Campgrounds Near Colorado National Monument
If youre seeking an established campground with modern amenities, theres a plethora of great options within a 30-minute drive of Colorado National Monument. Another perk of these campgrounds is that many of them are close to the shops and services in one of the areas charming towns.
Fruita is a small, outdoorsy town that is just minutes from the monuments West Entrance. Grand Junction is the regions biggest metropolis and has a lovely downtown and plenty of services. Finally, Palisade is a bit further from Colorado National Monument, but its wine and agricultural scene make it an attractive place to set up camp. Weve also included a couple of out-of-town campgrounds for those seeking a more rugged experience.
If youre looking to check out any of the other Colorado National Parks or National Monuments, but sure to take a look at our other camping guides below:
Camping Near Palisade Grand Junction And Fruita Around Mesa County
Located on Colorados far western slope, Mesa County is home to the largest city west of the continental divide in the state, Grand Junction . Between Palisade, GJ, and Fruita you have an area full of fantastic sights and sounds, with plenty of camping to accommodate travelers. There are campgrounds at two state parks, a national monument, BLM land, private RV parks, and various others.
Although its not directly in the midst of the woods or tallest peaks, youll find easy to access to both the Uncompahgre and Grand Mesa national forests. They each provide seemingly endless acres of alpine activities, from mesmerizing hikes and off-road driving, to additional camping a bit further from civilization. However, youll still find plenty of outdoor recreation and campgrounds closer to town.
The James M. Robb Colorado River State Park is a unique park located along the Colorado River. Split into 5 sections, each with its own designated recreation and activities, this park features two campgrounds on both the east and western sides of Grand Junction. The Colorado National Monument is a cant miss bucket list attraction sandwiched between Grand Junction and Fruita. It has a cool campground too, located high over the Grand Valley floor.
The following region covers the best campgrounds near the Mesa County towns of:
List of camping by Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita, CO, in order of proximity:
Forest Service Road 585
Why you should camp here: Use as a home-base to explore the Silverton/Ouray area of S.W. Colorado
- Reservations accepted: No
- Campsite type: Tent, RV
There are a few designated campgrounds along Forest Service Road, like Anvil and South Mineral Campgrounds, which typically fill up quickly So if all the campgrounds are full, or you want more privacy, just pull off and camp wherever you can find a spot along the 585 road. Its easy to notice the designated spots. Its always best to use one of those sites instead of creating a new one to lessen your impact on the area.
Some pull-offs are just on the side of the road, but others have small trails to clearings behind trees and brush for more privacy. With as busy as this road can get in the peak travel season, the tucked-away spots are a gem.
At the very end of the road is a large campground and the trailhead to Ice Lake Basin. This trail is a must-do if you have time. Its difficult, but the views are well worth the effort. Silverton is very popular for OHV-riding in summer snd backcountry skiing in the winter, and the incredible man-made ice climbing park in Ouray is a short drive away.
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Colorado National Monument Hiking Trail #2 Serpents Trail
This is another popular hike in the monument that offers spectacular views of the colorful rocks. We were amazed by the views from this trail and would recommend it to anyone visiting the park. The hike is about 3.4 mi round-trip and takes about 2 hours to complete. The trail also has some steep sections near the end, but its not too difficult for those who are moderately active hikers. This trail will take you about an hour to complete round-trip.
Length: 3.4 mi
Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Views, Wildflowers, Fee, No dogs
Bookcliff Campground Highline Lake State Park
Located in Highline Lake State Park, Bookcliff Campground is a well-known spot for RV and tent campers looking to appreciate Highline Lake and its recreational offerings. For weary travelers entering through the Utah border, Bookcliff is the perfect place to spend a nice recuperating before taking in the opportunities that Mesa County affords.
- Closest Town: Loma , Fruita , Grand Junction
- Specs: 34 total sites for tent camping and RVs, 3 walk-in tent sites and group camping areas as well
- Amenities: Restrooms, coin showers, laundry at Camper Services, dump station, water spigots
- Reservations: Yes, at CPWShop.com
- Address: 11 8/10 Rd, Loma, CO 81524
- Directions: From Grand Junction, take I-70 W for about 10 miles. Take Exit 15 for CO-139/Loma and then turn right onto CO-139 N/US-50 E. Continue for about 1 miles, then turn left onto US-6 Business E. After about a mile, turn right onto 12 Rd, then about 3 miles later take a left onto Q Rd. Turn right onto 11 8/10 Rd and follow this for about a mile. Make a left to enter Highline Lake State Park and follow signs for Bookcliff Campground.
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Colorado National Monument Boondocking Sites Colorado Welcome Center Rest Stop
Address
Elevation: 6571
Management: Bureau of Land Management
The road into this Colorado National Monument boondocking site is Dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.
