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Colorado is a Centennial State known for its landscape of mountains, plains, forests, and canyons, making it ideal for RVing. However, you must abide by some rules and regulations to explore RV living in Colorado. While there are no restrictions on living in an RV in the US state, some cities and counties may restrict you from living in an RV on your property for an extended time.
You can comfortably live in an RV full-time by switching between campgrounds, RV parks, and boondocking sites. When boondocking, a solar generator can be an ideal companion for your power needs. A Jackery Solar Generator can power the necessary RV appliances, such as ACs, lights, outdoor grills, etc.
Key Takeaways
- RV living in Colorado is legal. Check the local zoning laws of cities and counties to ensure compliance.
- There are several free and paid RV living spots in Colorado, including those in Colorado Springs, Denver, Loveland, etc.
- Full-time RV living in Colorado costs between $4,500 and $6,300, including propane, power, fuel, campsite fees, etc.
- Jackery Solar Generators are the ideal power backups for convenient RV living in Colorado.
Is It Legal to Live in an RV Full-Time in Colorado?
Yes, full-time RV living in Colorado is legally acceptable. To ensure compliance, you must check the local zoning laws of the city or country in which you are parking your RV. Different counties have different land regulations in Colorado. Counties that allow RV living in Colorado are El Paso, Park County, Chaffee County, Fremont County, Teller County, etc. Here are some general rules to follow for these counties:
- The RV must be parked on land of at least two acres in size and zoned for residential use.
- The RV should be connected to a septic system that meets the county's requirements.
- The RV must be connected to a portable water source.
- It should also be connected to an electrical source that meets county requirements. Jackery Portable Power Stations are ideal for full-time RV living in Colorado.
|
County |
Max Stay Duration |
Living in an RV on Private Land |
Notable Restrictions |
|
El Paso |
NA |
Yes (with an approved temporary use permit) |
Strict zoning restrictions |
|
Chaffee County |
90 days per year |
Yes (after obtaining permits and adhering to site size and zoning requirements) |
Zoning restrictions |
|
Teller County |
60 days per year |
Strict zoning and camping restrictions |
|
|
Fremont County |
NA |
No (only for temporary stays in certain zone districts) |
Strict zoning restrictions |
|
Park County |
14 days |
Strict zoning restrictions |
Best Places to Live in an RV in Colorado Year-Round
Colorado has several camping parks, RV playgrounds, and resorts where you can stay full-time year-round. Before heading to these sites, consider the climate, make necessary reservations, plan for emergency scenarios, and perform standard RV maintenance checks. Check out some of the best places to live in an RV in Colorado year-round.
- Colorado Springs: Colorado Springs is the city that houses several long-term RV parks and resorts where you can live year-round. You can live at Mountaindale Cabins & RV Resort, Colorado Springs KOA Holiday, Foot of the Rockies RV Resort and Storage, and more. These locations offer all the utilities, such as bathrooms, laundry, showers, a dog park, cabins, a lounge, etc.
- Denver: If you are looking for places to live in an RV in Denver, choose from Strasburg KOA Holiday or Deluxe RV Park. These parks have firewood, bike rental, snack bar, pool, cable TV, etc.
- Loveland: Loveland is a municipality that houses several long-term RV parks in Colorado with full hookups for 40-foot RVs. The Carter Valley Campgrounds is an RV-only location with 65 sites and facilities such as water, firewood, internet, showers, etc. You can also stay at Boyd Lake State Park, Johnson's Corner Campground, or Loveland RV Resort.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in an RV in Colorado?
RV living in Colorado comes at a cost. You must plan for several expenses, including campsite fees, fuel charges, insurance, maintenance, and internet.
|
Expense Category |
Cost |
|
Campsite Fees |
$10 to $50 per night |
|
Propane |
$10 a day |
|
Fuel |
$80 to $100 per day (can vary based on distance) |
|
Power |
$2.5 to $3.5 per day (grid power rate of RV parks) |
|
Groceries |
$40 per day |
|
Internet |
$2 to $7 a day |
|
Total |
$150 to $210 a day |
Full-time RV living in Colorado costs $150 to $210 a day or $4,500 to $6,300 monthly. You can save on RV power costs by using a solar generator, which can power most of your necessary RV appliances.
Note: These costs are estimates and may change depending on the location, the utilities provided by the park, the type of RV, the duration of your stay at a location, etc.
Can You Camp for Free in Colorado with an RV?
Yes, free RV living in Colorado is possible on public lands, such as BLM lands and National Forests. RVing at these locations is known as dispersed camping, which means RVing away from developed locations, such as RV parks, playgrounds, and resorts. These locations do not have amenities like restrooms, water hookups, trash removal, etc.
