Looking for the best campgrounds near Mesa Lakes, CO? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Mesa Lakes, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
James M. Robb Colorado River - Island Acres Section Camping, near Clifton, CO, is a gem tucked away in a canyon with stunning river and cliff views. This spot is open year-round and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations. It's a great place to rest if you're traveling along I-70, with easy access to the highway.
The campground has a lot going for it. You can enjoy a nice trail along the Colorado River, perfect for a morning or evening stroll. The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with amenities like electric hookups, drinking water, and clean showers. There's even a playground for the kids and covered picnic tables for a comfortable meal outdoors.
Visitors have noted the convenience of being close to Palisade's farmland and Grand Junction's amenities. Whether you're looking to explore local wineries or need to run some errands, everything is within a short drive. The campground also offers good cell service, with 5G coverage for both Verizon and AT&T users, making it easy to stay connected.
While the proximity to I-70 means you'll hear some road noise, most campers find it manageable. The scenery more than makes up for it, with the canyon walls lighting up beautifully at sunrise. If you're into fishing, the river provides a peaceful spot to cast a line.
Overall, this campground is a fantastic stopover with plenty of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer stay, you'll find it a comfortable and scenic place to camp.
Palisade Basecamp RV Resort, your premier camping destination offers Cabins, RV Sites, and Riverside Tent Camping. Nestled between fruit orchards and wine vineyards along the river in picturesque Palisade, Colorado.
The 14-acre campground and RV resort is conveniently located near I-70 and Highway 6, directly off the Fruit and Wine Byway of North River Road. We are only one mile from historic downtown Palisade and located near the world-renowned mountain bike trails, wineries, orchards, and festivals of western Colorado.
Choose your site along a vineyard, down along the river, or up on the bluff looking over the river and surrounding peach orchards, and encounter a one-of-a-kind camping experience.
$43 - $137 / night
Saddlehorn Campground is located within Colorado National Monument which preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West. Much more than a monument, towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. You can experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.
Colorado National Monument is famous in cycling communities for its majestic views and challenging climbs, but Historic Rim Rock Drive is also a popular motor tour. Hikers flock to the miles of maintained trails, photographers come year round to capture the spectacular views, and geologists study the unique landscape for its scientific value. Climbers come for the towering sandstone, and wildlife lovers may spot Desert Bighorn sheep, golden eagles, collared lizards, and many other special creatures.
Colorado National Monument is famous in cycling communities for its majestic views and challenging climbs, but Historic Rim Rock Drive is also a popular motor tour. Hikers flock to the miles of maintained trails, photographers come year round to capture the spectacular views, and geologists study the unique landscape for its scientific value. Climbers come for the towering sandstone, and wildlife lovers may spot Desert Bighorn sheep, golden eagles, collared lizards, and many other special creatures.
The campground is nestled within large red rock formations, with pinyon and juniper trees providing adequate shade. There are spectacular views of the Grand Valley to the northwest, and some of the park's most scenic monoliths and canyons to the southeast
The cities of Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade boast many urban and agricultural attractions, but there are also abundant recreation areas surrounding the Monument. Among these are McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, Highline Lake State Park, and many Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service areas.
For facility specific information, please call (970) 858-2800.
$11 / night
Welcome to the Grand Junction KOA, a fantastic spot near Grand Junction, Colorado. This place has everything you need for a comfortable stay, whether you're in a tent or an RV. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the privacy walls between the back-in sites, which many visitors appreciate. The facilities are top-notch, with clean showers, toilets, and a well-maintained laundry area. There's even a cute pool for the kids to splash around in. If you're traveling with pets, you'll be happy to know they're welcome here too.
The campground is conveniently located near Highway 50, making it easy to get to. While you might hear some road noise, most folks find it manageable and not too disruptive. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, always ready to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
For those who like to stay connected, the Wi-Fi here is solid. And if you need to stock up on supplies, there's a market on-site. Firewood is available too, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire in the evening.
