Last summer, we pulled into a stunning boondocking spot at 9,500 feet in the Colorado Rockies. The views were incredible, but within hours, we discovered that our normally reliable RV systems were acting up. The propane stove burned with a weak, yellow flame, our generator struggled to start, and by evening, half our family was dealing with headaches and fatigue.
Welcome to high-altitude RVing! While the Rocky Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking camping experiences on Earth, that thin air affects both your RV’s systems and your body in ways that catch many first-time mountain campers off guard.
After years of high-altitude adventures across the Rockies, here’s everything you need to know about adjusting to life above the clouds.
How Altitude Affects Your RV Systems
The Science Behind Thin Air
At sea level, air pressure is 14.7 psi. But for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, you lose about 4% of that air pressure. At 10,000 feet—common elevation for many Rocky Mountain campgrounds—you’re dealing with only about 69% of sea level air pressure.
This dramatic change affects every system in your RV that depends on air for proper operation.
Propane Appliances: Your Biggest Challenge
What Happens:
- Weak, yellow flames instead of strong blue flames
- Poor heating efficiency from furnaces and water heaters
- Incomplete combustion that can produce carbon monoxide
- Difficulty lighting appliances
Why It Happens: Propane appliances are calibrated for sea level air pressure. At altitude, there’s less oxygen available for complete combustion, resulting in inefficient burning and potential safety hazards.
Solutions:
- Adjust air/fuel mixtures – Many RV appliances have high-altitude adjustment screws
- Professional calibration – Have a certified RV tech adjust your appliances if you plan extended high-altitude camping
- Monitor carefully – Watch for yellow flames or sooting, which indicate incomplete combustion
- Increase ventilation – Crack windows or vents when using propane appliances
Safety Warning: Never ignore yellow flames or unusual odors from propane appliances. Poor combustion at altitude can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
Engine and Generator Performance
What You’ll Notice:
- Reduced power – Your engine works harder for the same performance
- Harder starting – Especially on cold mornings
- Increased fuel consumption – Engines run less efficiently in thin air
- Generator struggles – May not produce rated power output
The Fix: Most modern fuel-injected engines automatically compensate for altitude, but you’ll still notice performance changes. For generators:
- Derate your generator – Reduce expected power output by 3-4% per 1,000 feet above 1,000 feet elevation
- Allow longer warm-up time – Especially important in cold weather
- Use high-octane fuel – Helps with engine knock at altitude
- Consider altitude kits – Available for some older carbureted engines
Tire Pressure Changes
The Math: Tire pressure decreases about 1-2 psi for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain due to lower atmospheric pressure.
What to Do:
- Check tire pressure daily during altitude changes
- Adjust to manufacturer specs for your current elevation
- Don’t over-inflate – Pressure will increase as you descend
Human Health at High Altitude
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): The Reality
Elevation where symptoms typically start: 8,000+ feet Peak symptom time: 6-24 hours after arrival
Common symptoms:
- Headaches (often severe)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Difficulty sleeping
Who’s at risk: Anyone can develop AMS, regardless of age or fitness level. Previous exposure doesn’t guarantee immunity.
Prevention Strategies
Gradual Ascent Method: If possible, don’t drive straight from sea level to 10,000 feet. Try this approach:
- Day 1: Camp at 6,000-7,000 feet
- Day 2: Move to 8,000-9,000 feet
- Day 3+: Reach your final high-altitude destination
Hydration is Critical:
- Drink 1.5-2x your normal water intake
- Avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours
- Limit caffeine (it can worsen dehydration)
- Monitor urine color – should be light yellow
Diet Modifications:
- Eat high-carbohydrate meals (70% of calories from carbs)
- Avoid heavy, fatty foods
- Smaller, frequent meals instead of large ones
- Iron-rich foods help oxygen transport
When to Seek Medical Help
Mild AMS typically resolves in 1-3 days. However, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe headache not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication
- Vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
- Extreme fatigue or confusion
- Loss of coordination or balance
- Shortness of breath at rest
Emergency Action: If symptoms worsen rather than improve after 24 hours, descend immediately to lower elevation.
