1836 State Highway 66, Estes Park, Colorado, United States | 970 586-5513
Modern cabins and RV park grounds
Picturesque mountain views and location on Big Thompson River
Small cabins have modern conveniences, fireplaces, and riverfront porches
RV rentals and RV sites have river views and cable
On-site laundry machines
Bathrooms and showers on site for RV campers
Nearby hiking and fishing
Monthly potlucks and year-round family events
Free Wi-Fi and outdoor parking
Cabins and RV sites are close together, limiting privacy
Parking lot is small and can become crowded
Extra-person fee is strictly enforced
Full property not open year-round (but starting in 2015, two cabins will remain open all year)
The aptly named Paradise on the River is a mountain getaway on the banks of Colorado's picturesque Big Thompson River, a prime spot for fishing and wildlife-watching just outside Estes Park. With monthly potlucks, plenty of barbecue spots, and laundry machines, it primarily attracts families and outdoorsy couples. The park has 11 cabins, which have rustic-inspired decor, riverfront porches, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Two RV rentals and 16 RV sites are also available. Cabins are well-maintained, if built in close proximity to one another. The Idlewilde By the River offers cabins with more privacy.
Scene
Family-friendly RV park with modern cabins and a scenic riverfront setting near Rocky Mountain National Park
Paradise on the River was originally built in 1925 along the meandering Big Thompson River, amid the majestic natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The property is surrounded by fir trees set against a stunning mountain backdrop. The mountain setting and river banks are perfect for family fishing outings or couples who want to relax in porch rocking chairs to listen to the babbling river or watch the elk wading through the waters. There are picnic tables and grills throughout the grounds, and monthly potlucks are just some of the many regular events organized for guests, especially popular with families.
Location
On the lush banks of the Big Thompson River, just outside Estes Park, next to Rocky Mountain National Park
Travelers in search of an affordable, quiet location at which to make the most of the Rocky Mountains' great outdoors flock to Paradise on the River, a forested RV park on Highway 66, where GPS isn't always reliable. The Big Thompson River is a popular spot for fishing; horseback riding can be arranged at the Cowpoke Corner Corral, 10 minutes on foot. The closest restaurant is a two-minute drive. Estes Park Golf is a 10-minute drive away and downtown Estes Park -- home to plenty of coffee houses, stores, bars and dining options -- is a seven-minute drive. The Historic Park Theater is six minutes away by car. The Denver airport is an hour and 30 minutes away. Rocky Mountain National Park is five minutes by car.
Rooms
Riverfront cabins with flat-screen TVs, log decor, and porches with stunning views
Lodgings at Paradise on the River run the gamut between riverfront cabins, RV rentals, and RV sites. The cabins are clean, modern, and charming, filled with custom log furniture, bunk beds, dining rooms, electric or log fireplaces in living rooms, stainless steel appliances in kitchens, and riverfront porches. The Hallett's Peak cabin can sleep up to 12 people, while the Pine Creek and Creek View cabins are both dog-friendly. It's worth noting that the Fawn View and Little Cub cabins are not located directly on the river. Features offered include flat-screen TVs, gas barbecues, propane fire rings, VHS/DVD players, patio hot tubs, and sofa beds. Inflatable mattresses are available. For RV guests, the park offers a bathhouse with showers and bathrooms.
Features
Park hosted family get-togethers and lively potlucks
Paradise on the River has limited facilities, apart from its free Wi-Fi throughout and laundry facilities available to all guests. It does, however, capitalize on its family-friendly, communal atmosphere, encouraging travelers to socialize by holding regular get-togethers. The hotel hosts parties throughout the year, including Christmas in July, a pot roast potluck, a chili cook out and an Italian night. Guests are asked to bring a dish to share.There's also free parking.