If you're looking to explore the area, you're in luck. The campground is just a short drive from historic downtown Grand Junction, where you can find great dining options like Dragon Treasure for Asian cuisine, Snooks Bottom for BBQ, and Azteca for Mexican food. Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, including a playground and a bounce pad.
Overall, the Grand Junction KOA offers a comfortable and convenient camping experience with plenty of amenities to make your stay enjoyable. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer visit, this campground has got you covered.
A camping trip to the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park makes for a beautiful getaway for sightseeing, stargazing, and hiking. The park protects the most dramatic section of the Gunnison River Canyon; no other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths of Black Canyon.
Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).
Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).
Perched on the South Rim of the Black Canyon, this campground is surrounded by scrub oak forests and sits atop ancient hard rocks. Deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are known to frequent the area.
Visit the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route. Head upstream to Curecanti National Recreation Area to enjoy water recreation on Colorado's largest reservoir.
$34 / night
Jumbo Campground is located on the northern slope of Colorado's Grand Mesa, in the Mesa Lakes area, which is home to over 300 lakes. Visitors enjoy the area for its great fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities.
Jumbo and Sunset Lakes are open to non-motorized watercraft, making each a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide still more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. The West Bench Trail No. 501 is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. This popular path stretches several miles through the surrounding area.
Jumbo and Sunset Lakes are open to non-motorized watercraft, making each a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide still more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. The West Bench Trail No. 501 is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. This popular path stretches several miles through the surrounding area.
The campground is situated between Jumbo and Sunset Lakes along the Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway, at an elevation of 9,800 feet. A forest of mature spruce and aspen trees covers the area. Most sites have views of the lakes. A variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, frequents the area.
The Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway offers 63 miles of scenic driving as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor, up to the forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Many trailheads can be found along the byway. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is a short drive from the campground, at Island Lake. The center offers interpretive exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing over 50 native species. The town of Cedaredge is 26 miles from the campground. It is home to Pioneer Town, a 19th Century village with frontier museums and more than 20 structures. A historic schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail can be seen in the town. Cedaredge's "Applefest" festival is held annually in October.
$72 / night
Black Canyon Dispersed Camping near Montrose, CO, is a no-frills spot perfect for those who love the raw beauty of nature without the fuss of amenities. This area is open year-round and offers a simple, scenic escape just a stone's throw from the entrance to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
The sites here are all dirt and nestled among the trees, providing a quiet and secluded atmosphere. You won't find any toilets, showers, or drinking water, so come prepared. Fires are allowed, but you'll need to bring your own firewood. Pets are welcome, and there's no need for a permit, making it a hassle-free option for a spontaneous getaway.
Visitors have praised the stunning views and the abundance of wildlife. You might hear turkeys, chickadees, and woodpeckers during your stay. Some campers have even spotted deer and, on rare occasions, bears. The area is also known for its beautiful sunrises and sunsets, with panoramic views that are hard to beat.
Access can be a bit tricky, especially if it rains, as the dirt roads can become rutted. Low-clearance vehicles might struggle, so it's best to have a high-clearance vehicle if you plan to venture beyond the first few sites. Despite the rough roads, many campers have found the effort worthwhile for the peace and beauty of the location.
If you're looking for a quiet, scenic spot to pitch a tent and enjoy the great outdoors, Black Canyon Dispersed Camping is a solid choice. Just remember to pack out what you pack in and leave no trace to keep this beautiful area pristine for future visitors.
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
Fruita Section Camping at James M. Robb Colorado River State Park is a solid spot if you're looking for convenience and some decent amenities. Nestled near Clifton, CO, this campground is a stone's throw from I-70, making it a handy stopover for road trippers.
The campground is well-maintained with spacious sites, perfect for both tents and RVs. You’ll find electric hookups, showers, and clean restrooms. Pets are welcome, and there are picnic tables at each site. The place is big rig friendly, so no worries if you're hauling a larger setup.
One of the standout features is its proximity to the Colorado River. There are two ponds and some walking trails nearby, which are great for a stroll, especially if you’ve got dogs. The camp hosts are friendly and keep the place in good shape.
