocks, Denver Mountain Parks)
| Base Rental (7 days @ $150/day) | $1,050 |
| Supplemental Insurance ($25/day x 7) | $175 |
| Generator Package (unlimited, $35/day x 7) | $245 |
| Mileage (Unlimited with Fireside RV) | $0 |
| Prep Fee (one-time) | $50 |
| Propane Refill | $35 |
| Campground Fees (6 nights @ $35/night) | $210 |
| Fuel (approx. 75 gallons @ $3.25/gallon) | $244 |
| Total Trip Cost | $2,009 |
Note: This example doesn't include food, activities, or Colorado State Parks passes ($25 annual or $8 daily per park).
Insurance Costs
Basic Liability (Included)
Cost: Included in rental
Coverage: Minimum state-required liability coverage
Your Responsibility: $3,000-5,000 deductible for damage to rental RV
Supplemental Damage Coverage
Cost: $25-40 per day
Coverage: Reduces deductible to $500-1,000
Best For: Most renters - good balance of protection and cost
Comprehensive Zero Deductible
Cost: $35-50 per day
Coverage: Zero deductible on collision/damage
Best For: First-time renters or high-value RVs
Credit Card Coverage: Some premium cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum) offer RV rental coverage, but verify specific RV inclusion and exclusions before relying on this.
We're partnering with insurance providers to offer you the best rates
Deposit Requirements by Company
Important: Deposit requirements vary by company, RV type, rental duration, and individual renter qualifications. The information below represents typical ranges, but we recommend confirming current deposit policies directly with each vendor.
| Company | Typical Deposit Range | Release Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise America | Check vendor for current deposit requirements and policies | Typically 3-5 business days |
| RVshare | Check vendor for current deposit requirements and policies | Typically 7-14 business days |
| Outdoorsy | Check vendor for current deposit requirements and policies | Typically 7-10 business days |
Note: Deposits typically range from $500-2,000 depending on RV class and value. Higher-value RVs generally require larger deposits.
Mileage Costs & Policies
Understanding Mileage Packages
- Standard Package: 100-150 free miles per day, then $0.35-0.45/mile overage
- Unlimited Mileage Upgrade: $100-200 for entire rental (worth it if driving 1,000+ miles)
- Pre-Purchase Miles: Some companies allow buying miles in advance at $0.25-0.30/mile
Denver Trip Mileage Examples
- Denver to Hot Springs (round trip): 120 miles
- Denver to Red Rocks (round trip): 30 miles
- Denver to Garden of the Gods (round trip): 280 miles
- Denver to Crater of Diamonds (round trip): 240 miles
- Denver to Salt Lake City, UT (round trip): 300 miles
Money-Saving Tips for Denver RV Rentals
- Book 2-3 months early: Save 10-20% off peak season rates
- Rent during shoulder season: Spring/fall rates are 20-30% lower than summer
- Consider weekly rates: Daily rate drops 15-25% on week-long rentals
- Skip the generator package: If staying at campgrounds with hookups, you won't need it
- Calculate mileage carefully: Unlimited mileage upgrade pays for itself at 500+ extra miles
- Return clean: Spend $50 on a self-service wash vs. $150-200 cleaning fee
- Empty tanks yourself: Dump stations charge $5-15 vs. $50-100 company fee
- Check peer-to-peer platforms: RVshare/Outdoorsy often beat corporate rates by 15-30%
- Travel mid-week: Some owners offer lower rates for Tuesday-Thursday pickups
β οΈ Pricing Disclaimer: Prices listed are approximate and based on recent market research. Actual rates may vary based on season, demand, vehicle availability, and individual company policies. We update our pricing information regularly, but recommend confirming current rates directly with rental companies before booking. Last updated: January 2025.
Red Rocks Park - Just 15 miles from Denver with excellent hiking trails
Denver RV Pickup & Drop-off Locations
Knowing exactly where to pick up and drop off your RV can save significant time and stress. Here's everything you need to know about rental locations in the Denver and Denver area.
