Dispersed camping options near Dinosaur, Colorado include multiple Bureau of Land Management (BLM) sites with varying terrain and accessibility. The area sits at approximately 5,900 feet elevation with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F during day and dropping to the 50s at night. Winter camping remains possible at lower elevations, though road access becomes challenging after snowfall.
What to do
Explore petroglyphs and history: The area surrounding Green River Campground provides access to significant archaeological sites. "The petroglyphs around the park are a must see, as is the quarry exhibit hall!" according to Amanda M. The nearby Josie Morris cabin offers historical context with "a nice shady lawn with picnic benches and a view - it was the perfect lunch spot!"
River activities: The confluence of the Green and Yampa rivers creates opportunities for fishing, swimming, and rafting. At Echo Park Campground, you can access both rivers. "Situated where the Green and Yampa rivers merge, you are surrounded by amazing cliffs with the main feature being Streamboat Rock," notes Bryan P. The campground serves as a common launch or take-out point for river trips.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. A camper at CR16 Dispersed Site described it as "peaceful low-mid T-Mobile," mentioning the unobstructed views from higher elevation sites. Most dispersed sites offer better stargazing than established campgrounds due to distance from towns.
What campers like
Riverside camping locations: Sites along the Green River provide both scenery and practical benefits. At Split Mountain Group Campground, one camper enjoyed "one of the Western-most camping spots right with a private path to the river & a nice little swimming hole area. Our dog was in heaven!" Many riverside sites fill quickly during summer months.
Shade availability: Given summer heat, campsites with tree cover are highly valued. According to Myrna G., "Loops A and C are first come, if you need shade take loop B or C. Loop B reservations only." Another camper at North of Dinosaur CR16 noted the opposite challenge: "No shade, rocky, need a 4WD for some of the uphills."
Wildlife viewing: The monument and surrounding areas offer frequent wildlife encounters. Virginia A. notes, "The deer and sheep are very active at night which is very fun." Dispersed camping areas frequently have elk, deer, and occasionally bears, requiring proper food storage precautions.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Dinosaur South Dispersed Camp reported, "The dirt road coming in is a bit rough but I made it with an SUV and 16' TT. Just go slow." Another camper noted that "There is a sign at the beginning of the dirt road prohibiting trailers. I assume because if it rains the mud roads become unusable."
Wind challenges: The topography creates significant wind conditions affecting tent camping. Amanda M. warns, "It got very windy during the day, and after coming back from a hike we found our tent blown over, despite having staked it down. Stake your tents down well!" High winds are most common in afternoon hours.
Insect preparedness: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near water sources. James W. simply advises "Bring your bug spray" while another camper at Echo Park reported, "We had to leave because we literally couldn't escape the mosquitos." Bug activity varies significantly by season, with peak problems in late spring and early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: The educational programming offers structured activities for children. Christopher C. shares, "Our family loves Dinosaur National Monument and the Green River Campground, amazing campsites close to the green river are clean and the rangers are top notch and super friendly, we love the petroglyphs and the kids love the Jr. Ranger Program."
Swimming access: Cooling off is critical during hot months. One visitor to Rangely Camper Park mentioned "You can walk down to the river to swim or fish. There are even pons that are for kids only that are stocked." These designated fishing areas provide safer experiences for younger children.
Heat management: The lack of shade makes timing important for family activities. "We chose to get up early to hike and beat the heat," reports one camper. Families should plan indoor or water activities for mid-day hours when temperatures peak.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many dispersed sites have limitations for larger vehicles. Faye N. warns about North of Dinosaur CR16: "Need a 4WD for some of the uphills. 10 miles to the sites on a dirt road if you come from the northwest." Many roads become impassable when wet.
Limited hookups: Even established campgrounds typically lack full hookups. Bradley H. notes at Rangely Camper Park: "The park offers electric sites for $20.00 a night or $10.00 a night for no electricity. Water spigots are located all around the park and there is a dump station on site."
Site selection: Spacing between sites varies significantly. At Green River Campground, Shane H. observed: "Nice campground but a little cramped for my taste, spaces were pretty close together. Running water & flush toilets but no electricity."
