Campgrounds near Dolores, Colorado range from developed RV resorts to primitive dispersed sites on public lands, with several options situated along the scenic Dolores River. The Views RV Park & Campground and Dolores River RV Resort provide full hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations, while dispersed camping opportunities exist on BLM land near Mesa Verde National Park boundary. Many campgrounds in the area feature mixed-use sites accommodating both tent campers and RVs, with some offering specialty lodging like yurts and covered wagons.
Most campgrounds in the Dolores area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter camping options. The region's elevation around 7,000 feet keeps summer temperatures moderate but creates cool nights even in peak season. Road access varies significantly between developed sites and dispersed areas, with some BLM locations requiring high-clearance vehicles. Campgrounds along Highway 145 provide easier access for larger rigs, while forest service sites may have rougher entry roads. Water availability is inconsistent at primitive sites, and campers should prepare accordingly. A visitor commented, "The drive in was incredible, like postcard worthy. Drive further up 38 to hike to Geyser Spring, or just a little bit further to get to Lizard Head Wilderness."
Riverside camping represents a significant draw in the Dolores area, with multiple campgrounds situated along the Dolores River offering fishing and water recreation opportunities. Campers frequently mention the soothing sound of the river as a highlight of their stay. Several visitors noted the area provides excellent stargazing due to minimal light pollution, particularly at higher elevation sites. The region serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions including Mesa Verde National Park, Canyon of the Ancients, and mountain biking trails. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better connectivity at campgrounds closer to town. During peak summer weekends, the more developed campgrounds with amenities like showers and electric hookups tend to fill quickly, while dispersed camping areas generally offer more availability and solitude.
"Good showers, some of the camp sites have decent WiFi connection, fairly quiet, and wildlife (deer and prairie dogs) in camp side. Toilets not the best, lots of wasps"
"I'm not sure what the hook-up situation is for campers. We were able to enjoy cool evening walks; where we would often spot deer."
"This is BLM Land outside of Mesa Verde National Park. Has quite a few different sites that are all free and have fairly easy access to."
"This was such a nice spot super close to Mesa Verde national park. It was about a 5 minute drive from the park entrance."
"The Views is located just outside Dolores, CO with immediate access to McPhee Reservoir, Dolores River and miles of mountain bike trails."
"Trails around and views galore. Close to Mesa Verde National Park and close to Dolores which has tons of hiking! Will visit again soon!"
"An absolutely magical location on the Dolores river in SW Colorado. The owners are wonderful people who are very helpful and also operate a great gift shop with very reasonable prices."
"All along the gorgeous Dolores River. This would be the perfect spot to meet with friends or family who don't have an RV. We were at site 13 with our 30' Grand Design bumper pull trailer."
"The Cortex/Mesa Verde KOA in Cortez, Colorado, was the best campground we stayed at (out of 10) on our #9parks12days road trip in June 2016."
"They even had Easter candy and eggs in the office and outside the door for the kiddos. They directed us to our site which was located just behind the teepees."
"This rv park is right next to the entrance to mesa verde. It was a nice park and showers were included! There’s also a pool and mini golf if you’re interested in that."
"This is a dark park all outside lights must be off by 10 pm. You can see so many stars in the sky it was beautiful. Campground was not crowded."
"It is close to the highway and you can hear the traffic but it’s nothing too bad, in my opinion. The sites seem pretty well spaced out for a little bit of privacy."
"This campsite is right outside of Mesa Verde and is easy to locate. Campsites are located along a dirt road and they are clearly marked."
$30 - $60 / night
"We prefer off the beaten path and when we rolled into Dolores, CO in our van late on the 25th of October we were happy to find Stoner on Dyrt, about 20 minutes outside town."
"The mayor of Stoner, Colorado, Scott is a great host and very generous. The place is very well maintained and clean and looked after. They have RV spots right on the river, Stoner Creek!"
"Municipal Pool within walking distance that we used and enjoyed $5 each. Mesa Verde was a 12 min drive. ATT & Verizon service wasn’t great, but was usable."