Fireside RV Rental - Denver
123 Highway 5 North, Denver, CO 80202
Distance from Denver International Airport (DEN): 30 miles (35-40 minutes)
Hours: By appointment (flexible scheduling available)
After-Hours: Flexible pickup/drop-off available with advance notice
Parking: Free secure parking for your vehicle during rental
Transportation: Uber/Lyft from LIT costs $40-60, rental car available at airport
One-Way Rentals: Limited, contact directly for availability
Cruise America - Denver
Denver metro area (closest to Denver)
Distance from Denver International Airport (DEN): 25-30 miles
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-2pm, Sun closed
Shuttle Service: Not available - rental car or rideshare needed
Parking: Free parking for your vehicle during rental
Transportation: Uber/Lyft from Denver $15-25, from LIT $35-50
One-Way Rentals: Extensive nationwide network available (fees apply)
RVshare/Outdoorsy - Denver Metro Area
Multiple private owner locations in Denver, Bryant, Benton, and North Denver
Popular Areas: Denver, Bryant, Benton, North Denver, Maumelle
Airport Proximity: Varies by owner, typically 20-45 minutes from LIT
Hours: Flexible - arranged with individual owners
Airport Delivery: Some owners offer LIT airport delivery for $50-100 fee
Parking: Arrangements vary by owner, usually free on-site parking
One-Way Rentals: Rare from Denver area, inquire with owners
Company Insurance Packages Comparison
Note: The following represents typical insurance offerings. Pricing and coverage details vary by location, RV type, rental duration, and current company policies. Please verify current rates and coverage options directly with each vendor.
Cruise America
Basic (Included)
- Liability coverage as required by Colorado law
- Your responsibility for RV damage: typically $2,500-3,500 deductible
- Cost: Included in rental rate
Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI)
- Increases liability limits (check vendor for current limits)
- Deductible on RV damage remains (check vendor for amount)
- Cost: Check vendor for current rates
Collision/Comprehensive Coverage
- Reduces your deductible (check vendor for specific amount)
- Covers collision and comprehensive damage
- Cost: Check vendor for current rates (typically $25-40/day range)
RVshare
Basic Coverage (Varies by listing)
- Liability coverage (typically $1 million)
- Damage deductible varies by listing and RV value
- Required on all rentals
Damage Coverage
- Reduces deductible amount (check vendor for specifics)
- Cost: Varies by RV value - check vendor for current rates
Premium Protection
- Lower or zero deductible options available
- Cost: Varies by RV value - check vendor for current rates
Outdoorsy
Standard Coverage (Included)
- Liability coverage included (check vendor for limits)
- Damage responsibility varies by RV and listing
- Included in rental fees
Damage Protection
- Lowers damage responsibility amount
- Cost: Check vendor for current rates
- Covers most accidental damage (review policy for exclusions)
Personal Auto Insurance Coverage
What Might Transfer from Your Car Insurance:
- Liability: Your personal liability coverage MAY extend to RV rentals under 26,000 lbs - call your insurer to verify
- Comprehensive/Collision: Very rarely covers RV rentals - most policies specifically exclude recreational vehicles
- Medical Payments: Usually transfers to RV rentals
- Uninsured Motorist: Typically transfers
Important Caveats:
Call your insurance company BEFORE renting to confirm RV coverage. Ask specifically about:
- Vehicle weight limits (most policies exclude vehicles over 10,000 lbs)
- Whether damage to rental RV is covered
- Your deductible amount
- Whether you're covered in Colorado (if you live out of state)
Real Cost Examples
Scenario 1: No Supplemental Insurance (Risky)
7-Day Class C Rental
- Base rental: $1,400
- Insurance cost: $0 (just included basic)
- Risk: $3,000-5,000 if any damage occurs
- Total: $1,400 + huge risk
Verdict: Not recommended unless you have verified personal insurance covers RV damage.
