Glamping in Dinosaur, Colorado offers visitors access to unique desert landscapes at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. The area sits at the intersection of the Colorado Plateau and Rocky Mountains, creating dramatic geological formations that complement luxury camping experiences.
What to do
Hike through Echo Park: Echo Park Campground in Dinosaur National Monument offers access to stunning geological formations. "This site is pretty central in the whole Dinosaur National Park geography about an hour from the main visitor center. We definitely needed a high clearance vehicle for the dirt road to get to it but evidently the road conditions vary a bit season to season," notes camper Amber A.
Fish at nearby lakes: East Park Campground sits adjacent to a stocked fishing lake. "Great fishing! Although I would recommend that you go over by the dam for the best fishing. The fish are stocked and it's kinda neat to watch the trucks unload them on the boat dock," says Cortney M. who frequently visits East Park Campground.
Star gaze in remote settings: The minimal light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing. "The star-gazing is excellent. The campsite was not, unfortunately, right on the river, although there is a reservable group campsite on the water, available for rafters," writes Jeremy A. about his Echo Park experience.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Steinaker State Park Campground consistently receives praise for its maintenance. "The showers and bathrooms were spotless, and the dumpsters were very convenient," reports Kelda C. about her stay at Steinaker State Park.
Recreation variety: Families appreciate the multiple activity options. "This campground has a good feel to it. Not super large, but almost all the sites were pull through. I requested a spot by the bathroom/shower building & we got a patio site," writes Cynthia K. about her visit to Vernal/Dinosaurland KOA.
Geological features: The unique rock formations draw many visitors. "This is an absolutely amazing place! Situated where the Green and Yampa rivers merge, you are surrounded by amazing cliffs with the main feature being Steamboat Rock," writes Bryan P. about Echo Park Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some luxury camping sites requires appropriate vehicles. "First and foremost I'd recommend only cars and suvs with 4wd to make the trek down to this spot. The road here is not made for bigger camping rigs or anyone that's lacking experience driving off-road," warns Alex S. about Echo Park Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Water availability varies throughout the year. "There was also potable water available when I was there, but it was being shut off 10/17," notes Jeremy A. regarding late-season glamping at Echo Park.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic during certain times. "I've camped at hundreds of places and this spot is one of the worst I've been to as far as mosquitoes are concerned so prep yourself for that," advises Alex S. about Echo Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options. "What I liked about this campground were all the activity options they gave you, unlike some other KOA's I've stayed at. There was a small but functional K-9 park, a kids park, a swimming pool, a jump pad, and they had bike/3 wheeler rentals, and a mini golf coarse," shares Cortney M. about Vernal Dinosaurland KOA.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about safe wildlife practices. "I will advise to be lion and bear aware down here also. During my hike with my son we came upon a Lion kill site (deer) and then on a later hike had clear fresh tracks of a lion," cautions Alex S. from Iron Springs Group Campground.
Ranger programs: Take advantage of educational opportunities. "The ranger presentation was also very nice. Sleeping there was great. Perfect temperature with very little humidity," reports Marissa W. about her Echo Park experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many glamping locations offer varying levels of privacy. "Paved road goes all the way around the park. Some sites are close but others are set alone for privacy. Short hilly walk to the lake depending on which site you're in," advises Cortney M. about Steinaker State Park.
Seasonal booking: Reserve luxury accommodations well in advance for summer stays. "This campground fills up fast during the summer weekends so keep that in mind and get up there early," notes Cortney M. about East Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Check specific site amenities before booking. "We had no issues with WIFI. Staff was courteous & they had a lot of area information. I especially liked the day trips that were numbered," shares Cynthia K. about the RV sites at Vernal/Dinosaurland KOA.
