Cortez camping options sit at approximately 6,200 feet elevation in the high desert of southwestern Colorado. Temperatures fluctuate significantly between day and night, often dropping 30-40 degrees after sunset even in summer months. Seasonal yurt camping near Cortez provides weather-resistant shelter during unpredictable mountain weather patterns that can bring sudden thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Hike ancient cliff dwellings: Mesa Verde National Park offers ranger-led tours of multiple archaeological sites. "Staying here makes for an easy morning before some ranger led tours. The park is big. If you have the option to stay here, stay here," notes a visitor at Morefield Campground.
Explore nearby mountain trails: The San Juan National Forest adjacent to Mancos State Park provides numerous hiking options. "The park adjoins the San Juan National Forest, including multiple hiking trails, the Chicken Creek cross country ski area, the Sawtooth and Millwood trails, and other trails," writes a camper at Mancos State Park.
Visit local dining spots: The town of Mancos offers unexpected culinary options. "The local bakery and coffee roaster were top-notch. The cider garden made for a great evening. We will make our way back just for more time in this beautiful small town," says a reviewer who stayed at Mancos State Park.
What campers like
Free hot showers: Unlike many national park campgrounds, Morefield offers complimentary shower facilities. "The hot showers were amazing. Free and unlimited hot water. Just not enough hooks," mentions one camper at Morefield Campground.
Communal kitchen access: Some campgrounds provide cooking facilities that conserve camper water supplies. "The kitchen was super handy so we didn't have to tap into our water tank for dishes," explains a guest at Bright Star Campground, which offers a fully appointed public kitchen with ice machine.
Entertainment options: Several campgrounds provide recreational activities on-site. "They have foosball table, cornhole boards and ping pong to name a few!" reports a visitor at Bright Star Campground. Another camper adds, "We even had Easter candy and eggs in the office and outside the door for the kiddos."
What you should know
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions can change rapidly with intense storms. "Campers should be prepared for sudden and severe weather. The high desert location can bring intense storms with strong winds. During our stay, our tent nearly flew away despite being staked down securely," warns a visitor at Morefield Campground.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. "Stayed here a week in October it was wonderful," notes a camper at Bright Star Campground. Another mentions arriving to find "owners were working hard on site to get the teepees up for the season."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Road noise is not awesome. Try to get the sites furthest back," advises a guest at Target Tree Campground, while another mentions "nearby highway is a little noisy."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some campgrounds offer swimming facilities for hot afternoons. "The campground features a heated (seasonal) swimming pool, a 1-mile walking trail, dog park, and even tepees in addition to cabins," mentions a visitor at Cortez, Mesa Verde KOA.
River activities: Certain locations provide water recreation. "Floating the river with the family was a big hit. We will be going back again," says a camper who stayed at Dolores River RV Resort.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for sites with dedicated play areas. "They had a cool playground area for the kids with a fire pit to hang around," notes a Dolores River RV Resort visitor. Another camper adds, "Great place with things to do for all ages. Swing set, fishing, and hiking."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose location based on specific needs. "We were in site 171 and have a 33 ft 5th wheel. Some of the sites were a little tricky to get in for big campers," explains a visitor at Morefield Campground.
Yurt camping alternatives: For RVers seeking alternative accommodations, yurt camping near Cortez, Colorado provides solid structures during travel breaks. "One end of the Campground has cabins, yurts, Prarie Schooner wagons, and triframe cabins. All along the gorgeous Dolores River. This would be the perfect spot to meet with friends or family who don't have an RV," describes a guest at Dolores River RV Resort.
Utility considerations: Check hookup locations before setting up. "The only ding that I'd give this place is that there may be some power issues depending on the site. Thank God we had the surge protector and that I tested the outlet before plugging into the RV," warns a visitor at Lightner Creek Campground.