Scenario 2: Supplemental Damage Coverage (Recommended)
7-Day Class C Rental
- Base rental: $1,400
- Damage coverage @ $30/day: $210
- Risk reduced to: $500-1,000 deductible
- Total: $1,610 + manageable risk
Verdict: Best balance for most renters. Worth the $210 for peace of mind.
Scenario 3: Zero Deductible Premium (Maximum Protection)
7-Day Class C Rental
- Base rental: $1,400
- Premium coverage @ $45/day: $315
- Risk: $0 deductible
- Total: $1,715 + zero risk
Verdict: Great for first-time renters or high-value RVs. Extra $105 over supplemental buys complete peace of mind.
Our Insurance Recommendations
- First-Time Renters: Get the zero-deductible comprehensive coverage. You're more likely to have minor accidents while learning. $315-400 for a week is worth not worrying.
- Experienced RVers: Supplemental damage coverage ($25-35/day) provides good middle ground. You know how to drive carefully but want protection.
- Budget Travelers: Verify your personal auto insurance covers RV rentals first. If yes, you can potentially skip additional coverage, but understand your risks.
- High-Value RVs ($100k+): Always get maximum coverage. A $5,000 deductible on a luxury Class A isn't worth saving $200.
- Peer-to-Peer Rentals: Insurance is more complex with private owners. Most platforms require you purchase their coverage - don't skip it.
Local Denver & Colorado Resources
Connect with local tourism boards, parks, and services specific to the Denver and Central Colorado area:
Visit Colorado
Official Colorado tourism and visitor information
Colorado State Parks
Colorado Parks & Wildlife - reservations and park information
Rocky Mountain NP
Official Rocky Mountain National Park information and reservations
Visit Denver
Official Denver tourism and visitor information
Denver Weather
National Weather Service - Denver/Boulder forecast office
The Denver Post
Denver local news and Colorado Front Range events
Experience the freedom of RV travel through Colorado's beautiful landscapes
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Rentals in Denver
Get answers to the most common questions about renting an RV in Denver, organized by category for easy navigation. For first-time renters, check out our comprehensive first-time RV rental guide. Have more questions? Contact us and we'll help you out.
General Questions
What's the average cost to rent an RV in Denver?
RV rental prices in Denver typically range from $150 to $300 per day, depending on the size and type of RV. Class A motorhomes are generally more expensive ($250-400/day), while smaller camper vans start around $100-150/day. Weekly rentals offer better value at $900-$2,100 per week. Factor in additional costs like insurance ($25-40/day), mileage overages ($0.35-0.45/mile), and generator usage ($3-5/hour).
Do I need a special license to rent an RV in Denver?
No special license required in Colorado. A standard driver's license is sufficient for RVs under 26,000 lbs (all rental RVs). Colorado DMV doesn't require CDL for personal RV use. Rental companies typically require: age 25+, valid license held for 3+ years, and clean driving record. International visitors need a valid passport and International Driving Permit (IDP) plus home country license.
What's the best time of year to rent an RV in Denver?
Summer (June-September) is peak season with warm weather (70-85Β°F) perfect for Rocky Mountain National Park. Fall (September-October) offers stunning aspen colors and fewer crowds. Spring (April-May) can be unpredictable with snow possible through May at higher elevations. Winter (November-March) has lowest rates but many mountain roads and campgrounds close. Book summer rentals 2-3 months ahead.
Can I rent an RV in Denver for a one-way trip?
Yes, one-way RV rentals from Denver are available but limited. Most popular routes: Denver to Moab, UT ($200-300 fee), Denver to Salt Lake City, UT ($250-350 fee), or Denver to Albuquerque, NM ($350-500 fee). Cruise America's Denver location offers nationwide one-way options. Peer-to-peer platforms rarely allow one-way from Denver. Book 60+ days ahead for one-way availability, especially during peak season.
How far in advance should I book an RV rental in Denver?
For peak season (June-August) and major holidays, book 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability and better rates. Spring and fall shoulder seasons can be booked 4-6 weeks ahead. Last-minute rentals (within 2 weeks) are sometimes available at discounted rates during off-peak periods, but selection will be limited. Early booking also gives you more time to plan your route and campground reservations.
