Glamping in Fruita, Colorado offers overnight accommodations at elevations ranging from 4,500 feet in the valley to over 10,000 feet on the Grand Mesa. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F in July and August, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for outdoor recreation. Winter visitors will find most glamping structures closed seasonally, though Palisade Basecamp remains open year-round.
What to do
Mountain biking near Ward Lake Campground: The Grand Mesa area provides access to numerous mountain biking trails with various difficulty levels. "Grand mesa is the largest mesa in the world. For over 150 years cattle have roamed here," notes one visitor at Ward Lake Campground. The trails around Ward Lake connect to a larger network of routes suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Fishing at Cottonwood Lake: The fishing at Cottonwood Lakes provides access to rainbow and brook trout. "Wow! A lush forest surrounding beautiful Cottonwood lakes 1 & 4 great fishing access good for kayak/small boats," shares a camper at Cottonwood Lake Campground. The lake is stocked regularly during summer months, with best results in early morning or evening hours.
Hiking through aspen groves: Mud Springs offers hiking trails through dense aspen forests with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Great BLM campground at higher cool elevation, 8400 elv. 2.8 miles of graded washboard gravel County road from end of pavement. Lots of aspen trees here," reports a visitor to Mud Springs Campground. The higher elevation provides cooler temperatures during summer months.
What campers like
Free showers and laundry facilities: Highline Lake State Park offers amenities uncommon at many campgrounds. "Hot free showers and laundry machines that take quarters on site. Many rangers and staff of the campground are always around to help," notes a visitor to Highline Lake State Park. The campground maintains these facilities year-round for all campers.
Cold spring water access: The natural springs at Homestead Places provide drinking water directly from the source. "This land was homestead back in 1906, the upper place has an existing cabin that was built in 1907... There have been 3 ponds allocated and are spring fed. By the way the cold spring water is AWESOME!!" comments a guest at Homestead Places.
Proximity to wineries and orchards: Palisade Basecamp offers easy access to local agricultural attractions. "The resort may not be busy in the fall, but that just adds to the appeal of staying this season... On property there is a very lovely peach orchard, a dog run, and river access which would be ideal for the summer months," shares a camper at Palisade Basecamp RV Resort. The area has multiple wineries within walking distance, including Colterris winery directly adjacent to the property.
What you should know
Weather changes quickly: The high-elevation campgrounds experience rapid weather shifts, particularly on Grand Mesa. "This is one place that fits the saying that if you don't like the weather, wait twenty minutes, it'll change. The wind comes from all directions through the day and the wind blowing off the lake adds a little more bite to the wind chill," reports a camper at Ward Lake Campground.
Expect mud after rain: The clay soil around many Fruita area campgrounds becomes difficult to navigate when wet. "The spring must have leaked all the mud on to the road. Because it was bad. But it was great," notes a visitor to Mud Springs Campground. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended after precipitation events.
Site reservations recommended: Most glamping accommodations fill quickly during peak season. "Stopped here for the night before skiing at PowderHorn. Campground was easy to find, clean and quite. We stayed in a tent site and were the only ones there!" explains a winter visitor to Palisade Basecamp, highlighting the seasonal availability differences.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pioneer Campground at Vega State Park offers facilities specifically for children. "There are flush toilets and showers next to a small playground closer to the reservoir. A trail will take you from the cabins to the visitor center," shares a guest at Pioneer Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature abundant wildlife suitable for family nature education. "Stay outside your camper here and listen to the doves, ravens, owls, and watch the hawks. There are hundreds of domestic sheep and goats adjacent to the campground. When the coyotes start howling the guard dogs reply," notes a visitor to Highline Lake State Park.
Water recreation for kids: Lakes in the area provide swimming opportunities during summer months. "A nice grassy area that had a playground and then the beach is right there. The lake didn't have a ton of boat traffic early in the week," explains a Highline Lake State Park visitor, though they note the beach is made of gravel rather than sand.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer different levels of electrical service. "Nice place, near railroad track. Didn't hear train at night. Walking distance to a few restaurants. WiFi, 3 bars on sprint, 3 bars on Verizon. Propane fill up on site, full hook ups with cable," reports an RVer staying at Valley Sunset RV Ranch.
Site spacing considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly throughout the region. "The campsites here are well spread out and right on the water. We found we had privacy and still had great hiking spots near by," notes a visitor to Cottonwood Lake Campground.
Seasonal site conditions: Late-season visitors should check campground status before traveling. "27 April 2025. Looked nice though," shares a visitor who found Mud Springs Campground closed for the season, highlighting the importance of confirming operational dates for high-elevation facilities.