Special Considerations for RV Life
Sleep Quality at Altitude
Common issues:
- Frequent waking
- Periodic breathing (Cheyne-Stokes breathing)
- Feeling unrested despite adequate sleep time
Solutions:
- Elevate your head slightly while sleeping
- Keep RV well-ventilated – crack a window or run a fan
- Expect adjustment period – sleep typically improves after 3-5 nights
- Consider supplemental oxygen for severe sleep disruption
Cooking and Food Storage
Water boils at lower temperatures at altitude:
- Sea level: 212°F (100°C)
- 5,000 feet: 203°F (95°C)
- 10,000 feet: 194°F (90°C)
Cooking adjustments:
- Pasta and rice take longer to cook thoroughly
- Baking requires higher temperatures and longer times
- Pressure cooking is your friend at altitude
- Food spoils faster due to increased UV exposure and temperature swings
Medication and Health Considerations
Blood pressure medications: High altitude can affect blood pressure – consult your doctor before traveling
Diabetes management: Altitude can affect blood sugar levels and appetite
Heart conditions: The decreased oxygen can strain cardiovascular systems
Pregnancy: Generally not recommended above 8,000 feet without medical consultation
Altitude Zones in the Rockies
Moderate Altitude: 5,000-8,000 feet
Examples: Denver (5,280 ft), Estes Park (7,522 ft)
- Minimal symptoms for most people
- Slight performance decrease in RV systems
- Good acclimatization zone
High Altitude: 8,000-12,000 feet
Examples: Leadville, CO (10,152 ft), Many mountain campgrounds
- AMS symptoms common
- Noticeable RV performance issues
- Requires preparation and adjustment
Very High Altitude: 12,000+ feet
Examples: Mount Evans Road, Pikes Peak
- Significant health risks for unprepared individuals
- Major RV system adjustments needed
- Not recommended for overnight camping without experience
Practical Tips for High-Altitude RV Success
Arrival Strategy
- Arrive early in the day – Give yourself time to adjust before evening
- Set up camp slowly – Don’t rush physical activities
- Plan a rest day – Avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours
- Stay close to your RV – Keep first day activities low-key
RV System Checks
Daily monitoring:
- Propane appliance flame color and strength
- Tire pressures
- Engine and generator performance
- Carbon monoxide detector functionality (extra important at altitude)
Emergency Preparedness
- Know the route down – Have an escape plan to lower elevation
- Carry supplemental oxygen if anyone has heart or lung conditions
- Stock extra medications – Especially pain relievers for headaches
- Emergency contacts – Know location of nearest medical facilities
The Payoff: Why High-Altitude Camping is Worth It
Despite the challenges, camping at high altitude offers rewards you simply can’t find anywhere else:
- Crystal-clear night skies with incredible star visibility
- Cooler temperatures during hot summer months
- Unique wildlife adapted to mountain environments
- Spectacular alpine scenery and photography opportunities
- Smaller crowds at many high-elevation campgrounds
Ready to Rise Above the Clouds?
High-altitude RVing requires respect for the environment and careful preparation, but the experiences waiting above the treeline are truly unforgettable. Start with shorter trips to moderate elevations, learn how your body and RV respond, and gradually work your way up to those spectacular high-country destinations.
Remember: There’s no shame in descending if conditions become challenging. The mountains will still be there for your next adventure, and arriving home safely is always the top priority.
Have you experienced altitude sickness while RVing? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below. Your insights could help fellow RVers prepare for their high-altitude adventures!
Ready to plan your next mountain adventure? Check out our guide to Seasonal RV Camping: When to Visit the Rocky Mountains to time your high-altitude trips perfectly.
Download our High-Altitude RV Checklist – includes system adjustment reminders, health monitoring tips, and emergency preparedness essentials specifically designed for Rocky Mountain camping.