Ski Resorts Where You Can Winter Camp in the Parking Lot
Embarking on a winter camping adventure offers unparalleled satisfaction, especially when you wake up snug and on-site in your pop-up truck camper, RV, or van. With ample time to prepare, savor a steaming cup of coffee, and hit the slopes early to carve out fresh tracks, the experience is truly gratifying.
Having a convenient “home base” at the mountain’s base allows for seamless ski-in, ski-out access for lunch breaks, wardrobe changes, and even a quick nap, offering a level of luxury unmatched in the skiing and snowboard community.
For those seeking this unique blend of outdoor exploration and comfort, we’ve put together a selection of ski resorts where winter camping is not only permitted but encouraged. We only have a few months of the ski season left, so enjoy the adventure!
At Mt. Bachelor, all overnight RV, truck camper, and van parking must be reserved and paid online in advance. There are both powered and non-powered sites available and rates range from $49-$89 dollars a night depending on day and space. Overnight camping is enforced by security, and there are heated bathrooms and paid showers available for your convenience!
Mt. Hood Meadows offers free overnight camper parking at the Sunrise Lot on a first-come, first-serve basis, providing an opportunity for visitors to extend their stay amidst the scenic beauty of Mt. Hood. RVs and campers must be self-contained and have a Sno-Park Permit from Nov. 1 – April 30. Registration on-site is required, with a maximum stay of three consecutive nights within any five-night period.
#3 Grand Targhee Resort, Wyoming
Winter campsites at Grand Targhee Resort are located within walking distance to all resort activities and amenities. These campsites are not free and start at $39 dollars. You have the option to choose their “pool add-on” to your booking which gives you access to their pool, fitness cabin, and showers. Bathrooms are available in the Rendezvous Lodge from 7:00am – 7:00pm and no generators are permitted during quiet hours from 10:00pm – 8:00am.
#4 Killington Ski Area, Vermont
During the winter season at Killington Resort, overnight camping is restricted to two nights per week. Parking overnight is only permitted in the overflow lot at Skyeship, located across Route 4 from the base lodge. It’s important to note that this overflow lot does not offer any services; however, facilities are available inside Skyeship Lodge during normal operating hours. During snow removal operations in the morning, guests should be prepared to relocate their vehicles as necessary.
#5 Crystal Mountain, Washington
Wake up just a few steps from the chairlifts and commute to the mountain! Crystal Mountain offers powered sites for up to 14 days. Prices range from a steep $75.00 to $125.00 a night but are worth the opportunity to be first on the lift in the morning. There is a winter season reservation release schedule on the Crystal Mountain website, so make sure to check their website ahead of time.
#6 Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
During the in-season at Aspen Snowmass, camping trailers and RVs are permitted in the Aspen Lot for a maximum stay of three days. There are limited spots available, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests should expect a daily fee of $25, plus tax, with registration required at Lodging Check-In in the Upper Village. It’s important to note that no lodging discounts or promotions are applicable for RV/Trailer/pop-up truck camper parking.
Brian Head Resort allows free overnight camping for resort patrons on the upper level of the Navajo Lodge parking lot. Campers are responsible for the removal of their own waste and adhering to best “Leave No Trace” practices. Campers may be asked to provide proof of patronship in the form of a lift ticket, pass, or reservation confirmation. Limited weekend camping is available in the Giant Steps parking lot on select weekends with prior approval from the reservations department. Facilities are not provided at either location.
#8 Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
RV parking at the TAOS Ski Valley is limited to Thursday through Sunday. Overnight stays incur a fee of $30 per night on Thursdays and $45 per night on weekends and holidays. Campers are allowed a maximum seven-night stay in the lots, in compliance with National Forest regulations prohibiting long-term residency. Campers must park in designated areas as per the U.S. Forest Service agreement. Guests are reminded to respect the National Forest, nature, and those responsible for cleaning up. While there are no hookups or showers, trash receptacles and portable toilets are available in the Gila Monster Lot.
When camping at Sugar Loaf, visitors must ensure their contact information, including name and phone number, is visibly displayed in their vehicle window at all times. Parking is only permitted in Lot E, with vehicles required to relocate to a different spot daily, preferably before 7:30 am to facilitate plowing. It’s important to note that there are no electric or sewer hookups, public parking lot restrooms, or shower facilities available. Additionally, campfires are strictly prohibited. Only self-contained single units under 25 feet in total length are allowed, which would be no problem in a pop-up truck camper.
We hope you enjoy an incredible winter adventure. Don’t forget to pack adequate food/water, clothing, a heat source in case of emergency, and always check the weather ahead of time!
