RV Essentials for a Rocky Mountain Adventure at Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge is one of Colorado's most spectacular destinations — a canyon that plunges nearly 1,000 feet to the Arkansas River, surrounded by mountain trails, whitewater and big skies. Rocky Mountain camping calls for a little more preparation than your typical trip, though. Here is what to pack, check and consider before you roll into Cañon City.

What to Pack for Your Royal Gorge RV Trip

At this elevation, the weather sets its own schedule. Temperatures can swing 30 degrees between a sunny afternoon and a cold evening, and afternoon thunderstorms are a summer staple. To be ready for any conditions, start with KOA’s RV camping essentials guide, then add a few Royal Gorge-specific items to your list:

• Layers: A mid-layer fleece and a packable rain jacket are nonnegotiable, as you will use both.
• Sun protection: UV intensity increases at elevation. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat belong in your bag even on overcast days.
• Sturdy footwear: Trail access starts near the campground, so pack hiking boots or trail shoes.
• Extra water: Hydration becomes critical at elevation. Pack more water than you think you will need.

Pre-Trip RV Maintenance Checks for Mountain Terrain

Steep mountain grades put stress on your rig that flat highway driving never does. Run through these checks before leaving the driveway:

• Tires: Verify pressure and inspect for sidewall wear.
• Brakes: Check pads and fluid, especially if you are towing. Downhill grades demand more from your stopping power.
• Cooling system: Confirm coolant levels and hose condition. Your engine works harder at elevation.
• Propane system: Check regulator connections and verify all appliances ignite properly.

Altitude Considerations 

Cañon City sits at 5,332 feet, a moderate elevation that most visitors handle comfortably. Still, if you are coming from near sea level, your body and your rig may notice the thinner air on the first day or two. Here are some steps you can take to help yourself and your rig adapt: 

• Drink more water: Altitude accelerates dehydration. Start hydrating before you arrive.
• Take it easy on the first day: Give your group time to acclimate before tackling strenuous activities.
• Monitor your rig: Engine performance and propane appliances can behave slightly differently at elevation, so keep an eye on your RV's operation.

Plan Your Rocky Mountain Stay Today

The Royal Gorge / Canon City KOA Holiday has earned the KOA President's Award for eight consecutive years, and the Deluxe RV Sites deliver on that reputation. Spacious concrete patios, full hookups, pergolas, fire pits and on-site propane availability mean you can arrive prepared and settle in without a second thought. Reserve your RV Site at The Royal Gorge KOA today and get ready to make the Royal Gorge your next great adventure.