Some visitors have mentioned that the noise from the highway can be a bit much, but if you’re just passing through or can sleep through a bit of traffic, it’s not a deal-breaker. The views are pretty nice, and the campground itself is quite clean.
If you’re planning to stay, just remember there’s no drinking water available on-site, so bring your own. Also, while there are no sewer hookups, there is a sanitary dump station.
Overall, Fruita Section Camping is a convenient and pleasant spot, especially if you need a break on your journey or a quick getaway near the river.
$30 / night
James M. Robb Colorado River - Island Acres Section Camping, near Clifton, CO, is a gem tucked away in a canyon with stunning river and cliff views. This spot is open year-round and offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations. It's a great place to rest if you're traveling along I-70, with easy access to the highway.
The campground has a lot going for it. You can enjoy a nice trail along the Colorado River, perfect for a morning or evening stroll. The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with amenities like electric hookups, drinking water, and clean showers. There's even a playground for the kids and covered picnic tables for a comfortable meal outdoors.
Visitors have noted the convenience of being close to Palisade's farmland and Grand Junction's amenities. Whether you're looking to explore local wineries or need to run some errands, everything is within a short drive. The campground also offers good cell service, with 5G coverage for both Verizon and AT&T users, making it easy to stay connected.
While the proximity to I-70 means you'll hear some road noise, most campers find it manageable. The scenery more than makes up for it, with the canyon walls lighting up beautifully at sunrise. If you're into fishing, the river provides a peaceful spot to cast a line.
Overall, this campground is a fantastic stopover with plenty of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer stay, you'll find it a comfortable and scenic place to camp.
Instant BookPalisade Basecamp RV Resort, your premier camping destination offers Cabins, RV Sites, and Riverside Tent Camping. Nestled between fruit orchards and wine vineyards along the river in picturesque Palisade, Colorado.
The 14-acre campground and RV resort is conveniently located near I-70 and Highway 6, directly off the Fruit and Wine Byway of North River Road. We are only one mile from historic downtown Palisade and located near the world-renowned mountain bike trails, wineries, orchards, and festivals of western Colorado.
Choose your site along a vineyard, down along the river, or up on the bluff looking over the river and surrounding peach orchards, and encounter a one-of-a-kind camping experience.
$43 - $137 / night
Saddlehorn Campground is located within Colorado National Monument which preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West. Much more than a monument, towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. You can experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.
Colorado National Monument is famous in cycling communities for its majestic views and challenging climbs, but Historic Rim Rock Drive is also a popular motor tour. Hikers flock to the miles of maintained trails, photographers come year round to capture the spectacular views, and geologists study the unique landscape for its scientific value. Climbers come for the towering sandstone, and wildlife lovers may spot Desert Bighorn sheep, golden eagles, collared lizards, and many other special creatures.
Colorado National Monument is famous in cycling communities for its majestic views and challenging climbs, but Historic Rim Rock Drive is also a popular motor tour. Hikers flock to the miles of maintained trails, photographers come year round to capture the spectacular views, and geologists study the unique landscape for its scientific value. Climbers come for the towering sandstone, and wildlife lovers may spot Desert Bighorn sheep, golden eagles, collared lizards, and many other special creatures.
The campground is nestled within large red rock formations, with pinyon and juniper trees providing adequate shade. There are spectacular views of the Grand Valley to the northwest, and some of the park's most scenic monoliths and canyons to the southeast
The cities of Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade boast many urban and agricultural attractions, but there are also abundant recreation areas surrounding the Monument. Among these are McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, Highline Lake State Park, and many Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service areas.
For facility specific information, please call (970) 858-2800.
$11 / night
Welcome to the Grand Junction KOA, a fantastic spot near Grand Junction, Colorado. This place has everything you need for a comfortable stay, whether you're in a tent or an RV. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the privacy walls between the back-in sites, which many visitors appreciate. The facilities are top-notch, with clean showers, toilets, and a well-maintained laundry area. There's even a cute pool for the kids to splash around in. If you're traveling with pets, you'll be happy to know they're welcome here too.