There are multiple locations across Colorado where you can boondock, such as
- Halfmoon Creek Road
- Trout Creek Recreation Area
- Clear Creek Canyon
- Cottonwood Pass
- Guanella Pass
While there is no fee at these places for RV living in Colorado, you must keep some things in mind. Make sure you dispose of the waste properly to reduce environmental impact. Check for locations where camping is allowed for a limited duration or prohibited.
Essential RV Living Checklist for Colorado
Living full-time in an RV, especially when boondocking, requires crucial items and emergency planning. From a clean power source to resources for contingencies, there is a lot to take care of.
Power
The first thing you need is a power source. Appliances like ACs, heaters, lights, chargers, laptops, etc. require power, and grid electricity may not be available in a dispersed location. A solar generator like the Jackery Solar Generator can be your ideal pick here. It can power most of your crucial appliances without relying on grid power and save you money on power costs.
Water and Waste
Ensure your RV is equipped with fresh water and a waste disposal system. It should have the RV sewage hose, connectors, freshwater hose, and pressure regulator. Keep garbage bags in your RV and dump them at the RV parks. RV parks also provide access to fresh water. Make a note of such parks before beginning your journey.
Food Storage, Cooking, and Safety in Bear-Prone Areas
If you want to cook in the RV, keep food storage containers and cooking equipment in it. Pack your RV with cookware, utensils, a portable grill, propane, etc. It is also crucial to have safety gear, such as reflective triangles, road flares, spare batteries, a first-aid kit, etc., to prevent any mishap.
Internet and Work-From-RV Setups
You can use a wireless internet router or a hotspot for internet access. Choose a dedicated work area in the RV and install a small foldable desk with all the work gadgets, such as a laptop, tablet, phone, router, etc. You can also work outdoors if your campsite has a WiFi facility.
Emergency Gear
You should also have the necessary equipment in your RV for an emergency, like a wildfire or a thunderstorm. This equipment should include a satellite communication device, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher, a high-visibility safety vest, etc.
Jackery Solar Generators for RV Living in Colorado
Solar generators are ideal partners for RV living in Colorado. They are portable, low-maintenance, and a renewable source of power. If you plan to live in an RV full-time, Jackery Solar Generators is your perfect pick.
Jackery manufactures innovative solar power products to make your RV living experience easier. These include solar generators, solar panels, and portable power stations for powering RV appliances, including ACs, RV office gadgets, space heaters, and lights.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus Roam Kit
The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus Roam Kit is a reliable power source for your RV living in Colorado. Its high capacity can power most of your essential RV appliances, such as your laptop, phone, or mini fridge. The kit comes with Jackery SolarSaga 100 Prime Solar Panels that can be easily installed on the top of your RV for uninterrupted power.
Appliances Running Time
- Refrigerator (900W) = 1.1H
- Mini Fridge (400W) = 2.5H
- Outdoor Fan (300W) = 3.3H
- Coffee Maker (700W) = 1.4H
- LED TV (100W) = 8.8H
Customer Review
“These work perfectly, and the solar panels help charge so fast. Customer service is top-notch as well.” - Duane Lumm.
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is a high-capacity system that can power your RV for an extended time. It has a robust, portable design featuring a handle and roller wheels for easy transportation. The 30dB low-noise operation makes the solar generator suitable for use inside the RV, whether you are working or resting.
Appliances Running Time
- Refrigerator (900W) = 1.9H
- Space Heater (1500W) = 1.1H
- Microwave Oven (1200W) = 1.4H
- Electric Kettle (900W) = 1.9H
- Induction Cooktop (1500W) = 1.1H
Customer Review
“Just unboxed my new Jackery SolarGenerator 2000+. Packaging is superb. Very easy to understand instructions. Was plugged in and charging within just minutes, literally. I am happy to have this for safety and security. I plan to add more battery and solar units as the budget allows.” - JSY.
RV Living in Colorado FAQs
Can you live in your RV year-round in an RV park in Colorado?
Yes, you can live in your RV year-round in an RV park in Colorado. You have to enquire about the length of time you are allowed to stay in the park. Not all of them may allow you to stay for a longer duration.
What is the lifestyle of people who live full-time in RVs, campers, or vans in the US?
The lifestyle of people who live full-time in RVs is incredible. They enjoy the best weather, travel across multiple locations, and work in a nurturing environment.
What is it like to live in an RV traveling around?
Those living in an RV traveling around tend to enjoy more freedom and get used to a minimalist life without unnecessary worries.
Is living in a camper/RV possible in Denver?
Yes, living in a camper or RV is possible in Denver. Several RV parks, such as Strasburg KOA Holiday and Deluxe RV Park, offer RV living in Colorado.
Conclusion
RV living in Colorado can be a mind-nurturing experience. The state houses a beautiful landscape of mountains, canyons, forests, etc., making it ideal for those who love staying close to nature. To keep your full-time RV living experience convenient, invest in a Jackery Solar Generator that can support your RV's power needs. It can power most of your essential RV devices and appliances, such as lights, AC, heater, laptop, etc., saving power costs.
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