Accessible by rough road through forested terrain, Buckeye Campground operates within the Manti-La Sal National Forest from mid-May through mid-September. The US Forest Service manages both reservable sites at $15-50 per night and free dispersed camping areas beyond the group section. RVs up to 74 feet can access the campground, though the approach requires careful navigation.
The campground sits near Buckeye Reservoir, where water levels fluctuate significantly based on seasonal conditions. Campers can launch kayaks directly from the shoreline or try their luck fishing. Melissa K. notes "by morning the wind had stopped all together and the lake was just glass." The dispersed sites offer better mountain views across the water, while reservable spots include picnic tables and closer access to vault toilets that reviewers consistently describe as well-maintained.
Wind can be intense during the day, prompting campers to seek shelter among the surrounding trees. Temperatures drop sharply after sunset, even during summer months. The area attracts both tent campers and RV users, with bicycle tourists occasionally passing through on multi-day rides. Cattle graze throughout the recreation area.
For those wanting additional options nearby, Buckeye Reservoir provides another camping choice just south of this location.
Description
Overview
The Buckeye Recreation Area is located adjacent to Buckeye Reservoir in Montrose County, Colorado. The area is popular for camping, OHV/ATV trails, hunting and fishing.Note: Some GPS or driving app directions are sending people on 4WD roads or to locked gates that are on private property. If you are unfamiliar with the area, please visit our "Facility Information - Getting Here" section for instructions on the best route to get to Buckeye Reservoir before reserving. DO NOT rely soley on Google Maps or Apple Maps for getting to this campground.
Recreation
Recreation in the area centers around the reservoir which provides excellent opportunities for fishing and canoeing. Forest roads in the area provide for off-highway vehicle touring and the nearby state lands provide motorized trails for Off-highway vehicles and motorcycles. The La Sal Mountains are nearby which provide many hiking and biking trails.
Facilities
The Buckeye Recreation Area is located adjacent to Buckeye Reservoir. The Recreation Area is spread out around the reservoir and consists of the Pioneer Campground (30 single family reservable campsites), a boat ramp for small fishing boats (5 HP motor limit and wakeless speed), a reservable group site, a day-use picnic area and 18 less developed dispersed campsites scattered around the reservoir. Campsites in the Pioneer Campground include graveled parking spurs, concrete picnic tables, fire rings, a utility table and access to vault toilets. There is a 14 day stay limit at this campground.
Natural Features
The recreation area is located in a valley at 7,600 feet in elevation and is set amongst mature stands of Ponderosa Pines. The high peaks of the La Sal Mountains are visible from much of the area. The scenic Paradox Valley and the town of Paradox, Colorado are located approximately 10 miles to the southeast.
Nearby Attractions
The scenic La Sal Mountains are very close to the area and provide numerous opportunities for recreation. Canyonlands and Arches National Parks are about 1.5 hour drive away from the area as well as numerous recreation opportunities around the towns of Monticello and Moab, Utah.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (435) 259-7155.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBuckeye Campground is located in Colorado
Directions
Best Route: Head south from Moab on US 191 for approximately 27 miles and turn left onto Highway 46 at La Sal Junction. Continue on Highway 46 for 32 miles into Paradox, Colorado. Turn left at 5.75 Road at the USFS sign. Continue to the T-intersection and left on U5 Road and follow the USFS signs to Buckeye Campground. It is about 13 miles on Forest Service Road 0371 from Paradox to Buckeye Campground and it is winding gravel road. Please drive with caution. Alternative Route: Very muddy or impassable when wet, please use caution and discretion: Head south from Moab on US 191 for approximately 27 miles and turn left onto Highway 46 at La Sal Junction. Continue about 12 miles and take a slight left at Upper Two Mile Road (Forest Service Road 0208). Continue on Upper Two Mile Road for approximately 18 miles. Follow the signs to Buckeye Campground. This route crosses private property, please respect the wishes and property and do not trespass on this land. Note: Some GPS or driving app directions are sending people on 4WD roads or to locked gates that are on private property. Please follow the above directions or make sure your alternative directions are accurate before following them.
Coordinates
38.4454417 N
109.0430722 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 3 min from Grand Junction, CO
- 3 hrs 40 min from Farmington, NM
- 4 hrs 30 min from Provo, UT
- 5 hrs 1 min from Salt Lake City, UT