"The spot I was in was next to the entrance and had some road noise as well as bright light from the Park sign."
$20 - $90 / night
"Mancos State Park is a convenient stop in SW Colorado just outside Mesa Verde NP. Dry campsites, some only small trailer or truck camper size. Plenty of room for tents in each site."
"Nice shade provided by trees; it's adjacent to a resevoir, so just a short walk to the road crossing over the resevoir provides a great view of the sunset."
TravelerThis is a perfect oasis for dispersed camping. Right by the stream and relax to the flowing sound of the water. Perfect Mountain View and sit and listen to the birds. Bathroom available but good to have your own toilet paper. Lots of spaces that are spread-out. Close to Silverton which we hope to explore. It’s been cool in the evening but it’s nice compared to the 90-100 degrees we came from in Utah. We love this area!
GuideThe water here is a shade of blue over never before seen. The campground is clean and plenty of spots for tents to the biggest RVs. The trip from Norwood is super simple and easy to do. There’s a lot activity during the day, lots of people coming and going, but it is incredibly peaceful at night.
The fishing must be good cause there were plenty of people doing that. I took my paddleboard and had a great time hot/warm enough days and at night it was chilly but not cold.
GuideGood spot but 15 min off the highway so it can be difficult if you are short on time or tired.. Private. Only 2 or 3 spots available.
ScoutBest spot in my opinion if u have a car put stones underneath and I have a flat spot to sleep
ScoutVery well run campground, clean well loved, nice hiking trail thou short, great views of the lake. Would recommend and stay here again.
TravelerMost beautiful campground I have ever been to. We got here kind of late, and not many sites were open.
GuideThis is a beautiful campground just outside of Silverton. It’s right only the creek. If you’re lucky you’ll get one with a creek view or access. Easy parking just a bit bumpy in the campground. Would definitely recommend and I will be coming back!
TravelerThe Campground bathrooms are up and running and the weather is beautiful so plan on spending some time up here along the beautiful West Dolores River in the mountains.
ScoutDisappointed by the lack of transparency. The$20 cancellation fee is stated, but the fact that they also keep the credit card fees was a surprise that cost me an extra$22. If you aren't 100% sure of your dates, think twice before booking here. Total cost to cancel:$42.
Camping spots near Dolores, Colorado offer excellent access to the San Juan Mountains and Dolores River at elevations ranging from 6,900 to 8,000 feet. Most dispersed sites lack potable water sources, requiring campers to bring sufficient supplies for their stay. Summer evenings typically drop below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
Hiking near Mesa Verde: The BLM land near Mesa Verde National Park boundary offers excellent proximity to hiking trails. "The drive in was incredible, like postcard worthy. Drive further up 38 to hike to Geyser Spring, or just a little bit further to get to Lizard Head Wilderness," notes a visitor to Mesa Verde National Park Boundary (BLM Land).
Riverside activities: Guests at Stoner RV Resort enjoy direct water access. One camper reported, "We were led to our spot that backed up to a creek. There was a fire pit, fire wood, bbq, table and chair swing at the camp spot." The riverside setting creates a peaceful backdrop for relaxation.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies make for exceptional night viewing. "There is a 10 pm lights-out policy to cut down on light pollution and see the stars," explains a reviewer at Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park. The higher elevation campgrounds provide particularly dark skies away from town lights.
Free dispersed options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the no-cost sites available. "This is BLM Land outside of Mesa Verde National Park. Has quite a few different sites that are all free and have fairly easy access to," shares a camper about Chutes and Ladders Dipsersed. These sites typically feature simple fire rings and level tent areas.
Fishing access: Mancos State Park Campground provides excellent angling opportunities. A visitor notes, "Mancos State Park has no-wake boating and is well-known for fishing, especially rainbow trout, a few brownies and yellow perch." The lake attracts both boat and shore anglers.
Excellent amenities: Many campgrounds offer unexpected conveniences. At Dolores River RV Resort by Rjourney, a camper found "Bathrooms and showers are the cleanest I've seen from a campground." Another visitor appreciated that "They had an ice cream social the first night. The Dolores river runs along the back of the property."
