Paradise on the River was originally built in 1925 along the meandering Big Thompson River, amid the majestic natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The property is surrounded by fir trees set against a stunning mountain backdrop. The mountain setting and river banks are perfect for family fishing outings or couples who want to relax in porch rocking chairs to listen to the babbling river or watch the elk wading through the waters. There are picnic tables and grills throughout the grounds, and monthly potlucks are just some of the many regular events organized for guests, especially popular with families.

Travelers in search of an affordable, quiet location at which to make the most of the Rocky Mountains' great outdoors flock to Paradise on the River, a forested RV park on Highway 66, where GPS isn't always reliable. The Big Thompson River is a popular spot for fishing; horseback riding can be arranged at the Cowpoke Corner Corral, 10 minutes on foot. The closest restaurant is a two-minute drive. Estes Park Golf is a 10-minute drive away and downtown Estes Park -- home to plenty of coffee houses, stores, bars and dining options -- is a seven-minute drive. The Historic Park Theater is six minutes away by car. The Denver airport is an hour and 30 minutes away. Rocky Mountain National Park is five minutes by car.

Lodgings at Paradise on the River run the gamut between riverfront cabins, RV rentals, and RV sites. The cabins are clean, modern, and charming, filled with custom log furniture, bunk beds, dining rooms, electric or log fireplaces in living rooms, stainless steel appliances in kitchens, and riverfront porches. The Hallett's Peak cabin can sleep up to 12 people, while the Pine Creek and Creek View cabins are both dog-friendly. It's worth noting that the Fawn View and Little Cub cabins are not located directly on the river. Features offered include flat-screen TVs, gas barbecues, propane fire rings, VHS/DVD players, patio hot tubs, and sofa beds. Inflatable mattresses are available. For RV guests, the park offers a bathhouse with showers and bathrooms.

Paradise on the River has limited facilities, apart from its free Wi-Fi throughout and laundry facilities available to all guests. It does, however, capitalize on its family-friendly, communal atmosphere, encouraging travelers to socialize by holding regular get-togethers. The hotel hosts parties throughout the year, including Christmas in July, a pot roast potluck, a chili cook out and an Italian night. Guests are asked to bring a dish to share.

There's also free parking.