Are pets allowed in RV rentals in Denver?
Pet policies vary by company and owner. Fireside RV Rental in Denver is pet-friendly with no extra fees. Cruise America typically allows pets with a $150-200 cleaning fee and proof of vaccinations. RVshare owners in the Denver area have varying policies - roughly 40-50% of listings are pet-friendly. Always disclose pets upfront as unauthorized pets can result in additional fees of $300-500 or loss of your security deposit.
What is included in my RV rental in Denver?
Standard inclusions typically cover: basic kitchen supplies (pots, pans, utensils), bedding for all sleeping areas, bathroom supplies, 150 free miles per day, basic insurance, and 24/7 roadside assistance. NOT included: generator usage ($3-5/hour or $30-50/day), additional mileage ($0.35-0.45/mile), upgraded insurance, cleaning fees ($75-150), propane refills, dump fees, and campground costs. Always confirm exact inclusions with your specific rental company.
Pricing Questions
What hidden fees should I watch out for when renting an RV in Denver?
Common hidden fees include: generator usage ($3-5/hour), mileage overages ($0.35-0.45/mile beyond daily allowance), cleaning fees if returned dirty ($75-200), late return charges ($50-100/hour), propane refill if not returned full ($25-75), dump fees if not emptied ($50-100), tolls on routes to destinations, prep fees ($50-150), and early pickup/late drop-off fees ($25-50). Always ask for a complete fee breakdown before booking.
How much does RV insurance cost in Denver?
Basic insurance included with most rentals covers liability. Supplemental insurance ranges from $25-40 per day for damage waiver coverage that reduces your deductible from $3,000-5,000 down to $500-1,000. Full comprehensive insurance costs $35-50/day with zero deductible. For a 7-day rental, expect to pay $175-350 for insurance. Some credit cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum) may provide coverage, but verify RV inclusion.
What is the total cost to rent an RV in Denver for a week?
For a week-long rental, budget: Base rental $900-2,100 (Class B-C average), insurance $175-280, unlimited mileage upgrade $100-150 (optional), generator package $150-200, cleaning fee $75-125, propane/dump fees $50-100. Total: $1,450-3,000 depending on RV class and options. Add campground costs ($40-80/night x 7 = $280-560), fuel ($200-400), and food. Expect $2,200-4,500 all-in for a comfortable week-long trip.
Do RV rental prices in Denver vary by season?
Yes, significantly. Peak summer rates (June-August): $150-250/day. Shoulder season (March-May, Sept-Nov): $125-180/day (20-30% savings). Off-season (Dec-Feb): $100-150/day (30-40% savings). Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day) command premium rates 30-40% above normal. Booking during shoulder season for popular Colorado destinations like Hot Springs and Garden of the Gods can save $400-600 on a week-long rental.
What's the security deposit for an RV rental in Denver?
Security deposits typically range from $500-2,000 depending on RV class and rental company. Class B vans: $500-1,000, Class C motorhomes: $1,000-1,500, Class A motorhomes: $1,500-2,000. Deposits are authorized (not charged) on a credit card at pickup and released 3-7 business days after return if no damage. Peer-to-peer platforms may hold deposits slightly longer (7-14 days) pending owner inspection.
Are there any discounts available for RV rentals in Denver?
Yes, common discounts include: Early booking discounts (10-15% off for 60+ days advance), weekly rentals (typically 10-20% off daily rate), monthly rentals (30-40% off), military/veteran discounts (5-10%), AAA/AARP discounts (5-10%), and last-minute deals (20-40% off within 2 weeks). Peer-to-peer platforms often have first-time user promo codes ($50-100 off). Also check for seasonal promotions during shoulder season.
Booking Process
What documents do I need to rent an RV in Denver?
Required documents: Valid driver's license (held for 3-5 years depending on company), major credit card in driver's name (for security deposit), proof of insurance or agreement to purchase rental insurance, and government-issued photo ID. International renters need: Valid passport, international driver's permit (IDP) plus home country license, and may face additional deposit requirements ($500-1,000 extra).
