Camping options near Delta, Colorado range from high-desert river settings to alpine lake environments at elevations from 4,900 feet in Delta to over 10,000 feet on Grand Mesa. The region experiences wide temperature swings between daytime and nighttime, particularly at higher elevations where overnight temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months. Most campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations from late April through October, with only a few offering year-round access.
What to do
Explore the Black Canyon of the Gunnison: North Rim Campground provides direct access to this dramatic canyon with its steep walls. "The view is what you take away from this campground, camping is not the most enjoyable," notes one reviewer at North Rim Campground, though they still rated it 5 stars for the surrounding scenery.
Fish in high-elevation lakes: Ward Lake Campground sits at 10,000 feet on Grand Mesa with excellent fishing opportunities despite changing water levels. "Our site said that it was a shore line site, but the lake was down something like 40 feet and was supposed to drop another 20 feet. The shoreline was a bit muddy and the rocks made navigating the area difficult for us. Other people went down and fished though and did appear to be catching fish," reports a camper at Ward Lake Campground.
Visit local vineyards and orchards: The Palisade area offers wine tasting within walking distance of some campgrounds. A reviewer at Palisade Basecamp notes, "The resort may not be busy in the fall, but that just adds to the appeal of staying this season... And the best part: Colterris winery is right next door to walk to."
What campers like
Private riverfront sites: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for added privacy and recreation. At Uncompaghre River Resort, a camper shared, "Stayed for a week in one of the back-in sites in the South section of the campground. The Uncompaghre River was about 30 yards behind the camp site - a short walk through the tall tree line."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for their amenities. A visitor to Riverbend RV Park & Cabins commented, "The laundry rooms was clean with new equipment. The Wifi was five stars which is rare in most RV parks. Super fast speeds."
Convenient locations: Campgrounds near Delta provide easy access to towns and supplies. A camper at Valley Sunset RV Ranch noted the proximity to shopping, with "Safeway and Walmart apx 1/4 mile away."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many glamping pods close to Delta, Colorado fill quickly, especially during summer months. A reviewer at Valley Sunset RV Ranch shared, "Called the day before and very nice women got us in. I would recommend!"
Weather considerations: Prepare for rapid temperature changes, especially at higher elevations. At Ward Lake Campground, one visitor advised, "Be prepared to put a cover on your tent as intermittent thunderstorms come up out of no where."
Campsite availability: First-come, first-served campgrounds require early arrival, particularly on weekends. A visitor to Cottonwood Lake Campground warned, "I cannot stress this enough, get there early if going on a weekend! We arrived at 2:30 and got one of the last spots."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Cedar Creek RV Park mentioned that the park has "a large pet yard as well as a grassy area with a large play structure for the kids."
Kid-friendly trails: Look for campgrounds with easy hiking paths suitable for children. Ward Lake Campground offers family-accessible options: "We found Ward Lake Trail and hiked all the way to the other side of the lake, which was beautiful! The trail was amazing, the trees were great and it made for a very scenic trail."
Swimming opportunities: Certain campgrounds provide water recreation options. At Ridgway State Park, a camper appreciated the "activities, hikes, swimming and absolutely stunning views" available for families.
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. At Elk Ridge Campground, an RVer noted, "The sites are all set up well, easy access, water and electric if you want. There are showers (.25) and washers and dryers if you need."
Hookup options: Different campgrounds offer varied levels of service. A reviewer at Uncompaghre River Resort explained, "Paved roads throughout. large cement pads for the trailer and large concrete patios off each pad. Grass otherwise covers the site. Sites are large, no issues to fit my 43' 5th wheel and Truck."
Propane services: Some parks provide on-site propane refills. A camper at Cedar Creek RV Park mentioned they "pick up your tanks and bring them back, no muss, no fuss. Just let the front desk know and they will tell the propane guy your site number."
