Camping near Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument straddles the Colorado-Utah border and has several good camping options for all types of visitors. Cedar Springs Campground has paved roads and spaced-out sites that give you some privacy from neighbors, with a few spots that look out over the lake. Green River Campground sits inside the monument boundaries and puts you right next to the water, which is handy if you want to fish or paddle. The campground has basic facilities like bathrooms and tables for meals. Echo Park Campground is also within the monument and sits near where the Green and Yampa Rivers meet, surrounded by impressive rock walls. This camp is more rustic without hookups but feels more connected to the natural surroundings. Make sure you check current fire rules and whether you need permits for your stay. Nights can get cold because of the higher elevation, so bring extra layers even in summer. You can take day trips to the Rocky Mountains or Colorado River while staying here. The dinosaur fossils on display make for an interesting stop between outdoor activities. Remember that you might need to book ahead, especially during busy summer months. Try to leave your campsite as you found it to keep the area nice for future campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Dinosaur National Monument (131)

    1. Green River Campground — Dinosaur National Monument

    51 Reviews
    Jensen, UT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 781-7700

    $24 / night

    "You are steps away from the river. They are huge campsites that can fit a large group. Great spot to enjoy the beauty of Dinosaur National Monument"

    "Great camping spot at Dinosaur National Monument. Awesome trails and has spigot throughout for water."

    2. Echo Park Campground Group Site — Dinosaur National Monument

    11 Reviews
    Dinosaur, UT
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (435) 781-7759

    $14 - $25 / night

    "Situated where the Green and Yampa rivers merge, you are surrounded by amazing cliffs with the main feature being Streamboat Rock. Campsites are very nice and clean."

    "We only stayed one night and it was really windy, however, we still walked around and enjoyed the path along the river and the towering cliffs. "

    3. Gates Of Lodore Campground — Dinosaur National Monument

    10 Reviews
    Dutch John, CO
    14 miles
    +1 (435) 781-7700

    $12 - $14 / night

    "This campground is in the most remote part of the Dinosaur National Monument. Big campspots with a few Cottonwood trees right on the Green River. Can be busy with rafts launching and retrieving."

    "This spot is in a pretty remote section of Northwest Colorado so it's pretty calm and quiet."

    4. Split Mountain Group Campground — Dinosaur National Monument

    11 Reviews
    Jensen, UT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 781-7700

    $40 / night

    "This campsite is in the middle of the Dinosaur National Monument on the green river. It is a small campground with a group site and some individual picnic / camp sites."

    "SEPTEMBER 2020 This campsite is in the first few miles of Dinosaur National Monument along the Green River."

    5. Rainbow Park Campground — Dinosaur National Monument

    5 Reviews
    Jensen, UT
    11 miles
    +1 (435) 781-7700

    $12 / night

    "Each shaded site is equipped with fire ring with attached grill, an adjacent picnic table, and spots for a maximum of 2 tents in each campsite."

    "The river runs directly behind camp and trails run through the hills. If you're lucky, you will come across the herd of elk roaming the grounds."

    6. North of Dinosaur CR16 - Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Dinosaur, CO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 636-3600

    "Just randomly driving thru Colorado and run into Dinasaur and a peaceful off grid place to camp. No one around. No one else on the planet. Great place to stop."

    "I drove further down the road slightly over the utah border and it was silent and serene with beautiful views. All the spots available on this road were gorgeous."

    7. Dispersed Camping Near Dinosaur National Monument

    4 Reviews
    Jensen, UT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (801) 538-5100

    "(Must pay entrance fee or arrive after 5)"

    "Two of my friends and I stayed at this spot one night and I wish we had more time to spend at this spot because of the location, beauty, and remote feeling."

    8. Red Fleet State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Vernal, UT
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 789-4432

    $40 - $200 / night

    "Very scenic lake camping. Beautiful formations, lake is clean, and not too busy, especially since we were there during July 4th weekend."

    "To keep it fairly brief, the camp sites are mainly situated around a large, open, slightly uneven grass area which is great for tent camping and day activities (volleyball, frisbee, catch, BBQing.)"

    9. Outlaw Trail RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Jensen, UT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 781-6000

    "Right outside visitor center for Dinosaur national monument, Quarry wall of dinosaur bones and several self guided auto tours with stops along the way. No shade. No fire pits. New facility."

    "Awesome spot to stop and launch off on adventures into Dinosaurs national monument. Would stay here again when I come to visit. Staff was very nice and accommodating and very quiet at night."

    10. Steinaker State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Vernal, UT
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 789-4432

    $20 - $150 / night

    "Beautiful area and lake! Close to the town of vernal. 20 miles outside dinosaur National monument. Staff helpful. Bathrooms clean, nice shower areas!"

    "This is a great recreation area close to the town of Vernal, about 5 miles out. There is a lake for fishing, swimming and water sports. There is a nice beach with pavilions and picnic sites."

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Showing results 1-10 of 131 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dinosaur National Monument

449 Reviews of 131 Dinosaur National Monument Campgrounds



Guide to Dinosaur National Monument

Camping near Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or simply relax by the river, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views. One reviewer at Mustang Ridge Campground said, "The Red Canyon along the Flaming Gorge is AMAZING! GREAT fly fishing!"
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. A visitor at McCoy Flats MTB Trailhead shared, "Very quiet, not a lot of other campers."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Steinaker State Park Campground noted, "The showers and bathrooms were spotless."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack hookups and showers. A reviewer at Echo Park Campground Group Site — Dinosaur National Monument mentioned, "It is first come first served, so it would be quite a long way down to find there were no open spots."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at the same campground warned, "The mosquitos here... are utterly out of control."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many sites fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Gates Of Lodore Campground — Dinosaur National Monument advised, "No reservations so it's first come, first served."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A camper at Mustang Ridge Campground mentioned, "Our site was surrounded by trees."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring gear for fishing and hiking to keep everyone entertained. A family at Green River Campground — Dinosaur National Monument enjoyed, "Great spot to enjoy the beauty of Dinosaur National Monument."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Protect your family from mosquitoes. A visitor at Echo Park Campground Group Site noted, "We spent at least an hour trying to smack them all."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to choose campgrounds with the right hookups for your RV. A reviewer at Steinaker State Park Campground said, "I ended up at a full hookup spot that cost $50 a night."
  • Look for Dump Stations: Some campgrounds have sanitary dump stations, which can be a lifesaver. A camper at Fossil Valley RV Park mentioned, "This RV park is a good launching pad for day trips!"
  • Be Mindful of Space: Sites can be close together, so choose wisely. A visitor at Red Fleet State Park Campground noted, "Campsites are basically parking spots."

Camping near Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado, is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique challenges of the area!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Dinosaur National Monument?

According to TheDyrt.com, Dinosaur National Monument offers a wide range of camping options, with 131 campgrounds and RV parks near Dinosaur National Monument and 44 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Dinosaur National Monument?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dinosaur National Monument is Green River Campground — Dinosaur National Monument with a 4.3-star rating from 51 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dinosaur National Monument?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 44 free dispersed camping spots near Dinosaur National Monument.

What parks are near Dinosaur National Monument?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Dinosaur National Monument that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.