Dispersed camping near Grand Junction provides budget-friendly options for pet owners. Nine Mile Hill offers free campsites approximately 20 miles south of Grand Junction with unobstructed views of surrounding mesas. Temperatures range from below freezing in winter to over 100°F in summer, with limited natural shade across most sites requiring campers to create their own shelter.
What to do
Colorado National Monument exploration: Visit Saddlehorn Campground for prime access to hiking trails with canyon views. "Amazing views with multiple points of access for overlooks. As typical of national parks no electricity. Quiet campground. Utility sink and flushable toilets in B area," notes Randy D.
Riverfront recreation: Access the Colorado River directly from Palisade Basecamp RV Resort, where campers can fish or launch kayaks. "This camp site was friendly, easy access in and out, offered coffee and treats, some of the sites back to the river, trees and beautiful 360 view of the mountains," reports Melinda.
Wine tasting: Visit local vineyards surrounding several campgrounds. "The winery next door (colterris) is awesome. Small family owned great atmosphere. A truly amazing stop on our way east," says Matt O. about Palisade Basecamp's convenient location.
What campers like
Riverfront access: Camp Eddy provides riverside sites with walkable paths. "The good - riverside, clean, modern, nice showers, nice clubhouse, bikeway along river, close to GJ amphitheater for walking to concert," notes Kevin H.
Spacious sites: Canyon View RV Resort offers larger-than-average spaces. "We had an awesome stay when we were going through to Utah. The place is immaculate and the owner and ladies in the office were awesome! They were very helpful!" states Brandi M.
Clean facilities: State parks maintain well-kept comfort stations. "Very nicely groomed campground level site. 2 fishing ponds plus the river a swimming hole also. Nice views of the book cliffs," writes shannon C. about Island Acres Section at James M. Robb State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F at most campgrounds. "It was quite hot at night in mid-July, but the campground was nice. It had great spots with room to be further away from people. Did not fill up. Ground is mostly a sandy red dirt," explains Bridget K. about Saddlehorn.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit near Interstate 70. "Not the best or the worst. Nice level spot to park. The noise from the nearby freeway isn't too objectionable. I like the cover for the picnic table," Chris mentions about Island Acres Section.
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by season and location. "Saddlehorn cost $20 for a campsite, but make sure and leave your open flame and smores at home fires are prohibited," cautions Cj C.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: James M. Robb State Park offers designated swimming areas. "We love this state park for fun little getaways. The fishing lakes, swimming lake and playground are all fun aspects my family enjoys," shares Tarrin M. about the Island Acres Section.
Camping with educational programs: Rangers often provide family programming at Saddlehorn. "The rangers and their programs have been wonderful each time we've stayed," reports Aimee D.
Onsite activities: Some campgrounds offer recreational facilities. "They have a small pool and decent facilities, but really the views and location are what make this place great," notes Jenny W. about Palisade Basecamp.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Grand Junction KOA provides stabilized parking areas. "Typical KOA. As expected. Close sites. Level ground. Nothing super memorable but I appreciated having a couple dog runs available plus a playground the kids really enjoyed," explains Sarah S.
Full hookup access: Several area campgrounds offer complete services. "Monument RV park is located in Fruita, CO which is only 12 miles or 20 minutes from Grand Junction. Fruita has a lot to offer for a small town. There are biking and hiking trails as well as the national monument itself," shares Carlyne F.
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature extremes. "Nights are really pretty," notes Jenn C. about Nine Mile Hill, but adds, "The road is dirt and gets real bumpy real fast so we found a spot right at the front."