Best Review:
Great little spot to camp. Has restrooms, picnic tables and fire rings but no water and trash is carry out. There is a trailhead at the site that goes up to the Miracle Rock which is really neat. It is a nice little hike, pretty easy for all ages. If you are so inclined, there is a set of swimming holes a few miles up the dirt road, just be careful as a lot of injuries have occurred there
Remember: Dispersed Camping In Colorado Is Cold Year
Many people visit the mountains in July expecting warm weather and sunny conditions. Do not be tricked by the hot summer days the temperature drops dramatically at night throughout the mountains, and snow is possible in every month of the year. Always bring extra layers and a warm sleeping bag when you go dispersed camping in Colorado.
It is not just an issue of comfort hypothermia and frostbite are serious issues, but they are easily preventable with the right gear, clothing, and equipment. If you go camping in the spring or autumn, expect even colder temperatures, and pack gloves, hat, and other winter gear. A few extra blankets are always a good idea when dispersed camping in Colorado.
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Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area
Location: Near Flagler
* Flagler Reservoir now requires a Colorado hunting or fishing license or State Wildlife Area pass for day use and camping.
Flagler Reservoir State Wildlife Area is an excellent free overnight stop along I-70 just after crossing from Kansas into Colorado.
Its nothing fancy and its not particularly scenic , but its conveniently located, accessible to all vehicles, and usually pretty quiet .
Although its far from the mountains, Flagler Reservoir does have its own unique beauty. The reservoir is often dry or nearly dry, but wildlife, especially birds, are abundant. Plus, the area is surrounded with trees, shrubs, cacti, and, even, wildflowers at the right time of the year.
This is a great spot for boondocking in RVs and trailers, even big rigs. Although passenger vehicles and tent campers can find more private sites around the dry lake bed, most RVs and trailers stick to the large main gravel lot.
As mentioned above, Flagler Reservoir is no longer completely free. A Colorado hunting or fishing license or SWA pass is now required for camping. Luckily, a 1-day SWA pass is just $9.00 while an annual SWA pass is currently $36.71.
What I Like:
This free campsite is just off I-70. The access road is well-maintained and theres space at the reservoir for all vehicles, even the biggest RVs and trailers. Its typically very quiet and peaceful here. The scenery might not be as stunning as the mountains, but its beautiful in its own right.
What I Dont Like:
Campfire Tips While Dispersed Camping In Colorado
Most dispersed campsites have a small rock fire ring, built by hikers rather than by land managers. These rings are sufficient for containing small fires but are not nearly as protective as a metal fire ring. Therefore, keep campfires small when using rock campfire rings, as sparks and embers easily spread beyond them. In dry conditions, this can quickly cause a brushfire that grows out of control.
When collecting firewood, use only dead wood already on the ground, and grab sticks smaller than your arm in width. Cutting down sticks or logs is a bad idea, as it speeds up erosion and destroys potential wildlife habitats. Never collect wood near the tree line as growth here takes centuries. Removing wood removes vital nutrients from the area that plants depend on. If possible, skip a campfire entirely while dispersed camping and use a camping stove instead.
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Mount Herman Road Pike National Forest
Mount Herman Road, Pike National Forest | Image Source The Dyrt
This trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Colorado. The site offers spectacular views of Pike National Forest along with Mount Evans, Bierstadt, and Evans. You can also come here during winter but conditions will be rough due to heavy snowfall.
Best Seasons
The best time to visit this location is from June till October when rainfall is minimal. However, you can also come during winter but prepare yourself for possible snowstorms.
Closest Town
Bailey is the closest town to this location.
Map Coordinates
The Hotspots For Free Camping In Colorado
- Amanda Williams
Looking for free camping sites in Colorado?
Youre in luck. Colorado is home to some of the best free camping sites in the United States with spectacular views of the Rockies.
Free camping offers you the chance to go on a budget camping trip and without making reservations. This post will provide you with information on free dispersed sites in Colorado.
Whether its your first time or your hundredth time at free camping, there is always something new and exciting about sleeping under the stars in majestic surroundings.
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State And Federal Campgrounds
Visitors to Colorado National Monument bordering Grand Junction can camp among red-rock canyons and mesas. The 32-square-mile park includes Saddlehorn, a rustic area with 80 sites for tents or RVs. Some of the sites are pull-through, but there are no showers or electric hookups. Sites do include grills and picnic tables. At James M. RobbColorado River State Park there are two campgrounds: Fruita Section and Island Acres. Both have sites with either full hookups or electric hookups, laundry areas and dump stations.
Why Youll Love Palisade Basecamp Rv Resort
People love staying at Palisade Basecamp RV Resort due to the beautiful scenery, the charming town, and the variety of adventurous activities. The resort is greatly maintained by an amazing staff. Palisade Basecamp RV Resort offers a vast amount of amenities and opportunities, making it a top location to stay at in Colorado.
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Colorado National Monument Boondocking Locations Jouflas Campground Rabbit Valley
AddressElevation: 4688
Management: Bureau of Land Management
The road into this Colorado National Monument free campsite area is Gravel. Jouflas Campground Rabbit Valley is open March to mid-December. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Jouflas Campground Rabbit Valley.
