Camping near Campo, Colorado offers options for travelers seeking remote Panhandle experiences with limited services between towns. The area sits at approximately 4,400 feet elevation where the high plains meet the Oklahoma and Kansas borders, creating distinct seasonal challenges from summer heat to occasional winter storms. Cell service throughout the region can be unpredictable, with some campgrounds reporting no reception.
What to do
Star gazing opportunities: Black Mesa State Park Campground is known for exceptional night skies and astronomical viewing. "There is a dark sky viewing area above the campground," notes one visitor. The remote location minimizes light pollution, making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
Bird watching excursions: The wetland areas in Cimarron Campground - Cimarron National Grassland provide habitats for diverse bird species. "The area is fantastic for bird lovers, and we watched flocks of Starlings tuck themselves into the marsh grasses for the night. Raptors, warblers, and many other bird species use the area as a fly-over stop during migration," reports a camper.
Historical exploration: Visit the Santa Fe Trail sections within the grasslands. "23 miles Santa Fe Trail are within the Parks boundaries," explains one reviewer at Cimarron National Grassland. The trail follows the original path of the old wagon trail through the plains, offering historical context to your camping trip.
Hiking Black Mesa: The highest point in Oklahoma is accessible from camping areas. "I came to this area to summit the high point of Oklahoma," states a Black Mesa State Park Campground visitor. "The park itself has some nice options and amenities. Take a drive north and view the beautiful scenery including the Black Mesa site."
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: The transition to semi-arid climate brings unique wildlife viewing. "Upon entering the park we were greeted by a small herd of pronghorn deer bouncing along the road. We also ran into a herd of mule deer in the park that were quite accustomed to people," shares a visitor about Black Mesa State Park.
Budget-friendly accommodations: Prairie RV Park in Elkhart offers affordable options. "Full hook ups, level sites. Pay on the honor system. No amenities but towns nearby are cute. Great stop if you are passing through," says one reviewer who appreciated the value.
Quiet, secluded camping: Thompson Grove Boondocking provides free camping with basic amenities. "It is what it is. Nothing but flat plains as far as you can see. Great for a stop over. No water," notes one camper. Another adds, "Great for an overnight stop. Level, trees, and clean pit toilets."
Scenic contrast: The landscape quickly transitions from grasslands to more dramatic terrain. "Shortly before arrival from the east the grass turns golden and you begin to see varieties of cactus and yucca," describes a Cimarron National Grassland visitor. "After heading west out of the park to Black Mesa itself the geography changes rapidly from small limestone formations and boulders to large sandstone canyons out of a Wild West movie."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme. "Plan for heat and take plenty of water if you go on the High Point hike," advises a Black Mesa visitor. The exposed plains offer little shade, making summer camping challenging without proper cooling.
Limited services: Most campgrounds in the region operate with minimal staff. "I had zero cell service in the area, which was fantastic, but be sure to plan for it!" warns a reviewer. Another visitor to Thompson Grove Campground notes: "It's really just a gravel parking lot with bathrooms. Easy to get here and great stars."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires traveling rough roads. "If you're traveling here on Stevens County roads with gravel and 65mph speeds, sloooooow down and get off to the side as people approach you from the opposite direction," cautions a visitor to Cimarron Recreation Area. "Those 'Stevens Co not responsible for broken windshields' signs are there for a reason."
Self-registration systems: Many campgrounds use honor systems for payment. "Pull in, select your site, complete the registration and put it in the drop box," explains a review of RV camping near Campo, Colorado. "It does not seem to be rigorously overseen (there were no envelopes in which to put my $7 overnight fee)," adds a Cimarron Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystems provide natural learning environments. "Bobwhite, and coyote, deer and other birds spotted through the Park," mentions a Cimarron National Grassland visitor, making it an excellent place for wildlife spotting with children.
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds offer facilities for children. "Small playground nearby," notes a Cimarron National Grassland reviewer, adding that the "nice fishing at small ponds" provides additional activities for families.
Insect preparation: The grassland environment can have significant insect activity. "Flies were a bit bad in the early afternoon but settled down at night," shares a Cimarron camper. Bringing proper insect protection is essential for comfortable family camping.
Educational exhibits: Wild Bills RV & Trailer Park offers nearby attractions. "There is some mini golf and a few cool places to take photos," mentions a reviewer, providing additional entertainment options for families during RV camping near Campo, Colorado.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: RV campers note the need for flexibility with utilities. "The sites were decent and spaced out well. They also included a covered area where the picnic table was. Not a ton of shade overall so it can get warm fast," reports a Black Mesa visitor regarding RV camping.
Tree clearance: Some campgrounds have low-hanging branches. "CAUTION: Before you get to site 1, there are 2 trees the one on the left has the scars to show the damage it has done to taller vehicles," warns a Cimarron National Grassland reviewer.
Generator considerations: Noise can affect the camping experience. "Sites are separated but you will hear generators from nearby neighbors," notes a Cimarron camper, indicating the importance of generator etiquette when multiple RVs are present.
Level sites: Finding level parking is crucial for RV comfort. "The campground was clean, bathrooms were clean, and very quiet. Spots filled up a bit towards the end of the evening with about half occupied for overnight stays," explains a visitor to Cimarron National Grassland about their experience with RV camping near Campo.