Seasonal closures: Many dispersed sites have wildlife management restrictions. A reviewer notes about BLM across from Mesa Verde: "This place is closed Dec-April due to it being considered elk habitat. Also fairly muddy." Always check current status before planning winter trips.
Weather challenges: Quick temperature shifts and strong storms occur frequently. "The high desert location can bring intense storms with strong winds. During our stay, our tent nearly flew away despite being staked down securely," reports a camper at Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park.
Road conditions: Accessibility varies significantly between sites. "Road is typical blm rocky dirt road. I think a 2wd car could probally do it. No issue for suv or van," notes one camper about BLM lands, while another warns, "The one downside was that it had just rained and the sites and road are clay which we ended up sinking into and getting stuck in."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A visitor to Cortez, Mesa Verde KOA mentioned, "This campground has an updated playground, heated (seasonal) swimming pool, a 1-mile walking trail, dog park, and even tepees in addition to cabins for overnight camping."
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important. One reviewer notes, "Bear area, none seen," at Mancos State Park, reminding visitors that proper food storage is essential. Many established campgrounds provide bear boxes or clear guidelines.
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds often provide organized events. "They had an ice cream social the first night," mentions a family at Dolores River RV Resort, while another campground offers "Easter candy and eggs in the office and outside the door for the kiddos."
Site selection: Level sites can be challenging to find. A visitor to Mancos State Park noted, "Sloped towards lake. At least this site and 26 would be difficult to find level spot for tent and requires lots of rocks or blocks to level rv." Advance research on specific site characteristics helps avoid setup difficulties.
Hookup availability: Services vary widely between campgrounds. At The Views RV Park & Campground, "Most sites are huge (center sites alittle close together) and they offer full hookup, pull thru, and back-in sites." Another reviewer appreciated that "They sell propane too," eliminating the need for separate stops.
Size restrictions: Some areas have limited access for larger rigs. "This stay is only for high clearance vehicles and small RV's. Deep drain ditches between service road and sites. All sites are extremely uneven," cautions a camper with a 35-foot fifth wheel about dispersed BLM camping, emphasizing the importance of researching size limitations before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Dolores, Colorado?
Dolores offers several excellent camping options for different preferences. The Views RV Park & Campground stands out with its spacious sites, shade sails, and stunning vistas. It provides immediate access to McPhee Reservoir and mountain bike trails while remaining conveniently close to Durango and Cortez. For a forested setting with river access, Mavreeso Campground offers a beautiful location next to the West Dolores River, which naturally drowns out road noise. This pet-friendly campground is also conveniently located near attractions like Mesa Verde National Park. Other notable options include West Dolores Campground, which now features electrical hookups, and Stoner RV Resort, known for its hospitable owners and peaceful setting about 20 minutes outside town.
Can you camp along the Dolores River, and what are the regulations?
Yes, camping is available along the Dolores River with several developed sites and regulations to follow. Bradfield Campground is a well-maintained BLM site set in the canyon below McPhee Reservoir with 17 improved campsites featuring picnic tables and fire pits. Each site costs $8 per night, and the campground has a hand pump for fresh water but no electric hookups or dump station. Another excellent riverside option is Dolores River RV Resort by Rjourney, which offers a magical setting along the water with fishing ponds and river access. For those seeking additional water features, Cayton Campground sits right off the highway next to the Dolores River with two loops—one for electric sites and another for tent-only camping.
What amenities are available at Dolores, Colorado camping areas?
Camping areas around Dolores offer diverse amenities to suit different camping styles. West Dolores Campground provides electrical hookups, riverside access, and varied site sizes that accommodate both tents and campers with good spacing for privacy. The campground receives optimal sunlight throughout the day while maintaining comfortable temperatures. For those seeking more services, Cortez RV Resort by Rjourney features gravel sites and friendly management that goes above and beyond for guests, even delivering mail directly to campers. Additional amenities found at various Dolores area campgrounds include water pumps, picnic tables, fire pits, fishing ponds, and rental options such as yurts and cabins, though water pressure can vary significantly between locations.
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