Nestled in the heart of northern Colorado, Loveland is a welcoming haven for RVers seeking a mix of rich history, scenic beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Whether you’re looking to relax by the river, explore nearby mountain passes, or enjoy local attractions, Loveland offers an inviting blend of past and present.
Read on to learn how this charming city got its name, where it’s located, the best activities for RV enthusiasts, and a roundup of top RV campgrounds in the area.
How Loveland got its name
Loveland’s story begins with the expansion of the railroads in the 19th century. In the early days, a local flour mill owner named David Barnes played a key role in the community’s development. When it came time to name the new town that sprang up along the Colorado Central Railroad, Barnes chose to honor his good friend, William A. H. Loveland—the railroad’s president and a prominent local businessman. This tribute not only cemented Loveland’s place in Colorado history, but also ensured that his friend’s legacy would live on through the city’s name.
Where is Loveland located?
Loveland is situated in Larimer County in north-central Colorado. Just 46 miles north of Denver and only a short drive from Fort Collins, the city occupies a prime spot along the Front Range. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for RVers eager to explore both urban attractions and the great outdoors—from the nearby Rocky Mountains to historic towns and scenic byways.
Things to see and do
Scenic drives and mountain passes
One of the region’s crown jewels is Loveland Pass, a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains. At nearly 12,000 feet in elevation, it offers breathtaking views and a challenging drive sans RV—unless you’re very adventurous. Even if you’re not tackling the twisty roads yourself, the pass is well worth a stop for the photo ops and fresh mountain air.
Outdoor adventures and local attractions
- Hiking and biking: Explore the nearby trails such as Devil’s Backbone Open Space for panoramic views of the valley. The abundant foothills and trails around Loveland provide excellent hiking, biking, and even off-roading opportunities.
- Fishing: With the Big Thompson River winding through the region, anglers can enjoy fly fishing and river fishing in a tranquil, natural setting.
- Cultural attractions: Don’t miss the Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland, a unique outdoor display that adds an artistic flair to your adventure. Local museums and historic sites further enrich the experience, offering insights into the pioneering past of northern Colorado.
- Day trips: Loveland’s proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park makes it a great launching point for day trips that combine nature, wildlife viewing, and mountain scenery.
Best RV campgrounds in and around Loveland
Loveland and its surrounding areas feature several top-notch RV campgrounds that cater to a variety of needs. Here are three standout options:
Loveland RV Resort
Loveland RV Resort is a pet-friendly, full-service campground offering 156 standard and premium RV sites. Its modern amenities are designed to make your stay comfortable:
- Amenities: Sparkling clean bathhouses, a swimming pool, a game room, laundry facilities, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and on-site propane sales.
- Activities: Enjoy planned events, mini golf, and even outdoor gatherings in the community picnic area.
- Location: Conveniently located with easy access to local attractions, it’s a perfect base for exploring both Loveland and the surrounding region.
Riverview RV Park and Campground
Set along the serene Big Thompson River, Riverview RV Park offers a picturesque setting ideal for those seeking a quiet escape:
- Amenities: Full-hookup sites (including 30/50-amp service), clean restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, and even on-site fishing (a permit is required).
- Recreation: The park features a playground, live music events (seasonally), and ample opportunities for picnicking and enjoying the outdoors.
- Location: With its peaceful riverside ambiance and proximity to attractions like Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s a favorite among families and groups.
North Shore RV Park & General Store
North Shore RV Park is a versatile campground that offers a comfortable and convenient stay for RV enthusiasts:
- Amenities: The park features full-hookup sites with options for 20-, 30-, or 50-amp service, on-site laundry facilities, a fire ring/grill area, and even a general store for quick supplies.
- Recreation: Guests can enjoy nearby hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The campground’s location also makes it easy to explore the natural beauty of Loveland and its environs.
- Family friendly: With ample space and well-maintained facilities, it’s an excellent option for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Final thoughts
Loveland, Colorado, is much more than just a name—it’s a blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities that make it an ideal destination for RVers.
From its railroad roots and scenic mountain passes to its bustling campgrounds and diverse outdoor activities, Loveland offers a little something for everyone. So, pack up your RV, hit the road, and discover the charm of Loveland for yourself!
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Good article on Loveland, Co. However, Loveland and Loveland Pass are two completely different geographic locations. The pass is about 120 miles away from the city in the high Rockies. The city is on the high plains. The article would have been more accurate to mention Loveland’s proximity to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park than the pass.
Yeah, that was a BIG mistake using Loveland Pass sign to promote Loveland! Someone needs to go back to geography class!
The article photo may have given the impression that the two locations are close by. You are right about the distance between. Estes and RMNP were highlighted as places to visit because of their close proximity to Loveland–a “launching point.” When we were in Loveland, we took time to travel all the way over to Loveland Pass because I’d never been there. It was a magnificent drive and well worth the time–at least to me. Safe travels, Mark. Thanks for the clarification.
In the campgrounds to stay, a nice state park wasn’t mentioned – Boyd Lake SP. Easy access to bike trails to tour around Loveland, and can kayak on the lake.
Sounds great, Warren! Thanks for the tip, and safe travels!
Yes! We stayed at Boyd Lake SP for a week summer 2016. Beautiful place to stay. 👍
Thank you for the history and camping/RVing/traveling suggestions, Gail! We stayed at Riverview RV Park in August 2019 and found it dry and dusty. The sites were okay, but neither wondrous or horrible. In its defense, perhaps the summer was unusually dry. In any case, we carry it as “acceptable, but avoid if convenient.” A Google-search yielded a 4.1-out-of-5 rating, which was the worst my “Loveland, CO campground” search returned. It does have lots of sites. Have a great day and safe travels!