Camping around De Beque offers access to the high desert terrain of western Colorado at elevations ranging from 4,900 to 5,500 feet. The area sits at the confluence of Plateau Creek and the Colorado River, with summer overnight temperatures typically dropping to the mid-50s despite hot daytime conditions. Access roads to dispersed camping areas frequently cross multiple land designations including Bureau of Land Management territory and Forest Service land.
What to do
Fishing in accessible waters: At Palisade Basecamp RV Resort, campers can access the Colorado River directly from the property. "The campground is beautiful, with the Colorado River on one side and peach orchards surrounding the rest," notes one visitor who enjoyed the river access.
Mountain biking on nearby trails: The Grand Junction Desert Road Recreation Area provides numerous riding opportunities with varied terrain. "I wish I had some kind of bike or OHV vehicle because this looks like such a sweet spot for free riding; there are hills and jumps everywhere," reports a camper who stayed at the location.
Wildlife viewing at higher elevations: When temperatures become too hot in the De Beque area, campers can head to Jumbo Campground at higher elevation where wildlife is abundant. A recent visitor observed, "We saw bald eagles, caught tons of rainbow trout, and even had a medium size bear come through a couple of times, who was never threatening, but looked like it was traveling along a set path to the next trout breakfast."
What campers like
Accessible water recreation: The Island Acres Section of James M. Robb Colorado River State Park receives praise for its water features. "The fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys," mentions one visitor. Another adds, "2 fishing ponds plus the river a swimming hole also."
Weather patterns favorable for extended seasons: Many dispersed camping areas near De Beque maintain accessibility during shoulder seasons. At Near De Buque Dispersed, a camper noted the area has "many dispersed camping sites" with reasonable road conditions even for non-4WD vehicles, stating "The road was decent and i made it easily in my toyota prius."
Varied camping environments within short distances: The region offers dramatic shifts in ecosystems within relatively short driving distances. At Saddlehorn Campground, a reviewer appreciates the "cozy campground with tent spots nestled in between the Junipers" and notes they have the "cleanest bathrooms I have seen at a campground."
What you should know
Road conditions change rapidly with weather: Access to many dispersed sites becomes challenging after precipitation. A visitor to Pyramid Rock Camp warned, "Do not go past the gravel road if it's rained or going to rain... Was kind of fun honestly but would not recommend for 99% of vehicles after/during any rain. Be sure to check the forecast and steer clear if there's any chance of rain."
Insect activity varies by season: Multiple campers note bug issues during certain periods. At Pyramid Rock Camp, one camper explained, "This place was beautiful! It really felt like the wild west... It would have been 5 stars if there weren't so many nats! bring some good bug repellent and it would be perfect. The bugs went away at night which allowed for good stargazing."
Navigation challenges with mapping apps: Several best places to camp near De Beque have inconsistent mapping information. One camper at Pyramid Rock Camp cautioned, "It was a great spot once I finally found it. Waze took me through privately owned land. Google had it right. There's a T in the road just outside of De Beque. Don't go on the road marked no outlet! Make the right instead."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: The reservoir at Rifle Gap State Park provides family-friendly water recreation. "We camped right on the lake, with a concrete pad, picnic table and the bathhouse was close by," notes a visitor who found this to be ideal for family activities.
Free-range exploration areas: The open terrain at dispersed camping sites allows children space to roam. A camper at Near De Buque Dispersed observed the "ancient tranquility that settles over you when you step into nature's embrace" while noting the area has "many spots along this road."
Entertainment options during extreme weather: When summer temperatures climb, families can find relief at Grand Junction KOA, which offers "a pool, mini golf, dog run, and general store" according to a reviewer who adds that "facilities were clean and in good shape."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies significantly: For RV campers requiring amenities, options range from dispersed to full-service. A visitor to Island Acres Section reported, "We stayed in loop D maybe 100 yards from interstate on other side of fence/tree line. If it was not for the that the park would be an awesome one."
Level sites for larger rigs: Pyramid Rock Camp provides accessible dispersed camping for larger vehicles. "Easy to find with Google maps. Plenty of open space. 15min off 70. Dirt road, a bit bumpy, but we easily pulled our 21ft Micro Minnie and it was doable for almost any vehicle," noted an RV camper.
Weather-dependent road access: RVers should check conditions before attempting dispersed camping areas. At Near De Buque Dispersed, a camper advised that "Roads would be slippery and have running water over them in rain. Check the weather if you are not confident in your car."