Can I pick up my RV rental at Denver International Airport (DEN)?
No rental companies operate directly at Denver Airport, but several are within 25-40 minutes. Closest options: Fireside RV Rental in Denver (30 miles, 35-40 min), Cruise America in Denver metro area (25-30 miles), and various RVshare owners who may offer LIT airport delivery. Uber/Lyft to pickup locations costs $35-60. Most renters get a rental car for a day to pickup the RV and stock up on supplies at Walmart/Costco in the Denver area.
What is the minimum rental period in Denver?
Most corporate rental companies require a minimum 3-5 day rental (some waive this off-season). Peer-to-peer platforms on RVshare and Outdoorsy often allow 1-2 night minimums, though nightly rates are higher. During peak summer season, many companies enforce 7-day minimums, especially over holiday weekends. Weekend-only rentals (Fri-Mon) may be available off-season but expect to pay premium daily rates.
What happens if I need to cancel my RV rental in Denver?
Cancellation policies vary by company. Cruise America: Full refund if cancelled 30+ days before, 50% refund 15-29 days, no refund within 14 days. RVshare: Flexible (full refund up to 48 hours before), Moderate (full refund up to 7 days before), or Strict (full refund up to 30 days before) depending on owner. Travel insurance ($50-100) can protect against unforeseen circumstances. Always purchase cancellation insurance for peak season bookings.
Can I add an additional driver to my RV rental?
Yes, most companies allow additional drivers but they must meet the same requirements (age 25+, valid license, 3-5 years experience). Additional driver fees range from free (spouse/domestic partner) to $5-15 per day for other drivers. All drivers must be present at pickup to complete paperwork and be added to insurance. Some peer-to-peer owners limit to 2 total drivers or charge higher fees.
Local Regulations
Where can I legally park my RV overnight in Denver?
Overnight parking near Denver: 1) Chatfield State Park (20 min south, $36-46/night with hookups, reservations required), 2) Cherry Creek State Park (15 min SE, $36-46/night), 3) Golden Gate Canyon State Park (45 min west, $41-51/night), 4) Some Walmart locations (call ahead - Wheat Ridge at 3600 Youngfield allows overnight), 5) Cabela's in Lone Tree (generally permits overnight). NOT legal: Denver city streets, residential areas (strictly enforced), LoDo/downtown area. Always call ahead and be respectful.
What are the RV size restrictions in Denver?
Colorado state highways and interstates accommodate all standard RV sizes. Most bridges on I-70 and I-25 have 14+ foot clearance (standard RVs are 11-13 feet). Denver city streets can handle RVs up to 35 feet. State parks have varying limits: Hot Springs Gulpha Gorge (40 feet max), Red Rocks (30 feet at some sites), Crater of Diamonds (60 feet). Garden of the Gods has tight switchbacks - check specific campground restrictions. Always verify destination limits before booking.
Do I need any special permits to drive an RV in Colorado?
No special permits required for RVs under 26,000 lbs (most rentals). Colorado does not require non-commercial vehicle permits regardless of length. However, you may need: Rocky Mountain National Park entrance ($15-25 per vehicle), Colorado State Parks passes ($8 daily, $25 annual), Ouachita National Forest recreation passes ($5 per day), and America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annual for all federal lands). Towing a vehicle behind your RV requires supplemental braking systems per Colorado law.
What are Colorado's requirements for car seats in RVs?
Colorado law requires children under 8 years old to be in an appropriate car seat or booster seat in the rear seat. In RVs, children must be in seats with proper lap/shoulder belts - dinette and rear sofa seats often don't qualify. Most Class C and A motorhomes have 2-4 proper seatbelt positions for car seats. Verify available car seat positions before renting if traveling with young children. Rental companies don't provide car seats - bring your own.
Are there any driving restrictions for RVs in Denver?
