RMNP's largest campground will remain closed this summer

If you thought you could enjoy a last-minute getaway to Rocky Mountain National Park's largest campground when construction ends there this summer, we have bad news for you.

RMNP officials say Moraine Park will remain closed until the fall because “field production has not been on schedule.”

Construction crews are replacing water pipes and sewer systems, improving drainage and relocating wetlands, and burying power lines to reduce the risk of wildfires. The park says the goal is to improve accessibility and allow year-round use of the campground for decades.

This summer's work at Rocky extends far beyond the campground. On the west side of the park, crews are rebuilding the ranger station at the entrance to Grand Lake, as well as nearby employee housing. These structures were destroyed during the Troublesome East Fire four years ago.

The expansion of the park's Fall River entrance is expected to be completed this summer. When completed, the entrance will include three kiosks and a transponder lane. This entrance will be on a single lane until the work is completed.

Rocky Mountain National Park is Colorado's largest tourist destination, with more than 4.1 million visitors last year.