Camping sites near Delta, Colorado range from primitive riverside spots to full-service RV parks, spanning elevations from 5,000 to 8,200 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer days often reaching 90°F in lower elevations while canyon areas remain 10-15 degrees cooler. Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions.
What to do
Hiking along canyon rims: The North Rim Campground offers access to several rim trails. "There is a nice hike from the campground to the visitor center and around down a little ways into a canyon. A wilderness permit is required to go further into the canyon however," notes a visitor to North Rim Campground.
Swimming in designated areas: While many canyon waterways are dangerous for swimming, some areas do allow water recreation. One camper at The Potholes Recreation Site noted: "The water was too high (an unusually high year) to get in safely," indicating swimming is possible during lower water periods.
Fishing from accessible platforms: Cottonwood Grove Campground provides wheelchair-accessible fishing access. A camper reported: "The fishing platform is really a good addition for those physically compromised. Brown and rainbow fishing (rainbows should be immediately returned to the river)."
What campers like
Remote locations with minimal traffic: Many campers appreciate the solitude available just outside Delta. At Gunnison Gorge National Conservation, one visitor shared: "I found a turn off just before the coordinates and stayed there. Large space with lots of room for cars at this site. Right along the river, absolutely beautiful."
Canyon views from established sites: The dramatic landscape creates memorable camping experiences. A visitor to Black Canyon Dispersed Camping commented: "This is a really pretty campground near Montrose and Black Canyon NP entrance. We are in a Honda accord and didn't have trouble accessing the first front sites."
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife throughout the year. At Escalante Canyon Road Dispersed camping, one camper observed: "Not sure what to expect we gave this place a chance. Plus we wanted to have few days for ourselves during the memorial weekend. We got all of it, except with occasional ATVs passing by."
What you should know
Road conditions vary drastically: Many remote sites require careful vehicle consideration. A visitor to BLM Cottonwood Grove Campground warned: "The road in is dangerous when wet as there is a lot of exposure off the edge. An AWD would be ok but still dicey on the downhills."
Weather extremes require preparation: Temperature variations and sudden storms are common. One camper at North Rim Campground noted: "We had a wild thunder, lightning and wind storm with violent downdrafts—typical for this country."
Limited water access: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. A camper at South Rim Campground reported: "Campsites are open year round, but drinking water is only available mid-May through mid-October. Electric hookups are in Loop B which was closed for the season."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with facilities: Families often need reliable amenities. At Four Seasons River Inn & RV Park, a visitor shared: "Pretty campground with grass at the sites, a river a short walk away. There's a good portion of the campground with riverside sites, but limited for larger rigs."
Prepare for varied weather conditions: Temperature swings can affect comfort, especially for children. One camper at Escalante Canyon Road noted: "We stopped in late, the roads are smooth and there is a lot of places to pull off and have privacy... We went mid June, it got hot fast in the morning, but was pleasant enough in the night to not need a/c."
Look for shade options: Summer heat makes shade valuable. A visitor to Black Canyon Dispersed Camping observed: "This is a really pretty campground near Montrose and Black Canyon NP entrance... Great spot, simple and scenic with a lot of wildlife heard (turkeys, chickadees, woodpeckers and the like!)"
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths carefully: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At South Rim Campground, an RVer advised: "If you have a large RV or camper, there may not be a lot of sites that work for you, check the photos and use the length filter when looking at sites!"
Consider seasonal closures: Facility availability changes throughout the year. An RVer at The Potholes Recreation Site shared: "A long dusty road in led to an amazing experience. There are 4 actual sites and a vault toilet in the actual campground. We were there in October so low water allowed for a crossing and long hike on the paths across the water."
Electrical hookups are limited: Plan for self-sufficiency at many sites. One RVer at Uncompaghre River Resort noted: "Sites are level concrete pad with full hook up. Most spots have shade and space between on the outer ring is about 10 feet each side."
