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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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.
