Tent campsites near Clifton, Colorado range from riverside spots along the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers to high-elevation sites with temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than the valley floor. The area sits at approximately 4,700 feet elevation, with surrounding camping options reaching up to 8,000 feet on Grand Mesa. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F during July and August, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping significantly.
What to do
Mountain biking on Kokopelli Trail: Access points near Jouflas Campground offer connections to extensive trail systems. "Jouflas is a chill spot... Otherwise somewhat secluded, and with a toilet. Pack in/out, but quite nice amenities for where it is. Even has tent pads," reports Kevin H.
River hiking along canyon bottoms: The Big Dominguez Campground provides access to several canyon trail systems. "We enjoyed the trail near by and we were the only ones here while camping over night, occasionally some ATV trails were used near by," notes Alex T. Many trails follow creek beds and require multiple water crossings.
Exploring historical sites: Visit abandoned homesteads and ranches within a 30-minute drive from tent sites. "There was a river hike, petroglyphs, a life saving cave on a hot day, and a wonderful abandoned ranch to explore," describes Glenna L. about her stay at Steamboat Rock Campground.
What campers like
Expansive river vistas: Knowles Overlook Campground features tent sites with panoramic views. "We woke up to this amazing view," shares Stoney P. "Driving for a few miles along a fairly compact but slightly washed out dirt road will drop you off right at a vista above the CO river," adds Alex.
Escape from highway noise: Campers seeking quiet often prefer canyon campgrounds over those near I-70. "I felt like the sites were close without being on top of each other," notes Kiri B. about Jouflas Campground. "No highway noise" is frequently mentioned as a benefit in reviews.
Well-maintained tent pads: Many campsites feature designated, level areas for tents. "Each site has a groomed, level tent site, picnic table, and fire pit," observed Alex at Knowles Overlook. At Jouflas, "Every site has a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring and ample parking," according to Kimbo B.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Most tent campsites require bringing all water. "No water or trash but pit toilets that are very clean," notes Aliza N. "Bring plenty of water," emphasizes Sam V. about Rattlesnake and Mee Canyons.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many tent sites require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. "Signs say high clearance 4x4 required, you could probably do it in dry weather slowly with 2 wheels," advises Trevor M. "The road was very windy and gravel/dirt. It wasn't too bad until the turn off to the campground," describes Melissa K.
Temperature fluctuations: Desert camping means preparing for extremes. "Bring your own shade because there is none and it gets hot here (102F in April)," warns Marcus F. "Absolutely no service bc it's the middle of the woods," adds Alex T., highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Grand Junction KOA offers family-friendly facilities. "Great for kids (jump pad, pool, mini golf, playground). Friendly staff and nice little front store for kids purchases," shares Kayce N. These amenities provide entertainment options during extreme heat.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many tent sites offer chances to see desert wildlife at dawn and dusk. "We climbed all over the rocks that were around our campsite and hiked to the top of the rock Peak. We could see for miles," describes ANGELIA about Steamboat Rock Campground.
Shade considerations: Most desert tent sites lack natural shade. "All sites are pretty large and have fire rings and a picnic table but very little shade to be found," warns Aliza N. "Bring an awning or something for shade," recommends Sam V., especially important when camping with children during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility limitations: Most primitive tent sites aren't suitable for larger RVs. "Larger campers would be probably doable, but pretty hard," notes Kelsey C. about Jouflas Campground. "The camping spaces were off-road but accessible by us and our small trailer, but I honestly can't say I'd do that road again."
Limited hookup options: Carson Lake Recreation Area and similar locations offer no services. "These spots are not for RVs or Trailers, most are for tent campers. The road access is steep from the mesa above. No water, no dumpsters, no cell signal," explains Greg L.
Self-contained requirements: RVers need complete supplies when visiting tent campsites. "Pack in/out, but quite nice amenities for where it is," reminds Kevin H. "Right off I-70 this place is great for people that don't need all the amenities that a proper campground offers," adds Megan B.
