Parking and Living in Vans in Colorado
Colorado is an incredible place to live if you are considering living in a van full-time. The roads are open for traveling and camping while the scenery provides majestic views of mountain ranges, plains, and rolling hills. Whether you are looking for the perfect natural setting to call home or a short-term stay, many options for parking trucks and vans and living in them are available in the state.
Where to Park
National forests and parks in Colorado are ideal locations to park a van when living in them full-time. There are no fees to stay in these locations and the sites are usually secluded from major roads and populated areas. Some of the best areas for camping and parking include the San Juan National Forest, Uncompahgre National Forest, Roosevelt National Forest, and the National Park System.
Due to Colorado's many public lands, there are plenty of opportunities to find camping sites where you can stay with your vehicle. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provide recommendations on campgrounds to park at and even provide facilities such as a bathroom, fire pits, and other amenities. Free camping is also available on dispersed sites outside of these campgrounds.
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife website provides a list of state parks with features that allow people living in vans to park and stay in the area. Colorado state parks are well-maintained and include public restrooms, showers, campsites, and other amenities. The state park website also provides information on how much time you can stay at a campsite and how much you are expected to pay for staying at the park.
Where to Stay in Urban Areas
Many cities in Colorado allow you to park your van overnight in designated areas, though this is usually only for short-term overnight parkers. For long-term parking, travelers can look for RV parks and campgrounds within cities and towns that provide shower and bathroom facilities for their campers. Some cities even provide designated RV parking lots for those living in vans.
If you are looking to park and stay in an urban area for an extended period of time, you may want to look into an established RV park. Many of these parks provide services such as WiFI and laundry facilities in exchange for a fee. Some parks are open all year round while others are just open seasonally, so be sure to check availability before you visit.
Living in Vans in Colorado
Living in vans in Colorado is a unique experience and provides a different perspective of the state's stunning landscape. Many areas in the state provide open and free camping options which can make living in vans here a cost-effective choice. Additionally, the state provides plenty of urban areas to stay in without having to be too far away from major cities.
No matter where you choose to stay, making sure you adhere to local laws and regulations is key to having a safe and enjoyable experience. Knowing where to park and stay when living in a van in Colorado is the key to your journey as you travel the state in search of your own little slice of paradise.