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Established Camping

Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725)

6 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Canyons of the Ancients, near Cortez, Colorado, is a unique camping location that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With no facilities on-site, it’s perfect for those who appreciate a more rugged experience, allowing you to truly connect with the outdoors.

The area is known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great choice for solitude seekers. Visitors have enjoyed exploring the nearby trails, including those leading to ancient Pueblo ruins, and some have even gone on the hunt for arrowheads. One camper mentioned, “I could live here,” highlighting the allure of the remote setting.

Accessing the site involves a bumpy drive, but the journey is worth it for the breathtaking scenery. Campers have noted the abundance of fire pits and hidden spots for setting up tents, which adds to the charm of this location. Just be prepared for some wind, as it can get breezy at night.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature, Canyons of the Ancients is a fantastic choice. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as the area is pristine and deserves to stay that way.

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Location

Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) is located in Colorado

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.38923668 N
108.80358818 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Cannonball Mesa

Cannonball Mesa

28 min away

House Creek Campground

House Creek Campground

1 hr 25 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews

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17%

4.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

Quinn S.
Reviewed Dec. 23, 2024

Coolest spot

10/10 would recommend. Road is a little rocky once you get off the gravel road but totally worth it. Plenty of camp spots right on the edge with an incredible view. Up there with one of the coolest spots I’ve ever stayed at.

SiteFurthest right spot when you get to the ridge
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by Quinn S., December 23, 2024
Aspen H.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Apr. 22, 2022

I could live here

I really wish I could live here but it takes a minute to civilization. Even better. This was my second year coming to this campground. I explored it way more than last time! Whenever I’ve been here it’s been pretty empty. If you travel down from the camp spots you’ll find yourself kind of in a canyon. I like walking it and spending time by myself. Clean up the trash if ye find it! I dragged quite a few cans out. It’s all good. Nearby there are trails for horses and such. Ancient canyons monument trails are nearby. We did a 13 mile hike of Pueblo ruins. My partner and I looked for arrowheads all over. I think he found a clue! Aliens won’t get you here tho, it’s wooded enough. My favorite view tho. Great yoga spots. Go to Mesa verde

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by Aspen H., April 22, 2022
  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by Aspen H., April 22, 2022
  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by Aspen H., April 22, 2022
  • (8) View All
a
Reviewed Feb. 18, 2022

views were awesome

a dirt road the whole way back. it’s about a 5 mile drive to the camping site. we didn’t drive all the back until the morning. we stopped at the overlook and stayed there it had a fire pit and really cool views

Siteno numbers
Month of VisitFebruary
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  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by abigail , February 18, 2022
E
Reviewed May. 29, 2021

Gross

Honestly would be nice sites, but there are skeletons and bones everywhere. Very creepy.

Month of VisitMay
J
Reviewed May. 14, 2021

High clearance but quiet

When coming from the north, turn left at the sign for canyons of the ancient national monument. The road is ROUGH. Driving a Nissan Rogue we only wanted to go the the first spot on the road, it was very bumpy and rocky. However, there were lots of spots and not very many people.

Good hammock in areas, lots of fire pits and hidden places to do your business (responsibly of course).

There was a deer skeleton hung from a tree which is why this review isn’t a five.

Sitefirst on the road
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by Jennifer , May 14, 2021
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Canyons of the Ancients, Sand Canyon (Road 4725) by Jennifer , May 14, 2021
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LThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 8, 2020

Beautiful, peaceful dispersed camping.

No facilities at all.  Fairly good access road, although we did not venture far as it was only an overnight stop.  Would advise caution as a high clearance/4x4 was definitely an advantage once we left the main access road.  

Amazing views.  It was VERY windy the night we stayed, so tuck back into the bushes with your tent for some protection.

Month of VisitAugust
Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the camping regulations at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument?

Canyons of the Ancients offers primitive dispersed camping with no facilities. Camping is permitted in established sites along Road 4725. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. Existing fire rings should be used where available. The area is remote, so campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies including water. Be aware that this is a culturally sensitive area with archaeological significance, so stay on established roads and respect any posted regulations regarding cultural resources.

What camping options are available near Cortez, CO for visiting Canyons of the Ancients?

The primary camping option is dispersed camping along Road 4725 within Canyons of the Ancients itself. These primitive sites are about a 5-mile drive on dirt roads from the main entrance and offer amazing views with existing fire rings at some locations. For those wanting amenities, Cortez has several developed campgrounds and RV parks within a short drive of the monument. Mesa Verde National Park also offers camping options nearby with more facilities. The monument's remote location means it's about a 20-30 minute drive from Cortez to reach the Sand Canyon area where most dispersed camping is located.

Where can I camp at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument?

Camping at Canyons of the Ancients is primarily along Road 4725 in the Sand Canyon area. The access road is fairly good initially, but becomes rougher as you progress. There are multiple dispersed camping spots along this dirt road, with some of the best sites located about 5 miles in. Many spots offer incredible views, especially those positioned right on the edge of the canyon. High clearance vehicles are recommended as the road gets bumpy and rocky, particularly when leaving the main access road.

Is there camping available near Sand Canyon Pueblo?

Yes, camping is available near Sand Canyon Pueblo. When approaching from the north, turn left at the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument sign to access the camping area. The road is rough and rocky, but there are several good camping spots along Road 4725. Some sites offer scenic overlooks with fire pits. These dispersed sites are located within a reasonable distance of Sand Canyon Pueblo, making them convenient for exploring the archaeological site. The area is typically not crowded, providing a peaceful camping experience.

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