Yurt camping in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests allows access to over 3 million acres of public land spanning elevations from 5,800 to 14,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic seasonal temperature shifts, with summer highs averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season and evening temperatures often dropping below 50°F even in July. Winter visitors to year-round facilities should prepare for temperatures that can plunge well below freezing.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Multiple campgrounds provide convenient access to trail systems. At Ridgway State Park, "there is so much to do, from the endless bike trails to fishing and water access. All of the sites are large and have plenty of space from the next site."
Fishing opportunities: The Uncompaghre River offers productive fishing spots directly accessible from several campgrounds. A visitor at Uncompaghre River Resort noted that "several trail options to walk the dog along the river from the park" make access convenient for anglers looking for different spots.
Black Canyon exploration: The park features dramatic 2,000-foot sheer cliffs and is just a short drive from most area campgrounds. One camper at KOA Montrose RV Resort mentioned it was "a very convenient jumping off point to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison."
What campers like
River-adjacent sites: Many campgrounds feature prime locations along the Uncompaghre River. A camper at Riverbend RV Park & Cabins praised the "beautiful location next to the Fort Umcompahgre River with easy access to trails for biking. The sites and grounds are well maintained and large."
Clean facilities: Area campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. One reviewer at Cedar Creek RV Park reported "nice clean laundry and restrooms. Good base for exploring Black Canyon NP."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between campsites. A visitor to Dakota Terraces Campground shared that "the spacing of the sites is ample and most of the sites have covered picnic tables."
What you should know
Limited shade: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal tree cover. At Dakota Terraces Campground, a camper noted "the only problem that we had was that where we were there was very little shade, but at the higher sites, there is plenty of coverage."
Age restrictions: Some private campgrounds cater specifically to older adults. A visitor to Uncompaghre River Resort explained, "This is a 50+ community - for the first time I was really glad I was in my fifties. Host are great and very accommodating."
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August), campsites fill quickly. At North Rim Campground, "by 5:30, all the spots were full and were full earlier the following night, so be sure to arrive early."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer specific recreation zones for children. Cedar Creek RV Park features "a large pet yard as well as a grassy area with a large play structure for the kids."
Take advantage of swimming beaches: Ridgway State Park provides water recreation options suitable for families. A visitor noted the park has a "beautiful swimming beach, plenty of hiking trails. Restrooms were always clean."
Consider sites closer to facilities: When camping with children, proximity to restrooms can be important. Elk Ridge Campground offers "great, super clean facilities and friendly staff."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Several campgrounds require equipment to level RVs. At Ridgway State Park Dakota Terraces, one camper reported they "needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill."
WiFi reliability varies: Internet access quality differs significantly between campgrounds. At Centennial RV Park, one visitor was "getting 30mbps on AT&T" while others report minimal connectivity at other locations.
Space for larger rigs: Many area campgrounds accommodate large RVs with pull-through sites. Uncompaghre River Resort has "large cement pads for the trailer and large concrete patios off each pad. Sites are large, no issues to fit my 43' 5th wheel and Truck."