Colorado RV driving restrictions: Most highways and interstates have no special RV restrictions. Speed limits: 55 mph on 2-lane highways, 70 mph on I-70/US-6 (no separate RV limit). Scenic Highway 6 through Rocky Mountains has steep grades and switchbacks - use low gears and pull-outs. Some downtown Denver parking garages prohibit RVs over 7 feet. No chain requirements (rarely snows). Avoid Denver residential streets with 'No Trucks' signs during rush hour.
Driving & Routes
What are the best RV routes from Denver?
Top 5 RV routes from Denver: 1) Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park via US-36 (70 miles, 1.5 hours, MUST have reservations May-October), 2) Denver to Colorado Springs/Garden of the Gods via I-25 South (70 miles, 1 hour, easy drive), 3) Denver to Estes Park via CO-7 (65 miles, 1.5 hours, scenic but winding), 4) Denver to Breckenridge via I-70 West (80 miles, 1.5-3 hours depending on traffic, mountain pass at 11,158 ft), 5) Denver to Moab, UT via I-70 West (350 miles, 5.5 hours, stunning canyon scenery).
Where can I find RV-friendly gas stations in Denver?
Best RV-friendly fuel stops: 1) Flying J Travel Plaza (I-76 at Bromley Lane) - Massive lot, pull-through diesel, propane, dump station, 2) Love's Travel Stop (I-25 at 120th Ave) - RV lanes, clean facilities, 3) Pilot (I-70 at Chambers Rd) - Easy access, truck/RV lanes, 4) Costco in Arvada (Wadsworth Blvd) - Cheapest gas but can be tight, go early, 5) King Soopers fuel centers - Good city option, some have RV-friendly layouts. Gas prices: Regular $3.00-3.40/gal, Diesel $3.40-3.80/gal (mountain towns 20-30% higher). Expect 8-10 mpg for Class C, 6-8 mpg for Class A. Budget Denver to RMNP roundtrip: $45-65.
What should I know about driving an RV in Denver area?
Denver RV driving essentials: 1) I-70 mountain corridor gets VERY congested Fri PM outbound, Sun PM inbound - avoid or leave early, 2) Use low gear on mountain passes (Eisenhower Tunnel at 11,158 ft), 3) NEVER take RV on narrow mountain roads like Peak-to-Peak Highway or Mt. Evans Road, 4) Denver rush hour (6:30-9am, 3:30-6:30pm) is brutal on I-25, use C-470 bypass, 5) Afternoon thunderstorms (June-Aug) can bring hail and high winds - seek shelter, 6) Watch for sudden elk/deer on roads at dawn/dusk in foothills.
Where are the dump stations and propane refill locations near Denver?
Denver area dump stations: 1) Flying J (I-76 at Bromley) - $10, propane available, pull-through, 2) Love's (I-25 at 120th) - $10 or free with fuel fill, 3) Pilot (I-70 at Chambers) - $12, 4) Chatfield State Park - Free for campers, $10 day use, 5) Cherry Creek State Park - Same as Chatfield, 6) Camping World (near DIA) - $20 but full service with rinse. Propane: U-Haul locations ($2.80-3.20/gal), AmeriGas, Camping World. Most city parks DON'T have dump stations. Always dump before returning rental to avoid $75-150 fee.
What are the common driving mistakes RV renters make in Denver?
Common mistakes in Colorado: 1) Not checking height clearance before entering older downtown areas, 2) Underestimating stopping distance on mountain roads (add 40-50% vs. car), 3) Taking sharp Colorado turns too fast (rear swing is wider), 4) Not adjusting mirrors before driving, 5) Attempting Highway 6 scenic route without RV experience (wait until comfortable), 6) Forgetting to retract awnings/slides before driving ($500-2,000 damage), 7) Driving too fast in sudden summer thunderstorms, 8) Running generator during quiet hours at campgrounds (10pm-7am typically).
π General Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only. RV rental policies, prices, and availability change frequently. Always verify critical information (insurance requirements, mileage policies, fees, etc.) directly with the rental company before booking. BestRV is not responsible for changes to third-party policies or pricing.