Best Review:
Designated sites, areas to pull off to park, benches at each and tent spaces built up, plus a vault toilet! Couldnt ask for better for a free site. Road slightly bumpy on the way in, but easier to avoid the dips in most places.
Canyon View Rv Resort
Convenience is king at Canyon View RV Resort. Located right off I-70, Colorados most important artery, the RV park is at a perfect location from which to explore Grand Junction, as well as continue on your way to your next great adventure.
Canyon View is one of the most clean and well-kept RV parks in Grand Junction, with beautiful landscaping and top-notch amenities. As the name suggests, Canyon View is one of the best home bases from which to explore the western slope of the Rocky Mountains and the rust-colored canyons that surround them.
Canyon View has 160 sites, each with a concrete patio, private lawn, fire ring, and picnic table. Wi-Fi is provided for all guests, but you can choose to upgrade to fiber optic internet if you need a little more oomph.
Canyon View has a wide array of sites. Some can accommodate RVs that are 40 foot by 90 foot. Many sites have full hookups, while others provide 20-amp power and water. If youre bringing your dog, a fenced-in dog run is also available.
Speaking of amenities, the RV park features a swimming pool, playground, clubhouse with game room, pavilion with barbecues, and individual bathrooms and showers. Youll also find an espresso bar, store, laundry, and plenty of sports courts.
Address: 746 23 1/2 Road, Grand Junction, Colorado
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Where To Find Free Camping In Colorado
If you want to find hotspots for free camping in Colorado, then visit Mountain Biking Trails or Cycling Trails. These trails offer good opportunities for free camping and hiking.
The best seasons to travel in Colorado are from June till October when rainfall is minimal. However, conditions become rough during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Colorado National Monument Boondocking Sites North Fruita Desert Blm
AddressElevation: 4987
Management: Bureau of Land Management
The road into this Colorado National Monument boondocking site is Dirt and About 4 miles from a paved road. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 Days at North Fruita Desert BLM.
Best Review:
Nice campsite that is easy to get to. Sign says that in early fall 2021 they are going to start requiring reservations for the established camp sites. Bathroom available with Punic benches and fire pits at each spot.
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Molas Pass Silverton The Place Called An All
The pass is an ideal roadside stop for travelers who want to stretch their legs and breath in the fresh mountain air. Moreover, you can enjoy free camping here along with hiking trails for your hiking pleasure.
Best Seasons
The right season to come here is from June till October when rainfall is minimal. You can also try during the winter months but conditions might get rough due to heavy snowfall.
Closest Town
Silverton is the closest town to this location.
Map Coordinates
37°4416N 107°4153W
Main Public Transport
Campsites for sale or rent from private sellers
Colorado National Monument Boondocking Locations Grand Valley Blm Orv Area
AddressElevation: 4877
Management: Bureau of Land Management
The road into this Colorado National Monument free campsite area is Dirt and 1-7 miles from a paved road. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. This spot, just outside of Grand Junction below the Book Cliffs, is primarily an ORV area.
Best Review:
I only stayed here one night, getting in near Sunset and leaving at dawn. The spot I had was nothing fancy, there may be better further in. Roads are rough, but not to bad however I would suspect that the mud gets very bad when wet, including during the summer monsoon.
There are probably areas here worth further effort. It might help to check in with the BLM office which is located near the airport, right near one of the access points.
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James M Robb Co River State Park Island Acres Campground
If you want to be close to the water during your camping experience, Island Acres Section Campground is the prime location to spend your vacation. A huge selection of sites awaits you at Island Acres, where you will be surrounded by three fishing lakes as well as a swimming hole to cool off in during the summertime.
- Closest Town: Palisade , Grand Junction
- Specs: 78 total sites on the Colorado River, many w/ full-hookup or electric-only services, tent-only campsites as well
- Amenities: Restrooms, coin showers, laundry, 3 fishing lakes and a swimming hole, 2 playgrounds
- Reservations: Yes, at CPWShop.com
- Address: 1055 I-70, Palisade, CO 81526
- Directions: From Grand Junction, use I-70 E to travel for about 10 miles. Take Exit 47, which will have signs for James M. Robb Colorado River State Park. Turn left, then continue for 3/4 of a mile, then make a right. Take another right onto D loop to arrive at the campground.
Campgrounds In Palisade Co
Number of Sites: 71 sitesFee: $40-84/night , $22-48/night Site Type:RVs, Tents, CabinsReservations: Recommended for peak season.Season: Open all year, although some services not available in winter
Some campers will find it worthwhile to travel a bit further from the monument to enjoy a stay at this deluxe campground. Palisade Basecamp is a sprawling accommodation that offers a variety of sites with views of the river and surrounding vineyards. The campground is about a half hours drive from either entrance of Colorado National Monument, although there are a handful of nice biking and hiking trails within a couple miles of Palisade Basecamp. Prices vary depending on your travel dates, and extended stay discounts are available. Amenities include restrooms, wifi, laundry, a pet area, a pool, and a general store.
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