The campground is conveniently located near Highway 50, making it easy to get to. While you might hear some road noise, most folks find it manageable and not too disruptive. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, always ready to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
For those who like to stay connected, the Wi-Fi here is solid. And if you need to stock up on supplies, there's a market on-site. Firewood is available too, so you can enjoy a cozy campfire in the evening.
If you're looking to explore the area, you're in luck. The campground is just a short drive from historic downtown Grand Junction, where you can find great dining options like Dragon Treasure for Asian cuisine, Snooks Bottom for BBQ, and Azteca for Mexican food. Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, including a playground and a bounce pad.
Overall, the Grand Junction KOA offers a comfortable and convenient camping experience with plenty of amenities to make your stay enjoyable. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer visit, this campground has got you covered.
A camping trip to the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park makes for a beautiful getaway for sightseeing, stargazing, and hiking. The park protects the most dramatic section of the Gunnison River Canyon; no other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths of Black Canyon.
Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).
Take one of many spectacular hiking trails such as the Oak Flat Loop Trail and watch for birds like the black-billed magpie. In summer, catch an evening educational program in the campground amphitheater.______ Winter activities include snowshoeing on Rim Rock Trail or go cross country skiing on South Rim Drive (South Rim Campground is first-come, first-served in winter).
Perched on the South Rim of the Black Canyon, this campground is surrounded by scrub oak forests and sits atop ancient hard rocks. Deer, grouse, bears, and bobcats are known to frequent the area.
Visit the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit to see railcars and the last remaining railroad trestle on the Black Canyon of the Gunnison route. Head upstream to Curecanti National Recreation Area to enjoy water recreation on Colorado's largest reservoir.
$34 / night
Jumbo Campground is located on the northern slope of Colorado's Grand Mesa, in the Mesa Lakes area, which is home to over 300 lakes. Visitors enjoy the area for its great fishing, canoeing and hiking opportunities.
Jumbo and Sunset Lakes are open to non-motorized watercraft, making each a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide still more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. The West Bench Trail No. 501 is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. This popular path stretches several miles through the surrounding area.
Jumbo and Sunset Lakes are open to non-motorized watercraft, making each a perfect place for canoeing and fishing. Anglers cast for brown, brook and rainbow trout. Numerous additional lakes in the area provide still more fishing and canoeing opportunities, as well as beautiful scenery. The West Bench Trail No. 501 is open to hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. This popular path stretches several miles through the surrounding area.
The campground is situated between Jumbo and Sunset Lakes along the Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway, at an elevation of 9,800 feet. A forest of mature spruce and aspen trees covers the area. Most sites have views of the lakes. A variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, frequents the area.
The Grand Mesa National Scenic and Historic Byway offers 63 miles of scenic driving as it climbs from the rugged canyon floor, up to the forested mesa tops at 11,000 feet. The road passes sparkling lakes and meadows bursting with wildflowers. Many trailheads can be found along the byway. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is a short drive from the campground, at Island Lake. The center offers interpretive exhibits, a bookstore and a high-altitude wildflower garden containing over 50 native species. The town of Cedaredge is 26 miles from the campground. It is home to Pioneer Town, a 19th Century village with frontier museums and more than 20 structures. A historic schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, saloon and jail can be seen in the town. Cedaredge's "Applefest" festival is held annually in October.
$72 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mesa Lakes, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mesa Lakes, CO offers a wide range of camping options, with 156 campgrounds and RV parks near Mesa Lakes, CO and 37 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mesa Lakes, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mesa Lakes, CO is James M. Robb Colorado River - Island Acres Section Camping with a 3.8-star rating from 31 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mesa Lakes, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 37 free dispersed camping spots near Mesa Lakes, CO.
What parks are near Mesa Lakes, CO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Mesa Lakes, CO that allow camping, notably Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Fore.
